By Alina Dain Sharon/JNS.org
With the spring and summer months being the most popular time of year for weddings, many brides are now beginning to search for their ideal gown.
“Today’s modern wedding gowns appear to be trending towards more simplistic and classic silhouettes, while elaborate and luxurious fabrics, laces, and adornments are becoming more significant in the design,” Sharon Langert—who runs Fashion-Isha.com, a blog dedicated to fashion for Orthodox Jewish women—tells JNS.org.
“One of the most current and popular wedding gown styles is the flattering fit and flare, a style that softly hugs a woman’s curves while gently flaring out at the hips,” she says.
But for Jewish brides, depending on their religious denomination, there are special considerations of modesty to take into account.
“Modesty is not about being oppressed, but just the opposite—an opportunity to fully express the inner light and beauty of the divine and refine woman through fabric, silhouette, and texture,” says Langert.
“Trends aside,” she adds, “choosing the perfect wedding gown style is always a very personal and individual decision. There will always be those girls who dream of a tulle-infused Cinderella ball gown, or a simple and modern sheath, and the most important factor in choosing a gown is how it makes the bride look and feel.”
In “Wedding Wednesday: The Real Wedding Dresses of the Frum and Fabulous,” a recent post on Langert’s blog dedicated to the gown search and featuring photos of the author’s favorite bridal styles, she writes that “through necessity, many Jewish brides become their own designers. We are the queens of creativity when it comes to designing and modifying previously non-modest gowns.”
With that principle in mind, Rachel Leonard, fashion director for Brides.com, makes the following suggestions on bridal fashion in 2015—tips that can apply to Jewish brides of all denominations. For those who do not wish to purchase these specific styles of gowns, use them for inspiration.
General 2015 Trends
High-low hemlines
“There are two variations of this trend,” says Leonard. “It can be a subtle high-low, where the dress hits at the ankle, or more dramatic, in which case it hits at the knee. It’s a great way to show off fabulous shoes.”
Oscar de la Renta – Retail Price: $8,490
Cutouts
“Reveal a hint of skin with side cutouts. We’re also seeing this trend in deep V necklines and open backs.”
Rita Vinieris for Rivini – Retail Price: $4,360
Classic lady
“You can never go wrong with pretty and timeless silhouettes. (Think Grace Kelly style.)”
Oleg Cassini – Retail Price: $1,650
Slits
“Sexy, glamorous slits are perfect for an evening reception.”
Reem Acra – Retail Price: $5,995
Dresses for Conservative Jewish ceremonies:
“Allover lace with long sleeves is a great way to look elegant and conservative.”
Maggie Sottero – Retail Price: $1,489
“This Audrey Hepburn-inspired style features a crop top with a removable bolero jacket that you can take off for the reception. (It’s strapless underneath.)”
Pronovias – Retail Price: $3,970
“A tulle wrap is a chic way to cover up. The soft pastel color with beaded floral tulle is so gorgeous and ethereal.”
Monique Lhuilllier – Retail Price: $1,955
Option for an Orthodox ceremony:
“70s-inspired bohemian chic looks are having a huge moment right now.”
Delphine Manivet – Retail Price: $3,310
***Tip: “When you make an appointment at a bridal salon, check to see if they’ll ‘build up’ a dress for an orthodox service. (Most will.)”
Additional Styling Tips (from Rachel Leonard)
1. “Be comfortable in the dress and make sure you can easily move in it.”
2. “Don’t let the dress wear you.”
3. “Don’t over accessorize.”
4. “Keep your hair soft and modern. Get inspired by the red carpet—there are so many great hair and makeup looks out there right now!”