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Womanly Wedding Gowns For Mature Brides-to-be

Recently, 55-year old Shannon Tweed finally wed her long-time love, Gene Simmons (of the rock band, Kiss). The wedding, which was televised on Shannon and Gene’s popular reality TV show, Family Jewels, featured a lavish night-time ceremony, which was attended by a host of glittering celebs.

 At her wedding, Shannon (shown above) chose to highlight her more mature beauty with a feminine, off-the-shoulder wedding dress – one that still showed plenty of discreet cleavage!

Brides-to-be come in all shapes and sizes, and they also come in all ages.

If you’re a little older than the typical blushing bride, you may want a more womanly wedding gown that shows off your curves – without letting it all hang out. Finding an appropriate bridal dress that still makes you feel romantic and special will be easier once you know what to look for.

In general, white wedding dresses for more mature brides-to-be will feature lots of supportive design elements, and they may offer a little more coverage than wedding gowns designed mostly for younger women.

However, as Shannon Tweed proved, you need not sacrifice glamor or the “wow factor” to get the grown-up look you really want!

The idea that older women can’t be sexy and stylish is an outdated concept – after all, beauties in their forties, fifties and sixties (Helen Mirren being a shining example) are in better shape than ever before, and they deserve wedding dresses that do justice to their confidence, wisdom, and regal bearing…

Here are some ideal choices for more mature brides-to-be:

An Elegant Neckline and Tons of Drama…

wedding gown

The pretty and elegant neckline on this show-stopping gown is quite similar to Shannon Tweed’s own wedding design. The womanly draped bodice of this spectacular frock is the perfect complement to a mature figure. Below the waist, at mid-thigh level, a profusion of airy ruffles offer all of the fairytale magic you secretly crave.

As you can see, this white wedding dress offers the best of both worlds to more mature brides-to-be. For an appealing silhouette, wear supportive undergarments, such as a long-line shaper that adds sleekness to the waist, hips and thighs – this piece will hold you in place and streamline your figure.

Spanx make lots of great body-wear for special occasions. Of course, you can always choose a few spicier articles of lingerie to change into on your wedding night.

For this look, hair should be whatever you’re comfortable with – Shannon Tweed wore her blond tresses in loose, romantic curls, and she opted for a long veil. Anything goes on your wedding day – just choose a look that makes you feel most comfortable with yourself.

Makeup should be understated and feminine – rosy mauve or soft berry lips will always flatter mature women.  Dark lipstick makes the lips look thinner – however, for some women, this look still works best.

In general, look at your everyday makeup and stay pretty close to what you normally wear. By now, you’ve learned what is right for your features and coloring. However, you should always avoid glittery or shiny makeup that is filled with shimmer – this type of makeup settles in fine lines and exaggerates their appearance.

Pure Old Hollywood Glamour…

bridal dress

Lush, satiny softness and a deep-V neckline will offer more mature brides-to-be a little taste of classic Old Hollywood glamour. The screen sirens of yesteryear knew how to work it, whether they were young or old. These screen sirens, such as Joan Crawford and Lauren Bacall, balanced dramatic penciled brows, strong lips, and elegantly powdered faces with luxurious full-length evening dresses that hugged their curves without being too tight.

The lovely bridal dress shown above is a traditional choice for any mature bride-to-be – it’s beautiful, sweeping hemline will make all your movements into pure poetry…

A professional blowout, followed by a few large hot rollers , can give you soft, groomed waves that recall Hollywood’s Golden Age – this look is probably better without a veil. Be sure to wear a classic lip color, such as plum-brown, reddish-brown, or dark pinkish-brown. A little brown in a lip color adds elegance – it tones things down for a refined look.

Best For Bride is Here to Help

Whether you’re looking for cheap wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses in Barrie, or Bridal shops in Mississauga, Best for Bride is here to help. Our team of caring wedding specialists know how to help you make your wedding dreams come true.

Our expertise is at your fingertips when you need to find fashionable wedding dresses, bridal jewelry, and more. We have everything you need…from exquisite bridal gowns and veils to wedding invitations. We even offer a convenient online bridal store that makes it so easy to find your dream dress – right from the comfort of your own home!

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Modern-day “Glass Slippers” For Your Wedding Day

If you’re looking for a modern-day “glass slipper” to wear as you walk down the aisle, you’ll need a delicate high heel that is embellished with glittering crystals. The perfect fairytale wedding requires plenty of attention to detail, so you should plan to spend a little time choosing the right footwear for your white wedding dress.

