In wedding planning your gown is the centerpiece. Basically, everything else is built around it. The gown sets the style and formality for the ceremony and reception.
Your bridal gown should create a signature statement for your wedding. You should select a dress that makes you feel like royalty.
A-Line/Princes
The A-line dress features a shape that is fitted around the bodice and flows out to the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase A. The dress flows fluidly from the bust to the hem with an unbroken line. Due to its classic and simple style, the A-line dress is appropriate for any occasion.
Empire
An empire dress is defined by the raised waistline that sits just below the bust, from which the rest of the dress flows down to the hem. This style is usually paired with a square neckline and wide set straps or sleeves.
Column
The column dress has a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This dress, also referred to as a sheath, tends to hug the body and show any and all of your curves.
Ball Gown
The ball gown style is perfect for those brides envisioning a fairy tale wedding. This silhouette pairs a fitted bodice with a full skirt that can either be one piece or separates. The ball gown is most appropriate for large, traditional weddings.
Mermaid
The mermaid silhouette contours to the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out to the hem. This is a very sexy look that highlights the curves of a woman’s body.
The Sleeves
Choose your sleeves so you can feel comfortable. Flattering sleeves can enhance your overall look by camouflaging heavy or thin arms.
Cap
These sleeves are short and fitted on the arms. They are usually paired with a fitted bodice.
Three-quarter
This is a fitted sleeve that ends midway between the elbow and the wrist.
Fitted
This natural set-in sleeve can be either long or short. It is always without fullness and worn very close to the arm.
Pagoda
This sleeve is fitted from the shoulder to the elbow, then flares out in a tier to mid arm in front and to the wrist in back.
Bell
The set in sleeve is fitted from the armhole to the elbow, flaring out at the wrist.
Sleeveless
No Sleeve
Pouf
Full and gathered at the shoulder and upper arm creating a "pouf" shape, then narrowing down towards the elbow and wrist.
Waistline - The waistline brings shape and balance to your gown and adds style to your silhouette.
Natural
The bodice and skirt are joined and fitted naturally at the waist.
Basque
This has an elongated bodice, which fits through the waist and drops to a pointed "V" in front.
Dropped
The bodice is dropped several inches below the natural waistline.
Empire
This has a shortened bodice with a high-waisted seam just below the bust line.
Lengths - The length you wear will depend on the formality of your wedding and your gown's silhouette. It can either add the illusion of height or make you appear shorter.
Floor
The longest hemline falls 1/2" from the floor, slightly brushing the floor ( formal or semi-formal).
Ankle
The long hemline barely revels the ankles (formal or semi-formal).
Tea
This hemline falls several inches above the ankles (semi-formal or informal).
Knee
The short skirt falls just below the knee (informal).
Mini
The shortest skirt falls mid-thigh (informal).
Hemlines- add definition to the overall look of your dress. The right hemlines can work wonders in enhancing the shape of your hips.
Trumpet
A slim, fitted skirt or dress that flares out at the knee to create a conical trumpet shape.
A-line
The skirt falls gently from the hips and flares at the hemline to create an A-shape.
Fishtail
A panel sewn on to the back of the skirt simulates a fishtail.
Straight
A dress that falls from the hips straight down to the hemline with no diversions.
(Info provided by The Afrocentric Bride)
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
What Type Of Neckline Are You Blessed With?
These are just basic necklines available for you to choose from when selecting your wedding dress.
Low-cut scoop or v-necks will show off your flirty side, while high collared or bateau necklines are a more sophisticated option.
Necklines: Scoop
This basic neckline arcs down from one shoulder to the other in a "U" shape. Much like the v-neck, the scoop can be as deep or as high as you feel comfortable with, depending on the amount of skin you want to expose. Most all figures can pull off this look, as it is compatible with all sleeve lengths.
Necklines: High Collar
A high collar covers the chest and can either end just below the neck or extend up the neck. Having a high collar on your wedding dress will create a formal and elegant look. There are many variations on the high collar that include a cut-out or keyhole that exposes a limited amount of your chest while maintaining the look of a high collar. You can also opt for an illusion high collar that uses a sheer or lace covering over a strapless bodice that still covers your upper body but allows your sexy side to shine through. This neckline also supports all lengths of sleeves so all body types can pull off this look.
