The Bridal Issue selecting a gown The more you know, the better you’ll look It’s never too early to start thinking about one of the most important aspects of your wedding day: the bridal gown. It’s best to work seven to eight months in advance, which leaves plenty of time for production (usually six months) and alterations. A dress can be delivered in as little as three months, but expect to pay 10-15 percent more in rush charges, said Anna Castaldi-Roselli, who owns Roma Sposa bridal salon in Birmingham. “The world of wedding gowns has a language all its own,” she pointed out. “The more you understand, the easier it is to find your dream dress.” When selecting a shop for your wedding dress, keep your eye on the big picture, Castaldi-Roselli advises. The person who helps you should act more as a consultant than a salesperson, wanting to hear all about your wedding and its theme, not just what you want to wear. And what your mother and bridesmaids wear is as important as your own dress. “If it’s not coordinated well, you can really make a big mistake,” Castaldi-Roselli said. “Say the mother wears a cheap polyester dress. When she’s standing next to you, it will not show off your dress as it should be.” When it comes to gowns, what’s hot these days are halter tops, strapless gowns and the portrait look, in which the gown wraps around the tips of your shoulders to frame your face. For a more modest look during the church ceremony, Castaldi-Roselli suggests a bolero jacket or a shoulder wrap that buttons onto the gown. Either can be removed for the reception. Hairpins or sticks are very much in style. They are usually jeweled and work especially well with updos. Tiaras also continue to be popular. When selecting one, keep in mind the shape of your face; if it’s long, go for a rounded top, and if it’s short, choose one with a point. BY JOYCE WISWELL Some tiaras are made with pearls and precious stones that can be removed after the wedding and made into earrings or a bracelet. Or, Castaldi-Roselli jokes, “wear it while you’re cooking to remind him of who is the queen.” Also popular are mantillas, either worn on its own or under a tiara. Lace is back in a big way, Castaldi-Roselli said. “Vintage French lace is very much in style. It’s classic and timeless,” she said. Not thrilled with your figure? The right gown will accentuate the positive and minimize the negative. For instance, an asymmetrical waistline will smooth a thick waist, while a corset bodice gives a V-shaped look. Castaldi-Roselli said brides should expect to pay at least $2,300 for a fine gown. Dresses in the neighborhood of $8,000 are not uncommon if they are designer couture and one of a kind. A good mantilla may cost as much as $3,000 to $4,000, but Castaldi-Roselli said to look at the big picture. “Your daughter will wear it one day,” she said. “You are making an investment.” KNOW YOUR STYLES BALLGOWN: A very full skirt with either a natural or dropped waist MERMAID: Hugs the bodice with a skirt that flares dramatically just below the knee SHEATH: Usually fitted in a straight, long line PRINCESS: Also called Redingote, usually fitted with vertical panels extending into an A-line EMPIRE: A high waist that starts right under the bust and flows into a slim skirt 20 CHALDEAN NEWS <strong>FEBRUARY</strong> <strong>2005</strong>
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