Silk Shantung Wedding Gowns

When it comes to luxury wedding gowns, it doesn't get much better than silk shantung. For those brides looking for a more unusual wedding gown, this beautiful frock from Emerald Bridal should fit the bill. A dramatic silk shantung and cheetah print glamour tulle dress sheaths brides in pure wedding gown couture.

Yes, we said cheetah print... definitely not something your wedding guests will have seen on any other bride. The bodice features Swarovski beading on a tank top bodice whose low waist is gently curved, hiding even the most irksome figure flaws. Rows and rows of ruffles complete the look, falling into an extended cathedral train.


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Choosing a Wedding Dress

We've talked about choosing a wedding dress in the past, but it's definitely a topic that never gets old. Let's say you already have the wedding gown you'll wear as you walk down the aisle... congratulations! That doesn't mean, however, that you can't keep collecting wedding dress tips for your engaged girlfriends. There's always someone who needs help choosing a wedding gown, so we try never to be without a few helpful tips up our sleeves. For those brides-to-be who know absolutely nothing about choosing a gown, here are some basics:

• If you're going to be trying on wedding dresses, wear undergarments that are close to those you imagine you'll be wearing on your wedding day.

• Let bridal salon employees make suggestions -- they deal with brides of all shapes and sizes, and they usually have a good idea of what will look good on you.

• That said, don't let any salespeople (or loved ones) bully you into choosing a wedding gown you don't like. It's your dress, and you're the one who has to wear it!

• Explore colors other than white. There are lots of shades of this traditional matrimonial color, but colored wedding gowns are also popular right now.

• Read those bridal magazines. Even if you're just checking them out at the library, scanning the ads will give you an idea of what wedding gowns are in stores right now.

• Finally, if you don't buy your accessories at the bridal shop, take home a fabric swatch to match your accessories.

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Wedding Dress of the Week

Rum pink is a color that many brides find confusing as they search for the wedding gowns they will eventually wear down the aisle. Why? Because rum pink wedding gowns aren't exactly pink and don't really bring to mind anything resembling rum. Rum pink wedding gowns are pink... ish and sometimes more golden than not. What I'm trying to say is that if you're looking for a pink wedding gown, search for pink wedding gowns. Rum pink wedding gowns are a whole different animal.

Which brings me to the latest wedding dress of the week! We're loving this silky shantung rum pink wedding gown adorned with handmade roses in shantung and organza. The unique accent vines and leaves are created with hundreds of tiny glass beads, and the flowers and beading flow down the center front to the left side of the V-shaped dropped waist where the skirt is draped and pulled up to create a dramatic effect.

Drama is right! This is a wedding gown for the bride who isn't afraid to make a big impression!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SMART WEDDING PLANNING!

Looking for a great gown for your 2009 holiday wedding? How about this strapless organza ball gown, which features an exquisitely beaded bodice, a fashionable waist sash, and bow with hanging tails. The full, decorated skirt ends in a semi-cathedral train that is easily picked up in the case of sleet, snow, or slush. And that sash? For those brides who aren't into Christmas, it comes in a variety of colors, from Hanukkah blue to Kwanzaa orange or green.

We're not, of course, suggesting that you go all out with a Christmas themed wedding -- though you can if that's your thing -- but if your wedding is taking place in the dead of winter, why not give a little shout out to the holidays in your choice of wedding color scheme or wedding gown?


Click to read more about planning a wintertime wedding or to shop for your wedding gown

Golden Wedding Gowns

Gold is a wonderful wedding gown color for those who would rather not wear the traditional white wedding dress. Why do some brides choose to wear gold gowns? Many make this choice because they simply don't look good in white or ivory -- people with certain skin tones look better in richer colors. Wedding gowns can be any color under the sun, from deep purple to emerald green. If you've never considered wear a gold wedding dress, have a look at the beautiful dresses below!




















Lustrous French metallic brocade fabric is fashioned into a sweetheart strapless gown with an empire cut and soft flare bias cut skirt. A sash of champagne silk blend organza can tie in the front or back. This gown was designed to be worn for many social occasions and by women of every age.




















Haute Couture in a fabulous metallic-blend French taffeta gown! Roses and exquisitely beaded re-embroidered Alencon lace accent this strapless straight across bodice and embellish the two-tiered bubble skirt and chapel train. The bodice lace is heavily beaded with Swarovski crystals and other glass beads.




















An absolutely gorgeous French metallic brocade is tailored into a halter gown with a stand-up collar. A sash of champagne silk blend organza is tied around the waist to complete the floor length bias cut circular skirt. This dress may be ordered in this fantastic brocade fabric or in a white, ivory or champagne organza over matte satin.

Beautiful, no? So go for the gold!


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Wedding Gown Hemlines

Yesterday's post described some of the most popular wedding gown necklines, so today we're switching it up a bit and defining some of the most popular wedding gown hemlines. Memorize both before you go shopping for your wedding dress, and you'll end up being a beautiful bride from top to bottom!

