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Bridal pant suits, tiered skirts and other unique wedding dress styles we love

One of the best things about wedding fashion is that it is constantly evolving. Although the traditional layered wedding gown is still popular, bridal dress designers also impress us with unusual and unexpected trends for brides who want something different for their wedding day. The latest trends in wedding dresses are so unusually interesting that I wouldn’t be surprised if many of them would continue to be favorites season after season. Take the 3-D floral trend for instance. It made its appearance several years ago, and still continues to be a big hit. This charming design feature has been played with in different ways, extended to other motifs of nature and even tried out in colors and bigger proportions. And one thing is clear, the trend is here to stay.

There are many more design features that have been bookmarked by many brides and wedding fashion enthusiasts, long before they set their wedding dates. Let us explore this list of the unique and interesting wedding dress styles that are anything but traditional, but impressive enough to stay.

Bridal Pant Suits

With same-sex weddings growing common these days, bridal pant suits which rose to fame in 2014, continue to be favored by many couples. It is not only for lesbian brides, though. Many brides choose them for their practicality and style factor. In fact, the chances are high for any bride who isn’t used to wearing dresses to choose a pantsuit over a poufy wedding dress. And the modern designs are stylish and dressy enough for the bride to look special on her big day. One of the most popular choices is divided skirts, where the pantsuit looks super-chic and very bridal. Well-tailored suits with elegant embellishments are equally attractive. We have also noticed the unusual pairing of the pantsuit with the very feminine veil as the accessory of choice for a “tradition meets modern” bridal statement.

Two-in-one wedding dresses

We have lost track of the number of times we have been asked for dresses that allow a bride to easily transform from a traditional bride at the wedding ceremony to a stylish diva for the wedding reception. Two-in-one wedding dresses are our go-to solution in such situations. Dubbed the two-fer, these dresses feature an overlay skirt over a figure-fitting silhouette like the mermaid. The overlay skirt is often elaborate and richly layered, so it has the appearance of a rich ball gown. This is usually perfect for a traditional wedding ceremony and a princess look for the bride. Post the wedding ceremony, all the bride has to do is take off the overlay skirt, and she has a new look for the reception. Much easier than changing into a whole new gown, don’t you think? Also, it is more economical than spending double on two gowns.

Tiered wedding skirts

Tiered wedding skirts are the happy balance between ball gowns and modern wedding dress styles. They have the drama of the ball gown, but are more sophisticated and look contemporary. Tiers are mostly on A-line and fit and flare silhouettes like the mermaid or trumpet. They are beautiful in every fabric but common in lace, satin and tulle. Tiered skirts are often paired with sweetheart and strapless necklines, adding to the dramatic effect. They may also be embellished with scalloped details at the edges or ruffles. Designers have also tried unusual embellishments like feathers and fringes in tiered wedding skirts. However, these choices are better suited for bold brides than conventional brides.

Muted shades of pink

Ever since blush became a widely sought-after bridesmaid dress color, muted shades of pink have stolen many a bride’s heart. Blush, in particular, is a favorite as it has a delicate, feminine charm. The color is soft, so many brides can safely choose it in their bridal dresses and not deviate too far from traditional white. Another charming factor about this color is that it looks good on most complexions. It is also the perfect base colour for lace details like floral icons and others to pop up against. Blush renders itself beautifully to both modern and vintage wedding dress designs. Whether it is in a ruffled wedding dress skirt or a modern minimalist silhouette, this dainty color, as well as other subtle shades of pink, are big hits in the bridal world. We do not see them disappearing from the scene anytime soon.

Plunging necklines

Definitely a choice for the bold and daring bride, plunging necklines are no longer the fashion statements of celebrities on the red carpet. Plunging V-necklines, daringly low scoops and deep keyhole designs are all hot trends on the bridal fashion scene. The widespread interest in the reinvention of these styles and the number of collections featuring this detail tell us that more and more women are choosing to sport this bold style feature in their wedding dresses. To avert any potential disaster, all that is necessary is to add a sheer modesty piece to the neckline. Nevertheless, after the daringly low-back details that were once a hit on the bridal scene, plunging necklines are a hot and happening thing. Plunging necklines are often featured with straps or sleeveless dresses, adding a finishing touch to the glamorous detail.

Asymmetrical hemlines

Interesting elements like high-low wedding dress hemlines instantly add a touch of drama to the bridal look. This is a feature that has not just gained favor in the general fashion scene, but has influenced wedding fashion as well. High-low hemlines may be used in short or long gowns. It can also be added as a feature that appears over the regular wedding skirt. Asymmetrical hemlines usually involve more fabric to create the flowy effect, and are commonly paired with A-line dress styles, sheaths or fit and flare silhouettes for maximum impact. This is a great choice for casual-theme weddings where the bride wants a dress that isn’t too formal but looks bridal enough.

