Wedding Dress Archives - Page 21 of 51 - The Best Bridal Store - Your source for everything you want to know about weddings

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 7 Comments

10 tips from the experts for choosing your wedding shoes

Shoes are a weakness for most regular women! Let’s face it, how many of us are able to resist the temptation to splurge on beautiful shoes? True that these may only be a part of the ensemble, and we may need various shoes for various looks, but it is an obsession that the opposite sex simply cannot understand.

And when the question is about wedding shoes, it is impossibly difficult to choose. This is just one pair of shoes that we have to choose from the hundreds of gorgeous and interesting varieties. I think that it is a very difficult decision, next only to choosing the wedding dress itself. Don’t you agree?

For those of you lovely ladies who are already straining your heads over which pair of shoes should be chosen for your big day, here is some valuable help. Our bridal experts at Best for Bride have the following valuable shoe-shopping advice for the soon-to-be brides. So, here goes.

1.Shoes should be next on the shopping list, following the wedding dress

Once you find your dream wedding gown, do not postpone shopping for your wedding shoes. It is even fine if you swap the order and buy your shoes first, even before your wedding dress. The only condition is that you should know what you want. We have seen brides choose their wedding dress with more ease than they were able to settle on a pair of shoes. Be prepared to have a lengthy shopping experience, if you are very particular about what you want to wear on your feet. So, once the dress shopping is out of the way, shoe shopping should be next on your list of to-do’s. Remember that you need your shoes for all your dress alteration appointments, from the first to the last. Only then can your wedding dress hem be altered to the right length. So, if you are exhausted after your wedding dress shopping, take a short break. But, don’t delay shopping for your wedding shoes beyond a week afterwards.

2.Style and comfort—two factors that matter

Your wedding shoes should not only look stylish, they should feel comfortable too. Many brides often worry that beautiful looking shoes will take time to adjust to, because they will pinch the feet and cause agony. However, this is not always so. By choosing good quality material and craftsmanship, you can easily come across a number of shoes that will look good, even while they feel great on your feet. Heels of leather and similar materials, and with thick cushioned insoles will be perfect. The comfort factor will also be affected by the type of heels you wear. You can be comfy without sacrificing style, by choosing flat heels instead of pointed ones. If you truly have difficulty finding wedding shoes that are comfortable, we suggest looking in the regular shoe aisles. Even the simplest pair of white heels can be dressed up to look wedding-worthy, if you are ready to spend some time and work on it.

3.Choose shoes with features you love

Your wedding shoes need not be white, they needn’t have high pointed heels, nor do they have to be crazy expensive. These are all factors that are up to you to choose. As with every other thing that you wear on your wedding day, your shoes should also be something you love. Don’t let tradition nor fashion dictate your choice. Choose shoes that are either beautiful with details that you love, or go with comfort as your benchmark. If you love shoes with a bow embellishment, or prefer a peep-toe detail, this is what you should look for. When you consider features, you should also think of the style that you are most comfortable in. Don’t force yourself into shoes with heels that are too high, if you have always avoided heels. Remember that your comfort and personal style are the most important factors to consider when choosing your wedding shoes.

4.Handmade shoes are the best

Handmade shoes have many desirable qualities. These include the extra comfort associated with this method of production and the unique look that you can achieve with handmade shoes. They also give you that special and unique feeling of being extra-pampered, because of how carefully they are made. It is likely that handmade shoes will be more expensive than the regular shoes you find in stores. Nevertheless, just like your wedding is a one-time occasion, your shoes can also be extra special this one time. Certain manufacturers can customize your shoes specifically to meet your expectations and do a few extra details so they match your wedding dress perfectly. However, you may have to place your order early to ensure that all this is done on time. Unlike store-brought shoes, there is a greater lead time associated with handmade shoes. So, this is one important factor to keep in mind.

5.Stock up on emergency shoe accessories

With a little luck, nothing will go wrong on your wedding day. But it never hurts to be extra cautions. So, prepare for your wedding day with spares and stock your emergency kit to meet any disaster. Your emergency supplies in the shoe department should include extra insoles, gum to stick any embellishment that comes loose, tissues and clear alcohol to rub off stains. Padded leather heel grips and shoe cushions will prevent you from slipping and non-slip insoles will provide added comfort. If you aren’t used to wearing heels, you may also like to carry a spare pair of shoes in a comfortable style, to wear while you dance or if your feet hurt from standing for too long on the day. Even if you do not intend to change your shoes during the day, it doesn’t hurt to carry a spare pair, just in case something goes wrong and you need a replacement to get through the day.

