How to Pick Wedding Gown for The Petite Brides

I have recently came across this cute infographic featuring wedding gown tips for the petite brides, so I thought why not share it with you too.

Hope you learn something from here. And if you would like to know more on the cuts and designs that looks great on your body type, come on over to our boutique for a little chit chat. You may call Erin at 012-666 1945. Happy weekend!

Fabrics And The Effects On Your Shape

In the previous post, I've written about the shapes and designs that suit the bridesmaids that are on the bigger size. Today, I will be talking about the different types of fabrics and the effect that it has on a person's shape. There are so much varieties of fabrics out there but I will only mention a few because these fabric are the most common ones when it comes to bridesmaid dresses.

Taffeta


Taffeta is a crisp, smooth woven fabric made from silk or synthetic fibres. It has a really shiny color that reflects to the light. It is one of my most favorite fabric because of it's gorgeous color and texture. As it is very light, it looks really good with pleatings.

As taffeta itself is really light, we normally add another layer of Duchess to make the shape of the dress looks structured. Therefore, plus sized girls don't have to worry about it being too light thus making them look big. A great fabric for both fat and skinny girls.

Duchess


Duchess satin or bridal satin is an elegant and lustrous fabric. It is widely used to make bridal gown due to its shiny, heavy, and luxurious texture.

It is one of the most slimming fabric one could ever find. So normally we would advise bigger girls to use Duchess Satin to make their dresses.

Chiffon


Chiffon is a delicate, flowy, sheer and see-through fabric. It is most suitable if you would like something really flowy.

But as it is really soft, it will show off the shape of your body really clearly. No no if you are not on the slim side. But if you still like Chiffon very very much, you can change the layer underneath to Duchess Satin to give your dress a structured shape.

Charmeuse


Charmeuse is a really soft and glossy fabric. This type of fabric is a BIG no-no if you are not slim enough because of the thin fabric.

So now you know what fabric you should go for next time you wanna make your dresses. :)

All photos from JLM Couture

Next are a lil sneak peak from our latest Felisa 2010 Collections!

Plus Sized Bridesmaids

Cuts and colors play an important role in flattering a person's shape. No matter how big or small your bridesmaids are, there will still be designs that will make you look really beautiful. But of course, a size 18 bridesmaid musn't expect to look like a size 10 no matter what cut they wear. I really did have one or two plus sized customers that came to us looking for dresses that will make her look 4 sizes slimmer. Oh my, that is quite impossible, to be honest. But then, you can always choose cuts that won't make you look extra chubbier. Here are some ideas for you.



#1 Trust me, everyone can wear strapless dress unless you have really huge and heavy set of bust. Curvier neckline will give your top some shape but if you have bigger bust then it's better to stick to a straight neckline.



#2 For the skirt part, slim A-line skirt will make your hips look slimmer. But if you feel like it's too plain jane and too uniform, you can opt for pleats like Picture #1 & Picture #2. For those that doesn't mind about having big hips, you can opt for straight or pencil skirt. It gives you a shape but like I said, it will enhance the shape of your hips as well.



#3 Maid of honor can go for long dresses, if your bride approves it. Long dresses will often elongate your height making you look taller and slimmer.



#4 For those who wished to cover the fats under their arms, go for V-neck tops. V-necks flatters those with bigger bust very well too.



#5 Cap sleeves are like the IN thing now. It helps to support the dress for those who are not used to strapless dresses. And then it can be worn as an off-shoulder dress if you push the sleeves towards your arms.

If you have big arms, never ever make dresses with short sleeves because it will not help in hiding the arms, it will only make people focus on your arms more.



#6 If you like something a lil bit different from the normal bridesmaid dresses, you can choose to make something like this. It is a halter dress but with different type of neckline. Those with bigger bust can do something like this but without the pleatings at the top because the pleats enhances the size of your bust.



#7 Pick something which is cut at your natural waist because it make you look the slimmest. Contrary to popular believes, empire cut doesn't make a person look slimmer. It will make you look taller, yes, but slimmer? NO.

Imagine this, if the skirt falls directly from under the bust, it will look like a pregnant dress. But if the empire cut dress is tighten at the wait to give you a shape, your tummy will bulge out. The last thing you want is for people to think that you are pregnant.

#8 I am gonna explain the last tip without any picture. DO NOT ever make dress with ruffles at the waist. Because, it will double up the size of your hips and make you look bigger than ever.

