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The different types of summer weddings and what to wear to each of them

With summer soon approaching, it is time to bring out our wedding outfits for weddings in the warm weather. The heat during this time makes choosing a suitable attire somewhat difficult, as we have to find a dress that is formal while still being comfortable. This style guide will run you through the different types of summer weddings that you can expect to attend, and what dress is appropriate for the style of wedding and also suitable for the weather.

Types of summer weddings

Formal weddings held at an indoor venue are standard fare in every weather, and the rules of dressing are the same. The reception is usually held in the evening, and in a classic banquet style hall or country club setting.

Another type of popular wedding style is the semi-formal or cocktail style wedding. This may be held indoors or outdoors, and can either be in the evening or in the afternoon. The wedding venue and theme should ideally determine your choice of attire for this type of wedding.

Casual weddings are a huge hit in summer, with the warm weather adding a natural and informal touch to every occasion, including weddings. These may be held indoors or outdoors. Some weddings may also be held outdoors while the reception is done indoors.

Beach weddings are a summer favorite. Although these come under the category of casual weddings, we think they deserve to be a category on their own since the dress code for beach weddings is somewhat different from all the other kinds of weddings.

Now, let us take a look at some general rules of dressing appropriately for any type of summer wedding.

Rules that apply to all types of summer weddings

We all know that summers can be warm, sometimes uncomfortably so. Nevertheless, you should always dress appropriately for a wedding in summer, however warm it may be. Be considerate of the other people at the party, and do not choose dresses that are skimpy or too revealing. It is likely that even a casual wedding may have elderly people and children attending, and you do not want to be the cause of any unwanted attention. Think of what you wouldn’t like others to wear to your own wedding, this will give you an idea of whether your dress choice is inappropriate for the function.

Jeans, shorts and tank tops are not appropriate attire for any wedding, whatever be the style. This rule applies even if the wedding is held at a beach, in a garden or the couple’s backyard. The same goes for plastic footwear too. After all, it is a wedding. You should at least make an effort to dress for it, and not turn up looking like you dropped in on your way to the store.

Apart from avoiding white (which is supposed to be the bride’s signature color), we also suggest that you avoid a dress in the color that the bridal party will be wearing, provided you know what it will be. There are no problems here, but we don’t think you would be too pleased to be mistaken as one of the bridesmaids after all the painstaking efforts you went through to pick your outfit for the wedding.

It is also a good idea to take the venue into consideration when you plan your makeup for the event. Use waterproof makeup and tone down the colors if it is an outdoor or daytime event. This will help you look fresh and charming. We also suggest that you visit this article on HowStuffWorks for more tips on what you should never, ever wear to a wedding.

Now, let’s move on to the more interesting part of what to wear to each of the weddings we listed above.

Black-tie or formal weddings

The general rules of dressing for formal weddings applies to this style of wedding in the summer as well. Aim for elegant and stylish gowns, and choose accessories that complement the dress. Floor-length gowns are the expected norm. However, you can also opt for a shorter dress as long as it is formal attire, and doesn’t look too informal or casual. Fitted silhouettes and A-line dresses with a signature detail are usually appropriate. Another choice is the Little Black dress, but make sure you dress it up so you look special and not like the ten other women wearing black.

One thing you should remember when choosing your full-length gown, is whether the fabric will be comfortable in the hot weather. Satin or polyester gowns may not be the best choice. You should instead look at cotton, chiffon or other breezy fabrics. Since the event will be held in the evening, you can choose deeper hues for your makeup, and add a few scintillating accessories to enhance your look. Just remember the standard rule: For a gown with plenty of details, keep the accessories simple. On the other hand, choose dressy accessories for a simple dress. The basic idea is to balance out your look, and not look too cluttered. Spend time to do your hair. You may like to keep it away from your face with a chic updo, as it will be both convenient and practical. Add a stunning clutch and pair of killer heels, and you are all set for the wedding.

Semi-formal weddings

This is a tough one to crack. It is difficult to say whether the wedding style leans more towards formal or towards casual, based on the information provided in the invitation. You can judge to a certain extent, based on the venue of the wedding. Nevertheless, it isn’t always straightforward if the wedding is held at a resort or a venue with multiple halls. Another thing to consider is the time of the event. If it is in the morning or afternoon, it is more likely to sway towards casual, while evening parties are usually more formal.

In either case, the best option is to choose a dress that is more formal, than it is casual. Cocktail dresses that end at the knee or slightly above are your best bet. But make sure that it is dressy and gives you a festive look. For daytime affairs, soft breezy fabrics in light pastels or dusty colors are a great choice. You can either choose a knee to calf-length dress or a two-piece dress, depending on what looks good. If it is in the evening, opt for darker colors and don’t hesitate to bring on the bling.

