The Fab Five

Empire: RD1044 by Maggie Sottero

So many times when a bride enters a typical bridal shop she looks at the gowns on display mannequins and then begins rifling through the racks.  Her entourage fans out like ants calling the bride’s attention to their favorites and insisting she try them on even if she really isn't interested.  It is a big mistake to shop in this way because it will make you even more confused.

There is a fail proof system to shopping for your perfect wedding gown.

You are going to need help to determine which of the fab 5 looks best on your body.  There are only 5 cuts, or silhouettes of wedding gowns.  If you don't already know which silhouette is best for you, your personal consultant can show you gowns in your size in each silhouette for you to try on.  

Sheath: Alexa by Maggie Sottero

1: The sheath is a fitted body that falls straight from your hips to the floor.

2: The mermaid fits to your mid or lower thighs and flares out from there.  Trumpet and mermaids are names you will hear in this category.

3: A ball gown has a tight fitted bodice and a waistline that is either at the natural waist or fitted as far as the widest part of your hips. The skirt can be gathered, pleated or circular where it attaches to the bodice and is usually quite full at the hem.  This style creates a curvy silhouette.

Ball Gown: Priscilla by Maggie Sottero

4: The empire cut has a seam or detail directly under the bust and falls from that seam.  Empire cut is not usually fitted below the bust.  Some gowns in other categories will have an empire detail.

5: The A line gown is fitted in the bodice and follows the curves of the body to the waist and gradually flares out from the waist.  There is not usually a distinct horizontal seam line on the bodice.  Princess seams usually extend vertically from the bust through the hem of the skirt.  This is a good style to balance your figure.

Mermaid: Symphony by Maggie Sottero

There are some who say if you have one shape of body you should wear a certain cut but after my 30 years in as a bridal designer and retailer I have found that any girl can wear just about any cut as long as it is proportioned to her body. Re proportioning of a silhouette that is not your best may not be possible unless you work with a designer and have your gown customized which is available exclusively at The Gallery by Lynette.  The proof is in the mirror.  If you are in love with the dress you have on and can see yourself being married in this dress then your shopping is finished.  

A Line: Geneva by Maggie Sottero

Over shopping comes when you have already found a great bridal salon with gowns that match your style and budget, and a bridal consultant who you feel has your best interests at heart and you continue going from shop to shop in search of a dress instead of the total package of dress, alterations, security knowing no matter what you need, the shop you choose should cover your needs right up to the time you bring your gown back for cleaning and preservation after your wedding.  Not all stores consider the bride’s happiness as their number one mission.  When you run nilly willy to every store you risk being “sold” the wrong gown or left out in the cold if a problem arises. .  Stay in the store where you feel comfortable and work with your consultant to find your perfect gown.  At The Gallery by Lynette we have literally hundreds of gowns, including the ones shown above, and can customize any aspect including changing fabrics, mixing bodices and skirts and most often your perfect gown can be patterned and made in one of our two overseas factories just for you.  We also offer exclusive lines from Madeline Gardner,  Crystal Bridal Couture, Jaarda Victoria as well as being a premiere salon for Maggie Sottero.