Wednesday, May 18, 2011

SALUTE TO THE BALL GOWN PART 2

Gown by Dior/ Photo by Frank Balthazer

Monday we looked at the definition and origins of the ball gown, today we'll explore all the different variations out there . . .
Bouffant or Hourglass-Fitted bodice with cinched natural or dropped waist atop gathered or pleated full skirt.

Bubble, Poufs and Pick-ups have been trendy a few years now with no signs of disappearing anytime soon.  Defined, a bubble is a bouffant shaped skirt swelling out of a cinched natural or dropped waist. Skirt curves in a balloon like shape at the hemline or picks up throughout the skirt.  Pick ups were reinvented by designer Ulla Maja back in the 1990s, now they are everywhere in bridal . . . .
Petal Skirt-A very structured over skirt. Imagine a fuchsia. A cinched natural or dropped waist sitting atop a full skirt with curving under structure that slits open in the front. Sometimes shows a bit of sheath-like under dress peaking out.
Shirt Dress-Say what? How could something so utilitarian make it into bridal?  Well, the shirt dress so popular in the Kennedyesque sixties lends itself well to lighter weight fabrics.  Above is a more relaxed version of the hourglass, a classic and tailored look concentrating as much on the bodice detailing as the skirt. Typically has long shirt-like or billowing sleeves and full gathered skirt. Can be made out of lightweight fabrics like organza, chiffon and crepe, as well as medium weights like linen. Nice for a garden reception, especially with a wide- brimmed hat.

5 comments:

Diana said...

I love ball gowns but my hips and thighs don't really suit well with one! My gown was A-line. Thanks for visiting my blog...dont you just love everything from BHLDN!! I love your gowns as well! :) Happy #WW!

antique engagement rings said...

I love the jewelry especially the antique necklace!

Nelly said...

oscar de la renta will always have my heart...his bridal gowns are breathtakingly beautiful...*sigh*

Lissa (The Wedding Bistro at Bellenza) said...

You're so right, that last "shirt dress" gown would be lovely for a garden wedding! Perfect blend of casual and elegant!

garden wedding sydney said...

There's a multitude of wedding dress styles to choose from - in some countries that have veered away from much of wedding rituals and traditions, dress styles number in the thousands. With this dizzying array, how do you choose yours? How do you make sure that your dress will be a reflection of the real YOU, not the fashion model on the glossy cover of magazines that grace bridal boutiques and corner stalls in the metropolis