6.Wear them in

New shoes are notorious for causing shoe-bite. Standing in a shoe that hasn’t been worn-in for an entire day can be tortuous, as you will be walking around and using it a lot on your wedding day. If the shoe pinches, your feet can be sore by the end of the evening, and this will ruin the entire experience for you. So, as soon as you take your shoes home, make sure you set aside time to wear it occasionally. This can be for an hour every three or four days, so your feet slowly get accustomed to the shoes. It will also help you feel comfortable moving around in it, especially if the shoe has high heels. You will not have to worry about wobbly shoes or tripping off the heels on the day of your wedding, if you are already used to the shoes. Additionally, wear it to your wedding dress appointments, and practice moving around in your wedding dress, while wearing these shoes. This will help you adjust to both the long and heavy gown, as well as the pretty shoes, and make the task of moving around on your wedding day much easier.

7.Always buy the correct fit

You may wear your wedding shoes only on the day you get married, or if you have thought this out very well, you may use it several times later. Either way, your shoes should fit you perfectly, and for this you need to buy them in your exact measurements. Shoes that almost fit can end up feeling loose or pinching your feet, when you have to spend hours in it on your wedding day. To find the right size, you should consider your feet’s width and shape, and whether there are any lumps or protrusions that have to be accommodated in your shoes. The right size would not pinch your toes, rub the ankle bone and sides, or feel like they are squashing your feet within. This makes it essential to try your shoes on, before you actually buy it. If you purchase your shoes online, read the return policy and warranty statements. Make sure you can return it or exchange it for another size if it doesn’t feel right when you actually try it on.

8.Keep your venue in mind when choosing shoes

Not all shoes are suitable in all venues. Consider whether the shoes you like will be suitable for the venue you choose. Venues like historic mansions and places with wooden flooring may have specific rules about wearing pointed heels. Check this out first, before you invest money in a pair of amazing heels. Heels may also not be practical in hillside parks, or at venues with long winding staircases that you will have to go up and down multiple times. Apart from the venue, you should also keep the weather in mind when choosing shoes. If your wedding is in autumn or winter, you may like to look for closed and cosy shoes, that will keep your feet from feeling too cold. Or you can carry a pair of wedding boots as a spare for when you have to go out in the cold.

9.Always have an alternate idea in mind

If there is one wedding accessory that you shouldn’t have your mind set on to the last detail, it is your wedding shoes. Since this is a tight fitting accessory, and one that has limited room for adjustments, you should always be open to options. Look for ideas in pictures, but be prepared to search when you actually go shopping. Otherwise, it will be a disappointment if you are unable to find a comfortable pair of shoes with features that you love. While style is a necessary factor, don’t ever compromise comfort for style. Although it is only one day that you will have to spend it your shoes, an ill-fitting pair can do enough damage to your feet to leave you pain for several days afterwards. You do not want to spend your honeymoon limping around in flip-flops to get over the blisters and wounds you made on your feet. Be ready to look at options besides those that are closest to what you have in mind, or spend the little extra to have your shoes handmade and customized to your specific requirement, and you will be better off.

10.Think outside the box

If you are unable to find shoes in the color you want to wear, don’t panic or reach for a pair that you think will do the job, even if it means spending more or being uncomfortable. Shoe dyeing services allow you to dye a pair of chosen shoes in any chosen shade, so it is just perfect for you. So, if you are stuck in a situation where you love a pair of shoes, except that they aren’t the right color, consider having it dyed. Similarly, there are plenty of other options to add that extra dose of glamour to your feet. You can buy pretty shoe accessories online, and this includes bows, ribbons, stickers, stones and other embellishments. These are relatively inexpensive, but allow you to achieve a special touch of beauty with these accessories. There are also plenty of tutorials online that can help you customize your shoes to look extra-special. So, check them out for help.

