COLD COMFORT
Fall and winter brides have elegant options for stunning, stylish gowns
THESE days, couples are opting for offseason nuptials, saying “I do” against a wintry backdrop of snow and ice. But the cooler temps leave many brides asking themselves how to look chic without sacrificing style for warmth. If you’re pondering this puzzle, think beyond the classic wedding dress and embrace the chilly air with the same fortitude as a June bride because you have options.
Much like your warm-weather counterparts, there are a variety of dresses and even accessories perfectly suited to your end-of-the-year occasion.
Here are some fashionable solutions to consider for your fabulous fall or winter wonderland wedding.
JACKETS AND WRAPS
“A cozy topper is a winter wedding accessory must, not only to keep warm, but also to add another layer of rich texture to your bridal attire. A feather topper, cashmere wrap [or faux fur capelet] with a sleeveless or strapless wedding gown provides the perfect amount of textural contrast,” says Jessica McGuinn, associate marketing manager at BHLDN. Accessorizing your dress allows you to banish the cold in style without compromising your wedding look. Lori Conley, divisional merchandising manager of David’s Bridal, adds, “these luxe outerwear options are equal parts cozy and glamourous.” Go ahead, layer up.
BRIDAL SEPARATES
We most likely have Olivia Palermo to thank for the bridal separates trend. “They are perfect for achieving a look that is warm and whimsical, mixing practicality and personal style,” says McGuinn. Try a simple sweater and tulle skirt or make heads turn in an embellished top and trouser set. “Trousers are very cool and don’t necessarily mean dressing down; pairing wide-legged crepe trousers with a crystal- and sequin-covered top with a tulle train is daring and contemporary, but still very special and romantic,” says designer Jenny Packham. Bonus: If you aren’t equally proportioned, you can size separately, plus you can wear the individual pieces again.
HEAVIER FABRICS
A great alternative to covering up is wearing a dress made from a heavier fabric. Satin and taffeta are thicker than chiffon and have a high sheen to keep you glowing all night. Silk gazar is also a good option as the weight of the four-ply silk organza does double duty: maintaining heat and your dress’ shape. But “unexpected textures like white feathers can make the best playful complement to your winter wedding dress,” says Rose. Channel your inner princess with tiers of sumptuous feathers or wear a full-skirted ballgown made of layers of tulle and organza, and you’ll not only stay warm but you’ll have a major fairy-tale moment.
SLEEVES
A long-sleeved gown is “perfect for a winter wedding,” says designer Lela Rose. “It allows you to dress for the colder weather without losing any elegance.” Long sleeves provide full fabric coverage for the entire arm, while three-quarter-length sleeves extend just past the elbow. Lace sleeves provide moderate, breathable coverage, while illusion sleeves offer minimal coverage with appliques or embellishments decorating the sheer mesh fabric. Hervé Moreau, creative director of Pronovias, recommends “figure-hugging long-sleeved dresses that elegantly enhance the silhouette. A plunging back with lace or jewel detail adds an extra surprise to gowns with a more modest, classic front.”
EMBELLISHMENT AND COLOR
Traditional wedding gowns can often be lost in a sea of white during the winter. Consider using a rhinestone belt to bring some unexpected vibrancy to your gown. For more impact, try a dress with a beaded topper/ bodice. It’s fun, flattering and completely festive. Or channel a bit of old Hollywood glam with a fully embellished gown. The allover sparkle will truly set you apart. And if you really want to pop, choose a colored wedding gown, like Jessica Biel, Reese Witherspoon, and Anne Hathaway. Wearing a soft hue like light pink, blue, apricot, grey, silver or cream brings warmth to an all-white landscape.
LACE
“Lace wedding gowns are a great option for brides looking to emulate the delicate playfulness of a winter wonderland. The intricate patterns are perfectly reminiscent of the snowflakes that characterize the season,” says McGuinn. But there are a variety of laces out there, so opt for a guipure lace whose continuous motif creates a denser pattern than that usually found in other lace, ultimately providing you more warmth. As Georgina Chapman of Marchesa Notte Bridal puts it, “There is nothing more romantic than a lace dress for a winter wedding! It’s incredibly dreamy and perfect for a glamourous winter affair.” A cold shoulder or high-collar silhouette are two of-themoment styles that feel modern and will give you some additional coverage.