Types of Wedding Dresses

There is an excellent choice of wedding dresses available these days, from formal elaborate gowns to bright, modern designs in funky patterns and prints. However there is one thing that all wedding dresses have in common, and that is that they are meant to be special, one off garments and in this age of casual, practical fashion it may be one of the only chances many women get to get to wear something truly glamorous and extravagant.

When you are choosing what style of wedding gown you are going to buy, it is important that you think about these three main issues:

• How formal is your wedding going to be.
• How much is your budget.
• What time of year is the event taking place.

If you are having a formal wedding then it is generally expected that the wedding dress will take a central role in the event, and so these outfits are normally elaborate, glamorous and expensive. Formal wedding gowns are usually handmade and tailored to fit the individual bride, and are made from heavy, luxurious fabrics such as silk brocades, crepes and gabardine (dressy smooth twill weave fabric) and satins like peau de soi (also known as Duchess Satin), but for warmer summer weddings a lightweight silk based fabric called shantung or taffeta can be used. Formal gowns are normally full length, with full, flowing skirts and are accessorized with trains, veils and expensive jewellery. If you do not have any suitable jewelery it can be a good idea to hire some out to lessen the cost, especially if you intend to wear an unusual piece like a tiara, which you would be unlikely you wear again in the near future.

Semi-formal weddings can be a great compromise between budget and splendour, as dresses can still be glamorous, full length and feminine, but they do not have to form the centre piece of the wedding, and so can be made from a less expensive, showy fabric such as chiffon and synthetic silk mixes. Wedding dresses can also be bought off the rail from a bridal shop or high street store, and this combined with less beading and embroidery detail greatly reduces the overall expense. Semi-formal wedding dresses do not need to have trains or veils, and pretty costume jewelery can be worn, saving money on hiring or purchasing real gemstones.

One of the best things about modern weddings is that it is acceptable for any couple to have an informal ceremony and reception, which gives you more freedom over your budget and what sort of outfit you can wear. You can be more daring at an informal wedding, and choose dresses that are shorter or more sexy and revealing, or if you like you could even wear an elegant skirt or trouser suit. Informal weddings are ideal for brides that are on a budget, or those that would like to experiment with more exciting colour schemes and patterns. You can also dispense with jewellery, veils and trains altogether, and you have the option of wearing a smart hat, which is not usually advised with the more formal wedding dress designs.