So the trick to have a nice bridesmaid dress is to pick something which is simple, cut at the waist, add a little details like ribbon, flowers or brooch.

Next, I will be writing about the fabrics you can use to make your dress and what will different type of fabric effects your body shape. Stay tuned. :)

All photos are from JLM Couture

Neoromantic Bridal are
able to customize bridesmaids dresses as well. Just bring us the photos of the
designs that you like. You can then choose the fabric and color from our color
swatch. You can also seek advice from us if you are not sure whether the design
that you picked looks good on you or not.

Wedding Accessories Part 1 : Lingerie & Body Support

Ok, now that you've got your gowns done. You will still need that extra little something to make it perfect. Something to hide the humps and bumps . Something to hide your body imperfections. And something to make you look slimmer. And you don't have to diet for months to have that perfect body because all you need is that perfect lingerie and body support.

One advice I have for the brides is, always bring the undergarments that you'll be wearig on your wedding whenever you do gown fittings. ALWAYS! Because it will help the seamstress to adjust the gowns more accurately. Even a bra or underpants play a really important part to gowns fitting. Here are some pointers when you are shopping for body supports.

1) Shop for smooth bras that are smooth and free of embellishment, lace and beads will create a lumpy look.

2) Buy a variety of bras to see which style works best with your wedding dress. Before handing over your charge card, ask whether the store offers a full refund on items returned with tags attached.

3) Although a bra pad may be built into your wedding dress, wearng your own bra is often necessary to enhance the shape of your bust.

Here are some body supports that are available in the market;

1) Body Shaper
Slim the stomach, hips, thighs, and/or derriere.



2) Bustier
A tight-fitting top worn as a brassiere. V-backed versions, made with extra boning and stiff cups, can be found for low-back wedding dresses.



3) Cincher
A highly slimming, one-piece undergarment for full-figured brides.



4) Corset
The best strapless support available, this garment extends from above or below the bust to below the hips. Garters may be attached.



5) Girdle
Panty that helps to hold in the tummy



Source : http://www.brides.com/

Disclaimer: This is for educational purposes only. We DO NOT sell any body supports mentioned above.

The Great Gown Glossary

I've came across this article when I was reading Female Brides Edition 9. I find it really informative so I thought of sharing it with you girls here.

This is a glossary of all the things you need to know when you are looking for your wedding gown. All the jargons and terms used will be explained here. The best part is, it's explained from A-Z~ ♥

A
A-Line ----> A skirt with fitted waist that gradually flares from the waist
Alençon Lace ----> Fine lace with designs often embellished with beads or sequins
Appliqué ----> A decorative fabric design that is applied to another piece of fabric
Asymmetrical ----> A design element that plays on imbalance

B
Ballerina ----> A very full skirt ending just above the ankle
Basque ----> A fitted bodice with a dropped waist that dips in the centre
Bateau ----> A "boat" neckline that opens from one inch of shoulder with only a light curve
Brocade ----> A fabric woven with an "embossed" design to create a tone-on-tone pattern

C
Charmeuse ----> A lightweight shimmery satin with a soft contouring drape
Chiffon ----> A sheer, flowing fabric that drapes well on the body
Corset ----> A fitted, sesamed bodice with a laced-up back, also known as a bustier

D
Damask ----> Similar to Brocade except that it's lighter in weight
Dotted Swiss ----> A sheer lightweight, muslin fabric embellished with raised dots evenly throughout
Duchess Satin ----> A low-lustre satin that's wrinkle-resistant


J
Jewel ----> A round neckline that sits at the base of the throat
Juliet Swiss ----> A long sleeves that puffs at the shoulder and is fitted towards the end

K
Key Hole----> A hole in the fabric of a high, rounded neckline

M
Mermaid ----> A skirt fitted at the hips and thighs, and flares out from the knees
Monarch Train ----> A Princess Diana-style train that falls nine feet or more from the waist
Mini ----> A skirt that ends above thre knee

O
Organdy ----> Sheer, stiff silk or rayon fabric
Organza ----> A delicate sheer fabric

P
Paillettes ----> Small, shiny plastic discs sewn onto open fabric for a sparkly effect
Petal Sleeves ----> A short sleeves that crisscrosses over the bicep of the arm
Portrait ----> A wide neckline that drapes from the tip of one shoulder to another