Semi-formal weddings open up a world of options in silhouettes, styles, necklines, sleeve lengths and hemlines. The jury is divided on whether pant-suits are suitable attire for semi-formal events. Since it is standard office attire, we think it’s best you let it go. Choose a dress that is more party-style instead. Go with what is trendy, or you can always pull out your safe and solid companion, the little black dress. A-line, fit and flare, and modern fit dresses are all quite popular now. You can choose an off-the-shoulder neckline, or one with a single shoulder strap for a trendy look. When choosing a sweetheart or strapless dress, add a pashmina or stole to your ensemble for the evening, in case it gets windy. For a semi-formal event, stick with heels or peep-toes for your footwear. Sandals and anything too casual are a definite no!

Casual wedding

Do you think anything goes for a casual summer wedding? Unfortunately no! The original rules of never wearing jeans, shorts, tank tops or flip-flops to any wedding applies here as well. Never, ever pull out your formal full-length gown for this wedding, or you will end up looking overdressed. Instead, patterned dresses, plain frocks in fun breezy fabrics and short dresses that are modest, should be your choice.

Make sure that your choice of dress is suitable for the venue where the wedding is being held. Lace dresses are perfect for garden or outdoor weddings. Sparkle is alright, but do it with style and don’t go overboard with it. Choose fabrics like cotton and chiffon to feel comfortable and look good in. The current trend is to go for ballooning, loose-fitting garments, and if you find one that looks great on your frame, wear it. A skirt and blouse are also suitable for casual weddings.

If you are lost for choices, and are worried whether you will end up looking too casual, choose to wear business casual. That way, you can’t go wrong. Make sure you pack a punch by choosing interesting accessories like dangling hoop earrings or a nice chunky necklace to go with your dress. Footwear can either be wedges, peep toe sandals or kitten heels. You can accessorize with a matching scarf, which can double up as a wrap, when it gets too windy in the evening. For outdoor events, it is best to stick with nude makeup and a simple hair style that keeps your hair off your face. You can comfortably let your hair down if the event is held indoors, and also go with darker make-up colors. Casual style usually means minimal makeup and hair styling. So, just enhance your look, and don’t go decked up for a ball.

Beach wedding

The favorite summer style wedding, beach or destination weddings are huge and happening in today’s wedding world. Since the location is definitely outdoors, there are a number of factors to consider when planning your attire for a beach wedding. Firstly, it is going to be hot and sometimes humid, so your choice of fabric is more important than at any other wedding. You will be spending time on the sand, so your choose comfortable footwear. With limited control over the wind and weather, it is best that you are prepared for it with an appropriate hairstyle and suitable makeup. Nevertheless, beach weddings are lots of fun, and one of the most casual styles. So, experiment with what you will wear, and let your personality shine through your dress choice.

Think of summer on the beach, and tea or knee-length cotton dresses come to mind instantly. Dreamy, flowing fabric and short hemlines are regulars at beach weddings. Bring on bright colors and patterns with Bohemian, Aztec prints or anything that you love. Vintage-inspired striped and polka dot dresses are also appropriate, and even chic. Soft pastels and dusty hues look great on short chiffon dresses. Patterned cotton and lace are also great choices. This is your chance to show off your fresh new tan with a beautiful sleeveless or strapless dress. Halter necklines and ruffles are also pleasant and perfect for beaches.

Maxi dresses are another excellent choice. Just remember that you will be walking in the sand, so stick to a length that is just right. Your accessories should add to your look, and it is best to opt for natural cut stones or chunky earthy colors in your accessories. Large statement earrings and burlap or jute clutches or totes are great as accessories. Keep the makeup to a minimum and fix your hair well with a suitable hairstyle that stays in one place and you do not end up looking disheveled. To walk comfortably, choose flat heels or sandals with a festive touch of color or sparkling embellishments.

Now that we have all the different types of summer weddings covered, you know what you should stock your wardrobe with, to be ready for this warm wedding season. Visit us at Best for Bride for a stunning variety of evening dresses and dresses for special occasions. With varieties for every type of wedding we just saw here, you are bound to find all the dresses you require, for attending every wedding this season. Not only are all the dresses pictured here part of our splendid collection, we have much more to suit your taste. And if you are busy planning your own wedding, check out our different wedding services and find everything you need. For more wedding tips, fashion advice and everything wedding-related, keep visiting us at Best for Bride.

