Wedding Gowns & Bridal Fashion

Spring 2007 showcases three distinct bridal themes that address a variety of personalities and wedding types. Whether traditional, looking for a princess ball gown; destination, with an easy-going feel; or modern with avant-garde styles and lines; finding the perfect look has never been easier, says Aquanetta Dawson of David’s Bridal.

The new season also highlights the latest trends in coordination, allowing the bride to unify her wedding with color, Aquanetta explains. Whether through a sash on the bridal gown that coordinates with the bridesmaid’s dresses or a ribbon around the bouquet that matches the invitations; brides are finding a way to tie the wedding together with a variety of hues providing a truly cohesive look. On the forefront of these trends is David’s Bridal, the only national bridal retailer with more than 270 stores across the country.

Simply Charming
Bridal - Reminiscent of Gone With the Wind, brides-to-be looking for a dramatic wedding gown will find a variety of styles to suit their wishes. The looks from this theme include romantic detailing such as pick-up skirts with elegant tucks and folds, subtle asymmetrical draping, corset bodices, feminine ruffles, lace up backs and light, lofty fabrics including taffeta, organza and lace. With color no longer limited to bridal party attire, many bridal gowns boast the flattering allure of an allover color-wash in champagne, latte or light gold. Exuding a nostalgic antebellum feel, these gowns are perfectly suited for a gracious wedding with a grand reception or in the cooling shade of a weeping willow tree. Best captured in a David’s Bridal strapless satin, pick-up ball gown with a pink satin ribbon accent at the waist (#T9167, $399), this style is for a bold, yet traditional bride.

Bridal Party
In harmony with the bridal styles, the bridal party also speaks to the grandness of the era. Bridesmaids can echo the bride’s look with soft tulle pick up skirts, stylish ball gowns and sheaths and fluid short dresses. The color palette speaks to the time of the ceremony, with shades reflective of the afternoon light in hues such as hazelnut, titanium and champagne as well as soft pastels like lilac, pink and banana.

Accessories
Accessories inspired by the Simply Charming theme complement the feminine, southern inspired look. Silk flowers combined with a pick-up veil soften the face while jewelry is represented by floral statement pieces from necklaces to earrings. The overall look is delicate, using a mixture of crystals and pearls. Traditional, ladylike shoes with a peep or open-toe also lend themselves to the outdoor, afternoon affair.

Coastal Delight
Bridal - A perfect fit for the destination bride, this look evokes the feel of a daytime wedding set in Cape Cod, Nantucket or New York’s own Hamptons. Drawing from the clean, classic elegance of a coastal setting, brides wanting to capture this feel can select a tea-length gown or a simple long satin dress, which are both appropriate in this “anything goes” atmosphere. Slimmer silhouettes, flared trumpet skirts and color accents, through ribbons and sashes, play an important role, while deep v-necks, low or split back detailing and minimal embellishment keep things simple and sophisticated. A pleated chiffon tank dress from Galina demonstrates this trend perfectly, with a beaded empire waist, criss-cross tie in back and chiffon sheath overlay (style #VW9146; $399).

Bridal Party
Bridesmaid gowns inspired by this trend feature similar silhouettes to their bridal counterparts, represented by short dresses with smooth lines in either crisp or soft fabrications. Truly functional dresses, they can easily be worn again. Inspired by the sea and coastline, the color palette is one of brights, such as clover and wild orchid, along with nautical hues such as pool, cornflower and marine paired against crisp white, with occasional floral patterns.

Accessories
Key accessories for this trend incorporate the casual, destination feel of the event. Pleated veils, minimally adorned hair combs and fabric headbands incorporate the nautical theme, while a simple satin clutch, understated, pearl jewelry and whimsical strappy sandals and wedges keep the overall attitude simple and elegant.

Hollywood Romance
Bridal - Brides-to-be wanting the glamour of “old Hollywood” need to look no further, as sensational styles to fit the bill abound this season. Suggestive of the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, this trend captures the feel of Fellini’s La Dolce Vita, giving every bride the chance to be Sylvia. Women who appreciate this look may gravitate toward sexier fabrics such as satin, chiffon and taffeta that exudes luxury. The theme suggests an elegant city wedding with a touch of retro mode inspiration; think sleek and strikingly simple silhouettes adorned with crystals and beaded accents. While strapless gowns maintain their place at the forefront of bridal fashion, other necklines also play an important role this season. A variety of beautiful coverage options celebrate the return of glamour, including vintage-inspired halters and romantic sweetheart necklines. ‘Hollywood Romance’ is perhaps best seen in a sensual and smooth a-line gown with a split front halter and modern details (#T9218; $599).

Bridal Party
The bridal party of this sophisticated, paparazzi-era would look lovely in luxurious charmeuse gowns, short, full-skirted taffeta styles or sleek soft satin ensemble pieces. To contribute to the juxtaposition of simple and ornate, some of the season’s new styles are adorned with modern beading details. A classic color palette of cherry, marine, black and honey, as well as jewel tones and mid-tones such as hyacinth, olivine, berry, burnt orange and regency, allow for room to explore in this glamorous theme.

Accessories
As a perfect complement to the luxe look of ‘Hollywood Romance,’ accessories are the definition of modern retro. Bolero jackets and vintage-inspired gloves are worn to and from the wedding. Geometric jewelry, embellished shoes and bubble veils lend themselves to the overall elegance of this nighttime gathering. Topped off with a minaudière handbag, the bride and her attendants truly look like they have stepped off the set of a Fellini film.

T9218: A satin A- line halter gown with a split front, beaded lace detailing and a removable modesty panel, is a nice example of the Hollywood Romance trend, fusing classic lines with elegant detail. Price: $599.00. Shown in Ivory/Champagne. Bust form .

CT221: A satin strapless ball gown with a pick up skirt and beaded metallic embroidery on the bodice, flawlessly displaying the Southern Charm trend. An Oleg Cassini gown, exclusively for David’s Bridal. Price: $950.00. Shown in White. Bust form.

VW9146: A chiffon sheath dress with pleated bust, empire waist and tie back, a beautiful example of the Swept Away trend. This laid back yet elegant style is perfect for any type of affair. A Galina gown, exclusively for David’s. Price: $399.00. Shown in Ivory. Bust form .

T9309: A satin strapless, pick-up ball gown with a clover satin ribbon accent at the waist and a sweep train, this style is bold, yet traditional, a perfect example of the Simply Charming collection. In addition, the colored sash allows brides to coordinate with their entire wedding party. Price: $399.00. Shown in White. Bust form.

F12284: A strapless, short chiffon dress with ruched bust and uneven hem. This style showcases one of the new “hot” colors for spring for bridal parties. It is also a great example of a style you could absolutely, wear again. Price: $130.00. Shown in clover. Model: Ilda.