Types of Brides

Types of Brides: The Earthy Bride

By Kai Ma

July 4, 2011

For this carefree femme, an organic and nature-inspired aesthetic is the goal

An earthy bride is romantic, ethereal and natural. This look works wonderfully for springtime nuptials or for women who prefer simplicity, not lavishness. Pulling this off, however, isn’t as simple as it seems. But if done correctly, the earthy bride will walk down the aisle looking like a springtime goddess—while still looking like herself.

The earthy, springtime bride is a woman who loves being outdoors and appreciates nature. She believes in enhancing natural beauty, not forcing it. A formal, indoor wedding may feel too stuffy and formal; rather, an organic, low-maintenance aesthetic is the goal. Ideal wedding venues are: the beach, a forest, a garden, the mountains, a vineyard.

Casual spring weddings do not have to compromise on elegance. In fact, nature-oriented nuptials offer a feeling of romance and intimacy that is unparalleled. The settings are specifically chosen to offer an incredible view or backdrop. The weather is usually agreeable (though in some parts of the country, spring dates do come with a chance of showers). The receptions are simple yet lively.

Are you an earthy bride? If so, you will likely wed outdoors during the spring or during the fall while it’s still warm. Choose a gown made with light fabrics, such as silk, chiffon or organza. These fabrics will keep you cool under the sun, but the dress should provide additional coverage in case of potentially chilly evenings. Understated dresses tailored for outdoor weddings are some of the most favored bridal frocks out there. Simple elegance is more appreciated these days, plus the dresses are comfortable. Last, it is important for the earthy bride to look stunning—but to also look like herself. A strapless satin ball gown takes it too far. But a romantic slip dress with a soft ruffled skirt? That’s more like it.

Experiment first with fabric. Silk is the most expensive, but the light, luxurious fabric will keep the body warm while allowing it to “breathe.” Chiffon is a thin, lightweight sheer fabric that will billow in the soft spring breeze. Organza is a sheer woven fabric that will drape over the body and add dimension when used in combination with other fabrics. Its lightweight and transparent qualities make it an obvious choice for many brides shopping for an outdoor wedding dress. Lace, too, is a feminine and ethereal choice. The intricate patterns that are formed resemble the flowers that start to bloom in the spring. A lace wedding dress is the perfect choice for a garden fête.

Of course, the earthy bride can consider a shorter dress, especially for a beach wedding. Getting married san footwear is also acceptable for beach ceremonies, but be sure to consider how this will dramatically alter your overall look. Earthy brides have scores of options for footwear; look for sandals—flats or heeled—with floral designs, such as one large blossom. Steer from pumps or chunky shoes that will look oppressive against your airy gown.

Types of Brides: The Modern Bride

This 21st-century woman has the freedom to embrace the traditions that are meaningful to her, while discarding the aspects that are frivolous

There are many different ways to interpret “the modern bride,” but for the most part, this woman is independent, sophisticated and headstrong. She appreciates bridal traditions but doesn’t necessarily need to conform to all the rules. She enjoys being unique. Some modern brides steer clear of all things traditional. Instead of getting hitched in a church, she’s exchanging rings on a large rooftop terrace overlooking Manhattan’s skyline, or on the beach in Tulum. The reception décor is fun or original or bold. The dress can be short.

A modern bride, however, should not be interpreted as outlandish or off-the-wall. It simply describes a particular bridal spirit for the 21st-century woman, one who has the freedom to embrace the traditions that are meaningful to her, while discarding the aspects that are unnecessary or frivolous. She may still walk the aisle in a white dress while carrying her grandmother’s rosary beads in her lilac bouquet. But instead of buying a huge white cake, she might bake cupcakes with her bridesmaids to serve at her reception. She might not have bridesmaids. Her ceremony may include pets.

Still, there are specific style choices this bride tends to make. Are you a modern bride? If so, here are some tips for your dress.

Wedding attire for a modern bride is rarely conventional. She’s anti-princess gown; she’s anti-pouf. While she’s walking down the aisle, her gown, to the untrained eye, may look like the typical bridal frock, but it has been carefully chosen for its stylish, contemporary elements: a sleek silhouette, one-shoulder neckline, a softly ruffled skirt. Bridal fashion, in terms of color and length, is changing rapidly to match modern sensibilities. For example, brides are no longer limited to classic white. Soft subtle colors like silver, mocha, lavender or light blue are modern choices for evening or winter nuptials; bright bold colors suit the more daring. Take a moment to picture yourself walking down the aisle in a completely unexpected color. Do you like what you see? This could be a powerful way to send a message: This wedding is unique and progressive, and rules were meant to be broken.

If you still want to wear white, you can still surprise your friends and family with an offbeat ensemble made to garner attention. The possibilities are endless, and isn’t that what being a modern woman is all about?

As for length, short wedding skirts have always been considered modern because most brides will choose floor-length dresses. It takes a truly modern, independent sprit to defy convention and wear a dress that most people would not consider bridal attire at first glance. The short dress is becoming increasingly popular among modern brides. This flirtatious, youthful and sexy style may even be a better fit for certain types of weddings, namely ceremonies that occur outdoors, on the beach, in tropical areas, or during the summer. At the same time, don’t discount the shorter skirt as the full length’s casual cousin. As the bridal runway indicates, many short gowns are available for more formal, sophisticated settings, and boast the same level of elegance and beauty as the traditional gown.