Off-the-shoulder neckline

A sexy dress feature that allows the bride to show off her well-toned shoulders and collar bones, the off-the-shoulder neckline looks beautiful on wedding gowns. The exposed shoulders and neckline balance out poufy wedding dress skirts. Off-the-shoulder necklines are very feminine, and may be paired with any dress silhouette. It has a princess look when paired with ball gown skirts and A-line dresses, whereas it looks stylish and modern when paired with sheaths and fit and flare silhouettes. The neckline may either feature short sleeves or be combined with long full sleeves for a vintage look. This neckline feature has been added to both lace gowns as well as satin and silk wedding dresses. It may also be paired with a draped bodice or an embellished one in different designs.

Illusion details on sleeves

Illusion necklines were and continue to be a bridal favorite. Although the sleeve length has varied from full-sleeves to strapless styles and those in between, there are always brides who want to look modest and sport wedding dresses with sleeves that cover their arms. Then, brides also want sleeves because their arms are too thick or too skinny to show-off. Illusion sleeve details are a happy middle ground between fully covered and very modest styles and the strapless style that reveals arms all the way from the shoulders to the fingers. Illusion sleeves are usually executed in lace, and have a delicate feminine appeal. This feature is great for formal wedding styles and looks good on both slender and curvy brides. The details may range from intricate lace structures to widely dispersed and scattered details. It can also have embellishments or be simple.

Modern minimalist

Less is more for the modern minimalist bride. Non-fussy, uncluttered wedding gowns do not have to be simple and boring. Instead, they can be stunning and splendid, despite their simplicity. Minimalist wedding dresses allow brides to draw focus to other aspects of their wedding trousseau, like their jewelry and accessories. Sleek and simple modern silhouettes usually focus on enhancing the bride’s natural beauty by drawing attention to her best assets in an obvious way. The most popular silhouettes are fit and flare and column, which either snugly fit the body curves or create the illusion of more curves than the lady possesses. Minimalist dresses may also feature selected embellishments that are vivid and stylish. This is a great pick for the bride who wants her personality to shine through the attire she sports on this important day in her life.

Defined waistlines

More brides today are determined to get in shape and look their best on their wedding days. And when they have great bodies to show off, it is only imperative that they draw attention to the smallest and most attractive of their assets, like a slim waistline. Wedding dresses with emphasized waistlines are just as popular as accessories like bows, sashes and waistbands that define the waistline clearly. This feature is common on not only poufy wedding dresses, but the demarcation of the waistline is even incorporated into fit and flare dresses where there usually is no clear waistline. One of the most exciting factors about defining the waistline specifically is that it gives the dress a youthful appearance. So, although dropped waistlines and empire styles are still sough after by many brides, dresses which highlight slender waists and even draw attention to it are favored by brides who are in good shape in time for their wedding.

Fantastic back details

This is one trend that we cannot get enough of. Every year, wedding designers outdo themselves by presenting us with wedding dresses featuring fantastic back details. The mysterious charm of an ornate back detail is unbeatable, and it is a must-have for every bride on her special day. From fabulous illusion detailing to tasteful lace cut-outs, embellished details, low-cut backs and keyhole designs, details in the back easily impress. It is also an interesting way of showing of your sexy side without worrying about a wardrobe disaster. To highlight back details, the bride must ideally choose a hairstyle that doesn’t cover up the essential details. It may also be hidden when you wear a veil. So, if you choose a dress with a fantastic back, make sure to take off the veil after the ceremony and give it the attention it deserves. Fantastic back details are also stand-out features in bridal and couple portraits. So make sure your photographer pays attention to this detail, if your dress features it.

Over the recent years, many trends have appeared and disappeared. While going with the trend is fun, remember that your wedding dress will be the focal point in your wedding album in future years. It may perhaps even be passed down through generations, and you always want to look classic and timeless in them. We believe that the trends we listed here today are those that will help you look stylish. In short, these are the trends that are bound to be repeated time and again and never go out of fashion.

So, please tell us which of these dress features you like the most. Have you chosen any of them in your wedding dress?

For more wedding dresses and a fantastic selection to make your pick from, check out this link to our wedding dress collections at Best for Bride. From traditional and vintage to modern and contemporary dresses, we have all the dresses you can dream of. Book your appointment with us today, and visit any of our locations in Canada to make your wedding dress dreams come true. And if you are a bride from outside Canada, try our online shopping option for a reliable experience.

