Non-Strapless Gowns Solidify a Place in Brides’ Hearts
Move over strapless; there’s a new gown in town. She’s bold, but conservative. And she’s definitely oh-so-chic.
Allure Bridals
It may be a blip on the radar or a trend-in-the-making. Whichever the case, bridal shop stylists are hearing more and more brides say, “I’ll have sleeves with that, please.” And whether it’s straps, sleeves or just a simple shrug, bridal designers are finding more and more ways to give these modern modest brides what they want.
Although strapless styles remain “the norm,” it’s safe to say their humble counterparts are creating a ripple effect. A few years ago, many salon owners would tell you about 75 percent of wedding dresses on their salon floor were strapless; these days it’s looking closer to 65-70 percent. And if the trend continues, maybe one day, brides could even see more of a 50/50 ratio.
Brides by Demetrios
But why exactly does a bride choose strapless over sleeves? And vice versa? The reasons are plenty.
First, because ball gowns and longer skirts are so popular, brides might prefer to show more skin on top – which makes them look and feel younger & more confident. Even women who don’t wear strapless dresses in their everyday affairs often feel drawn to them for their weddings.
Additionally, it may be more than the preferences of brides that are driving the strapless trend. When it comes down to it, strapless gowns are also much easier for designers to construct. Adding necklines and sleeves leads to more design challenges & severely alters the fit of the garment for each bride.
And while strapless is a clear-cut choice for many brides, it’s not so much for others. As lovely as a strapless gown can be, it can also bring a host of complications along with it. Take, for example, busty brides who need the extra support straps can give. Or, on the opposite site of the spectrum, the more flat-chested bride who fears “wearing a strapless dress” will be more accurately described as “a night of worrying your strapless dress is about to fall off.”
Even having a good figure alone doesn’t guarantee you’ll look great in a strapless style. The thinnest of brides could put herself through an extensive workout routine, trying to make sure her arms are looking fabulous and strapless-ready.
Allure Bridals
10 Non-Strapless Styles You May Want to Consider
Bateau • Illusion necklines • V-neck • Cap sleeves • Full neckline of choice, bare back • Lace sleeves • Off-the-shoulder • Square • Scoop • Cover/shrug over your strapless gown
Allure Bridals
Ultimately, every bride wants – and deserves – to look beautiful on her big day. The farthest things from her mind should be: a) Do my guests secretly think my armpits look flabby? and b) Can I dance in this dress without spending the whole night tugging on it?
Maybe you are a strapless bride though. Maybe you have killer arms & you want to show them off. And that’s okay. (Just please share your workout routine with the rest of us!)
But if you are a more conservative bride – or you even just want to explore your options – it’s nice to know that the fashion industry is making moves to accommodate you. And those moves are so pretty and so stunning that you just might forget strapless was even an option.
Find the non-strapless gown of your dreams at these local bridal salons!
