Seriously, who hasn’t been sucked into a Say Yes to the Dress marathon on TLC? Even if you’re not a bride, TV addiction kicks in. Lucky for you, it’s about to get better. TLC’s new show, I Found the Gown, is taking over.
So you’ve got the man. Now, what about thee dress? The owners of Vows, a wedding dress store that specializes in discounted designer gowns, is about to hit TLC and help brides find their dream dresses for less… way less! We got Rick and Leslie’s tips, so take them in and start shopping! (or, if you’re just a fan, start watching!)
SheKnows: How did you get started?
Leslie: I was unable to find myself a designer wedding gown for less. We’re kind of entrepreneurial anyway and Rick was thinking, “If there’s no place out there, maybe we should think about starting something.” So, we did.
SheKnows: Let’s talk trends…
Leslie: One shoulder is really hot right now as well as really light and flowing fabrics like organzas and charmeuse. Really simple and beautiful materials.
SheKnows: Should wedding dresses be different for destination weddings?
Leslie: I think the weight of the gown is something to consider. A lot of people don’t think, “If I’m going to be on the beach, do I really want that train? What kind of shoes will I be wearing?” [You should think about these things] especially if it’s an island destination.
SheKnows: What are spring and summer dress trends vs. fall and winter?
Rick: The fabrics people are choosing. For summer weddings, you do have to be cognitive of the weight of the dress. The heavy satin fabrics are very nice, but if you’re going to be getting married outside, then you don’t want to be in a heavy satin dress when it’s 90 degrees. From a practical standpoint, light, flowing fabrics like chiffons and lace are light and breezy.
1. Buy a gently used version on bridepower.com!
2. Buy a sample wedding gown. Sometimes the retailer is ready to make room for new inventory… expect to receive 10-15 percent off.
3. Order an ivory or white bridesmaid dress and add accessories to make it your own.
4. Have a copy of your dream dress made by a professional dress maker. It’s important to get references and use the same quality fabric, though!
5. Consider wearing a family member’s gown. There are some beautiful vintage wedding gowns.
Leslie: For summer, flowers and embellishments are really hot. Oscar de la Renta came out with this gown where the whole skirt was covered in beautiful organza flowers, so a lot of designers are doing kind of their take on that look.
SheKnows: What fit will work for every body type?
Leslie: The classic fit that almost anyone can wear is an a-line. It generally fits at the waist and then gradually opens up as it goes down. But a lot of people are opting for something called a fit n’ flare, which is fitted at the waist line and over the hips and then gradually starts to open up about mid-thigh. Even people who think “I’m concerned about my hips. I don’t really want to accentuate those” are pleasantly surprised when they put a fit n’ flare [dress] on because it can really fit a lot of body types.
SheKnows: What are the most popular designers requested?
Leslie: Vera Wang is still at the top of her game. Monique Lhuillier is very hot. Carolina Herrera. On the mid-price point, we get a lot of requests for Paloma Blanca and Allure, which is a new hot designer. There are some really great looks that pleasantly surprise people when they see the price tag.
Tune in to I Found the Gown Fridays at 10/9c.
More wedding budget tips
Wedding party favors: How to cut costs
Top 10 ways to save money on your wedding
How to look like you spent a fortune on your wedding
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