by Anna P. Kelly, scoopWEDDINGS
There’s no doubt that trumpet and mermaid style gowns are hot right now. This chic silhouette allows a bride to show her curves and display a sense of sophistication. Many girls just aren’t into poof, and feel that a sleeker shape is more their style than layers of crinoline and skirts. If this is you, fear not – the mermaid style isn’t going anywhere any time soon.
The pendulum swings though, and the ballgown is coming back. I, for one, am glad to see this happening! When else in a girl’s life does she have an excuse to wear something like this? A trumpet shaped gown can always be worn to a charity event, or even as a guest at a black tie wedding. Unless you’re marrying royalty, however, your wedding is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to rock the ballgown look.
Your wedding doesn’t have to be ultra formal in order for a ballgown to work. A clean lined, unadorned gown shows simple elegance, while a heavily embellished dress with a long train can make any girl feel like a princess. Here we’ll take a look at some ballgowns that run the gamut from sweet to striking.
Regrettably, beadwork and embellishment can be hard to see in photos. Add to that the current popularity of texture and fabric detail, and the result is that you may not find many beadwork encrusted gowns to view. Remember that jewelry goes a long way toward your total wedding-day look, and can add some serious sparkle if you feel your gown is lacking.
Let’s start with some cleaner gowns. First, the always sweet and classic Lea Ann Belter (which you will find at J.Majors). If you loved Rachel McAdams’ timeless look in the movie The Time Traveler’s Wife, then a Lea Ann may be the gown for you.
All three of these gowns shown are made of lightweight silk dupioni. This featherweight fabric ensures that you can dance the night away without getting a workout from your gown!
Next up is Amsale. Masters of clean elegance, an Amsale gown will never leave you wondering “What was I thinking?!?†years down the road. Nitsa’s on Fairview Road carries this very popular designer, created by Amsale Aberra who also designs for the Kenneth Poole Collection.
Moving on to some gowns with a bit more embellishment, we have Rivini, also carried at Nitsa’s and soon to be featured in a Nitsa’s Trunk Show – Feb 1 through Feb 4. Rivini showed quite few ballgown styles in their latest 2012 Runway, along with several more “modified” mermaid styles and the more pronounced mermaid. Don’t miss their Trunk Show at Nitsa’s to see some of these beauties in person! Call 704-940-1999 for your appointment.
I love the layered peplum look of the first gown, while the black lace embellishment of the second would do wonders to slim your waist.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – I have a weakness for Marchesa. Inevitably, stars in Marchesa wow me the most at red carpet events, and their bridal line does not disappoint. (sadly, Marchesa is not carried in the QC. The closest salon is in Atlanta as far as we know).
The tulle skirt and soft illusion top of the middle gown are dainty and demure. The gowns to the left and right are a bit more fashion forward, but you just can’t beat that wow factor!
Now let’s get a little more glitzy. Kenneth Poole is for the bride who craves ornate beadwork and sumptuous fabric – these are not going to be the carefree, lightweight gowns one might wear at an outdoor wedding. If you’ve got the right venue (and the commitment to carrying around a heavier gown), a Kenneth Poole will make you feel like royalty. Available at the flagship Nitsa’s in Winston, you can request to have a specific KP dress sent to our Charlotte Nitsa’s if you have one or two you would like to view at your appointment.
Still not enough for you? If you really and truly want an over-the-top gown, look no further than St. Pucchi. I just couldn’t narrow it down to three from this iconic designer, long known for their dazzling and elaborate gowns.
If any of these St. Pucchi gowns really ring your bell, be prepared to spend. Their couture collection can often reach into five figures. Plus you will have to take a trip to try them, but it just may be worth it!
This is but a teeny, tiny sampling of some of the beautiful ballgowns currently available. 2012 collections are hitting bridal salons now, so if you’re in the market, it’s a great time to see new things!
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