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 3 Comments

Types of Wedding Dress Lace

Wedding dress descriptions often mention a type of wedding dress lace used to make the gown. One dress may have chantilly lace while another has guipure lace. Without being able to inspect the gowns up close in person, you might not know the difference between these different wedding dress lace types.

However, it is a fact that there are several different types of wedding dress lace. Also, the effect of one type of lace is entirely different from that of another. The difference is in the fabric, the details in the threadwork done on it and in the embellishments that adorn each of these types of lace. So, have you ever wondered how the types of lace are different? Here are descriptions and some photographs of the different types of lace used in wedding dresses.

Alençon Lace

One of the most common types of lace fabric used in bridal dresses is Alençon lace. This wedding dress lace variety is sometimes referred to as the “Queen of Lace.” Alencon lace is named after the city where it originated and Alençon lace has a long history of adorning women’s dresses. This type of lace was first produced in the 16th century in Alencon, a city in France. It is a needle lace. The designs on Alençon lace are outlined with a fine cording. This lace type is often embellished with small crystals, seed pearls, or sequins.

The Alencon lace has survived the competition from machine-made lace, due to its finesse and unique qualities. When cheaper machine-made lace started growing in popularity, production of alencon lace went into a steady decline. Nevertheless, the technique was preserved and it continues to be a bridal favorite to this day.

Brussels Lace

Of the different types of lace for wedding dresses, Brussels lace is very old-fashioned. This wedding dress lace type was first produced in the fifteenth century in the city of Brussels. This city in Belgium is very famous for its laces. Originally, the term Brussels lace was employed for any type of lace that originated in Brussels. However, this has changed over time. It now refers specifically to a type of bobbin lace.

Brussels lace is extremely delicate. Tradition has it that this type of wedding dress lace was woven in dark rooms for fear that the light would cause the threads to become brittle. Brussels lace is occasionally used for wedding dress details. However, this delicate lace is not as common as other lace varieties.

What sets Brussels lace apart from other types of wedding dress laces is its unique design. Here, the entire unit is made of parts and assembled together. So, the floral details are created separately and woven together to form a single unit. The design is also rather unusual and attractive. In the background, there is no defining cordonnet as is seen in other types of lace. Instead, there are open stitches that border the pattern.

Chantilly Lace

Chantilly lace is one of the most common laces used on wedding dresses. The lace has a fine, plain netting background. Chantilly lace often is used for wedding dress sleeves and overlays. It is a type of handmade lace and includes delicate details that make it unusually charming.

Chantilly lace has a well-defined and obvious outlined pattern. Originally, this lace was made of silk. The modern versions are also done in linen. One of the most striking features of Chantilly lace is the light and shadow effect that is unique to this lace. There are usually abundant floral details and motifs that adorn the lace. Chantilly lace was the choice of royalty in ancient days when it was made in Chantilly. The practice continues to this day and is a staple in the bridal scene.

Duchesse Lace

Duchesse lace is a variety of Brussels lace. This lace has more open space than many other types of bridal lace. This lace acquires its name from its patronage by Marie Henriette, the Duchess of Brabant. Like Brussels lace, Duchesse lace also has large and exquisite floral motiffs. However, there is a marked difference between the two. In Duchesse lace, the floral motiffs are joined to each other by bars instead of mesh patterns. The lace motiffs are raised from the base layer, and it mainly features large sprays of floral designs.

Guipure Lace

The characteristic difference between guipure lace and other types of wedding dress lace is the lack of netting. Most types of wedding dress lace are formed on a netting, the guipure has an open design. This type of lace also is called Venise lace, not to be confused with the spelling of the city of Venice. Guipure lace is heavier than most types of lace. It is a favorite fabric for winter wedding gowns. This lace has a raised texture. It can create a very bold look if used over the majority of the dress.

Guipure lace is similar to Duchesse lace in that it has its different motifs connected to each other by bars or plaits instead of mesh-type details. In the original style of this wedding dress lace, the motifs would contain thicker borders that outlined each element of the pattern. However, this edging of the motifs has been eliminated in modern versions. The lace is very common in wedding gowns.

Schiffli Lace

A lightweight, machine-made lace used as an overlay or edging. Sometimes, this term is used to describe chemical lace. The chemical lace has no netting background because the netting is dissolved with a chemical treatment after the lace design has been embroidered.

There are certain features of Schiffli lace that make it easily recognizable. It is created on a machine or loom with an overlapping embroidery field. The details are created by the interlocking of fabric threads. As a result, it yields units that can stand alone without the aid of meshing or connections. Schiffli lace is used as overlays in bridal gowns. It can also be used to trim sleeves and hemlines, or in the bodice of the dress to create a textural difference.