The right pair of shoes can work magic in making you feel extraordinary and amazing on your big day. And, this is something every bride deserves. So, spare no attention to detail, and don’t compromise on what you choose to wear on your feet on the day you say “I do.”

If you have chosen your wedding shoes already, or are in the market to buy them, tell us what factors you consider most important?

To choose from our brilliant collection of wedding shoes, visit this page on Best for Bride. We also stock other wedding accessories like jewelry that you may like to take a look at. For everything you need for your wedding day, visit Best for Bride today and find out how we can make your wedding day extra-special.

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 18 Comments

10 Things To Do Before You Put On Your Wedding Gown [Tips For A Stress-Free Experience]

Once you wear your wedding gown on your wedding day, your transformation into a bride is almost complete. There are few things left to do now, before you walk down the aisle. But before you step into your dream wedding dress, there are a couple of things you should first complete. This is what we will look at today. Here is a list of must-do’s before you finally wear your bridal dress, and are ready to walk down the aisle.

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 16 Comments

How To Move Away from the Traditional White Dress

Since the age of Pinterest, more brides have resorted to doing something “different” for their wedding day. More often than not, the traditional aspects of a wedding such as a fruit cake for a wedding cake, a white wedding dress and getting married in a church instead of the venue’s chapel, has been tossed aside to make way for new ideas.

The History of the White Wedding Dress

By now, most of you might have heard the story before: Prior to the traditional white wedding dress – 1800’s and back – it was considered an elite privilege to have access to white linen. Pure white linen was extremely expensive at that time and only the riches could afford it.

When a bride was to get married, she would wear whatever fancy dress she had.

It wasn’t until 1840 when Princess Victoria married Prince Alfred of Saxe-Coburg. The dress was a stunning victorian style and rounded off with lace. It became so popular, that brides from that time forward only wore white to their weddings.

Fun fact: Queen Victoria was not the first princess to get married in white. In 1559, Mary, Queen of Scots, also wore white when she had wed Francis Dauphin. However, white was the colour of mourning in France at that time, so the trend did not pick up.

Moving Away from the White Wedding Dress

You have probably seen it all on Pinterest or social media: The controversial brides in their non-white wedding dresses. And you will definitely see more of them in the future, too!

There can be many reasons why a bride chooses not to wear a white wedding dress. The most popular reason is because it is not her first marriage. However, it might be the bride’s personality to choose a controversial dress only because she feels like it. And finally, another reason may be in honor of a loved one who passed away. The bride simply chooses the favorite color, pattern or motive, in memory of that person.

The following is a list of options which you can choose from to move away from the great, white wedding dress craze!

Keeping the White Skirt

The whimsical look of a white tulle skirt, paired with a lace top or a blouse, took the world by storm. Even now, in the alternative fashion industry, two-piece dresses are still all the rage. If you are not completely comfortable to move away from a traditional white gown, then this might be a better option for you.

Off-White Options

If you still want the soft, elegant look of a white dress, but you’re not keen on crisp white gowns, maybe you should opt for off-white dresses or pastel colors. The soft tones still gives it that elegant, wedding look and you will still be comfortable knowing that your dress isn’t white.

Going the Opposite Direction

If you’re keen on mixing things up to a whole new level, then you will be glad to know that black wedding dresses are also a thing. The black wedding dress doesn’t need to shout “gothic theme” from the rooftops. It may also be incorporated into a very elegant, Gatsby theme when paired with gold. Check out this post from The Pretty Blog, for more inspiration.

Bright Colors

You can be bold and go for something bright and colorful on your wedding day. Mix it up by using different materials and textures, or go for plain bright colors. The options are endless!

Floral Dresses

It has been a few years already since floral patterns became a trend in interior design and décor. And with that, came the floral wedding dresses. So much so that The Gilded Gown did a feature about many popular designers who jumped onto the flower wagon. Also, see this post from The Wedding Chicks for a more elegant, clean floral look.

Ruffled & OTT

Over The Top (OTT) wedding dresses also became a thing in recent years. This may or may not have been the origin of the wacky series My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding! Who knows… All we can say is, if you want your day to be truly unforgetable, then wear an unforgetable dress.

