Maryke

The beauty of this bride’s wedding dress lies in the simplicity of its style. She chose a classic A-line style with rouged detail on the bust. The detail was finished off by a beaded trim which was placed just under the bust, the most flattering part on most women. This in turn gave the illusion of an empire line. The trimming was made from raw silk, beaded with glass bugle & seed beads.

The back of this wedding dress had a subtly sexy lace-up detail.

Her choice of fabric was sheer chiffon over a soft bridal satin. It gave an over-all softer appearance than the normal A-line dress, usually made from a stiffer fabric.

This wedding dress could fall under either the Classic bride (when worn with a petticoat, as in this bride’s case) or the Natural bride (worn without a petticoat, just falling softly to the ground, which makes it the perfect choice for a beach / garden wedding).

These two beautiful cousins had their matric dance in March, 2012. They each chose their own designs and I had the pleasure of turning it into reality. 

The matric dance dress on the left was an empire style, made from silk chiffon in aumbré colours, fading from charcoal at the hemline into lighter shades of grey towards the top. The bust section was rouged by hand, mimicking the aumbré colours from the skirt.

This dress had an exquisite back: dropped low to the waist with asymmetrical detail.

A beautiful Swarovski crystal & glass beaded trimming finished off the dress, accentuating the empire line on the front, continuing over one shoulder to the back of this elegant dress.

The matric dance dress on the right had a dropped waist with a flared skirt, giving the effect of a trumpet style. It was made from a gorgeous black lace over pewter coloured satin. The back was laced up with a black satin ribbon, which complimented her beautiful black high heeled stilettos.

This classic, elegant dress’s sweetheart neckline was finished off by exquisite, sparkling Swarovski crystals in different shapes & sizes.

Choosing the colour of your bridesmaid’s dresses goes hand in hand with your colour scheme for your wedding. Usually your choice flowers will also have an influence on your choice of colour.

Here are some options with variations to consider:

A.          Would like a monochromatic colour scheme for your bridesmaids, meaning using a single colour?

B.          Would you like to use hues and / shades of your chosen colour, meaning they all are in the same group /

              ‘family’ of colours. For example: Lilac, Lavender & Plum?

Should you wish to make option A a little more interesting, you can have each bridesmaid in a different style.  Another option for adding interest is having the same basic style e.g. the Empire Style, with each having a different neck line & straps.

Should option B tickle your fancy, I would suggest that you combine the colours into small details, such as a Lilac dress with a Lavender sash and a Plum flower with both Lilac & Lavender accents (e.g. In the form of beads in the centre of the flower; this draws all the colours together). I would also suggest using no more 3 shades / hues. You could also opt for having one bridesmaid in Lavender, one in a Lilac dress and another in a Plum dress.

From my years of experience I have found there are some timeless colours that are continuously popular for bridesmaid’s dresses:

Burgundy, which is a rich red wine colour (usually cream accents is popular with this colour)

Neutrals such as Oyster, Caramel or Taupe (usually combined with either cream / chocolate coloured accents)

Gunmetal grey or Charcoal (usually combined with either black or silver accents)

Cerise pink, also called Fuchsia pink (often combined with black accents)

For more info see my blog post on choosing bridesmaid's dresses - style as well as dress styles.

Let your heart guide you as you go & remember to stay true to yourself as well as your wedding style.

This radiant bride chose a wedding dress that fits the profile of the Romantic Bride. 

She chose a beautiful ivory colour for her dress. The style of her wedding dress consisted of a half circle ball gown skirt made from a layer of sheer, matt organza over crushed taffeta with a corseted bodice. Delicate hand beaded detail in glass bugle beads added the perfect amount of sparkle to her elegant design. Rows of piping sewn into the vertical seams of the bodice added a super flattering feature to this corset. This feature draws the eyes down, forming a slim & flattering line.

The romantic wave at the hemline that finished this bridal gown off was created by sewing fish gut into the hem.