Types of Brides: The Traditional Bride

This woman values time-honored rituals and the classic white wedding frock

The traditional wedding is often formal and elaborate. The bride wants to be the picture of grace and beauty, and needs to dress the part. Many women prefer to wear a traditional dress because these gowns are both elegant and expected. Most important to the traditional bride, these dresses are classic.

Are you a traditional bride? If so, you value time-honored rituals. You may not be extremely rigid in terms of practicing every bridal tradition, but most are important to you. It is possible that you’ve imagined your wedding day for a long time—since childhood even. You’ve fantasized about wearing a white dress while exchanging vows in a church. At the reception, you plan to feed your groom a piece of cake and toss your bouquet to your cherished bridesmaids. You want to dance with your father as the guests watch. You want champagne glasses to clink after the best man gives a toast.

If this sounds like the ideal wedding, you are a traditional bride. If you plan to wed in a church—as most traditional brides do—it is important that your dress respects that environment. Most traditional gowns are suited for weddings in places of worship. But what exactly does a traditional wedding dress look like? A common feature among all traditional wedding dresses is the color. If it’s not white, it’s a shade that closely resembles white (ivory or eggshell). Of course, many white wedding dresses exist these days that are far from traditional, but your eye—whether you know it or not—is already trained to spot this iconic style. And if you can’t, your bridal shop will. It’s the most commonly requested style and bridal shops are stuffed with them. But don’t worry. Just because a dress is traditional does not mean you won’t look unique and special. Many different types of traditional gowns exist that differ by shape, fabric, style and beading. But the first step is choosing your silhouette.

There are several silhouettes to consider. All you need to do is select one that is right for your body. Take a look at some of the common traditional wedding dress silhouettes.

The A-Line Dress is one of the most popular traditional wedding dress styles. The waist is defined with a fitted bodice and the rest of the dress flows out, usually to the ground.

The Empire Dress has a high waistline, which is located right under the bust. This style is recommended for petite brides because it offers the illusion of an elongated body.

The Ball Gown Dress has a fitted bodice and a very full skirt that is typically floor length. This style defines the waist and conceals curvier bottoms.

The Slim Line Dress is a narrow shaped frock that hugs and shows off every curve. It suits the well-proportioned bride with a feminine, sleek figure.

The Trumpet Dress is also narrow and form fitting, but flares out below the knee. It accentuates a woman’s hips and shows off the curves.

In many ways, you can’t go wrong with a traditional white gown. Those who choose attire based on trends may look back and feel the dress looks dated. And what if the dress you choose is based on a very short-lived trend? You run the risk of looking silly or ridiculous. A traditional gown, however, doesn’t run that risk. Just be sure to add personal elements. And as a traditional bride, don’t forget the veil and floral bouquet.

Types of Brides: The Winter Luxe Bride

This woman will use the elegant themes of the season to host a luxurious winter wonderland-themed fête

Winter nuptials can feel exciting simply for occurring during the colder, frosted months. The season is meaningful and emotional for many; therefore, a winter wedding benefits from the spirit of this charitable, reflective time. The romance and beauty of snow is unquestionable. And if your wedding is in a wintry locale, just imagine how lovely the flakes will look from a venue with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The winter luxe bride has already imagined this. Her season-themed reception will be magical and glamorous. The check-off list includes a romantic ivory dress with lace sleeves, a fireplace crackling during the reception, crystal chandeliers, warm meals, and hot cocoa with marshmallows as an after-hours treat. Colors may include white, blue or silver. Or, she may opt for warmer tones as a contrast to the frigid outdoors. Pinecones may adorn the tables.

Are you a winter luxe bride? These tips can help.

The winter luxe bride will walk down the aisle in a stunning, long gown. As for the color? Go with white or some version of white. Choosing the fabric should also come easy because silk, satin and taffeta are known to keep brides warm. If silk is too expensive, consider satin. This heavier fabric boasts a luxurious shine. Taffeta is another choice; it is not as heavy as satin, but has a great sheen and is often used for making heavier wedding dresses.

As for silhouette, there is much to consider. If you plan on having a winter blowout (ice sculptures, white chocolate fountains), go big. Consider a dress with a tightly fitted bodice and a full skirt. A-line dresses taper and flow out. Ball gowns are even heavier and have a very poufy skirt. For those who don’t want to cover up, strapless ball gowns are stunners at winter weddings. We do, however, recommend some accessories: a pair of gloves, wrap, shrug, cape. Or, do away with the accessories, but be sure to pick a dress with the season in mind. If your teeth are chattering, you will look less attractive and feel uncomfortable. Consider a sleeker silhouette with exquisite lace sleeves. Or short sleeves, but with a thicker, long veil. A spaghetti strap dress with a mink (or faux fur) capelet thrown over can look glamorous and cozy—all at once.

For the reception, a winter theme is key. Experiment with blue décor mixed with white light cascading from crystal chandeliers. Consider tall vases with large white branches twinkling with lights. Serve a blue signature cocktail in martini glasses, or request a Tiffany blue design on your white wedding cake. Variations of blue, mixed with white and crystal embellishments will turn your reception into a luxurious winter wonderland. But the correct balance is key. You don’t want the surroundings to feel too “icy” or cold. And don’t go overboard on the snowflakes or snowmen, for risk of crossing into corny.