Yes to the Dress
By OCinSite At-Large on January 10, 2011 1:11 PM
By Michelle Garrido | Newport Beach Magazine, March 2010
Even though every bride wants a singular look on her big day, most Southern California girls are keenly aware of what’s hot. Newport Beach ladies looking for the latest trends in white need look no further than the red carpet. Celebrity award-show fashions have long dictated bridal trends, and this year is no different
The glamour of old Hollywood is new again in this elegant gown. | Photo by Kri Sado
“Right now we’re seeing dresses that reflect that old Hollywood glamour—lots of one shoulder dresses, for example—done in a very lightweight way,” says Shawna Flatten, head buyer for Costa Mesa’s Mon Amie Bridal Salon, one of the go-to dress studios for women headed for Newport nuptials. “We’re seeing lots of lightweight fabrics: tulle, chiffon, charmeuse and georgette. They have that sense of elegance and glamour but yet they are easy to wear.”
Newport Beach brides, like most of their Southern California counterparts, want a gown that’s sweet, sexy, romantic and sophisticated. The Modified A—a dropwaisted style that hugs the upper body and spills into a fuller skirt, delivers the perfect look. “Our brides want to be sexy, but still have that princess look,” Shawna says. “This style dress shows off the hips and waist and all the curves—but the fuller bottom gives that fairytale look.”
Gossamer dress. | Photo by Kri Sado
Multi-layered or tiered looks may resonate with free-spirited Newport brides seeking a fun, flirty look. Shawna says these styles reflect the casual, bohemian spirit of coastal California living. “They create a lot of soft, flowy movement and offer a relaxed feel for women who want to express their happiness and their free-ness,” says Shawna.
Ruching is a hot dress trend for 2010 because it suits most every figure and is comfortable. Whether the bride is a size 2 or 22, “everyone looks good in ruching,” she says. “It subtly hugs the body and play up the curves.” Another plus: It prevents the unsightly crease that can occur in more structured dresses.
A wedding can be a black tie affair. | Photo by Kri Sado
Veils are big in 2010, with brides opting for shorter, retro cage veils or longer, more dramatic mantillas—circular or oval veils accented with lace edging. “It seems they either want to look hip and modern or a bit more romantic and traditional,” Shawna says. Cage veils are very popular, with many brides accenting them with a soft feather flower.
Fairytale headpieces, adorned with ribbons, crystals and flowers, offer brides a demure, romantic option. Reminiscent of a Midsummer Night’s Dream, these crowning glories have been in demand since worn by actress Alyssa Milano when she married in 2009. “It’s not a traditional tiara, but still adds sparkle to the hair,” Shawna says.
It’s all about expressing your style. | Photo by Kri Sado
When shopping for a dress, Shawna advises her brides to get the dress they truly love. “It’s the most photographed piece of clothing you’ll ever own,” she says. “It ends up on your grandparents’ mantel, on your parents’ mantel, on your mantel. That dress is going to define your style forever.”