Necklines: Sweetheart
The sweetheart neckline gets its name from the way it arcs over each breast, connected between them in a "V" and creating what looks like the top of a heart. This style is most commonly found on strapless dresses, but is also available on dresses with a variety of sleeve lengths. The sweetheart neckline is ideal for brides with a large bust line since the shape helps create support and control exposure.
Necklines: Square
The square neckline has a straight horizontal bodice that meets with straps in a 90 degree angle. The crisp clean lines of the square neck will create an elegant look on any dress style and works well with most all figures. The straps can be sleeveless, or flow into any length of sleeve so you have the option of baring your arms or covering them up with this neckline.
Necklines: Off The Shoulder
Off the shoulder dresses do just that, hang off the shoulder. The neckline encircles your torso, wrapping around the outside of your upper arms, just below the shoulder. A variation on this neckline is known as the Portrait cut because of the way it seems to frame your face. This look is often used with longer sleeves so you can be covered but also show off your neck and shoulders. This look is very elegant without sleeves as well since it allows you to have an open neckline, much like a strapless dress would, but also provides support for your bodice.
Necklines: V-Neck
The V-neck drops the neckline down in a "V" shape between the shoulders. This neckline can range from very subtle to plunging, depending on how revealing you want your dress to be. The V-neck works well with both large and small breasted women. A high "V" can conceal large breasts in a feminine manner by highlighting their natural shape while maintaining coverage. Conversely, small breasted women can wear a low cut or wide set "V" that will draw attention to the chest and create the illusion of a fuller bust. A V-neck is a good option for brides with all upper-body types since it can be used with any sleeve length, from thin spaghetti straps to long sleeves and anything in between.
Necklines: Strapless
This simple neckline extends from one underarm to the other without the support of straps. This is a classic look that can be slightly modified by having the neckline softly arc up or down depending on how you want your bodice shaped. This neckline looks best on brides who have well-toned arms since the line of the strapless dress draws attention horizontally across your body, which includes your upper arms and shoulders.
Necklines: Bateau
The bateau, or boat neck, connects at the edges of the shoulders, leaving a long neckline that runs from shoulder to shoulder along the collarbone. This sleek style can either be strapless or have any length of sleeve. It is particularly suited for brides with a larger bust line since it draws attention up to the neck and collarbone.
Necklines: Halter
This neckline features two straps that connect from the bodice to the back of the neck. There are many options with the halter, as it can be a variation of the square neckline where the straps pull from a horizontal bodice, or it can be paired with a V-neck for a sexier look. This neckline is most appropriate for those brides that have well-toned upper arms as the halter draws attention to your neck and shoulders. Due to the nature of this neckline's design, it does not allow for sleeves, so if you are conscious of your arms and want them covered, then you may want to choose a different neckline. The halter neckline works well with all dress types from the dramatic ball gown to the sleek column, so whatever silhouette you choose, the halter is a reasonable option.
(Info provided by The Wedding Solution)
Low-cut scoop or v-necks will show off your flirty side, while high collared or bateau necklines are a more sophisticated option.
Necklines: Scoop
This basic neckline arcs down from one shoulder to the other in a "U" shape. Much like the v-neck, the scoop can be as deep or as high as you feel comfortable with, depending on the amount of skin you want to expose. Most all figures can pull off this look, as it is compatible with all sleeve lengths.
Necklines: High Collar
A high collar covers the chest and can either end just below the neck or extend up the neck. Having a high collar on your wedding dress will create a formal and elegant look. There are many variations on the high collar that include a cut-out or keyhole that exposes a limited amount of your chest while maintaining the look of a high collar. You can also opt for an illusion high collar that uses a sheer or lace covering over a strapless bodice that still covers your upper body but allows your sexy side to shine through. This neckline also supports all lengths of sleeves so all body types can pull off this look.
Necklines: Sweetheart
The sweetheart neckline gets its name from the way it arcs over each breast, connected between them in a "V" and creating what looks like the top of a heart. This style is most commonly found on strapless dresses, but is also available on dresses with a variety of sleeve lengths. The sweetheart neckline is ideal for brides with a large bust line since the shape helps create support and control exposure.
Necklines: Square
The square neckline has a straight horizontal bodice that meets with straps in a 90 degree angle. The crisp clean lines of the square neck will create an elegant look on any dress style and works well with most all figures. The straps can be sleeveless, or flow into any length of sleeve so you have the option of baring your arms or covering them up with this neckline.