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Dare to be different with a unique wedding dress

Is your fashion style unique or predictable? Do you always make heads turn with unusual and offbeat choices in what you wear everyday?

It isn’t too difficult to have a unique style statement these days, for there are diverse fashion options available. In fact, isn’t that every woman’s secret wish–to stand out of the crowd in something interesting and clever?

However, it takes guts to do the same on your wedding day!

There are traditional expectations from every bride. For instance, it is difficult for people to imagine brides in colors other than white. Take a look at this link for some interesting trivia on this practice.  Conventional style choices do not end there. Despite the passage of time, few women are bold enough to deviate from these expectations and pick dresses that do not conform to tradition.

My intent is to explore such options—dresses that are designed as bridal wear, but with quirky, bold or daring elements that make them truly stand out. Take a look and tell us which of these would you dare to be different in.

Adeline from Sophia Tolli

Why wear white, when you can make heads turn in this cappuccino beauty? The dress has a textured bodice with ruchings that gather at the side. Intricate and artistically detailed hand-embroidery with crystal accents adorn the stylish sweetheart neckline. Another motif with matching details ornaments the side of the dress. Here, the ruchings gather above the dropped waist and then flow into a gently gathered skirt. The beautiful color is the wow factor, apart from the other amazing details. It flows and is very feminine, but with an unexpected punch of color. With a corset back and chapel train to finish the dress, it has everything necessary to make a lasting impression.

Lucia from Sophia Tolli

 

Glide down your wedding aisle with an air of mystery! The Lucia from Sophia Tolli will leave your guests mesmerized with its intricate and subtly bold details. This beauty is every bit bridal, despite its unconventional design elements. Done in ethereal chiffon, the gown has a hand-beaded illusion neckline over a plunging bodice. Makes it the perfect choice to show off your bold streak without causing a scandal. The chiffon skirt gathers into tight pleats at the waist that ripples down to full length. The back has a matching illusion detail that completes the dress in stunning style.

Mori Lee Meredith

An exquisite bridal piece, the 6859 Mori Lee is a stunning dress. It is remarkably different from the regular wedding dresses we see. The crystal beaded bodice has an almost Boho vibe with it’s double straps and textured detail. The two-piece crystal bodice ends at the waistline, and from there a tiered tulle skirt begins. With an edging of lace, this skirt is just as romantic as it is exquisite. Fun and flirty, it is a modest choice that is unique in its own way. One that is sure to charm a bride who seeks a statement wedding gown that can charm as well as impress!

Mori Lee tea length skirt

Have you ever wished that top of a dress went with the skirt of another to achieve your dream look? If you have, bridal separates are the choice for you! Mix and match couldn’t be more fun than this. Customize your bridal look by choosing the different parts of your bridal dress separately. When it comes to casual tea-length dresses, there isn’t much variety available. Fortunately, this Mori Lee 6843 saves you a lot of trouble. The tulle tea length skirt can be worn with any suitable bodice to custom-create the look you want. For more details on this dress, check out the Mori Lee bridal dress collection here.

Alfred Angelo 2644

Flowers are a staple at weddings. Many floral motifs have appeared in lace and as embroidery and embellishments in wedding dresses. However, seldom do we come across colorful floral prints in wedding dresses. If you are a big fan of romantic floral prints, this dress from the Alfred Angelo is just right for you. Soft pink roses spread all over the beautiful white organza skirt in this wonderful wedding gown. There is a bright pink sash defining the natural waistline. The smart halter-style bodice makes the dress as beautiful as a dream. Perfect for a warm spring or summer wedding. It is a great choice for an outdoor wedding, and especially for a garden venue!

The Alfred Angelo Signature 2607

Super-stylish and sexy, the Alfred Angelo 2607 is a dress for a diva! This little white wedding dress features all-over lace in a fitted silhouette and has a beautiful sweetheart neckline. The hemline is above the knee. Wear it to look smart and show off your toned figure. The best thing about this dress is that it is anything but typical bridal fare. As long as women seek little white dresses for their big day, an ultra-stylish choice like this Alfred Angelo beauty will continue as a hit. Whether you have a destination wedding in mind or plan to marry at city hall or a casual venue, this is the right choice.

Alfred Angelo Modern Vintage

Talk about getting the best of two worlds, this Alfred Angelo Modern Vintage is the choice for you! It features a detachable overlay skirt over a little white dress. The sleek inner silhouette makes it a sexy choice, while layers of tulle in the skirt have vintage flair. Fun and flirty, this dress will allow your fiance to fall in love with you all over again. Chantilly lace is used throughout the length, and it is elegant and classic. This dress is a budget-friendly choice if you want two looks—one for the wedding ceremony and the other for the reception. Dress up in conventional style in the overlay skirt for the formal ceremony. Then take it off and dance to your heart’s content at the reception.

