Southern Alberta's wedding, honeymoon and special occasion planning website offers tips and information for planning your special event.

Useful wedding advice, tips, questions for planning your wedding.
 

Wedding Dress

Wedding Dress:

Wedding dress designs are cut larger or smaller with certain manufacturers. A good consultant can help you find a design and style that works for you. If you have a picture of the dress you desire, show it to your bridal consultant, so they can get a basic idea of the styles you prefer.

Many manufacturers now offer colors in addition to white: champagne, ivory and blush. For some, these softer tones may be more becoming for your complexion. Try on as many gowns as you need until you find the one suitable for you. You should try on at least three, just to be sure. A dress that looks plain on the hanger might look gorgeous on your figure, so try on several different looks.

Choosing the right gown for you starts with your figure. If the dress looks stunning on the model, that doesn't necessarily mean it's right for you if the lines are unsuitable for your shape. Think of your profile and your features. Here are some tips to help you find that perfect dress for your body type:

Short, heavy figure:
Avoid knit fabrics to give your shape a taller and slimmer appearance. The A-line or princess style is best for reducing width and adding a heightened effect. Another choice is a hollow waist which begins an inch and a half below your natural waist, disguising your heaviest feature. Chiffon is a great fabric choice because it creates a floating effect while masking weight.

Short, thin figure:
A shirt-waist or natural waist style with a puffy skirt will give a taller, more rounded appearance. Chiffon, velvet, lace, and Schiffli net are excellent fabric choices.

Tall, heavy figure:
A-Line and Princess styles are flattering styles for slimming the figure. Suggested fabric choices are: satin, lace, and chiffon.

Tall, thin figure:
Flounces or layers will help diminish the impact of height. Best styles are a natural waist or shirt-waist with a full skirt. Attractive fabric options are satin, silk and lace.

Just remember to draw attention away from your imperfections, and concentrate on accenting your beautiful features.

Bridal Gown Ordering:
Order time varies from different manufacturer. You will need to order at least 4 - 6 months in advance of your wedding.


Tuxedos:

Tuxedo Measurements:

Tuxedos measurements are the same as any other men's suit. As a general guide, there is normally a 6" difference between the average man's chest and waist (i.e. a 42 chest or jacket will usually have a 36 waist).

Following is a general measurement guide, but note that you should wear what you are most comfortable in. A gentleman who is 6' tall may feel most comfortable in a Regular.

5’4” to 5’7” = Short
5’7 �” to 5’11” = Regular
5’11 �” to 6’2 �” = Long
6’3” + Up = Extra Long

Lapels:

The three main lapel styles are notch, shawl and peak. The notch lapel is the most popular style, and many designers only supply their styles with a notch lapel. Any of these styles are suitable for a formal occasion, though.

Adjustable and non-adjustable trousers:

A belt is not worn with a tuxedo, so most tuxedo trousers are manufactured with an adjustable waist. The adjustable waist allows you to loosen or tighten the waist from 1 - 3 inches. This saves you from the cost of tailoring your waist.

Some designers choose to add inside buttons for suspenders in their trousers rather than create an adjustable waist.

Cuffs or hem?

Tuxedo trousers should never be tailored with a cuff. They should always have a straight hem.