R
Rayon ----> Similar to silk, except that it's more elastic and affordable
Ruched ----> Tight decorative gathers that create pleats in the fabric
Ruffles ----> Soft fabric that's draped to create a flowing, feminine effect
Rum ----> A white color with pinkish undertone

S
Shantung ----> A heavy silk fabric with a tough surface
Silk Mikado ----> Blended silk that's heavier than regular silk
Sweetheart ----> A neckline shaped like the top of the heart

T
Taffeta ----> A smooth, plain woven fabric with slight sheen
Tiered ----> A fabric design that features multiple layers
Tulle ----> Sheer net fabric used as an underskirt to create fullness

W
Wedding Band ----> A very high neckline fitted around the middle of the neck
Watteau ----> A train that's attached to the gown at the shoulders or mid-back

Wedding Accessories Part 2 : Headpiece

Previously you've read and understand all the things that you need to know about one of the most essential wedding accessories, the veil. Today, you'll be able to know more in details about the headpices that you can use to decorate your crown.

a) Backpiece

A barrette or comb that fastens the veil to the back of the head.



b) Bunwrap

A circular band or piece of fabric that encircles a bun or updo; a veil may be attached to it.



c) Crown

A formal, full-circle headpiece that sits on top of the head.



d) Hair Vine

Wired vine-like ornament held in place with a comb or pin.





e) Half Crown

A half-circle of jewels that is smaller than a crown but taller than a tiara.



f) Headband

A half-circle band available in a variety of widths and styles.



g) Juliet Cap

A small, round skullcap adorned with pearls or semi-precious stones that fits snugly on the top or back of the head.



h) Pillbox Hat

A small, round, brimless hat (think Jacqueline Kennedy).



i) Pouf

A gathered piece of tulle or netting—fastened to a comb, headband, or headpiece—that creates height for the veil.



j) Snood

A knitted or openwork net used to encase long hair at the back of the neck, or attached to a hat.



k) Tiara

A bejeweled or beaded semi-circle.



l) Wreath (or Garland)


A crown of faux or real flowers or foliage.

Source : http://www.brides.com/

Disclaimer: This is for educational purposes only. We DO NOT sell any heapieces mentioned above.

Next >>>>> Wedding Accessories Part 3 : Body Support

Wedding Accessories Part 1 : Veils

Here are some of the tips and things should know when you are purchasing your veil or headpieces;

1) Always check your rear view when trying on a veil. To show off the back of your wedding dress, choose a sheer or single-layer design.

2) A simple, unembellished veil flatters an elaborate wedding dress best, while a classic gown can be paired with a plain or an ornate confection.

3) Any adornments on your veil should begin below the point at which your dress ornamentation ends—this way the two won’t compete.

4) Take a brisk walk with your headpiece to make sure that it stays firmly in place. You don’t want to lose it before you reach the altar.

5) Take your face shape into account when making your selection. A veil that falls straight down narrows a round, full visage; a waterfall design adds width to an oblong face. A square jaw benefits a longer veil, while a heart-shaped face looks best with a veil that falls behind the neck.

6) Planning to doff your veil after the "I do’s"? Invest in a headpiece—try a wide satin headband—that looks good without the tulle. The headpiece should have fabric hooks and loops or Velcro fasteners for easy veil removal.

7) Make sure your blusher veil is long enough to flip over your head.

In case you are still blurry about the terms used when it comes to veils, here are some pictures to help you out. As they say, picture says a thousand words ^_^V

a) Birdcage Veil (also known as birdcage veil)

A short, single layer worn over the face, then lifted back over the head during the ceremony.

b) Cathedral Veil

Trails two to three metres behind the wedding dress.

3) Chapel Veil

Extends a lil bit longer than the floor length.

4) Double Tier Veil (Double Layers Veil)

A veil of two layers, usually of different lengths (either two veils or a veil and blusher). It comes with a comb for easy wearing.

5) Elbow Length

Extends to the bride’s elbow.

6) Fingertip Length

Reaches fingertips when arms are relaxed; the most versatile style.

7) Flyaway

A multi-layered veil that just brushes the shoulders and gives a clear view of the back of the wedding dress.

8) Fountain Veil

A shoulder- or elbow-length veil gathered at the crown of the head and cascading around the face to form a "fountain" shape.

9) Mantilla Veil (or known as Lace Trim Veil)

A Spanish-inspired style: a piece of lace or lace-edged tulle, secured with a comb and framing the face; may be any length between elbow and ballet.

