The Sunday News
Yoliswa Dube
I’M a huge fan of Our Perfect Wedding — a DStv reality show which airs every Sunday.
The show takes viewers into the lives of couples as they plan for their weddings leading up to the big day. It’s always interesting to watch — for the fun of it and to learn something new.
But the weddings are not always perfect from my couch, especially where the bride is concerned. Sometimes the choice of jewellery doesn’t match the dress or the dress itself doesn’t sit well on the bride’s body.
In other episodes, it’s the hair and make-up which are out of order. It’s a roller coaster ride! Too many people mistake excessive bling to being stylish.
But as a general rule, less is more when it comes to jewellery. A pair of earrings with the most intricate details is all a bride really needs. Nothing is strenuous to the eye like someone in busy looking jewellery.
Besides, having minimalist jewellery will draw all focus to the face — which is more important. Second to this is the dress — many girls have dreamt of their wedding day since they were little girls but get it wrong when the big day finally comes.
The problem emanates from leaving things to the last minute and settling for a dress other people but yourself love.
Knowing the place and time of your wedding will help focus your search. Will you be having a daytime ceremony outside?
You can rule out ball gowns with long trains and dramatic embellishments. Exchanging vows in a candlelit cathedral?
Avoid short slip dresses or anything that looks like it could be worn to a cocktail party.
I’ve often had issues with brides who go for a boob tube gown and have cleavage that leaves nothing to the imagination! A little elegance on your big day will go a long way.
Figure out how much you want to spend, and tell the salesperson before she starts bringing out gowns. That way you won’t lose your heart to a dress you can’t afford.
This is assuming you’re buying your own dress and not renting one out. It’s always best to buy your dress so you’re not limited when making alterations to ensure it fits perfectly.
Begin shopping six to nine months before your wedding. It takes about four months for a manufacturer to make a dress and another two months to complete the alterations. Very elaborate gowns will take longer.
It’s not every day you see terms such as Basque waist or Watteau train or try to differentiate between three shades of white. Pore over bridal magazines, books, and websites to learn about fabrics, silhouettes, and the lexicon so you can better convey what you’re looking for.
Don’t shop till you drop — limit yourself to two stores a day, so you don’t get exhausted or forget what you’ve seen.
Take anything you know you want to wear, such as a special necklace or your grandmother’s veil. Boutiques will often provide bustiers, strapless bras, and shoes, but you may want to bring your own.
You’ll also need the advice of a few trusted confidantes, but not too many: an opinionated entourage can be confusing and frustrating. Invite one or two people who know your taste, will be honest with you, and whose judgment you trust.
Some dresses don’t look like much on the hanger but look great on — have an open mind and be ready to try on different things.
On the other hand, never let yourself be talked into buying a gown you’re not in love with.
Don’t insist on a smaller size because you intend to lose weight before the wedding — get the one that fits now. A gown is easy to take in, but difficult and costly to let out.
It usually takes two or three fittings to adjust a gown, but don’t be shy about asking for more if you think tweaks are needed.
The first appointment occurs about two to four months before the wedding, at which time you need to have your undergarments, shoes, and accessories.
You may also want to get your hair done in the style you will wear. Can you lift your arms easily? Do the straps stay up? Do any seams pucker?
The last fitting takes place a week or two before the event. Bring your mother, an attendant, or whoever will be helping you into your gown.
There’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t look perfect on your big day!
