Gown Fashions for the Jersey Shore
Whether you are to marry on Long Beach Island, Sandy Hook or Point Pleasant, the gown you choose needs to fit the season, location and your personal style. Brides who choose to marry in the warmer months on the shore should choose a lightweight gown of linen, chiffon, taffeta or satin, which ensure comfort and beauty from the sand to the Boardwalk. Going with a strapless dress might be a perfect summer bridal style for some, while others choose thin straps that accentuate the curvature of the bust line. Consider how hot it might be on your summer wedding day, and plan ahead for possible perspiration that will swell the skin and leave you uncomfortable in the wrong fabric.While heavy gowns are worn by some no matter the season, many spring and summer brides with lighter dresses rely on the beauty of adornments such as the New Jersey State flower, the meadow violet, or a lightweight matching headpiece to complement their simple, elegant bridal gown. Removable hair pieces and light bridal trains are perfect for the summer months, allowing brides the flexibility for beautiful, romantic pictures before and after the ceremony.
Practical Fashion Tip: If you will not have a changing room after the ceremony, choose a versatile gown and accessories that will keep you comfortable and confident for both ceremony and reception. Such choices may include a calf-length gown with a removable train and warm bridal wrap, a light-weight tiara or head piece made of flowers that can be worn all day, or a veil that can be reversed or removed after the ceremony. You will be glad you planned ahead for comfort and style!
During the colder months of winter and autumn, many Garden State brides choose long, flowing dresses, with even longer trains to trail down the aisle. Velvet and double-layered silk, satin and brocade are wonderful options for warmth and a voluptuous look. Longer sleeves will ensure comfort outdoors, but also consider the indoor temperature and whether you want to be able to simply add on a warm piece when you leave the ceremony.
Wraps and bridal jackets can be custom designed to match your dress, and will provide you with indoor and outdoor comfort quickly. Be sure that these add-on pieces fit perfectly and accentuate your beautiful gown. Work with a seamstress or gown expert to find the right piece to match your dress, jewelry and accessories. Using a wrap that has gently embroidered violets will go nicely with a flowered head-piece. Consider the small touches on your gown, such as lace or sequins, to guide the overall look of your over-dress piece.
Buying a Gown in New Jersey
Shopping locally for a wedding gown is almost always the best option for a bride, especially given the many options in almost any New Jersey city or town. When shopping for a gown in the Garden State, your options don't need to end at the end of the road. The next city or town just 10 to 20 minutes away will offer an entirely different selection of choices from the previous. Speaking face-to-face with a bridal expert gives you a chance to see their work environment, meet other customers, and talk directly about alterations, materials, customizations and adornments. Also, you have a store-front that will be there for you rain or shine with set hours should you need their services. Last-minute changes or fixes can be made by a local shop that knows your gown and style. This is priceless for many brides.Buying A Gown Online
If you choose to purchase your bridal gown online, which can be less expensive, be sure that you will have it in hand at least three weeks before your wedding date. This allows you time to choose the right accessories, and for any necessary adjustments and fittings to be completed in time. Choose a reputable company, and always get a satisfaction guarantee in writing from the company when you place your order.Most gowns bought via the web will need some adjustments that you cannot send away for. Once you have the gown, you will want to take it to a local seamstress or tailor to ensure the perfect fit. You will want the finishing touches done at least a week before your wedding date, and preferably by a local and trustworthy person.
New Jersey is filled with shops that will make adjustments, but be sure that they specialize in wedding gowns before handing over your treasured garment. Not everyone is a pro with chiffon or silk, and you will want to know this before you trust them with your dress. Be sure to specify a date to come pick it up, and always ask them about their willingness to make last-minute fixes. If they cannot give you a 100% guarantee that it will be complete on time, find another shop who will. Your bridal gown is your prize piece, and a good shop will understand this completely.
Bridal Fashion Accessories in New Jersey
Bridal accessories vary by season, your personal comfort and your wedding theme. Common bridal gown accessories include veils, tiaras, flowered hair pieces, bridal trains, elegant jewelry, bridal wraps and bridal shoes. Interestingly, New Jersey is also "The Square Dance State," and those who are going for this theme should look for boutiques who specialize in adornments of this type. Each of these options will vary depending on the bride's taste and comfort. Beach weddings might not require shoes for the ceremony, but the comfortable pair you wear for the reception should match your outfit as well! Here are some tips for accessories:- Whether you prefer a veil, tiara, flowered head piece, or a Cinderella-style band, be sure the weight is supported easily by your shoulders. Consider the time you will be wearing the piece, and make sure you can move freely wearing it for several hours at a time. A stiff neck is not exactly ideal during your first dance with your groom!
- Your bridal train should fit the setting, and is an accessory if you plan on remaining in your dress for the reception. Unless it is a short train, you might need help carrying it around after the ceremony if it is not detachable. The bridal train can be made of lace and/or chiffon, and should be attached at the waist-hem of the dress.
- Your bridal jewelry should be light and elegant. Remember that your look should enhance the ring you will be wearing by the end of your ceremony! Consider a light necklace that fits your dress line, or a set of earrings that match your head piece and do not weigh you down. Many brides keep their jewelry very simple and sophisticated, wearing something borrowed by their mother or a friend for tradition.
- Shoes are an incredibly important part of your wedding day. Heels must remain comfortable for many hours, and should be worn at least twice before your wedding day to ensure blisters and bruises do not form as you are socializing with your guests. Also, be sure to wear the shoes with the dress before your wedding day for proper length and proportion. Taller brides might consider a small or flat heel for comfort and height considerations next to the groom. If you are choosing a calf- or knee-length dress, choose your shoes very carefully for style and comfort. Everyone will be able to see your shoes under a shorter dress, and you must take care in choosing a comfortable and elegant pair. If you are marrying on the sand, flats are a wonderful option for stability and comfort. Brides who wear heels on the beach risk sprained ankles and falls, and nothing is worth falling on your wedding day.