Author Bio: The Wedding Club is a blog created for brides who want to plan their own weddings, and also for wedding planners who need some guidance in the industry. Follow us on our social media and visit our blog here

Posted on by Olga Pomeransky — 9 Comments

Graceful Guidance: 8 Essential Etiquette Questions Every Mother of the Bride Should Consider!

Every mother has a vision of how her daughter should look as a bride, and it is no surprise that moms are usually a great help in helping the bride plan her wedding. From being a part of her shopping entourage to supporting her with making vendor decisions and other important details, they are an indispensable presence.

However, it isn’t always smooth sailing. Unless you are a regular society bee, or have had another child get married in the recent past, it may be time to brush up on the etiquette rules you should follow for your daughter’s wedding.

So, this article is dedicated to all mothers of brides out there. Join us to learn all you need about your role in your daughter’s lifetime celebration.

Do I have to stick with the tradition of choosing my dress first and tell the mother of the groom what I’ll be wearing?

If you and your family are all about following traditions at your daughter’s wedding—Yes! The original practice was for the mother-of-the-bride to first finish her dress shopping and inform the mother-of-the-groom about what she would be wearing to the wedding. Then, the groom’s mother would choose a dress that would tie together with this choice, even if it wasn’t too similar. Now, times have changed, and not all people are fond of old traditions. You can always conform to the practice, if that is what you like.

Notify the groom’s mother of your chosen outfit for the wedding day. However, be realistic with your expectations. If she isn’t keen on following the practice, let her be. If you aren’t sure of whether your daughter’s future mother-in-law would appreciate you informing her, or whether it would seem to pushy instead, check with your daughter. She should be able to advice you on whether it is a good idea. Or, you can ask her to pass on the details to her future mother-in-law.

1.Do I have to ask my daughter about what I wear to her wedding?

Yes! It is your daughter’s day, after all. Although it would be unreasonable of her to dictate your overall look, she may suggest what you could choose to fit the overall wedding party look. Ask your daughter for recommendations on colors and dress styles, and make your pick so that it matches her expectations.

It would be a good idea to choose a color in the wedding palette or one that goes well with the bridesmaids dress colors, though not exactly the same. Either pick a different shade in the same color spectrum as the bridesmaids, or a neutral or complementary color that will work with it. Most couples have a general idea of how their wedding scenery should be, and if you can find an outfit that works well with the theme, you would be doing your bit to make them all the more happier.

2.Are there any styles that I should absolutely avoid?

This again depends on your personal preferences and that of the bride’s. You should be comfortable in what you wear and feel good too. When choosing sexy dresses that are too short, with long slits or ones that expose too much skin, you may first want to get the go-ahead from your daughter. If she is fine with your dress choice, there shouldn’t be a problem.

Instead, if she feels that you should make an elegant and modest choice, or that you may steal her thunder with the way you dress on the day, it is better you rethink your original idea. Remember that you can look glamorous and stylish, but in a way that doesn’t make anyone unhappy with your choice. We think this is the route you should take. The same applies for when your daughter asks you to dress in something that you aren’t comfortable in. Although you should try to meet her expectations when choosing a dress, you should finally wear one that makes you happy too.

3.Should I be offended if the couple won’t take any of my suggestions?

We understand that you may not be entirely happy about the couple not taking your suggestions seriously, especially if you are footing the expenses for the wedding. However, you should remember that this is their special day, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime affair for them. So, prepare to handle it gracefully if your daughter decides not to go with your suggestions. Accept that you are making suggestions, not decisions! It may not be that she thinks they are bad ideas, it could just be that she has other ideas herself that she thinks are better suited for the situation.

So, before you provide any inputs, you may actually want to ask your daughter about what her own ideas and vision is. This way, you will be able to think of relevant and appropriate suggestions, that they are more likely to accept.

Now, for some humor, we think you should head over to this page on the Knot that lists some really crazy wedding planning comments from moms! You may also like to share it with your daughter, if she thinks your suggestions are weird! She may probably ease up a little, once she sees what other moms have been up to!

4.I am not sure the to-be-weds know about our limits to finance their wedding. Is it alright to discuss this with them directly?

If the couple expect you to pay for their wedding, it is only right that you inform them of the maximum amount you can afford to spend. Have a chat about the wedding finances with the couple, so they can plan expenses accordingly. Get this across right at the start and you can save them from being disappointed after booking everything at rates that you cannot afford.

