Bridal Gown Styles for a Formal Wedding

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Author: Rachel Jackson

A formal wedding is classic, glamorous and dramatic. Everything from the cake, to the reception centerpieces, to the music strikes a tone of grandeur and elegance. Hundreds of tiny details come together to make the big day an incredible, lifelong memory for the newlyweds and guests alike. So it goes without saying that a formal wedding calls for a very special bridal gown.

However, how can you be sure that your bridal gown reflects the formal tone of your wedding? With the vast choices in cut, length and style, it can be downright overwhelming to find the perfect formal wedding gown. Luckily, there are several specific designs and details that lend a gown a distinctly formal style. By following a few simple guidelines and tips, you can find a graceful, traditional bridal gown that fits seamlessly into your formal wedding.

Formal Bridal Gown Features

Formal bridal gowns convey romance, class and sophistication. Some women have dreamed about formal bridal gowns since they were little girls. These traditional dresses are reminiscent of fairytales, and can make a bride feel like a true princess. When it comes to formal weddings, think haute couture. Couture bridal gowns are made with the finest fabric, and are hand sewn with exhaustive attention to detail. Most formal gowns share a few key characteristics, which makes your gown shopping experience a little more manageable.

Formal Bridal Gown Length and Cut

Formal gowns traditionally fall all the way to the floor and dramatically drape over the feet, giving the bride a regal, statuesque appearance. Remember, the longer the train, the more formal the dress looks. Pair a flowing train with a long, veil, and your dress will be the height of formality and grace. Long dresses and veils glide effortlessly behind the bride as she moves, allowing her to make a memorable impression as she walks down the aisle.

Generally, formal gowns are form fitting in the bust and the waist. The dress should hug your upper torso through the bodice, and then flow gracefully away from your body at the hips for a traditional hourglass silhouette. The lower half of the gown should appear to be floating as you walk. Of course, not all brides prefer this conventional ball gown cut. Women who want a bit more coverage, or those who have a higher waist might choose an A-line, or empire style. These silhouettes can be just as elegant and formal.

Formal Bridal Gown Neckline

A formal bridal gown should also have a graceful neckline. Sweetheart necklines, which create a charming heart shape over the chest, are an excellent choice for formal gowns. V-neck and strapless necklines are also ideal options. While a formal neckline can be a little revealing, it is best to air on the conservative side. Avoid deep, plunging necklines. It is also best to steer clear from necklines that look ultra modern. Off the shoulder, or a-symmetrical necklines can be too contemporary for formal weddings. But if you find a modern dress that you love, do not rule it out right away. You can always add accessories or make small alterations to make it more traditional.

Formal Bridal Gown Details

Most formal bridal gowns have intricate details that reflect a high degree of craftsmanship. They are made with the finest quality of silk and cotton. Elaborate lace-up backs, elegant beadwork and hand-sewn embellishments are traditional hallmarks of the picture perfect formal wedding gown. It is these hand finished elements that push a gown over the top, so look for special details that uniquely set the dress apart for show stopping reactions.

Adding Formal Elements to a Bridal Gown

If, after an extensive search, you fall in love with a gown that does not have these traditional elements, there are several ways to make your dress more formal. Buy the dress that you fell in love with, and add accessories to change its look and feel. Lace gloves, elegant jewelry, headpieces and traditional shoes can give a casual or modern dress a classic formal look.

While these guidelines can be helpful, it is best to keep an open mind while shopping for your dress. A formal dress does not necessarily need to have all of the elements mentioned above, so don’t narrow your search too extensively. Try not to judge a dress until you try it on, and allow yourself plenty of time for shopping and alterations. Remember that a little creativity can go a long way. It can be tremendously helpful to attend designers’ trunk shows to look for inspiration before you shop.

Regardless of whether your wedding is formal, modern, or even alternative, your bridal gown should express your personality and make you feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

Rachel Jackson is a freelance writer who writes about weddings, often discussing specific items such as bridal gowns.