Necklines: Off The Shoulder
Off the shoulder dresses do just that, hang off the shoulder. The neckline encircles your torso, wrapping around the outside of your upper arms, just below the shoulder. A variation on this neckline is known as the Portrait cut because of the way it seems to frame your face. This look is often used with longer sleeves so you can be covered but also show off your neck and shoulders. This look is very elegant without sleeves as well since it allows you to have an open neckline, much like a strapless dress would, but also provides support for your bodice.
Necklines: V-Neck
The V-neck drops the neckline down in a "V" shape between the shoulders. This neckline can range from very subtle to plunging, depending on how revealing you want your dress to be. The V-neck works well with both large and small breasted women. A high "V" can conceal large breasts in a feminine manner by highlighting their natural shape while maintaining coverage. Conversely, small breasted women can wear a low cut or wide set "V" that will draw attention to the chest and create the illusion of a fuller bust. A V-neck is a good option for brides with all upper-body types since it can be used with any sleeve length, from thin spaghetti straps to long sleeves and anything in between.
Necklines: Strapless
This simple neckline extends from one underarm to the other without the support of straps. This is a classic look that can be slightly modified by having the neckline softly arc up or down depending on how you want your bodice shaped. This neckline looks best on brides who have well-toned arms since the line of the strapless dress draws attention horizontally across your body, which includes your upper arms and shoulders.
Necklines: Bateau
The bateau, or boat neck, connects at the edges of the shoulders, leaving a long neckline that runs from shoulder to shoulder along the collarbone. This sleek style can either be strapless or have any length of sleeve. It is particularly suited for brides with a larger bust line since it draws attention up to the neck and collarbone.
Necklines: Halter
This neckline features two straps that connect from the bodice to the back of the neck. There are many options with the halter, as it can be a variation of the square neckline where the straps pull from a horizontal bodice, or it can be paired with a V-neck for a sexier look. This neckline is most appropriate for those brides that have well-toned upper arms as the halter draws attention to your neck and shoulders. Due to the nature of this neckline's design, it does not allow for sleeves, so if you are conscious of your arms and want them covered, then you may want to choose a different neckline. The halter neckline works well with all dress types from the dramatic ball gown to the sleek column, so whatever silhouette you choose, the halter is a reasonable option.
(Info provided by The Wedding Solution)
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Lets Talk About Your Flowers
Wedding Flowers
Ceremony Flowers- can be used to personalized your ceremony site.
Altar- These are flower arrangements on either side of the altar. These are usually on the large side so that they can be view from afar.
Trellis - In case your wedding is outside you may want to rent a trellis. They come in various sizes and shapes. The florist will decorate them with your wedding colors.
Pews - A simple ribbon or flower arrangement will may your pew look wonderful. A lot of times these arrangements can be use to mark the pew for special guest.
Bridal Party
Bridal bouquet Bridal throw-away bouquet Bridal go-away corsage/bouquet Maid of Honor bouquet (can be different from bridesmaids) Bridesmaids bouquets Flower girl bouquet or basket, optional headpiece Mother of Bride corsage/bouquet Bride's Father - boutonniere Grandmothers/Great Grandmothers corsage Grandfather/Great Grandfathers - boutonniere
Groom's Party
Groom boutonniere (can be different from ushers) Best man boutonniere Ushers boutonniere Ring Bearer pillow and boutonniere Groom's Mom's corsage/bouquet Groom's Father's boutonniere Grandmother/Great Grandmothers corsage Grandfather/Great Grandfathers boutonniere
Church
Candelabras Pew decorations Aisle runner Altar decorations Arch (optional or for outdoor services)
Reception
Arrangements for tables/chairs Tablecloths, napkins available Arrangement for head table (dais) Cake arrangements for cake or table (optional) Arrangement for buffet table Arrangement for sign-in table Arrangements for restrooms
After the Ceremony
After the ceremony, there are many options for the flowers. Below are some suggestions:
Have a family member or guest bring the bouquet to the reception to use as a centerpiece on the gift or reception card table.
Deliver them to a nursing home or hospital for someone else to enjoy.
Deliver them to a sick friend or relative who could not attend your wedding.
If there is a service the next day, they may be left behind.
Ceremony Flowers- can be used to personalized your ceremony site.
Altar- These are flower arrangements on either side of the altar. These are usually on the large side so that they can be view from afar.