Full Length
This is by far the most sought-after hemline among those brides who want to wear a traditional white wedding gown. If the hemline isn't actually touching the floor, it should look like it is. Shoes only make an appearance when the bride kicks up her heels on the wedding reception dance floor! This length works on almost all kinds of wedding gown skirts, whether they are slim (like a pencil skirt) or wide (like the skirt of a ballgown).

Ankle Length
Many brides who fear tripping as they walk down the aisle opt for this length of skirt when choosing their wedding gowns. It is a practical option in more ways than one. Moving around is much easier in gowns sporting this hemline, and brides who plan on keeping their wedding gowns don't have to worry about stains on the hem.

Ballerina
While thoughts of ballet can bring tutus and tulle to mind, this hemline is all about length, not materials. Falling at about 2" above the ankle, this style of hemline is fun and flirty and feminine without being overwhelmingly so. In recent years, more brides have chosen ballerina length wedding dresses, though this option remains only somewhat popular.

Tea Length
If you're a semi-casual bride, this may be the gown length you're looking for. Tea length wedding dresses fall somewhere between the knee and mid-calf and are usually worn by those brides whose weddings are elegant but not pretentious. Good for garden parties and daytime weddings, this hemline is frequently seen at destination weddings.


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Wedding Gown Necklines

Confused about all the wedding gown styles out there? We were, too, until we compiled this little guide that explains some of the more common wedding gown necklines.

STRAPLESS
No sleeves, shoulders are completely bare.

V-NECK
The neckline is in the shape of a v, may have long or short sleeves.

QUEEN ANNE
High collar at the back of the neck that curves down into a rounded neckline.

SABRINA
Neckline curves from shoulder to shoulder just below the collarbone, may have long or short sleeves.

SWEETHEART
Neckline (often strapless) forms a heart shape above the décolletage.

SCOOP
A u-shaped neckline, may have long or short sleeves.

SQUARE
Angular neckline.

BATEAU
Shallow scooping neckline that follows the line of the collarbone.

HALTER
Neckline curves around and fastens at the back of the neck leaving the shoulders and back bare, may dip low in the front.

OFF THE SHOULDER
Neckline falls below collarbone with straps resting off the shoulders.

PORTRAIT
Neckline rests off the shoulders, with fabric folded thickly over the arms, under the shoulders.

JEWEL
Round neckline that curves along the base of the neck.


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Bridal Shops We Love

In some cities, there are hundreds of bridal salons where brides-to-be can buy everything from their wedding gowns to wedding accessories like bridal jewelry sets. In other cities, there are hardly any wedding shops to choose from. Being that we at Smart Wedding Planning spend A LOT of time thinking about weddings and brides and grooms, we obviously have our favorites, and it's not hard to see why! In today's post, I want to profile three of the bridal salons that have given us (and our friends) great deals over the years.

The Rose Dress
This great wedding shop offers a large selection of beautiful designs, fast shipping, and the best customer service and price. If you're the kind of bride who isn't afraid to buy her wedding gown or bridesmaids' dresses online, this might just be the bridal salon for you! Shipping is immediate, so you won't even have to wait too long to try on your perfect wedding dress.

As You Like It
If you're looking for a bridal salon experience that combines custom dressmaking and the elegance of bridal boutiques, look no further. Shop from a gorgeous collection of styles that you can actually try on in your size, hand-select every detail of your dress, and have the perfect fit and unmatchable beauty of a custom-made gown.

Blush Couture
Whether you prefer a classic and sophisticated look or a chic and glamorous style, this bridal salon's exquisite collection caters to all tastes and offers only the finest in couture bridal fashion. Every design we carry can be personalized to your individuality.

PS -- Don't forget that there's a great resource out there for finding wedding vendors called Wedding Planning Links! New cities are being added all the time, so if you don't see yours, check back!

Save Money On a Wedding Dress

When your wedding budget it tight, shopping for a wedding gown can be a less than pleasant experience. If the dresses you truly love are priced so as to be available to only the most well-to-do brides, you're going to feel disappointed and maybe even a little angry. After all, everything from wedding movies to wedding magazines has been telling you that you deserve the perfect fairy tale wedding dress.

The reality is, however, that real life often gets in the way of even the most well-established bridal fantasies. You, the bride-to-be, have to work within the realms of your wedding budget even when it comes to your wedding gown. Don't think that means that you have to give up your dream of looking like a princess or wear a shapeless sack! No way! Having a tight budget just means you have to be a little more clever than other brides.

When it comes time to shop for your wedding gown, don't forget to factor in the cost of your:

- Headpiece and/or veil
- Jewelry
- Shoes
- Lingerie
- Alterations
- Garter

Now, if you don't have a vision of the perfect wedding gown lurking in the back of your consciousness, you can start off by looking for wedding dresses that DON'T have lacework, hand beading, or very long trains, as these will almost always be more expensive. Plain sheaths, a-line gowns, and ball gowns will tend to be less expensive. Don't overlook the prom section of your local department store, as many carry beautiful white gowns or can order them if you request they do so.

