Gowns

Rhonda Rogers Photography

Gowns

Rhonda Rogers Photography

Wedding Gowns

Picture perfect and iconic

Even from a very young age, most girls daydream about their wedding dress. We’re constantly bombarded with movies, TV, and photos of pictureperfect, iconic brides. And what makes these brides iconic? The dress! Although finding the right dress for your wedding day isn’t as easy as daydreaming, we’re here to help with these bridal gown basics.

Wedding Gown Trends for Modern Brides

The wedding gown is more than just a garment; it’s a symbol of love, a reflection of personal style, and a statement of everlasting commitment. Every bride dreams of her perfect gown, one that encapsulates her essence and dazzles with timeless beauty. As we step into a new era, bridal fashion continues to evolve, blending tradition with contemporary flair.

Ethereal Romance

In a world enamored with ethereal aesthetics, brides are gravitating towards romantic gowns that exude softness and grace. Delicate lace, flowing chiffon, and whimsical tulle take center stage, creating dreamy silhouettes reminiscent of fairy tales.

Sheer bodices adorned with intricate floral appliqués add a touch of whimsy while cascading skirts evoke an aura of enchantment. Pastel hues such as blush pink and powder blue infuse a sense of romance, perfect for the bride who seeks to float down the aisle like a vision from a storybook romance.

Bride in romantic gown poses at Horseshoe Bay Farms in Door County.

Luke Collins Photography

Beautiful bride in a Justin Alexander wedding gown poses in field.

Timeless Touch Photography

Minimalist Chic

For the bride with a penchant for understated elegance, minimalist gowns offer a captivating allure. Clean lines, sleek silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics define this trend, showcasing the beauty of simplicity. Artfully draped in satin, a timeless ivory column gown exudes sophistication and modernity.

High necklines and architectural details add a contemporary twist, while subtle embellishments such as delicate beading or minimalist embroidery elevate the aesthetic with understated glamor. This trend is ideal for the bride who embraces a less-is-more philosophy, seeking to make a statement with her refined sense of style.

Bohemian Rhapsody

Bohemian-inspired gowns continue to enchant brides with their free-spirited charm and bohemian flair. Flowing silhouettes, crochet lace, and intricate embroidery capture the essence of wanderlust and adventure. Off-the-shoulder necklines and bell sleeves evoke a sense of whimsy, while earthy tones such as sandstone and sage reflect the beauty of nature.

Floral crowns and cascading braids complement the bohemian aesthetic, infusing the bridal ensemble with a laid-back yet romantic vibe. Whether exchanging vows in a rustic barn or dancing under the stars, the bohemian bride radiates effortless beauty and boundless love.

Modern Fairytale

Drawing inspiration from fairy tales and fantasy, modern fairytale gowns transport brides to a realm of enchantment and wonder. Dramatic silhouettes, voluminous skirts, and opulent fabrics create a sense of grandeur fit for a princess.

Ballgowns adorned with cascading layers of tulle and shimmering sequins evoke a sense of magic, while illusion necklines and crystal embellishments add a touch of regal elegance. Metallic accents and iridescent fabrics capture the light, casting a spell of romance and allure. With their enchanting charm and majestic appeal, modern fairytale gowns are perfect for the bride who dreams of a happily ever after.

Vintage Glamour

Inspired by the glamor of bygone eras, vintage-inspired gowns celebrate timeless elegance and retro charm. From the roaring twenties to the swinging sixties, each era offers its own unique aesthetic, reimagined for the modern bride. Art Deco beading, Hollywood-inspired silhouettes, and vintage lace evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication.

Classic details such as cap sleeves, sweetheart necklines, and tea-length skirts pay homage to the past while adding a touch of vintage glamor to the bridal ensemble. With their timeless appeal and old-world charm, vintage-inspired gowns are perfect for the bride who seeks to infuse her wedding day with a sense of timeless elegance.

Vintage glam styled model bride for Green Bay fashion shoot.

Macy Roth Artistry

Gown Checklists and Planners…

Ultimate Planning Guide
Ask the Right Questions
Choosing a Gown
Bride in veil gazes at her reflection in mirror at Woelfel Homestead Farm Venue.

Sam Lauersdorf Photography

Trying on the Dress

Don’t be afraid to try on dresses that aren’t necessarily in your comfort zone. You never know what a gown will really look like until you try it on, and lots of brides end up choosing a style of gown they never even dreamed of. Remember that the gowns at boutiques are just samples, so the size won’t be tailored to you, and most dresses can be ordered in various shades of white.

Make sure to take advantage of your professional stylist’s knowledge and expertise. A good bridal stylist should steer you in the right direction so communicate your likes, dislikes, wants, and needs as much as possible. It’s the stylist’s job to handle every step of your experience including showing you every option within your price range. They can also coordinate alterations and other practical matters once you’ve found “the one.”

Alterations & Fittings

Deciding on a gown is a major hurdle, but that’s not the end of the wedding dress “to do” list. There are usually as many as four fittings that follow saying “yes” to the dress. Give yourself and the seamstress sufficient time. If you’re in a rush, this is when working with a bridal boutique can really help. It’s usually their job to make sure alterations run smoothly and on time.

Choose a dress that’s very close to your actual size. Most gowns can’t be changed by more than two sizes, up or down. It’s easier to take a dress in than it is to let it out. Make sure you’re sporting the same undergarments and shoes that you’ll be wearing on your wedding day. Even the slightest tweak in bra padding or heel height can change the way a dress hangs and where the hem falls. As you’re working with the seamstress, trust that they know what they’re doing.

As brides set out to find the dress of their dreams, they will be greeted with a bunch of cool trends, each with its own vibe and charm. Whether you’re into dreamy romance, simple elegance, free-spirited boho, contemporary fairy tale, or classic glam, today’s bride has the power to show off her unique style on her big day. These trendy dresses aren’t just pretty; they’re a reminder of the everlasting power of love and the creativity in wedding fashion.

Bride poses with bouquet at Camp Elsewhere in Waupaca.

Lusia Studio Photography