Trellis - In case your wedding is outside you may want to rent a trellis. They come in various sizes and shapes. The florist will decorate them with your wedding colors.
Pews - A simple ribbon or flower arrangement will may your pew look wonderful. A lot of times these arrangements can be use to mark the pew for special guest.
Bridal Party
Bridal bouquet Bridal throw-away bouquet Bridal go-away corsage/bouquet Maid of Honor bouquet (can be different from bridesmaids) Bridesmaids bouquets Flower girl bouquet or basket, optional headpiece Mother of Bride corsage/bouquet Bride's Father - boutonniere Grandmothers/Great Grandmothers corsage Grandfather/Great Grandfathers - boutonniere
Groom's Party
Groom boutonniere (can be different from ushers) Best man boutonniere Ushers boutonniere Ring Bearer pillow and boutonniere Groom's Mom's corsage/bouquet Groom's Father's boutonniere Grandmother/Great Grandmothers corsage Grandfather/Great Grandfathers boutonniere
Church
Candelabras Pew decorations Aisle runner Altar decorations Arch (optional or for outdoor services)
Reception
Arrangements for tables/chairs Tablecloths, napkins available Arrangement for head table (dais) Cake arrangements for cake or table (optional) Arrangement for buffet table Arrangement for sign-in table Arrangements for restrooms
After the Ceremony
After the ceremony, there are many options for the flowers. Below are some suggestions:
Have a family member or guest bring the bouquet to the reception to use as a centerpiece on the gift or reception card table.
Deliver them to a nursing home or hospital for someone else to enjoy.
Deliver them to a sick friend or relative who could not attend your wedding.
If there is a service the next day, they may be left behind.
Usher & Tameka Foster's Wedding Canceled
July 28, 2007People.com reported details of Usher's wedding being canceled.
The wedding of Usher and Tameka Foster, originally planned for Saturday afternoon at record executive L.A. Reid's home in New York's Hamptons, has been canceled, a representative for Usher confirms to PEOPLE .
A source also says that the 70 to 100 guests who were expected at the wedding are being advised that the event will not take place as originally planned. Flower decorations have also been seen being removed from the Reid home.
In a statement, publicist Patti Webster said, "It was announced today that the wedding ceremony for Usher Raymond IV and Tameka Foster was canceled. No additional information will be given regarding the circumstances of the cancellation, but we hope the privacy of this matter will be respected." Read more . . .
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Does It Make Sense To Insure Your Wedding?
Wedding News
By Marshall Loeb
NEW YORK - Given that the average cost of a wedding America has reached $27,000, it's no surprise that less than 1 percent of couples make room in the budget for wedding insurance. But if you and your beloved are sinking a fortune into your upcoming nuptials it may be worth considering taking out a policy.
Wedding insurance now covers a broad range of contingencies and can help you recoup your money should things go awry on or before your special day. You can buy policies that cover nonrefundable deposits if you have to cancel your wedding due a death in the family or a natural disaster like a flood, fire or hurricane; others reimburse you if your spouse is in the military and is unexpectly deployed; and still others cover the expense of restaging wedding photos or replacing a lost or damaged wedding dress.
There's even a policy that covers cold feet, so parents no longer have to pay the price for a child's last minute change of heart.
The cost of wedding insurance ranges from a couple hundred dollars all the way up to $1,000 , depending on where you buy your policy and what it covers. This may sound like another unnecessary expense, but it's just a drop in the bucket when you consider the overall price .
By Marshall Loeb
NEW YORK - Given that the average cost of a wedding America has reached $27,000, it's no surprise that less than 1 percent of couples make room in the budget for wedding insurance. But if you and your beloved are sinking a fortune into your upcoming nuptials it may be worth considering taking out a policy.
Wedding insurance now covers a broad range of contingencies and can help you recoup your money should things go awry on or before your special day. You can buy policies that cover nonrefundable deposits if you have to cancel your wedding due a death in the family or a natural disaster like a flood, fire or hurricane; others reimburse you if your spouse is in the military and is unexpectly deployed; and still others cover the expense of restaging wedding photos or replacing a lost or damaged wedding dress.
There's even a policy that covers cold feet, so parents no longer have to pay the price for a child's last minute change of heart.
The cost of wedding insurance ranges from a couple hundred dollars all the way up to $1,000 , depending on where you buy your policy and what it covers. This may sound like another unnecessary expense, but it's just a drop in the bucket when you consider the overall price .
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