Photo: Mark Pillai
We were so excited to have our very own Rachel Leonard (Brides' Fashion Director) host a chat on our Facebook wall last week. Our fans fired some tough wedding-dress dilemmas at the fashion guru, and an enthusiastic chat ensued. For those who missed it, here's a highlight.
Is ruching a good detail on a gown for a petite and voluptuous frame?
Rachel Leonard: Ruching is one of the most flattering details of a gown, it makes you look tall and thin.
How many fittings do brides have on average to get their dress to be perfect?
Rachel Leonard: For fittings, 2-3 times should be right. More than that is a lot and might cost more. Hopefully the store that you purchased the dress from has good fitters!
Where can I buy a pretty blingy belt? My dress came with one but I don't like it and am having trouble finding belts without having to buy another dress.
Rachel Leonard: Most stores today have a belt department along with the headpieces. But BHLDN has some great ones online. So many companies offer them now!
How many months before the wedding should I get my dress? Mine will be early spring of next year.
Rachel Leonard: I would start shopping 3-6 months before. If you wait until the last minute you'll pay for a rush and have more options.
I purchased a simple strapless chiffon gown online and I am having a fall wedding in September, what could I do to bling it up without it costing too much?
Rachel Leonard: For a strapless dress in the fall, think about a little bolero or cape, a statement necklace or earrings or fun sparkly shoes.
What kind of wedding dress do you think is appropriate if you want to be formal even though you're having a barefoot beach wedding?
Rachel Leonard: I love a big organza or tulle ballgown on the beach, so romantic. Just make sure you won't be to hot with all the layers!
What do you think about a cape? I know it's popular in Europe but not in the US.
Rachel Leonard: I like the cape, it is all over the fall RTW runways. I think for a wedding it could be gorgeous. Just make sure it looks modern and chic and not old-fashioned.
How much jewelry should you wear with a Disney princess ball gown?
Rachel Leonard: Keep it simple with the jewelry. You want the focus to be on you and your gown.
What color do you recommend for mothers of the bride?
Rachel Leonard: The mother should choose a color that looks most flattering on her. It all depends on her skin tone!
Don't miss our next Facebook chat, happening this Thursday from 4-5 PM EST. We'll be joined by Xochitl and Mayra of A.a.B.Creates, the planners behind our Brides Live Wedding. Don't miss it!
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