Full-sleeve peplum style mermaid wedding dress from Sans Pareil

A dress that evokes nostalgia, the 1066 from the Sans Pareil collection is unusually bewitching. It features loose fitting sleeves that gather at the wrist in a lace trim. The high neckline and gathered waist with lace peplum detail fashion a vintage look. The dress is modest in every sense, offering coverage from neckline to the hemline. Nevertheless, the fitted silhouette and softly flowing white fabric render a glamorous effect. Being an unconventional look, it isn’t one that anyone will easily forget. With a gentle sweep train that completes the design, this dress will remain etched in the memories of the onlookers at your wedding.

Princess in Pink lace dress from Sans Pareil

Remember when you were a little girl and pink was your favorite color? If your love for pink continues to this day, the 1038 in soft pink from the Sans Pareil collection will capture your heart. While every detail from the lace details in the bodice to the silhouette are bridal, the color certainly isn’t. Although pink isn’t a typical bridal color, this muted hue is as exciting and enchanting as any other white wedding gown. The pretty shade works on most complexions. The simple structure and details form a vivid picture and will amaze the onlookers at your wedding.

Rainier from Sophia Tolli

Are you a bride who loves embellished wedding dresses? Especially embellishments that are strewn throughout the design? This wedding dress from the Sophia Tolli collection is one you will love. After all, who can resist a dress that is as captivating and obvious as the details on this gown! The bright silver floral motifs have an almost 3-D effect, as they scintillate on this dress. A scattering of sparkling embellishments further enhance the appeal of this romantic dress. If it weren’t for the colorful embroidery on this dress, it would be a typical traditional wedding dress. However this addition of color makes it an unusual choice. Nonetheless this dress has the drama and effect of a bridal gown. It will only add oodles of style to your bridal look.

Emeline Y11709 from Sophia Tolli

Black and white form an astounding combination, as we can see in this lovely dress from the Sophia Tolli collection. Elaborate spirals and vines in black hand-embroidery spread across the bodice and sides of this dress. They are also embellished with crystal and sparkle details that add to the opulence. The simple A-line silhouette thus looks flanked by black and white fronds on either side. The black embroidery motifs extend into the train as well. This makes the dress a beauty from the rear as well. A misty train finishes the effect in full style.

It can be pretty confusing when you have to make your wedding dress choice. Even the women who dress up in unusual, quirky dresses on other occasions choose safe dresses for their wedding day. There is a reason for this too. Your wedding day memories live on forever, and your wedding albums will be a reminder of what you wore on this day. With time, people change and so do their tastes and preferences. It is easy to end up with a dated look if you base your wedding day choices on the latest trends. Most of us don’t want that to happen.

However, you should also remember that your wedding day look should be an extension of who you are. It should reflect your personality and showcase who you are from within. Anything other than that wouldn’t do justice to your individuality. So, if you fall in love with a dress that isn’t traditional fare, don’t hold back. Go for it and you will have the satisfaction of being wed in a dress that screams you!

With the wedding fashion world growing and evolving, there are unexpected twists and new entries in fashion everyday. So, turn to the past and the present for inspiration. You will find the look that defines you. Don’t hesitate to stay true to yourself. Settle for nothing but a dress that actually brings out your best.

All the dresses featured here are part of our inventory at Best for Bride. Whether you prefer an unconventional look from this list, or wish to go for a traditional or modern choice, you will find it at Best for Bride. Apart from wedding dresses, we also have an impressive collection of accessories, bridal party attire and a range of wedding services. Check out our online store at this link. You will find everything you need for your wedding day and more at Best for Bride—the one-stop shopping destination for the modern bride.

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A handful of tips to select appetizers for your winter wedding

Winter is cold, but winter weddings are cool. It isn’t too difficult to come up with a perfect party plan for a winter wedding, and with a little attention, you can make sure that your wedding will find its place in your guests’ memories.

Food is an important part of every wedding, and what you serve during the cocktail hour at your winter wedding kick starts the festive feast you’ve planned ahead. The better you plan your appetizers, the more excited your guests will be to see what is on the menu for the rest of the evening.

Here are some ideas to inspire you when planning your hors d’ouvres for your white wintry wedding.

Bring color to the table

Winter is synonymous with white. Warm up the ambiance with bright tropical colored fruit and vegetables in your appetizers. We are thinking cherry tomatoes, kale, pumpkin, carrots, strawberries, chocolate and salmon. The more colorful your entrees are, the better they will be received. Not all these choices are available in winter, so the idea is to plan well ahead of time. They can then be freshly frozen and used to add those bright pops of color to your winter menu.

