Since more brides are asking, “How can I look proper for my ceremony and still be stylish and relaxed for my reception?” some designers are offering convertible looks in their collections.  Think of convertibles as ensembles that work one way for the ceremony, and, like the layer of veil, are removed or readjusted for the reception.

Yes, veils are still in vogue and ever appealing.  And yes, there are more styles out there than ever, but before you make the decision to wear one, consider your options.  Today, some brides are bypassing the veil, going for special touches like wide brimmed hats, fresh flowers or jewels in their hair.  The idea is, if you’d rather wear a feathered toque down the aisle and it works with your gown, go for it.

The formality of your wedding attire will probably depend on your bride’s choice of gown and time of day your ceremony takes place.  Luckily, there are no hard and fast rules you have to follow anymore, only guidelines.  And the most important I’d stress is, bride and groom’s look should be in simpatico.  This means if she’s in a formal gown and long veil, you the groom can’t show up in a casual linen suit without setting your unity as a couple off-balance.  Realize this day is symbolic; you’re creating the harmony you hope follows the rest of your life. 

The brief city hall ceremony or ‘champagne wedding’ is every bit as significant as the formal wedding planned months ahead.  No longer considered the spontaneous events they once were, civil ceremonies are going through new approval and popularity.  Some couples simply prefer the ease of a short ceremony with a few friends and family to share in the celebration.  Realize though if you go with this simple a ceremony, you’re going to be dressing yourself differently than the traditional bride.

    Children add so much to a wedding. Whether walking down the aisle or weaving in and out of festivities, their presence lends a colorful and lively tone to the occasion.  Whatever theme or direction your wedding takes, children’s fashion usually echoes that of the wedding party.

True, your grand entrance will certainly make the first impression.  And how you see yourself head-on in a particular neckline and bodice is probably how you’ll go about choosing your gown.  But realize once you make it down the aisle and stand alongside your groom, your guests will be looking at you from the back.