Page 26 - Real Weddings

THE LOOK
Flower power
FLORAL-PRINT DRESSES ADD PERSONALITY TO BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS
It’s no secret that mix-and-match bridesmaids’ dresses are all the rage right now. With styles as varied as contrasting colors, ombre shading, different textures, staggered hemlines, and varied neckline and skirt styles, brides everywhere seem to
delight in expressing their personal style on their wedding day. Here’s an idea to help your wedding party stand out from the
rest — try a little ower power.
Floral prints can be bold or demure, and they look great mixed
with coordinating solid colors, or you could even throw some stripes or geometric patterns into the mix for a high-impact effect. “Floral prints, beading, velvet and satin fabrics are very popular for mix-and-match bridal parties. Mixing different fabrics, styles and colors can be beautiful — but also challenging,” said Alex
DeJohn, owner of Bella Bridesmaids in Little Rock.
“Work with a professional to make sure your idea comes to- gether and remains cohesive and true to your wedding vision,” she said. “There is no right or wrong answer about how many prints or
styles to include; you get to be creative.”
While there are no steadfast rules when mixing and matching
bridesmaids’ gowns, here are a few ideas and tips:
• Select one dress style for everyone, but choose a different coordinating oral print for an old-fashioned garden-party theme. • Makeyourmaidofhonorstandoutina oral-printgownwhile the rest of the attendants create a complementary backdrop in solid-color gowns, either identical or in different styles and colors. • Considergownsincontrastingsolidcolorsforthebridesmaids, while the maid of honor sports a patterned dress that incorporates all of the hues.
“Find inspiration photos online, ask for help from a pro- fessional, and be vocal during your shopping appointments to make sure you end up with a nished product that you love,” DeJohn said.
story by Linda Garner-Bunch TIP
“Be clear and vocal with your point of view. As the bride and groom, it is best to be clear and direct with your point of view from the very beginning. Weddings bring together a lot of people and opinions, but at the end of the day, we all want a happy bride and groom. Be open with your vendors about what you envision for the wedding day; this makes the process easier for everyone involved. And don’t forget — enjoy the moment!”
BELLA BRIDESMAIDS
PAGE 26
— Alex DeJohn, BELLA BRIDESMAIDS