10) Ribbon-edge Veil

A veil with a line of ribbon stitched around its edge.

Source : http://www.brides.com/

Disclaimer: The only veils that we have available for sale are Ribbon Edge Veil and it's very limited so please call to check the availability if you are interested. :)

Next >>>>> Wedding Accessories Part 2 : Headpieces

Flower Girl Size Chart

How To Choose A Wedding Gown Design

In choosing a design, there are 6 things you should keep your eye on:

Color: The color you select will depend upon your own coloring; dark-skinned brunettes look good in ivory or beige, and fair-skinned blondes may find they look better in a white pastel or pure white gown.

Length: The type of wedding you're having will affect your gown's length. Full-length gowns are fitting for formal weddings. At informal weddings, which are typically small in size and fanfare (and common for second, third, and fourth+ marriages), the bride can wear a knee-length skirt. The skirt should cover the knees and drape at least one inch below the top of the kneecap. Ankle-length is acceptable too, and it can be very classy, sexy, fashionable and romantic.

Silhouette: The "silhouette" refers to the shape of the gown and how it hugs your body. Popular styles include the Princess and A-line, ball gown (i.e., the Cinderella look), sheaths, a mermaid shape, an empire silhouette, or a two-piece.

Train: We suggest that if you want the long train, that it be detachable so that it won't get stepped on, torn, or otherwise ruined during the reception.

Mood: The mood of your dress can be Romantic, Modern, Traditional, or Classic.
Size: As with any other wardrobe selection, when it comes to picking a wedding dress, size does matter. For brides petite and large, the size of a bridal gown is ordered based on measurements of bust, waist, hips and height. Check this chart out to get an idea.

Wedding Gowns Sleeves

Whether you want to show off your totally buff arms or hide a figure flaw, pay careful attention to the sleeves on your gown.

Cap - very short sleeves; only covering the shoulders, sometimes seen on off-the-shoulder gowns.

Fitted - a tight sleeve cut very close to the arm, best for those with thin arms.

Juliet - Renaissance look, tightly fitted with a small pouf at the shoulder.

Leg o' Mutton - the Dynasty look, very full at the shoulder, very fitted at the forearm.

Tulip - a cap sleeve made of overlapping fabric that curves into a petal shape.

Poet - a fitted long sleeve with an outward flare just above the wrists, very lyrical.

Wedding Dress Laces

Allençon
Re-embroidered, Chantilly lace.

Belgian
Laces made with machine-made grounds.

Chantilly
Fine mesh, often with scalloped edges, with delicate scrolls and floral designs.

French
Machine-made lace fabrics that imitate handmade French lace.

Guipure
Heavy lace with large patterns in needlepoint or bobbin.

Schiffli
Machine-made lace with delicate floral embroidery.

Venise
Heavy lace with floral, foliage, or geometric designs.

Wedding Hairpiece Glossary

TIARA – a full or half crown which rests atop the head giving a princess feel.

BOW– a tied bow made of satin or lace and usually adorned with a flower or other embellishments.

WREATH – a small circle of flowers resting on the top of the head or forehead and can also be adorned with ribbon, etc.

HEADBAND – worn as you would a regular headband, this is jazzed up with the use of jewels, rhinestones, pearls and the like
JULIET CAP – a small cap that cups the back of the head.

MANTILLA – a delicate lace veil.

Wedding Gown Fabric Hot List

Batiste: A lightweight, soft, transparent fabric.

Brocade: A Jacquard-woven fabric with raised designs; traditionally popular for fall and winter, now also worn in warmer weather.

Charmeuse: A lightweight, semi-lustrous soft fabric, that is satin-like to the touch.

Chiffon: Delicate, sheer, and transparent -- made from silk or rayon, with a soft finish; often layered because of its transparency, making it popular for overskirts, sheer sleeves, and wraps.

Crepe: A light, soft, and thin fabric with a crinkled surface.

Damask: Similar to brocade with raised designs, but woven in a much lighter weight.

Duchesse Satin: A lightweight hybrid of silk and rayon (or polyester) woven into a satin finish.

Dupioni: A finish similar to shantung, but with thicker, coarser fibers, and a slight sheen.

Faille: A structured, ribbed finish like grosgrain ribbon; usually quite substantial

.Gabardine: A tightly-woven, firm and durable finish, with single diagonal lines on the face.