Many people include eyelet as a type of wedding dress lace. Eyelet is a cotton fabric with embroidered cutouts. It’s not a traditional lace since it’s made on the cotton fabric rather than a netting. Despite not being a true lace, the eyelet is a popular trim with scalloped edging for vintage appeal. The eyelet lace, unlike traditional forms of lace, is sturdy with its definite fabric stretch. The defining of details along the holes adds a quality to the delicate fiber beneath it. It also acquires a boho look, which appeals to chic modern brides who prefer an unconventional bridal look.

Choosing the right wedding dress lace

Where wedding dress lace selection is concerned, there is no right or wrong choice. If you look at the different type of lace wedding dresses, you will find that they all have a characteristic charm that is classic, elegant and definitely bridal.

However, the right choice of wedding dress lace can make your wedding shopping easier if you prefer a certain look. This is because certain laces are better suited for an antique vintage feel, while others are more edgy and modern.

The type of wedding dress lace you wear also affects the overall effect of a dress, and how easy it is to maintain. Soft, flexible and lightweight laces require better care. They are more prone to stretching and tears, and you should be extra careful if this type of lace appears in the hemline of your dress. On the other hand, sturdier forms of lace like the eyelet are less prone to accidents and tearing.

Another factor to consider is the color and the embellishments on the wedding dress lace that influence its look. Off-white lace colors with more texture tend to create an antique or vintage look. Meanwhile, crisp white lace with clear-cut details and fine edging are better suited for modern looks.

Factors to remember when choosing a lace wedding gown

I cannot think of any bridal boutique that will have wedding dresses without lace. Lace is indeed an integral part of the wedding scenery. Although it may not suit everyone’s taste, there are still brides who wouldn’t consider anything but a lace wedding dress for their special day.

If you decide to make your selection from lace wedding dresses, you will have to lavish extra care on the dress. Since wedding dress lace is delicate, it requires special care. Lace is also susceptible to fraying and tearing. Avoid such risks by ensuring the following:

Go for quality over quantity

Handmade wedding dress lace has an exotic quality that cannot be compared to the machine-made version. So, a dress that has just a small quantity of handmade lace will definitely be better than one that is entirely made from the cheap machine-made stuff. Always go with the classics in excellent quality fabric to look elegant and stylish.

Always get the dress altered by an expert

A lace dress should be handled with care at all times. If your dress calls for any alterations, trust only the experts for the job. Repairs on a lace gown have to be done carefully. It is easy to damage the look of the wedding dress lace if it is done improperly. So, ensure you trust a talented seamstress to the job. Also, ensure you pick the dress in the right size, so there will be excess lace to work with when it has to be taken in.

Be prepared to pay more

Every wedding dress, even after alterations should look flawless. And it isn’t easy to get that effect when you have a lace dress. If the areas that are covered in wedding dress lace require alterations, your seamstress will have to put in more effort. This can mean that the alterations may cost extra. So, be prepared for this when you purchase a dress. Altering a lace dress is often a time-consuming task. Keep this mind and set aside enough time when doing your shopping, so this doesn’t turn out to be an issue later.

Place it safely in a secluded space

Wedding dress lace is very delicate and easily prone to tears. It can quickly tear and be damaged if it catches on to anything. So, it is absolutely essential to store it in a safe spot that is away from the traffic zones in your home.

Lay it out flat

A lace wedding dress is always best stored flat. This allows the lace to hold its shape and not result in accidental tears or fraying. Place your wedding dress flat on a shelf in your closet. Else, store it inside a box that you specially buy for the purpose and place it in a safe place.

Consider your veil and jewelry when choosing the lace for your dress

The other part of your bridal outfit that will contain lace is your veil. It is important to match your veil to the lace in your dress for a cohesive effect. So, choose your veil by wearing it with your dress to confirm they go together well.

Irrespective of whether it is guipure, chantilly, alencon or schiffi, lace is a bridal staple that stands out as one of the unique embellishments for wedding dresses. Hence, it is no wonder that lace wedding gowns have stood the test of time. While it continues to evolve to suit the taste of the modern bride, one thing is sure. Lace is here to stay.

We have a stunning variety of lace wedding dresses in our dress collections at Best for Bride. Check out our bridal dress gallery to shortlist your favourites, or for inspiration on planning your wedding day look. For more information about wedding dresses and embellishments, please browse the Best for Bride blog. There you will find detailed descriptions of wedding dress elements including the bustle, veils, and different lengths of trains.

