the top ten list
top ten wedding dress styles
You’ve got the guy, you’ve got the ring, you’ve even got the date and time. So now it’s time to get the dress! But choosing the right style and designer can be super-overwhelming—which is why we’ve put together the ultimate cheat sheet to gown gorgeousness. Pictured: Romona Keveza
Strapless
Strapless gowns were all over the runway for S/S 11, and we love that designers are finally starting to put legitimately elegant strapless looks together—from the front and the back. Check out Carolina Herrera, Angel Sanchez, Marchesa, Maggie Sottero, and Elia Rosa for inspiration.
Retro
For those who channel 'Breakfast at Tiffany’s' (or anything Audrey, really), this style can be a great choice. And these designers have perfected the nod to the past but the style of the now: Ian Stuart, Peter Langner, Jenny Packham, Temperly London, Betsey Johnson and Manuel Mota.
Short
Some girls just will not be pried out of their minis—even on their big day. And if you’ve got smokin’ legs and your marrying in the summer, who’s to care? Amsale, Marchesa, Elie Saab, BCBG MaxAzria, Pronovias, Vera Wang, Lanvin, Watters Brides, Melissa Sweet and Casablanca Bridal demonstrate that short can still be stylish.
Lace
For the true romantic, a lace dress can be the summation of a lifetime of wedding-day dreams. Elizabeth Emanuel, Vivienne Westwood, Manuel Mota, Alfred Angelo, Romona Keveza, Rivini, Ines de Santo and Modern Trousseau all know how to make those dreams come true.
Empire
Very Jane Austen, this look features a high waistline and a simple, straight-ish skirt. Alfred Angelo, Jasper Conran, Alberta Ferretti, Reem Acra, Jenny Packham, Pronovias and Vera Wang offer great versions of this Georgian style.
Ballgown
One of the classic bridal choices, ballgowns always feature tight bodices and full, poufy skirts—very pretty. Reem Acra, Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, Manuel Mota, Romona Keveza, Christiana Couture, Tara Keely, Badgley Mischka and Amsale all featured ballgowns this season.
Column
This is the look that defined Princess Diana’s style (courtesy of column impresario Catherine Walker). Elegant, classy and so, so chic. Jenny Packham, Jasper Conran, Angel Sanchez, Reem Acra, Temperly London and Pronovias love this look.
Fishtail
Also known as the Mermaid style, this look is not for the faint of heart—it’s designed to show off every curve you’ve got, from the bust-enhancing top to the sexy flare of the skirt’s bottom. Carolina Herrera, Angel Sanchez, Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, St. Pucchi and Eugenia Couture often rock the Fishtail look.