TEXTURE! and Dress Types for Body Types

As I thumb through the Summer 2011 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine I cant help but notice all the texture in the bridal gown ads.  I predicted this late last year as the trend for this year's weddings and sure enough, I was right :)  The adding of these details to wedding gowns brings the whole "vintage" feel, sometimes with a modern twist, for the bride of the 21st century.  Taking the best of the past and pairing with the present dress structures will flatter any body type. 

Don't like your arms (like most women) then look for a dress with small cap sleeves (see the 2nd gown from Lhuillier below) or wear a cute bolero to match your dress.  Want to accentuate your curves? Opt for an update to the mermaid-style dress with a Trumpeted gown (see 1st gown from Lhuillier below) that flares about mid-thigh so you can easily dance at your reception.  Pear-shaped?  Go for a fitted waistline with a flared skirt like the 2nd gown from Christos below.

From Monique Lhuillier to Christos to Jim Hjelm, texture is everywhere!  The Lhuillier ads show a lot of lace detailing, which I LOVE, and amazing texture with rhinestone appliques!  The 2 dresses below are my favorites...

Christos shows delicate appliques and lace texture too...see my favorites from their ad campaign below:



Jim Hjelm using texture in the skirting details paired with a simple bodice for those that want a little bit of both...

photo credit: all images pulled from the respective designer's website.