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3 ways to save on your wedding photography

Your wedding photographs are the memories of your wedding that will accompany you for a lifetime, and perhaps even outlive you. So, you don’t want to skimp and get it wrong. Professional wedding photographers are worth their weight in gold, but getting your wedding pictures done by them can actually take a chunk out of your wedding budget. The Knot’s real wedding survey suggests that the average couple spends $2556 on their wedding photography, which is quite a lot of money. Fortunately, there are some ways in which you can make your money go further and get the best possible results for what you can afford. Let us find out what they are.

Research well and book early

First and foremost, don’t assume that you will get an unreasonably high discount, however early you look. So, start with someone who has rates that you can afford. Take the time to check out photographer portfolios and reviews, and find a photographer whose style you like. Although you may have a limited budget, you can still find the best photographer for that budget provided that you begin your search early and zero in on the right candidate.

Make use of discounts

You must have gone through the wedding photos of your friends. Is there any that you have loved in particular? If you haven’t really given much thought to this, think about it now. This way, you may find a good photographer who gives you a better deal because of the reference your friend provides. It is also likely that photographers offer referral discounts if you get someone else to sign up for their services as well. If you know of any other engaged friends, recommend your photographer to them. If they like him as much as you do, you may even and snag a discount when they sign up for his services.

Look for package deals and stick to the digital version till you can make your album

Many photographers offer package deals, and you can choose the one that fits your budget. Set some time aside to discuss your options, and find out if you can customize the available choices to fit your needs. Don’t worry too much about getting your wedding album ready right after the wedding. The important thing at this point is getting the pictures taken by a good photographer. Once you have the digital prints ready, start working on your wedding album only when you have the budget for it. Else, put it off till when you do. You do not have to worry, as you will always have the pictures to put into the album. Just don’t forget all about it. Make sure that you will get your album ready as soon as you have the necessary amount put aside for it. Share the digital prints with your friends and wedding guests soon after the wedding, so you do not have to postpone the excitement of sharing those memorable moments.

Find more valuable tips and advice to plan your dream wedding and stick to budget by visiting us at Best for Bride.

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 3 Comments

All you wanted to know about engagement parties

Your engagement is great news; one that has to be shared and celebrated with your near and dear ones. You could always share the news over social media or telephone, but the traditional way of breaking the news to those who are closest to you is with an engagement party.

Are you unsure about how and when you should plan your engagement party? Here is a round-up of all you have to know, so you can begin planning.

Who hosts the engagement party?

Traditionally, this was done by the bride’s parents. Nowadays, there is really no set rule on who throws the party. At times it is the bride’s parents, or otherwise the groom’s parents. It isn’t too unusual to find the couple themselves hosting the party these days or even their friends doing it for them.

When is it held?

An engagement party is the occasion to officially announce your engagement. So, the earlier it is planned, the better. It is good to have the engagement party before you get too busy with wedding planning. This allows you to enjoy it fully, without worrying about the wedding. If you want to keep your engagement a surprise, an engagement party is the best occasion to announce this big news to all those who matter to you. Just make sure that the hosts or those who already know don’t spill the beans before the day.

What kind of a party should it be?

There are no set rules here. You could have a formal party, or choose to go with one that is casual and relaxed. Outdoor garden parties are great for celebrating engagements, but you could also have it at a club or in a hotel if you choose to. Traditional engagement parties were notorious for being serious and boring. But with a little creativity you can transform it into a fun-filled event. To get started, check out this article on The Huffington Post.

Who should be invited?

Engagement party etiquette was that only those in the wedding guest list were invited to this function. But, nowadays it is up to the hosts and the couple to decide who attends. You can either have an intimate gathering of your close friends and relatives, or a bigger affair where you invite co-workers, neighbors and associates as well. Couples may even choose to have more than one party for each group, but this depends on whether you have the time and the budget for it.

What do you wear?

Your attire for the day should depend on the formality of the event and the venue. For a formal party choose an elegant evening gown that helps you stand out. For a casual outdoor affair, shorter dresses with interesting details would be a good choice. Your fiance should also choose his attire based on the same factors.

Are toasts part of the engagement party?

Yes, it is customary to toast the newly-engaged couple at the party. It can be done by their parents, or whoever hosts the party. The couple may also choose to raise a toast to the host of the party, if they aren’t hosting it themselves.

Now that you know all that you need to, on engagement parties, get ready to plan it. To find a suitable dress for this fantastic evening in your life, check out our collection of dresses for special occasions at Best for Bride.