When it comes to style, it is important to take your bridesmaids figure shapes, height, ages and personalities into consideration. With the varieties being endless, chhosing your bridesmaid's dresses can almost be a more challenging task than choosing your wedding dress. To assist you in this area, I have narrowed it down to a few styles which are suitable to most figure types. The two most flattering styles are the A-line style (also called the princess style) & the empire style. Both of these styles look great in either a long or a shorter length.

A-line style:

This style can also be referred to as the Princess style. This style has a fitted bodice with a defined waist, widening gradually towards the hemline. It has multiple, vertical panels extending in an A-line shape from the waist to the hem.

The A-line is a style that suits most figure shapes, sizes & ages. In a shorter length it can be a lovely choice for your bridesmaids. This is also a very flattering style on Moms, to which a broader strap / sleeves can easily be added.

This is a timeless, classic style.

Empire style:

The waistline of this style is raised to just below the bust line with either a straight or flared, breezy skirt. This style is ideal for sheer, soft fabrics.

This is a ‘figure friendly’ style, which can also be a great option for bridesmaid’s dresses.

For more information on different styles, have a look at my blog post under Weddings, dress styles.

Accents:

Accents are best suited under the bust, as this is most flattering on most women’s figures. I would advise straps for bigger busted bridesmaids & a sweetheart neckline is generally the most flattering on all.

A tulle frill peeping out at the hemline of a shorter A-line dress adds a playful touch to your bridesmaids dresses. It could be nice to do it in another shade / hue of your chosen colour (e.g. lighter / darker). Alternatively, a contrasting colour could be striking.

A sash or ribbon under the bust is another accent that can be added. If you would like a softer, more feminine look opt for a rouged chiffon sash that either ties in a knot / bow, draping softly or add a pretty flower. Alternately, for a more sophisticated look opt for a diamante buckle.

Rouging on the bust line adds interest to the design & it is also a flattering way of drawing the eye diagonally, giving a slimmer silhouette.

Straps can be added to most styles & could vary from narrow shoestring straps (sometimes called spaghetti straps) to a broader, cap sleeve like strap (a very good option for a Mother of the bride). You can also have halter straps that either tie in a feminine bow at the neck or join with loops & covered buttons. Your designer can assist you in deciding which option(s) will be best suited to your chosen style(s).

For an overview on choosing bridesmaid's dresses, have a look at my blog post under Evening, Choosing bridesmaid's dresses - overwiew.

Following are the most popular wedding dress styles:

A-line dress:

This style can also be referred to as the Princess style. This style has a fitted bodice with a defined waist, widening gradually towards the hemline. It has multiple, vertical panels extending in an A-line shape from the waist to the hem.

The A-line is a style that suits most figure shapes, sizes & ages. In a shorter length it can be a lovely choice for your bridesmaids. This is also a very flattering style on Moms, to which a broader strap / sleeves can easily be added.

This is a timeless, classic style (for more info & photo’s see my blog post on the Classic Bride)

Trumpet style:

The trumpet style has a form fitting bodice with a semi full skirt that flares from below the hips.

Ball gown:

This style is inspired by the classic old fairy tale. It has a fitted bodice (corseted) with a full skirt that starts on or just below the hips.

This could be either a very romantic or dramatic option (for more info & photo’s see my blog posts on the Romantic Bride / the Dramatic Bride)

Empire dress:

The waistline of this style is raised to just below the bust line with either a straight or flared, breezy skirt. This style is ideal for sheer, soft fabrics such as chiffon.

This is a ‘figure friendly’ style, which can also be a great option for bridesmaid’s dresses.

For more info & photo’s see my blog post on the Natural Bride.

Mermaid style:

It is a figure hugging style which flares out from or just below the knee.

This style could either be in a classic version or a dramatic one. For more info & photo’s see my blog post on the Dramatic Bride)

Sheath:

The sheath has a narrow, form fitting line. It is usually cut on the bias (the cross-grain of the fabric) which produces a fitted shape with a gentle drape at the hem.

