Dream Dresses
By Carolyn Gibbs/Tribune Correspondent
Strapless gowns are at the top of the list in wedding gowns.
Susan Janssen of Black Tie, White Satin in Fremont says lace over satin is the most popular.
"There are different types of lace, such as Chantilly, but one is no more popular than another," she says.
Other styles remain popular, but one new trend is the Trumpet skirt and the dropped waist. Gowns are still popular that have some color incorporated into the design.
"Color on gowns might be satin insets on the bottom of the skirt, or on the train, or possibly a sash," Janssen says.
Ivory is often the preferred color for brides, because as Janssen says not all complexions are cut out for white dresses.
"Sometimes they just look better in an ivory gown. Ivory is a very soft color," she says.
As far as other style trends, strapless gowns are at the top of the list. They also come with optional spaghetti straps. Janssen also is seeing a little bit of a portrait collar, just off the shoulder with a little sleeve, this year.
Tank style bodices as well as halters also are available. Lengths of trains vary from chapel length to longer. The chapel remains the most popular.
"We offer the castillion and the cathedral length for girls who still dream about those," Janssen says.
Destination gowns remain popular because of their simplicity. They can be easily packed for those getting married at their honeymoon destination.
When it comes to veils, new this year is the introduction of the cage veils.
"When I think of cage veils, I think of the roaring '20s," Janssen says.
These veils are shorter and just go over the face. Beaded edging on veils are what sell the most because they enhance the dress.
Sandals remain the shoe of choice, except in winter where pumps are more popular.
Bridesmaids dresses come in a mixture of floor length, some with slim skirts, some with full. Like the bride, the top of the dress can be strapless, halter or tank top. Janssen also has separates so the bridesmaids can have the same skirt style, but choose the top that suits them best.
The newest trend for bridesmaids is the ball gown with an empire waist. These very full skirts with crinolines are a very old type style that is back and very trendy. It is available in satin, taffeta, and chiffon.
A couple of dresses for the bridesmaid are lace to go with the bride's. They are tea length and coordinate well.
Janssen says no one color stands out, but girls are picking any color in the rainbow. As for a steady color, chocolate still holds strong. She says spring colors that are popular are turquoise blue and coral.
"It doesn't lend itself to one color or another," she says. " It used to be you'd only do red at Christmas, now it can be any time of year."
Janssen suggests brides order their dresses six months before the wedding or sooner.
It takes three to four months to get the gowns in and that allows several months for alterations. Janssen has a variety of styles in the store for brides to try on before they order.
Today's economy has not interfered with what brides are choosing, but many take advantage of sales Janssen has occasionally.
"As far as getting the dress of their dreams, I don't think they are cutting back," she says. "We have something for everyone."
BACK