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Dress: Gala by Galia Lahav Couture

 

The Dream Dress

Tampa Bay Weddings’ 2016 Gown Guide  |  By Ronda M. Parag

 

Searching for the perfect wedding dress should be fun and special. Bring those closest to you that understand your style and vision. There are so many options, from classic to modern, that you may feel overwhelmed. When visiting local bridal boutiques, be open to try on gowns that might be out of your comfort zone. The expert staff can help guide you in the right direction. If you have your heart set on a strapless gown, don’t be afraid to try on one with sleeves. Each boutique has a variety of designers that will showcase a variety of fabrics and silhouettes. Do a bit of homework, looking through magazines and online, to discover different designers and trends that will fit your style.

While bridal gown trends don’t change drastically from year to year, there are several noteworthy trends that local boutiques are seeing. Inspired by Kate Middleton, many of the designers are showing sleeves with accents of lace, sequins and beading for visual interest. “This season we know that straps are here to stay, and lots of designers are even creating gorgeous options with long sleeves,” says Ashley West, Manager of The White Magnolia Bridal Collection. “I absolutely love the classic feel of a lace gown with a long sleeve and thrilled this trend has returned. My mother had a wedding gown like this, and I think it’s such a timeless look.”

Gowns embellished with feathers is another trend that will make a statement. Confident and bold in a fluttering dress will certainly turn heads and focus all the attention on the bride. Another trend is the return to deep v-necklines. “This is great for a bride who wants a classic feel with some type of strap or sleeve, with just a hint of sexiness,” West says. Low backs with cutouts and lace overlays are also on trend.

Megan Bubalo stays on top of the trends to carry the latest designs in her bridal boutique, Malindy Elene. “This season, we are seeing a ton of overskirt and two-piece options for brides,” Bubalo says. “Overskirts are the perfect way to get two looks in one by adding them to any fitted gown. Two-piece gowns are a great way for brides to bring a fashion forward trend down the aisle. We are seeing these trends more and more and bridal designers are loving it!”

Never out of fashion is the short, white dress. Whether for the rehearsal dinner or a reception change, there is always room for a LWD (Little White Dress). From frilly and lacy to sleek and slimming, a LWD is always in style. Several designers for spring were also showing fitted white tuxedo pant suits and flowing white chiffon-topped jumpsuits.
When you fall in love with the dress (or pants) of your dreams, you will feel it. Don’t agonize that there are other options out there. Embrace your feeling and commit to the dress, so you can begin planning the other details of your big day.    TBW

Gown Trends Gallery

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