Informal Wedding Dresses
Brides who prefer a low-key, relaxed wedding often choose informal wedding dresses rather than more elaborate gowns. With many options available, informal dresses can be a great option for different brides without sacrificing the glamour and beauty of their wedding day.
Styles for Informal Wedding Dresses
Informal dresses come in a wide range of styles, from classic party dresses to sundresses to simple traditional gowns. There are several characteristics, however, that distinguish this dress type from a more formal gown.
- Embellishment: Informal dresses typically have fewer elaborate embellishments such as lace, sequins, pearls, or beading. Some minor accents may be around the neckline, bust, or waist, but informal dresses are usually simple.
- Length: Informal dresses are not usually as long as formal wedding gowns. While floor length informal dresses are common, even shorter tea or knee length dresses are equally popular as informal styles.
- Train: While most formal wedding gowns have a distinct train, many informal dresses do not. A very short "sweep" train may be part of an informal dress, but anything longer is not considered informal.
- Fabrics: The same satins, silks, and other formal dresses that are common for most wedding gowns are also popular for informal dresses, though informal gowns may also use less exotic fabrics. The dress may be made from a lightweight cotton or other comfortable, inexpensive materials.
- Skirts: The skirt on an less-formal dress is usually less full than with more elaborate, formal gowns. Full, princess style skirts are reserved for formal dresses.
- Color: Despite the rising popularity of colored wedding dresses, most brides shopping for a formal gown still choose some variation of white or ivory for their dress. Informal styles, however, come in a wider range of colors including different pastels and prints.
Other than these differences in design, informal wedding dresses can look very similar to formal gowns. Similar necklines, bodices, and silhouettes are popular with both formal and casual gowns.
Accessories
Even a very simple dress can be accessorized for bridal glamour. The accessories a bride chooses can turn even a plain dress into an elegant outfit perfect for an informal wedding. The most popular accessories include:
- Jewelry: From pearls to diamonds, the right bridal jewelry adds bling to even a simple dress. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets can all be worn with informal dresses.
- Shoes: Choosing stylish wedding shoes is a must with informal dresses, since shorter lengths ensure the shoes are more visible than they may be with formal gowns. Colored shoes, strappy sandals, and elegant heels are all popular options.
- Head piece: Many informal brides opt not to wear wedding veils, but a well chosen bridal head piece can be a great accessory. Tiaras, combs, clips, or barrettes with flowers, feathers, and crystals are all suitable.
- Bouquet: Even if a bride chooses an understated wedding dress, her wedding bouquet can be elegant and attractive. The right flowers will add a burst of color and texture even if the dress lacks adornments.
Where to Buy Informal Wedding Gowns
Informal gowns can be purchased at the same bridal boutiques and wedding dress shops that carry different formal styles, but casual brides can also buy their gowns in different locations. Dress shops specializing in prom or party gowns may have dresses suitable for an informal wedding, and department stores with a special occasion or bridal section also have lovely informal dresses.
- Helene Bridal: At Helene Bridal you'll find dozens of informal gowns to choose from. Choose from short and long lengths or gowns with flirty tops. Besides traditional white, choose from cream, ivory or even red gowns.
- Romantic Gowns: Looking for Las Vegas casual gowns? Visit Romantic Gown's Informal Dress selection. Dress like Jackie O. or a favorite fantasy character. Choose a dress in a short style with gloves and hat!
- Shop of Brides: Shop of Brides has gowns from vampy to demure, all in informal styles. Add color to your ensemble with pastel wedding dresses or opt for a trendy, yet casual mermaid style garment.
Dress Cost
While an elaborate, designer wedding dress can cost thousands of dollars, informal dresses are much less expensive and many beautiful designs cost $250 or less. Some wedding dress designers do, however, carry informal bridal lines that have designer price tags, and brides should investigate different gowns available from different retailers to find the right dress for their budget.
Why Choose an Informal Dress
Brides may have many different reasons for choosing an informal gown. Because they are less elaborate, they are usually less expensive than designer wedding dresses, which is best for brides on a budget. Casual styles are also easier to make and alter, which can be important for a fast wedding. Couples planning a destination event may prefer informal attire because it is easier to travel with, requiring less special attention than formal attire. Less elaborate dresses are often more appropriate as second wedding dresses or for couples who plan to elope. Some brides even prefer a laid-back dress because it is more likely they will be able to wear it for other special occasions, holidays, and parties.
Informal wedding dresses can be just as lovely and elegant as any formal gown, and they can be much less expensive and easier to manage for a destination wedding, beach celebration, or casual wedding. By understanding what makes a dress informal and what to look for in an attractive designs, brides interested in causal dresses can take advantage of the many options available.
Related Topics
