It's Your Day

TO GET THE LOOK YOU REALLY WANT, DO SOME RESEARCH AND LISTEN TO THE EXPERTS

When the big day arrives, all eyes will be on you, so it’s worth listening to expert advice on how to look your best.

Let’s start with the dress, which will set the style for your entire wedding day. Before you head out to find your dream gown, do some research.

“Brides have so much information available to them now. When they look online at different bridal houses, they should take note of any elements in a dress that speaks to them, whether it’s a bodice or skirt or train,” said Sharon Miller, owner of the Gown Gallery Bridal Loft.

After you have done your homework, you are ready to shop. Be sure to take along some heels and any special undergarments that you will wear with your dress.

“Limit the number of people you bring with you — ideally your mother and sister or a close friend whose opinion you value. When you get too many opinions, it can be overwhelming,” Miller said.

She emphasized the importance of having an open mind when trying on gowns and considering the consultant’s ideas. They are trained to know what styles flatter certain body types.

The silhouettes and fabrics available to brides are endless. One of the biggest trends in gowns is soft, flowing fabrics with overlays and silk organzas.

“Ball gowns are coming back, along with trumpet and mermaid styles. Short dresses are gaining in popularity, too,” said Marilyn Morman, manager of Bridal Extraordinaire.

Blushing Bride: Subtle colors soften the look of traditional white bridal gowns. Kirstie Kelly designed this blush pink gown, called Princess Sleeping Beauty, for Disney Fairytale Weddings. Soft pink gown $2,410, the Gown Gallery Bridal Loft

On the Cover: When sheer fabric is layered it takes on an airy feel, and the bride seems to float down the aisle. Manuel Mota for Pronovias designed this silk gown with tulle-covered jewels and empire waist. Jeweled gown $3,828, tiara $108, Bridal Extraordinaire

Good As Gold: Yellow, white and rose gold look especially brilliant when paired with diamonds. This delicately detailed 18-karat white gold cuff is encrusted with 6.09 carats of diamonds by Chad Allison. Cuff $17,690, exclusively at Mazzarese Fine Jewelry

Champagne Dreams: Touches of color add texture and interest to a wedding gown. Sposa by St. Pucchi designed this Spanish-inspired gown with a champagne lace bodice and pleated silk organza tiered skirt. Champagne gown $2,090, the Gown Gallery Bridal Loft

Sheer Delight: A layer of sheer silk organza draped into an empire waistline is one of the hottest styles in wedding gowns at the moment. This simple gown by Vera Wang has a light tulle overlay that wraps into a bow in the back. Ivory strapless gown $4,900, Nolte’s Bridal; ivory blusher $75, Bridal Extraordinaire