Now, if the couple intend to pay for their wedding themselves, it is best that you do not interfere with their plans at all. If you will be contributing a specific amount to the wedding budget, you can share the amount with them beforehand so they can plan it accordingly. Or, if your idea is to sponsor a certain wedding expense, like the wedding dress or entertainment, make sure that you tell them what your limit is. This will help you both be on the same page when the time arises.

5.I think my daughter is turning into a bridezilla. Should I do something about it?

You know how the excitement and overwhelming planning stress can get to your daughter and turn your level-headed, pleasant girl into a monster! This does happen to many a bride, and such women put all those around her in misery. From straining her relationship with her partner, to making her bridesmaids miserable, this can cause much damage. As her mother, it is essential that you support her whole-heartedly during this trying time.

Nevertheless, it is also your responsibility to put her in her place and tell her when she crosses the limit. Make suggestions to help relieve the stress, and tell her not to freak out over unnecessary details. Also gently remind her that her friends and relatives need to be treated nicely, and she cannot forego behaving well just because she is a soon-to-be bride. You are the best person to put this across to her. So, take this responsibility seriously and improve things for her and all the others involved.

6.Do I have to take the initiative and reach out to her in-laws?

It is not just customary, but sensible as well, to meet your daughter’s soon-to-be in-laws once she is engaged. Ideally, your daughter and her fiance should set this meeting up. So, wait for them to do this. If you get the idea that they will not be taking the initiative, you can take the first step forward. Talk to your daughter’s partner and find out how you can get in touch with them.

Either invite them over to your home, or plan to meet for tea or dinner at a good restaurant or cafe. If you are comfortable in playing host and inviting them to dinner, it would be a good idea to contact them directly and invite them over. Whether you meet at home or outside, make sure that the first meeting is very casual, and the purpose is to get to know them. Support your daughter’s relationship with their son, and make the most of this first move by fostering a friendly relationship with them.

7.I would love my daughter to wear my wedding gown, but I am worried it looks dated and may not be her taste. Do I offer it?

Your wedding dress is associated with many fond memories, and it would be a dream come true to see your daughter be wed in the same dress. However, as you have already realized, it may not be the right style or fit for your daughter. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t offer it to her. Just don’t force her into considering it. If you have a great vintage dress, and it is one that matches the theme of the wedding, you may even be doing your daughter a big favor.

Also, there are many talented wedding dress makers who can repurpose a wedding gown into a brand new wedding dress, while keeping the important elements of the original dress alive. This could be by taking the lace from the dress and adding it into a modern silhouette, or simply redesigning the gown to make it modern. If your daughter would like to consider this option, give her full freedom to do what she wants with your gown. You cannot expect her to wear the dress as it is, so don’t feel bad about the dress being taken apart after you agree to let her do what she chooses with it.

There are also options like taking the lace from the wedding dress and adding it to the bridal bouquet. Finally, just remember that whether the bride says yes or no to your dress, accept her decision gracefully and don’t complain about it later.

8.What say do I have in planning the guest list?

If you are sharing the wedding expenses, it is only reasonable to expect that you have a say in who is invited to the wedding. Nonetheless, talk to the couple and find out what type of ceremony they have in mind. Keep that in mind when deciding on who you should ask them to invite. If their idea is a small, intimate wedding, respect their choice and don’t expect to invite all those you want to.

Get a clear idea of how many people you can invite, and then decide upon who goes on the list. If the number is small, make sure that you list those who are most important. As with everything wedding-related, be reasonable with your expectations; nobody will feel hurt.

Weddings are a difficult time, and a bride is lucky if she has a supportive mother to help her meet the various wedding-related challenges. It is a one-time occasion, and she deserves all the support she can have to make it a memorable event in every way. Isn’t this what moms are always there for?

To take a closer look at any of the dresses featured here, and at more mother of the bride dresses available in our collection at Best for Bride. Browse our extensive dress collections for top-class dress designers to find the dress perfect for your little girl’s big day. We also have a huge inventory of wedding dresses, bridesmaids, and flower girl dresses. Come visit our one-stop bridal destination for anything and everything you need and make your wedding day a huge success in every way.