If you’re not one for tons of detail and over-the-top design, a silk wedding dress may just be the perfect fit. This fabric is luxurious and glamorous all on its own, and needs very little to take it to the next level.

Silk is a natural protein fibre produced by insect larvae to create cacoons. While many insects can produce silk, it is the fibre of the moth caterpillar that is traditionally used in textiles. The fibre is woven into the fabric we know today, and gets its shimmering appearance thanks to the triangular prism-like structure of the silk fibre that refracts incoming light at various angles.

Silk works best for a paired down look. Opt for a simple frame like a slip or A-line gown to use the fabric to its best potential. Because of its delicate nature, it drapes beautifully so silk looks especially stunning when used to create a cowl-neck.

Here are some some dresses to show that silk can be used in a variety of ways to produce any style you want.

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Feature image: Unsplash

If your legs are your greatest physical asset, show them off!  A slit is incredibly flattering on a number of body shapes and dress styles as it softens a look and allows greater movement in your gown.

It’s important to consider height and placement when opting for a slit. Depending on how comfortable you are, your slit can be knee length high or extend all the way to your upper thigh. It all relates to the overall look you want.

You also have options in placing your slit on the sides, the middle or even the back of your dress. The back and front slits are typically to accomodate stiffer fabrics as it allows for more movement, while the side slits are all about drama. Placing your slit on the side puts your leg on full display. Just make sure to not veer too far off onto the side to avoid having to stick your leg out to get the full effect of the slit. Aim for creating the slit right where the dress naturally touches your legs.

If you’re unsure of how to pull of this trend, take a look at how these stunning brides have done it.

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Feature image: Unsplash

Wedding dresses are a major part of anyone’s big day but after the wedding, they tend to end up unused and stashed away in a cupboard.

Your dress doesn’t have to just sit in a closet and collect dust. To get the most out it, here are a few ways to reuse your wedding dress and create more special memories.

Donate it

Your wedding dress holds a special meaning but more often than not, it just becomes an ornament hanging in the back of your cupboard. Donating your dress will give someone else the opportunity to feel just as beautiful and glamorous as you did on your big day.

Get crafty

Wedding dresses tend to have much more fabric than others, which can be cut and crafted in new and creative ways. You can cut the dress down and use strips of material for making various home decor items or clothing. Satin and lace work well for this. Or separate the skirt and bodice to wear as stylish separates paired with more casual items.

Dye it

Along the lines of crafting, dying your dress will instantly change its look and make it an elegant evening gown which you can wear out to events or formal functions.

Turn it into a family heirloom

If you feel sentimental and would like to keep your dress, turning it into a Christening dress or princess-style dress for your child or younger family member is a meaningful way of re-using your dress.

Play dress up

Love Halloween, or any kind of dress-up for that matter? You can get seriously creative with your wedding dress for a themed party. Think zombie bride or fairytale princess!

Feature image: Pexels