About Authentic Designer Bridal Gowns
Choosing your bridal gown is an important part of the look of your wedding. The styles available largely depend upon the fabrics and designer that you choose. Some dresses give different shapes and have embellishments, while other gowns come in a variety of colors like white, off-white, cream, champagne, and ivory.
Silhouette
This is the overall shape of the gown. A-Line skirts flares at the hem but is more fitted at the waist. This gives the appearance of the classic “Capital A” bell-like flare. A-Line is the top selling silhouette style. Baby doll is less fitted at the waist, and more fitted at the bust line. This is the least popular of the styles, but is gaining in popularity. Ball Gown style is very fitted at the waist and flares at the hips and all the way down to the floor. This is a classic looking gown with fairy-tale appeal. On the other hand the Empire silhouette has a tapered skirt that is not as flared as the ball gown, but has a bust styling much like the baby doll. Mermaid style is fitted all the way down and often has a slit above the knee.
Neckline
The strapless neckline is the most popular style available. This comes in a variety of styles such as the sweetheart, which is rounded at the bust creating a heart shape. The V-Neck is the next most popular variety that can either be sleeveless or have sleeves. Other ideas include the asymmetrical neckline that often has one strap on one shoulder, which leaves the other shoulder exposed. Other choices include the halter top style which has straps that are wider at the arms, and the bateau which is a wonderful straighter style top that can have straps or be strapless.
Fabric
Satin is the most requested and popular fabric available for designer gowns. Real satin has a glossy surface and is available is a wide array of colors. Silk is also quite popular because is has a wonderful flow to the surface of the fabric giving a sense of dramatic movement. Silk has a rich texture and like satin is available in any color. Organza is a sheer fabric made like silk, but has a more woven appeal. Taffeta is also considered a type of silk, but it is thicker than silk, and holds a clean and crisp edge. Last but never least is lace. The entire dress may not be made from lace, but lace offers a look and feel to embellishments and is often hand made in authentic designer gowns. The list below are only some of the designers of gowns, there are many more than those listed.
Lower Price End
David’s Bridal, Galina, Mori Lee, Kittychen Couture, Dessy, Watters Wedding Dress
The Middle
DaVinci Bridal, Allure Bridals, Kathy Ireland, Vera Wang, Faviana, Oleg Cassini
Higher End
Elie Saab, Simone Carvalli, Vera Wang, Amsale, Romona Keveza, Peter Langner
Monique Lhuillier, Lazaro, Platinum