Choose proteins that help against the cold

salmon

Don’t we all feel more hungry in winter? So, make sure your appetizers are loaded up on proteins like ham, fish, shell fish and meat, which will help your guests withstand the cold better. They are also more filling, and you can indulge your creative juices in determining the shapes and forms in which they come to the table.

Cheese and cheesy treats are a must

cheese-630512_1280

Make the most of the various local cheese varieties, and also splurge on few exotic choices. Cheesy treats like cheese pastries and mini-omelets will also be a huge hit. Check out this idea of parmesan and black pepper shortbread cookies on popsugar.com. I am certain these delicious treats will be both practical and appealing.

Explore the flavors of Asia

satay-skewers-3474_640

Spicy, succulent meat and vegetables packed with aromatic spices are the trademark of Asian fare. The best time to indulge in this rich fare is when the weather is cold, and the warmth of the spices make you cozy. Sesame chicken, prawn crackers, chicken tikka, kebabs and satay are all great options that your guests will love. Treat the vegetarians at your party to vegetable versions like samosas, tofu cakes and dumplings, and nobody will be disappointed.

Cocoa and coffee bars

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Although there will be drinks flowing during the evening, adding a hot chocolate and coffee bar to your reception will provide your guests the perfect accompaniment for their tasty appetizers. You don’t have to make an elaborate arrangement, just a miniature station with the basic hot drinks will suffice. If there are teenagers and younger children attending the reception, it will be a great option for them as well.

By now, it is likely that you will have found some practical and interesting ideas for your wedding reception. For more advice and tips on how to plan your wedding right, continue visiting us at Best for Bride.

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Vibrant Vows: Dazzling Bridesmaids Dresses to Add a Splash of Color to Your Wedding Day!

If you are a bold and adventurous bride who wants a unique, spectacular wedding, your palette will be most likely be packed with color. To add a fashionable punch to your wedding party, go with bold and bright bridesmaid dresses.

Here we bring you bright and beautiful colors from the Dessy Bridesmaids collection. Each gown makes a statement and is perfect and stylish. Your bridesmaids will undeniably look stunning in them.

 

Elegant in Emerald

The perfect color for a classic theme wedding, this elaborate emerald masterpiece from the Spring 2013 Dessy collection is a superb choice. The dress that gracefully falls to full length has a one-way draped bodice and a single-tone waistband defining the waist. The pretty ruffle detail at the shoulder is an interesting variation to the multiway dress that is a trending favorite. It looks effortless yet makes a statement. Your bridesmaids will look glamorous in this gown, as they stand beside you on the stage. Pair it with a brightly colored bouquet to achieve a colorful look, or keep it classy with a white bouquet.

 

Fabulous in Fuchsia

Your bridesmaids will look pretty in pink, and they will particularly love this hot pink shade. This dress from the Dessy Bridesmaids Spring 205 collection has several interesting details, like the ruched bodice draped to one side, the loose pleated detail at the waist, and the tapering strap. This is a gown that your bridesmaids will wear again and again. Perfect for a spring or summer wedding, choose fuchsia as your bridesmaid dress colours if your wedding palette has blue or brown accents. Accessorize with white, and pair it with a bouquet dominated by white for an uncluttered look, or add colours from your palette so they blend well with the rest of the setting.

Delightful daisy

Here is a colour perfect for spring. No other colour is as beautiful as a warm yellow and works beautifully in a garden backdrop. If your wedding theme embraces the colours of the tropics and is to be held outdoors, dress your bridesmaids up in this pretty daisy halter strap gown from the Dessy Bridesmaids Spring 2015 collection. The A-line silhouette is universally flattering and has fabulous details like a ruched bodice that crisscrosses at the bust and a pleated skirt. At the back, the halter straps cross to form a diamond cut-out that will have your maids looking stylish from this angle. Pair it with bright violet or pink bouquets for a fun and lively effect, or go with white and red for a classic effect.

 

Ravishing Red

Bright colours are not just for the warm months. If you have your heart set on a cool, winter wedding, add a few pops of colour to liven up the white background. Bold and festive colours like red or purple do this well. This Marquis Lace dress from the Dessy Bridesmaids Spring collection is perfect for the job. The jewel neckline, defined waist and scalloped hemline are all fantastic details that allow your bridesmaids to shine through. If your plan includes outdoor activities, keep your bridesmaids warm by adding boots and warm pashminas or wraps to this outfit.

To take a closer look at any of these dresses or to find more bold and bright bridesmaid dresses, visit our collection at Best for Bride.