Georgette: A sheer, lightweight fabric often made of polyester or silk with a crepe surface.

Illusion: A fine, sheer net fabric, generally used on sleeves or necklines.

Jersey: A very elastic knit fabric; the face has lengthwise ribs and the underside has crosswise ribs.

Moire: A heavy silk taffeta with a subtle, wavy design.

Organdy: A stiff transparent fabric.

Organza: Crisp and sheer like chiffon, with a stiffer texture similar in effect to tulle, but more flowing; popular for skirts, sleeves, backs, and overlays.

Peau de Soie: A soft satin-faced, high-quality cloth with a dull luster, fine ribs, and a grainy appearance.

Pique: A lengthwise rib weave in medium to heavy weights; wrinkles badly unless given a wrinkle-free finish.

Satin: A heavy, smooth fabric with a high sheen on one side; very common in bridal gowns.

Silk Gazar: A four-ply silk organza.

Silk Mikado: A brand of blended silk, usually heavier than 100-percent silk.

Silk-faced Satin: A smooth silk satin, with a glossy front and matte back.

Shantung: Similar to a raw silk, shantung is characterized by its slubbed texture.Taffeta: Crisp and smooth, with a slight rib; not frequently used.

Tulle: Netting made of silk, nylon, or rayon; used primarily for skirts and veils (think ballerina tutus).

Velvet: A soft, thick fabric with a felted face and plain underside.

Wedding Dress Styles

There are five major styles to choose from: Romantic, Glamorous, Classic, Beach/Destination and Contemporary.

Romantic
These gowns are characterized by billowy princess or A-line skirts as well as fluted or mermaid skirts with dreamy lace, silk netting, or wispy tulle overlays. Sheath gowns also fall in this category and are usually adorned with features such as lace, crystal and pearl beading. Various necklines, waistlines and bodices can be used and will be accented with embroidery, crystal beading, sequined appliqués and lace.

Glamorous
These dresses are the “walk-down-the-red-carpet" style of dress with body hugging satin or matte-jersey sheath styles that may, or may not, have trains. Reminiscent of the 20's and 30's Nouveau period, these dresses are characterized by long fluted and trumpet style skirts with either tiers, bubble skirts or a slimmer A-line skirt. Feathers may be added for extra flare! This dress style demands dramatic and daring necklines with various waistlines and unusual cuts and panels to the dress. Sequins, beaded overlays, satin roses and appliqués appear on the gown but not in great amounts.

Classic
This “belle of the ball" classic style usually has simple and clean lines defining the elegance of the gown. Waistlines and necklines can vary with this style of dress as do the types of skirts (Princess, soft A-line, ball gown or a fluted hem) as well as the length of the train. Limited amounts of beading, lace accents, and embroidery are found on these dresses in order to maintain their simple nature. Additional accents may be found through the use of a satin sash tied at the waist and draping down the back of the gown. Raw silk, satin, and organza are the most common fabrics for this style of dress.

Beach/Destination
This flowing and breezy style of dress is best suited for those want that windswept beach wedding baring your sun-kissed shoulders as you say “I do”. Beach/Destination style gowns can come with a casual air or fall under a more dramatic style like a light chiffon gown with a fluted skirt. Destination gowns can also be Glamorous with a body hugging sheath dress with a sexy, plunging back or a more humble version of the Romantic style with a lace overlay. A Destination gown can also have informal Classic tones with simple lines of crystal beading on the waistline or on the straps.

Contemporary
This style seems to be very popular either featuring a strapless neckline with a corset bodice and lace-ups at the back. What is nice about this style is that it can accommodate fluctuations in a bride’s weight as the back panel is not only removable but the laces can be loosened or tightened to perfectly fit any bride’s shape. The skirts on this style are usually a full skirt with a sweep train. Crystal beading or lace on the bodice and skirt can lend this style a Classic or Romantic air.

Wedding Gloves Terms

Elbow: Ends just above or below the elbow, and comes in 6-, 8, or 10-button lengths (the buttons extending up the arm)

Fingerless: The finger holes are open.

Gauntlet: A long glove that does not cover the fingers. The end can come to a point over the hand.

Opera: A full, long glove that extends to the top or middle of the upper arm, most often with 12-16 buttons.



Short: The end of the glove is two inches above the wrist, also called a ‘one-button’ glove