This style is most suitable for athletic, well-toned figures.

You are likely to envision your wedding day as a formal, elegant affair. You are all about making a statement in an avant-garde, eclectic wedding dress.

Your wardrobe is filled with the latest fashion and you are the kind of person who dares to be different.

Although you would opt for a stylish wedding dress, you would like a ‘wow’ factor such as an open, low cut back or showing some cleavage.

You might like to draw attention with intricate draping, elaborate beaded embellishments or even a splash of colour.

As a Dramatic bride, creative, sexy, bold and detail is what it is about for you.

STYLES & DETAILS TO CONSIDER:

Intricate draping / rouging:

Any form of intricate draping / rouging might interest you.

A dramatic back:

A dramatic train:

Fabrics:

Interesting & different, such as lace / heavily beaded fabric might catch your attention.

Adding a splash of colour to your dress might take your fancy, such as a black sash for example.

Your ideal wedding dress is refined, tasteful and classy. It is likely to be a style you’ve liked all along – something timeless.

As a Classic bride you are draw to simplicity. Elegant styles with a splash of detail.

STYLES & DETAILS TO CONSIDER:

A-Line ‘mermaid’ style wedding dress:

This style is one of my own interpretations of the classic mermaid style. Where a mermaid style wedding dress is figure hugging, this one flares ever so slightly from the hip, giving it a very flattering shape, which compliments most figure types.

Classic Princess Style wedding dress:

This style is the most flattering style for all figure types, sizes & ages. The bodice of this style is fitted & nips in the waist from where the skirt flares out.

Corseted bodice with a circle skirt wedding dress:

Another classic is a corseted bodice with a half circle skirt.

Fabrics:

Classic fabrics such as Duchess Satin & Silk are suited to a classic dress. Taffeta might also fall in your taste.

As a Natural bride, while you would like to look your best, you would also like to appear (and feel) relaxed, simple and comfortable. Generally, one would find comfortable clothes such as jeans, T’s and flat shoes in your every day wardrobe.

You are likely to opt for a semi formal / in-formal wedding. Your ideal wedding dress will be something loose, flowing, simple and soft with minimal embellishments.

Uncomplicated, understated, yet stylish is what will appeal to you.

STYLES TO CONSIDER:

Empire line dress:

A bodice with rouged, draped or slightly beaded detail paired with a soft chiffon skirt falling gently from the bust. Consider details such as soft chiffon sashes that can be caught in the wind. This is suitable to most figure types also.

A-line dress:

An A-line dress done in a soft satin and chiffon falls softly over curves and is flattering to just about all figure types.

Your ideal style of wedding dress is feminine, maybe even with some frills, ruffles or 'pick-ups' ('bubbles'). Your dress has lots of dreamy details & accessories. You (generally) love shades of pink.

Your dream wedding may be as formal / in-formal as you like, as long it is dripping with romance. Tip: make a list of your favourite things and try to incorporate some of these into your wedding day. For example: Butterflies, lace, favourite flowers, sunsets etc.

A dress with lace, tulle and / or ruffles is likely to appeal to you. Generally, you’ll be drawn to a ball gown or a dress with a fuller skirt and soft lines with whimsical detail. You might explore options like hand painted flowers on your wedding dress or adding a touch of pink to your wedding dress.

For the Romantic bride, anything dreamy and ‘floaty’ goes. Your wedding day is your fairytale come true and you would like to look like a princess on your wedding day.

STYLES & DETAILS TO CONSIDER:

Ball gown:

A tulle skirt with corseted bodice. Alternately, the skirt could be full in a plain fabric with a corseted or fitted bodice along with beaded accents.Another option is to have a combination of both fabric and tulle on your skirt.

The skirt doesn’t necessarily have to be ‘poufy’. It depends on the width it is cut in as well as the size petticoat you choose to wear underneath. Tip: Most hoop petticoats are adjustable.