Next, shop with an open mind. Shopping with an open mind involves trying everything in the salon. Do not eliminate any style. And even if you find a wedding gown that you detest on the hanger, you can try it on just so you can have a better idea of more unique styles and how they will look on you. Do not settle for the first wedding dress you see! Always try on many styles and when you find one you love, go home and sleep on it. If it's a one-of-a-kind wedding gown, ask a manager if he or she will set it aside for you.

Good luck!


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Wintertime Wedding Gowns

Brrrrr! As the weather turns colder -- if you live in that sort of clime -- brides' thoughts turn to wedding gowns that are more appropriate for wintertime weather. So long, strapless dresses! Sorry, tea length dresses! Long wedding gowns are in, and sleeves are de rigueur for all but the bravest brides. We've chosen three gowns that are perfect for those brides getting married in snowy locales, and we hope you love them as much as we do!





















This chic silk chiffon sheath dress with its chapel train is entirely beaded and features a matching jacket with detachable fox collar. The overall look is one of true elegance and toasty warmth.




















This off-the-shoulder a-line gown of Alencon lace and silk taffeta features three-quarter length sleeves and a gathered waistband. The bodice and waist band are adorned with pearls and tiny crystals. The full, gathered skirt extends into a semi-cathedral train with a bouquet centered at the back.




















Elegance, beauty and grace are combined in this spectacular long sleeved bridal gown. The waist features a diamond pattern of Swarovski crystal beaded metallic embroidery, and the cut of the skirt and cathedral train gives fabulous volume and presence to this matte satin dress. The best part? No goose bumps!


Click to learn more about choosing a wedding gown or to shop for a wedding gown

Autumn Wedding Gowns

What's the best way to go about choosing a wedding gown? When you are shopping for your dress, it is very important to keep an open mind! The styles and trends change yearly, and you may run across some very interesting wedding dresses. Making mental notes, or notes on paper before you shop is usually a good idea. Since you're already aware that there are quite a few dresses out there, knowing what you are looking for will help narrow it down.

Think that all wedding gowns have to be white? Think again! There are wedding gowns in every color of the rainbow out there, from purple to green to blue to black. If you're one of those unique brides-to-be who is shying away from white but you're not quite ready to consider a more brilliant hue, autumn wedding gowns may be for you.


This champagne wedding gown from Emerald Bridal is made of a new soft-crushed taffeta fabric. The net lace overlay of the sweetheart bodice is adorned with delicate beading and metallic embroidery, white hand-made flowers accent the full, gathered skirt and the semi-cathedral train. The color is perfect for a fall wedding that is paying homage to the season in a subtle but recognizable way.

Another autumn-appropriate wedding gown from Emerald Bridal, this taffeta ball gown featuring a sweetheart bodice of embroidered and beaded lace is perfect for cooler weather when paired with a pretty shawl. The full skirt is adorned with detachable flowers and an organza insert at the front, while the bodice has a pleated waist panel. The semi-cathedral train is unadorned.

Love these gowns? Stop before you run to the shop! Never buy a dress before you have looked at lots and lots of gowns. The worst mistake you can make is to try a dress on, fall in love with it, and then buying it right then and there. You may then find yourself in the mall the following week and wander into another bridal shop, where you see the gown that makes your heart beat faster and your eyes tear up. It's calling out for you, but you already bought a non-refundable dress in the heat of the moment. Eep. Always try a dress on at least twice -- once alone and once with a loved one. You'll know when you've found the one, and you'll be glad that you took your time. Trust us!

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Wedding Dress of the Week

Without further ado, here is this week's wedding dress of the week:

This gown from Emerald Bridal really sparkles! Beautiful beaded lace adorns the strapless bodice and ballgown skirt of this dazzling dress. You'll look elegant in white or ivory lace, but choosing black lace adds a touch of drama. Yes, it's an unusual choice, but the classic lines of this gown will ensure that no one has any reason to criticize.

For advice on choosing a wedding gown, follow the preceding link

Shopping For Your Wedding Gown

TIP 1: When you go shopping for your wedding gown, don't bring ALL six bridesmaids and your mother. If you bring too many people shopping, it can be VERY CONFUSING. Try shopping with just one or two people...preferably people who will give you an honest opinion!

TIP 2: If you're buying your wedding dress and bridesmaids' attire and mother-of-the-bride's dress from a bridal shop… try and purchase ALL of the dresses from the same shop. They'll usually give you a pretty good discount off the dresses or free alterations. If nothing else, buying everything at one shop will be convenient and potentially easier on everyone involved.

TIP 3: When you go shopping for your dress, so what you can to look your BEST. Sometimes even the most beautiful gown, won't look "right" when your hair is a mess and you're wearing sweat socks. You may not be able to wrap a sweet French twist, but you can put your hair up in a neat ponytail!

TIP 4: Trust YOUR instincts and you'll know exactly when you've found THE DRESS. Don't let anyone pressure you to buy a dress that doesn't feel right.

Shopping for your wedding gown should be fun, not stressful! If you're not having a good time, then grab your team, leave the bridal salon, and go cool off over a latte. The shop will still be there tomorrow, and as long as the dress you like is current, the salesladies will be able to order you one. More than anything, don't feel pressured to buy immediately -- unless your wedding is in a few short months, you probably have plenty of time.

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