The best wedding shoes will be unforgettable – this is not the time for sensible shoes! However, since you will need to be on your feet for hours, comfort should always factor in. Ultimately, glamour is probably most important, so do be sure to indulge yourself with a fashionable “glass slipper” style design that will evoke all of the romance of Disney’s exquisite animated film, Cinderella.

To help you choose what’s best for your special day, we’ve put together some stunning, shimmering designs that will make you feel like a princess…

Sparkly Choices For A Fairytale Effect

wedding shoes

Icy faux diamonds evoke the lustre of a true glass slipper, and they are very affordable. This feminine sandal is adorned with lush rows of intertwined rhinestones that catch the light; these high heels are designed to show off a professional pedicure to its best advantage.

If you’re planning to perform the “garter” ritual in front of your wedding party, you’ll be proud to show off your sparkling sandals while your new husband removes your silk or lace accessory!

These sandals should always be worn with bare legs (no stockings, please) – this style of wedding shoe also requires moisturized and perfectly waxed (or shaved) legs for the ideal effect. Be sure to choose a fun shade of toenail polish for your wedding day – ballet pink is a favorite with brides-to-be, but any color can work!

Our shimmering sandals are so pretty, you’ll be sure to treasure them after your wedding is over…

Ankle Straps Are Sexy And Flirty…

 wedding sandal

 Ankle straps add a sexy, flirty edge to your wedding outfit – without spoiling the fairytale fantasy. Highlight the lovely lines of your foot and lower leg with shimmering rows of clear gemstones!

Ankle strap sandals also offer a little more security as you walk down the aisle – since these types of high heels are fastened in place, they will minimize the possibility of tripping, or suffering from some other wedding-day “wardrobe malfunction” – you will have less chance of slipping out of this sandal than you would with a mule or slip-on pump…

Princess-Style Bridal Gowns Will Complete The Look

 wedding dress

Best For Bride specializes in helping brides-to-be to make their fairytale dreams come true. To get the whole Cinderella look, choose a gown with a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt. The one-shouldered bridal dress shown above is festooned with gorgeous, silken blossoms and layers and layers of filmy tulle!

Also, be sure that your bridal rings and “glass slipper” wedding shoes coordinate with your overall look. Our bridal shops in Toronto are a great place to begin your hunt for the perfect wedding dress, cheap bridesmaid dresses, wedding cakes, and wedding invitations…plus everything else you need to plan your dream wedding.

We also offer a convenient online bridal store, so you can get the bridal dress you’ve always wanted, right from the comfort of your own home…

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Mermaid-Inspired Beauty For Your Wedding Day

A mermaid-style, or fishtail wedding gown fits closely all along the torso and legs (to the knee or just above), and then erupts into a frothy profusion of lace, tulle, or taffeta that brings to mind a mermaid’s shimmering tail.

These sorts of gowns are carefully designed to highlight the lovely curves of a woman’s body, and they are often the perfect complement to an hourglass silhouette.

Dramatic and romantic, mermaid-inspired wedding looks are a perfect choice for women who enjoy a touch of fantasy and magic…the best mermaid-style gowns will tend to feature embellishments and appliqués that show off the lines of these perfect wedding dresses.

Hair and Makeup Tips

wedding dress

Certain makeup and hairstyles will naturally suit a fishtail wedding dress…which direction to go in should depend on how simple or ornate your fishtail gown is. For example, if the dress is sparkly or embroidered (as the gown shown above is), a more formal up-do or half-up/half-down style will work well. Makeup should be dramatic, with strong eyes and lips, or a softer palette that still has lots of shimmer and shine.

For simpler mermaid-inspired evening dresses and wedding gowns, long-rippling waves or loose, unstructured braids will look lovely. Simple bridal dresses will benefit from simple makeup with a delicate rosy or berry hue.

Consider the painting at the top of this blog post as the ideal template for a simple mermaid gown’s hair and makeup…you may want to add a laurel of flowers or a beautiful sheer veil to your natural-looking tresses…keep the look delicate and feminine for the best effect…

Here are some exciting mermaid-style wedding dresses you’ll love!

More Gorgeous Fishtail Designs…

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Sweeping and glamorous, fishtail wedding dresses in Toronto guarantee that you will make a splash as you walk down the aisle. This gown looks lovely in motion, lending grace and delicacy to your movements…

These sorts of gowns are very fitted, and they require a certain confidence level; however, you’ll be pleased to know that this style looks fabulous on curvier bodies, as well as traditional and balanced hourglass figures.

Lush feminine curves will shine when they are encased in silk, satin or lace that shows them off to perfection. Only the leanest builds will probably not be flattered by this style, unless there is significant bustier fitting in the bodice to create the right proportions.

Lean Canadian brides will be perfect candidates for traditional strapless princess-style wedding dresses Mississauga that flatter their small waistlines and pretty arms…

Magical Beauty…

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Beautiful embellishments add tons of visual impact to the gorgeous mermaid-style gown shown above. This stunning design really captures the magical appeal of this type of fairy-tale wedding dress look.

Accessories can be minimal, as the lines of the dress really require little adornment. However, some metallic, strappy sandals or delicate satin pumps are a must. Drop earrings, beautiful gemstone necklaces and Feri jewellry will all add more ethereal beauty to the look – consider pearls, emeralds or aquamarines for a truly ocean-inspired effect!

Dreams Come True at Best For Bride

At Best For Bride, our wedding store is filled with everything you need to realize your wedding dreams…from custom wedding invitations to cheap bridesmaid dresses, to the stunning white wedding dress you’ve always wanted. We offer stores in Barrie, Mississauga, and Toronto, as well as our convenient online bridal boutique, which allows women to make their fantasies a reality…right from the comfort of their own homes!

Dreams come true at Best For Bride…our team of caring wedding specialists are there to give you the guidance, expertise and support that you deserve before your special day…

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Bohemian Style For Your Wedding Day…

wedding gown

“The cry of ‘Flower Power’ echoes through the land. We shall not wilt. Let a thousand flowers bloom.” – Abbie Hoffman

Keeping it natural, beautiful, and hippie-inspired is the key to adding a true bohemian vibe to your bridal gownand your entire wedding.

From maxi-dresses to floppy hats to platform sandals and up-to-here mini skirts…the 60’s offered women a wide range of fashion choices, and almost all of them had a touch of bohemian, Flower Power style…

To achieve a bohemian look inspired by the 1960’s, there are different ways to approach styling for your wedding; one approach is simplicity…natural hair, a makeup-free look (note: this does not have to mean truly makeup free…this sort of natural, barefaced look can be achieved with proper makeup that evens out the skin and adds some glow)… even bare feet or flat sandals.

The model shown above is beautifully tousled and tanned, and she captures the essence of easy bohemian beauty…nothing about her look is contrived.

However, if you like more drama, you can still amp up the glamour while using the Flower Power era for inspiration…

An outdoor wedding where good weather is expected can be the ideal venue for this look, because, at its most authentic, a Hippie-esque look always celebrates nature, spirituality, and the value of friendship and community…

Vintage 1960’s Maxi Dress – Free Usage Image

In fact, a Bohemian-inspired wedding could feature romantic Beatles tunes, laurels of wildflowers for the bride-to-be’s hair (and her bridemaids’ tresses), and retro three-piece suits (vests are a must!) for the guys….

If you’re into this sort of vintage vibe, here are some other ways to channel 1960’s Bohemian style on your wedding day…

Easy Shapes And Floral Accents…

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Voluminous skirts just don’t work with this wedding dress aesthetic – keep it relaxed, easy to wear, and easy to accessorize with cool, 60’s-inspired details, such as long, center-parted hair, flowers, beaded necklaces, and floppy hats…with this type of look, choosing exactly the right accessories, makeup and hair is really important. Since nothing is too tight or constrictive, this look can also be so flattering for plus size wedding dresses.

Also, consider using bright colors for your wedding party’s suits and cheap bridesmaid dresses – you can even extend this to include groovy wedding invitations and wedding favours. Since you’re likely going to wear white as the bride-to-be, use a cool, slightly psychedelic color scheme for the rest of your group, and choose Flower Power accessories for your own outfit! This whole Sixties vibe can be as subtle or as campy as you wish – so have fun with it!

Woven or Lacy Details Are Perfect For A Luxurious, “Rich Hippie” Look…

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 The type of dress shown above will be perfect with a Sixties-style floppy hat, and its lacy jacket mimics the handcrafted shawls and jackets of the hippie era – albeit in a decidedly more elegant way…

Celebrities such as Sienna Miller and Kate Moss often opt for this “rich bohemian” look when they choose evening dresses for special occasions.

These dresses must be styled for an overall look – makeup should include pale lipstick, a touch of bronzer for a natural glow, and heavily lined and mascara’d eyes, for that special Sixties look.

Back in the day, British beauties who began to embrace bohemian chic (such as Beatle George Harrison’s lady, Patti Boyd, and model Jean Shrimpton) were known as “dolly birds”; with the right hair, makeup, and dress, you too can be a true “dolly bird” on your wedding day…