A-Line dress:

An A-line dress suits most figures. One with an organza overlay with beaded detail gives it a whimsical, floaty feel.

Beading & fabric:

Beading ads sparkle to any wedding dress. As a Romantic bride you are likely to have some sparkle and / lace detail on your dress. However, the romance is generally in the silhouette of your dress.

Fabrics such as lace, organza and tulle ads to the romance of your dress and day. For an extra 'floaty effect, ask your Designer to add fish-gut to the hem to give it a curled edge.

Choosing a wedding dress is one of the biggest decisions you will have to make for your special day. There is such a variety of styles & dresses available, that it might feel overwhelming to find a starting point.

My hopes are that the following pointers will help you discover your wedding style / wedding ‘personality’, which, in turn will help you choose your wedding dress.

1. What kind of wedding do you envision having?
2. What is your wedding date, time & venue / setting?
3. What is your budget for your wedding dress & accessories?
4. What is your wedding ‘personality’?

1. WHAT KIND OF WEDDING DO YOU ENVISION?:

The style of your wedding dress will be influenced by the formality & style of your wedding. There are no hard & fast rules, however, generally the more formal your wedding, the more formal your dress & visa versa.

2. YOUR WEDDING DATE, TIME & VENUE / SETTING:

The date will indicate the season of your wedding, which in turn will be an indicator of the expected weather for your wedding day. The most popular times of the year to get married are Spring & Summer. Winter weddings however, might qualify you for some discounted prices, as it is out of wedding season.

The time of your wedding will also be an indicator of the formality of your wedding. Morning weddings tend to be more in-formal, whereas afternoon / evening weddings tend to be more formal.

The venue / setting will also influence your choice, as an outdoor wedding such as on the beach / in the garden tend to be less formal that of an indoor wedding in a hall.

3. WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS & ACCESSORIES?

Most people don’t like to crunch the numbers but when it comes to your wedding, it is advisable to know your budget in order for you to know what you are able to spend on your wedding dress & accessories. This is also important information to relay to your dress designer.

4, YOUR WEDDING PERSONALITY:

Now that you have a general idea of what you envision for your wedding day, you should be able to determine your wedding ‘personality’.

None of us should fit into a ‘box’ and the following are mere pointers as to determine a general feel for what wedding dress style might suit you. Certain aspects about your choices for your wedding day will lean strongly into one of the following directions. You might even be a combination of 2 wedding ‘personalities’, in which case I, as a designer, can design a wedding dress capturing both aspects of your personality into your wedding dress. Alternately, you might like to have your wedding ceremony & reception reflecting one ‘personality’ & your dress the other.

If you have been dreaming about your wedding day since you’ve been a little girl, full of fairy tale expectations, you are likely to be a Romantic bride.

If you envision your wedding in an outdoor setting such as the beach or garden, you are likely to be a Natural bride.

Should you envision your special day as being semi-formal / formal, filled with lots of traditions (especially those passed on through your family’s traditions), you are likely to be a Classic bride.

If your vision for your wedding is one in an elegant setting with little traditions, 5 star food & all things modern and different, you are likely to be a Dramatic bride.

Choosing bridesmaids dresses are another fun part in planning your wedding; however, it could also be somewhat of a challenge. You will most likely have to juggle between a variety of body shapes, sizes, complexions, personalities and fashion senses. The final decision ultimately lies with you, the bride.

As with your wedding dress, the choice in style, colour & fabric(s) will be influenced by the time of your ceremony, the level of formality and theme of your wedding, as well as, the season (weather). It is important to communicate your vision you have for the over-all look of your wedding day to your dress designer: Be it informal, romantic, flowing & dreamy, sophisticated, tailored & modern or casual and relaxed.

Choosing bridesmaids dresses can be divided into the following main categories:

• Style
• Colour
• Fabric

STYLE:

When it comes to style, it is important to take your bridesmaids figure shapes, height, ages and personalities into consideration. The varieties are endless; however, there are a few styles which are flattering to most figure types. You can read more on this in my following blog post.

