If you would love a gown with a train, you will find several styles available. Trains come in three lengths: a "sweep" train is very short, falling only about 6" behind the gown; a "chapel" train is from 7" to 22" long; and a "cathedral" train is over 22". Trains also attach to the gown in several ways. The most common is the "attached" train, which is actually an extension of the back of the skirt. A "watteau" train falls from the back yoke of the dress and is a separate piece of fabric. A "caplet" train falls from the shoulders and is also a separate piece of fabric. A "detachable" train is most often used with a sheath-style dress. The train is buttoned or hooked to the back of the dress and can be removed after the ceremony. Many trains can either be "bustled" or removed for the reception. A bustled train is one that is gathered up and buttoned or tied at the back, below the waist, thus creating a floor-length skirt all around.
When shopping for the gown, take only one or two people with you and be sure to dress appropriately. You should either wear or take along a strapless bra, and appropriate shoes. Don't show up at the bridal salon in sneakers, shorts, and a cap and expect any dress to look like it will on your wedding day. Be careful about wearing make-up, particularly lipstick or lip gloss, when trying on dresses, since they stain easily.
If the wedding will be held in a church, be aware that some conservative churches do not allow women to wear dresses, even wedding gowns, which are off-the-shoulder, sleeveless, or low-cut. This also applies to your bridesmaids dresses. Be sure to find out if your church has any restrictions before purchasing your gown or your attendants' dresses. Also ask about length, as there may be a restriction on skirts that are above the knee. You should not choose such short dresses for your attendants; however, your guest book attendant and other helpers who wear their own clothing, may need to be informed of any restrictions.
Choosing the veil: When choosing a veil, consider both the style of your gown and the height of the groom. If the bride and groom are near the same height, a veil with a headpiece that fits snugly on the head, or fits on the back of the head, will look better than one that is taller. Veils can be made in many different lengths. The most popular are shoulder-length, elbow-length, and floor-length. A sheer, floor-length veil looks lovely with a gown that has a full skirt and a train, but it does not work as well with a fitted gown. Whether you choose to wear a blusher over the face is a matter of choice and will depend on the type of head piece chosen, since some head pieces are not made for a blusher. If you like to sew, veils are easy and inexpensive to make.
In summer, or for an outdoor or casual wedding, the bride may choose to wear a wreath of flowers or flowers in her hair instead of a veil.
The bride's accessories: Several accessories will be needed to complete your ensemble. The first is a long-line bra, possibly strapless. Some brides choose not to purchase or wear a bra with their gown since the more formal gowns contain stiffening in the bodice.
If the gown is a little large, or straps tend to show, you can purchase liquid adhesive, also called "body glue" from a medical supply store or from some bridal shops. The adhesive rolls on, like deodorant, and does not harm fabric. It can also be used to hold a half bra in place if your gown has a very low back.
Remember that you will be on your feet for several hours at the ceremony and the reception, so comfortable shoes are a necessity. Many brides choose to wear ballet slippers. Others wear heels for the ceremony, then change to more comfortable shoes for the reception. If you are wearing new shoes, scuff the soles to roughen them a bit. This will prevent slips or falls during the ceremony. White shoes are most often sold by department and shoe stores in the spring. But why not try evening shoe stores and pick a pair of shoes that may not be white but match the style of your gown. Often bridal shoes cost a lot of money and are styles and colours that you may not be able to wear again.
Jewelry should be understated and should complement the gown and your head piece. Simple earrings and a pearl necklace or a pendant will probably be all that is needed. Remove your watch and any rings and jewelry that you usually wear. If your wedding rings haven't yet been soldered together, move your engagement ring to your right hand until after the ceremony, when it can then be placed next to the wedding ring. (The wedding band is always worn closest to the heart.)
Hair Styles: The bride will want to begin working with a hair stylist at least a month before the ceremony. You want your hair style to suit you and your personality and of course be done in a way to show off your gown as much as possible!
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