Dress Diaries Pt 2: Glam Up Your Gown

On Monday we talked a bit about the Multi-Dress Bride, and while I'm sure some of you out there would love to rock more than one look on your big day, two dresses just might not fit the budget. But don't let that stop you from changing it up from ceremony to reception! There are plenty of easy, inexpensive ways to jazz up your dress and overall look as the mood changes between these two aspects of your wedding day, and I'm going to tell you how to do it all with the help of Etsy! (I'll admit that I am shamelessly addicted to this amazing site. If you aren't already, you might be soon). And check out pages 24 and 25 in the Spring 2013 (Northern Indiana/Southwest Michigan) issue of the WeddingDay Magazine for more ways to take your look “From Vow to Wow!”

1. Belts/Sashes

This might be the easiest thing you can do to transform your dress on the Big Day. Throw on an embellished belt and you're good to go! There are many different styles here that can give the illusion of a whole new dress. Colored sashes can provide a fun and unexpected accent that can tie into the reception décor, and showcase your personality as well. Blinged out belts, bows, flowers, studs and even just ribbons can transform any dress, no matter the cut or style.

2. Jackets

Now here's one that probably wouldn't come to mind when thinking “wedding dress,” but hear me out. As a lover of cold weather style, I'm all about jackets, but they can actually be worn during any wedding no matter the season. These can be a bit tricky, but you can't go wrong pairing a lace bolero with your dress. Wear it during the ceremony and omit it from your reception look, or vice versa. These little lace pieces are truly timeless, can provide a subtle retro touch and I absolutely love how they can transform a dress. You can also opt for a cropped, colored blazer, or a leather jacket if you're looking for something a bit edgier. I'd steer clear of oversized looks that can cover up your dress, or anything too blingy or embellished that can detract from your dress. Stick to fitted, simpler pieces that will switch up your style without drawing all of the attention.

3. Veils/Headpieces

Most brides don't wear their veil all night. In fact, it's usually off the minute they leave the ceremony. The truth is that they just get in the way for the bride, and the less distractions the better. One way to enhance your bridal hairstyle would be to add a headband or headpiece. I won't go into too much detail with these (I have a whole blog series on this in the works!), but these will definitely give you the accent you're looking for. Whether it be elegant with crystals, ribbon and lace, earthy and floral, or rocker glam, these easy add-ons will be sure to kick your look up a notch.

4. Jewelry

Jewelry is probably the most versatile accessory of all that I've touched upon, and it can really be a game-changer. I would keep it classic and elegant during the ceremony, nothing too crazy (sorry, it's the traditionalist in me). For the reception, though, I think you can accessorize however you darn well please. OK, maybe not however you please. There's a fine line between edgy and tacky, so if you're on the fence about something that you think might push the envelope a bit too far, avoid it. Again, throwing on some color or extra bling after you say “I do” can give you a look that's more in tune with the tone of your party. Use jewelry to make a statement!