COLOUR:

When choosing a colour for your bridal party, keep your wedding’s colour scheme for the flowers & décor in mind. It doesn’t have to be an exact match, as hues and / or shades of your colour scheme would be just as effective. I’ll discuss this in greater detail in my up-coming blog post on ‘Choosing bridesmaids dresses – Colour’.

FABRIC:

The style of your bridesmaids dresses will greatly determine your choice in fabric. Other determining factors will be weather as well your budget.

TIPS & TRICKS:

When having your bridesmaids dresses made by a designer, keep the following in mind:

• Take everyone’s location into consideration:
  1. How many fittings will be needed (more or less)?
  2. How often and when would it be possible for your bridesmaids to attend fittings? (It’s best to pre-determine and book these in advance in order for everyone to fit it into their schedules along with giving your designer enough time to make your dresses)
  3. How long before your wedding will everyone arrive? (In order to have final fittings and leave room for last minute adjustments)
  4. Special requirements such as pregnant bridesmaids will also need to be specified and taken into consideration.

Getting engaged is such a special time in a woman’s life. There is so much to look forward to when planning your wedding day and dreaming up your wedding dress is one of those exciting things. It is advisable to start looking for your wedding dress 3 - 6 months before your set date.

Some of the benefits of having your wedding dress made by a professional designer, such as myself, are that it gives you the opportunity to combine different elements from various dresses and styles you like. Another is that your dress will be custom made according to your personal measurements, ensuring that it will fit you like a glove. As a designer, I go through great lengths to capture your personality and individuality in your dress. This ensures that you will look and feel your best version of yourself on you special day.

Once you have contacted your chosen designer to set up an appointment, the designing process of your dress is about to begin.

During our first meeting I would love to hear about your plans for your wedding: what are your chosen colours, flowers, venue etc. This will give me some insight into your personality as well as an idea as to which styles would suit you. We will discuss your preferences and specifications pertaining to the dress you have in mind. I will advise you on the different fabrics and which colour would be best suited to your complexion. I will make suggestions on which style would be most flattering to your figure type (it usually means small tweaks to your chosen design). We will discuss the finer finishes such as lace and / embellishments such as bead work, appliqués etc. I will make a sketch of your design, outlining details such as colour, use of fabric(s) as well as the finer finishes. I will also assist you with planning the dresses for the bridal party, such as your bridesmaid(s), maid of honour, Mother of the bride, Mother of the groom, flower girl(s) etc.

After our first meeting I will send you a quotation, usually via email / fax. Should you accept the quotation a deposit will secure your booking, with the balance due before / on the day of collection.

The next step will be sourcing the fabric for your wedding dress. Should it be something very specific, I will ask you to accompany me and choose your lace or beaded fabric etc.

After this I will take your measurements and make a basic garment from an inexpensive fabric to be fitted (sometimes also called a toile). During your first fitting you will be able to get an overall idea of the silhouette of your dress and simple changes can still be made at this point. From here your fabric will be cut and your dress will be sewn. Within 3 – 4 fittings you will have the finished product of your dream wedding dress having been turned into reality. I prefer having wedding dresses finished 5 -7 days before your wedding date in order to alleviate extra stress for you, the bride.

TIPS AND TRICKS:

Follow your heart.

Be true to yourself when choosing your wedding dress.

Incorporate elements of your favourite things in both your wedding as well as your wedding dress. This ensures a wedding that will be uniquely you.

Remember to bring pictures and clippings of different dresses and styles that appeal to you to your initial appointment with your designer.

It is wise to set up a budget for your wedding dress beforehand. It is important to inform your designer of this at your first meeting.

Bring the correct underwear you are planning to wear on your wedding day to each fitting, as this may have an effect on the fit of your dress.

I believe that every woman deserves something Special and Inside there’s a little something that desires to be a Princess… In a dress is where fantasy meets reality, A dress is where the elements of being a woman meet: