Your Wedding Day: Your Personal Style

A bride asked me to help her incorporate her personal style into her wedding party's attire. She wasn't feeling comfortable or like herself in her dress. The accouterments that make up your wedding day outfit should reflect your personal style, and more importantly, you should be comfortable in what you wear.

To style a beach wedding, find a dress you love and have it cut to knee length. Be sure to consult with a good tailor before committing to the dress. Choose a simple short sundress for your bridesmaids, and shorts and polo-style shirts for the groomsmen. Linen pants and a tone on tone loose shirt are perfect for a groom's beach-front attire.

For a casual wedding, find a lace tank or blouse and have a seamstress make a satin skirt to match. Use traditional lines of wedding outfits and fashion them with casual material like denim, cotton or linen. For your feet during winter months, wear a short skirt paired with an Ugg or western style boot.

For some whimsy, find a simple satin or silk sheath or slip dress. Have the edges of your dress tipped in colored ribbon, or add the ribbon to your waist, in your hair, or in your bouquet. Instead of a veil, try a hat. A Cowboy hat or baseball hat could easily be detailed with tulle for a veil-like effect. On your feet, a non-athletic tennis shoe, or even an espadrille or huarache sandal would be adorable! A red stiletto or a pump with an interesting heel would definitely make a statement!

Undergarments are a simple way to feel comfortable on your wedding day. There is no rule that says you have to wear a lace bra and panty set on your wedding day. There are some very pretty cotton alternatives that are more comfortable than a bustier or merrywidow!

For most of us, a full length formal gown isn't a look we sport frequently. Experiment with different looks to make Your Day your own. The more comfortable you are on your wedding day, the more your inner beauty will shine through!