Let’s talk Silhouette

PEAR-SHAPE (if you have curvy hips)

APPLE (If you have an ample besom & waistline)

HOURGLASS (if you are proportioned)

PENCIL (If you have minimal curves)

PETITE (if you are petite in frame, torso & height)

BALLGOWN

The ball gown is and will always be a classic. For the bride that longs to feel like a princess, to have that magical fairytale like experience, a ball gown will provide it. There are so many variations of ball gowns, some that are very fluffy and full while others have a lot less volume 
 but the same look. This is a great shape for most body types.

APPLE SHAPE  If you don’t have a narrow waist or have a full bust be mindful of where the waistline is located. If it’s too short then all the attention will be directed to you bust line. Make sure the waistline is defined.

PETITE: Be aware of the waist line also. I would encourage you if you’re petite to stay away from drop waist or an over long waistline which can make you appear short. Remember, the longer the skirt, the longer the legs, the taller you will look.

 A-LINE

This silhouette is a great way of achieving some fullness without the volume. Most brides who want to have a sense of boho or ethereal fairy feel opt for this type for flowy A-line gown. There are some very formal looks with this silhouette but most are fairly soft in their approach. This is a great shape for most body types.

PEAR-SHAPE be careful when choosing this gown, you want to make sure that the cutoff point is not located directly at your hip which can accentuate that area. With this silhouette make sure it has a defined waist and a great flow at the waist. You also don’t want too much tulle to gather at your waist so there isn’t an appearance of added fullness.

SHEATH

This is a tricky silhouette due to the restrictions that this type of gown has. This is however, the most comfortable, silky and relaxed fit. This silhouette follows your shape without hugging any particular area. This is a great dress for someone who has an hourglass figure. Often people think that you have to be slim to pull this shape off but that is not necessarily true. The main components needed to most flatter is someone who has an a shape to fill out the bust, waist & hips.

FULLERWOMEN  be careful when choosing a dress like this as it does not have a great deal of support. Usually the fabric can be unforgiving. If you are a busty woman pay extra attention to the support, you may need to purchase an appropriate undergarment.

 APPLE SHAPE  If you have a shape that doesn’t have a natural waist then be mindful. This dress could fall in all the right places or it can also extenuate the areas you may not want to bring attention to.

PEAR SHAPE- I think when it comes to choosing this silhouette just make sure that there is something at the top to bring balance to your shape.

PENCIL- This silhouette can easily make one look straight so you must be very careful there is some indenture at your hips, or your waist. You can also choose a dress that has in interesting neckline, such as a low”V” or a very open back which can help add the appearance of more fullness.

EMPIRE

This silhouette works best with petite women, giving then the appearance of length, this is also a wonderful silhouette for someone who doesn’t have much shape because if camouflages really well. This can also work well with an apple shape.

 

THE INBETWEEN- FITTED A-LINE

This is often a silhouette that is overlooked…. It’s either in the a-line category or in the fit-n-flare, but it really just fall in between. I love this silhouette because it’s flattering on almost every body shape. And truly, it’s the best of both worlds and great for the bride who is torn between wanting the feel of a ball gown and the curve hugging appeal of a more fitted silhouette.

FIT-N-FLARE / MERMAID

With this body hugging silhouette it’s all about fit. With the right fit, this shape is flattering on every body type. The appeal of the fit-n-flare gown is that the bride usually feels most feminine in this type of silhouette. It shows her curves yet it’s still stays elegant, romantic and bridal.

APPLE SHAPE - Make sure that you get a gown that has a solid corset so that you can tighten around the waist and if you are busty that it gives you solid support. Another very important key is to make sure that your how has a solid flare so it brings balance to your upper body and creates a beautiful shape. This also applies to a PENCIL SHAPE.

PETITE SHAPE - The most important thing to look out for in this style dress is making sure the cut off between the bodice & the skirt is not too long. The best option is choosing a mermaid cut that comes up mid thigh in the front to elongate you. This silhouette is wonderful for the petite bride because I will never swallow her frame.

    






Enjoy the search, be inspired xx

Looking back in 2016

At Wedding Inspirations what we display is important. Different colors that reflect the style, the current season and a variety of options for our brides. So, for the blog this week we would like to take you to a journey back to some of our "Window Inspirations" beginning with the very first window in February in honor of the Carolina Panthers. Oh yes, we have definitely come a long way!

  Carolina Panthers Window

  Beautiful Neutrals 

 

    Welcome Spring Flowers!

