Bridal Confidential
Cristina DeMarco of Bridal Reflections on buying the perfect wedding dress.
What are some of the big bridal trends this year?
The trends we’re currently seeing include a lot of fitted silhouettes, low sheer backs and open bare backs, with intricate lace or beading to give a little sexiness. We’re also seeing a variety of materials, like silk satin, charmeuse or chantilly lace, for details.
For avant-garde brides that want to be different and have the bodies to do it, they’re wearing a fitted sheath, all lace, with a big of sleeve. Then they’re incorporating a detachable train that almost looks like a full skirt when attached.
They’re removing this “grand gala” full train for the reception, and they’re left with a stunning fitted silhouette.
What kind of advice do you give a bride who is just starting out in her search for the perfect gown?
It’s important to be open minded. A good 75 percent of brides have one idea about what they want going in, then they enter a full-service salon and work with consultants who are experts on bridal fashion. Often they end up falling in love with something totally different that what they saw themselves in originally. It’s not like buying a ready-to-wear dress: you want to be more glamorous on your wedding day. You want your gown to reflect how you want to present yourself.
What other words of wisdom can you impart for brides-to-be?
Brides should be true to themselves, and bring whoever is most instrumental in helping them shop for a gown, whether it’s a mom or a best friend. It doesn’t necessarily need to be the entire bridal party. They need someone they know will be honest with them. A bride needs to feel assured in her decision, and choosing the right dress will make her feel that much more confident on her wedding day.
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Wedding Gowns: Ines Di Santo and Galia Lahav