C H I C A G O W E D D I N G & P A R T Y R E S O U R C E
W W W . C H I C A G O W E D D I N G R E S O U R C E . C O M
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Think of beadings and embroidery almost as lighting.
It’s a way to highlight the line of a dress. It’s like
something you would imagine royalty wearing.
Intricate beading, a lot of handwork. It makes you
think of something from the early 1900s.
The one exception to this overall trend of large,
more elaborate dresses is the continued popularity
of destination weddings. Ball gowns and elaborate
ornamentation don’t really work on tropical beaches.
For that reason, most designers also include some
simpler, slimmer styles for this customer.
“You don’t want a stiff, structured dress if you’re
getting married on a sand dune,” says Ristic. “A ball
gown looks kind of strange in that setting. You want
something flowing and maybe not floor length.”
Bridal dresses remain one of the few fashion categories
that rely on custom detailing and fitting. Two fittings
are the norm. For that reason, they generally need to
be ordered at least six months in advance.
“Most girls come in saying they’re going to lose 15
pounds by their wedding day,” says Barge. “Some do,
some don’t. I tell them the best thing to do is order the
dress for the size you are now because we can always
take it up later.”
Prices for most designer gowns range from about
$2,000 up to $7,000. Off the rack styles, however, start
as low as $500 or less.
In general, shop with your mother or your best friend.
Do not bring the bridal party along. You don’t want a
dozen opinions. The most important thing is that you
get the dress you sincerely like. Remember, it’s your
day.
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