    Breakfast at Tiffany's

  Soft Romantic Spring Tones

Lavender, Gray & Sage

Bright & Bold

Caribbean Breeze

Holiday Window-  July 4TH & Mother's Day

Lusty Fall Pallet

 

Gold & Hot Pink

Blues & Greens

Whimsical Winter

And last but not least- Have a  sparkling HAPPY NEW YEAR!

WELCOME 2017

Be Inspired

XOXO

TOP 10 Budget Savvy Wedding Ideas

1.  Invest in what’s most important, spend where its most visible not in the details easily missed. For example, invest in your décor and perhaps save on the cake and wedding favors.

2.  Cake or no cake? Consider doing donuts, pies or mini desserts. Also, if you still want wedding cake, perhaps go to a bakery such as Whole Foods, The Fresh Market or Publix and get 3 separate cakes and display them on beautiful platters.  One more—fake it a little-- by having a cake display with only the top layer as the real cake (for the bride & groom to cut) and the rest can be a display cake. You can also purchase a large sheet cake (to be kept in the back) from a local grocery store and have the staff serve it to your guests.

3.  Flowers don’t have to be real. You can mix both real & fake flowers (and no one would know) and be smart, pick flowers that are in season or even some from your own garden. You can also order in bulk from stores such as Sam’s Club or Costco.  One more-- pick local hydrangeas and dry them (they will last forever) and choose a color (or 2) & spray paint them. Perfecto!

    Consider making your own flower bouquets or having non floral decor it’s not that difficult to create and it will save you some money. 

4.  Shop smartly for your decor. Sometimes you can find cheaper options when you buy rather then rent.  Don’t buy from “wedding” suppliers look at other websites such as Amazon or party supplies etc. you just might find what you’re looking for at a bargain price! Also- THINK ABOUT YOUR COLOR SCHEME… especially if you have champagne taste on a beer budget. Colors can cheapen or place value on your entire wedding look. 

5.  Don’t get married on a Saturday. Fridays or Sunday’s are becoming a hot trend. Also, consider the month and the season you are getting married in. For example four hot months are May, June, September & October. Also, fell free to shop around for price quotes and see if you venue will match other prices.

6.  Simplify the alcohol & food.  Beer & wine is more than fine. More alcohol = more spending. You can also offer champagne for your guests and a cash bar. This is a great way to save but still offer something to your guests, and perhaps keep the crazy to the minimum! When it comes to food, keep it basic. One wheat item, 2 vegetables & 2 meats. Look for local restaurants to cater.  Buffets are always the cheaper option. You can also go to Sam’s and supply your own appetizers during cocktail hour. Or consider doing a morning wedding with brunch to follow or an afternoon wedding with a light lunch or hors d'oeuvres. 

7.  DIY is not always cheaper. People often think that all DIY projects are money savers. This is not always the case. Often, after you purchase all the supplies, the little details and all the the time it takes for your project (not to mention stress) the amount spent could very well be the same. It really depends on the project, on what is doable and what make sense for your big day. And keep in mind the results, not everything you see on Pinterest looks the same when you do it yourself!

 

8.  Be your own DJ. Create your own playlist and hire an emcee (someone to announce what’s going on) or ask a friend to do it. Just keep in mind good timelines (for example 1hr for your guests to eat etc.). You will then be able to choose sentimental songs or songs that you and your husband-to-be will enjoy. 

9.  Find a venue that isn’t a “fixer upper”. Often brides find a “cheap” space that may not be all that attractive and think that they can “redecorate it” and make it stunning. Sometimes, you can but often you end up spending a lot more than planned and you compromised on your venue.

10. Don't Over-do or Overspend. Try to always be aware of the budget. Don’t buy something unless you need it. Often Brides get caught up in idea’s and they find something that they “might use” or “could use” and don’t. Or the item(s) become just extra things that are not needed. Be conscious of your wedding dress budget and shop sales, off-the-rack styles or even consignment. Also, when you are shopping be mindful of alterations, which can rack up quickly. Sometimes getting the dress you want and spending a little more will turn out the same as compromising on your dress and putting in the difference when you’re in alterations. Try to borrow some decorations from close friends who have already tied the knot. If you can, try to borrow other accessories such as your veil, jewelry or other accessories to finish your look. Every little thing helps. Often, less is more. Try your best to not over-do. Especially if decorating is not you knack. It's better to be tasteful & simple then having too much going on. 

  

Be Inspired & Stay Savvy

XOXO