Details, Details
Whether you're classic, traditional or ultra-trendy, the A-line designer dress can easily match your style and show off your figure with flair. Your choice of sleeves, bodice and the width of the skirt will all give very different looks to this versatile silhouette. So will the neckline and detailing. Look for these special touches to make your gown uniquely your own.
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The Sleeves, Bodice and Neckline
The bodice, sleeves, neckline and back are the ideal area to start in defining what you'd like out of your designer A-line. The silhouette of this gown is well suited to a variety of styles, giving you quite a bit of freedom to choose what you really love. Long solid-material or all-lace sleeves lend themselves beautifully to the A-line, as do capped sleeves, straps or a sleeveless bodice. Your choice will depend upon your own style, as well as the time of year of your wedding. Try long, slim sleeves for a winter wedding, capped sleeves for the spring or a more "bare" look for summer. Any length sleeve coupled with an exquisite all-lace shawl is fabulous for an autumn wedding.The bodice of the A-line is fitted fairly close to the body, giving the waist a graceful, inwardly curved look. Try buttons up the back, or the latest trend in wedding gowns: the laced-up (cross-laced) back. This ultra romantic style is elegant and carries a touch of innocence, as well as detail your guests will notice. For the front, the A-line gown looks best in a straight across, U-shaped (boat neck), high-necked or V-necked style. The sweetheart neckline can also work with this silhouette; seek out a very close-fitting bodice for this look.
The Skirt and Train
Because it flares outward, the skirt of your A-line gown is more than adequate to support a train of virtually any length. Go for a long train that makes you feel like royalty, or a hip, to-the-floor length train that opens outward, giving the skirt a flowing appearance as you move. You can also forego the train for a highly sophisticated appearance; look for a shinier or heavier silk for the dress skirt, as heavier materials will hold the outward shape that gives the A-line its name.Another trendy look is a second, more transparent layer over the entire skirt. This fairytale style is in high demand among today's up-to-the-minute but very romantic brides. Look for added details, such as seed pearls, to highlight this filmy outer layer and to make you sparkle all the way down the aisle.
Your choices and the classic look of the A-line will make your gown a real find -- and a true treasure.
