Wedding Dress Cover Ups: A Comprehensive Guide
Source: brides.com
Wedding dress cover up – Choosing the perfect wedding dress is just the beginning. A well-chosen cover-up can add warmth, style, and a touch of elegance to your bridal look, adapting to various venues and weather conditions. This guide explores the diverse world of wedding dress cover-ups, offering insights into styles, fabrics, accessorizing, DIY options, and shopping advice.
Types of Wedding Dress Cover Ups
Wedding dress cover-ups come in a variety of styles, each offering a unique aesthetic and level of coverage. The choice depends heavily on personal preference, dress style, and the overall wedding theme.
Protecting your wedding dress is paramount, and a thoughtful cover-up is essential. Beyond the initial preservation, consider how you’ll store your gown; a sturdy and elegant wedding dress coat hanger prevents creasing and maintains its shape. This ensures your dress remains pristine, ready for any future occasions or safekeeping.
| Cover-up Type | Fabric | Season | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolero | Lace, Silk, Chiffon | Spring/Summer/Autumn | Short, cropped jacket, often featuring delicate details. |
| Shrug | Lace, Knit, Cashmere | Spring/Autumn/Winter | Lightweight, loosely fitted garment offering modest coverage. |
| Jacket | Silk, Satin, Wool | Autumn/Winter | Offers full coverage, often tailored for a sophisticated look. |
| Cape | Lace, Silk, Faux Fur | All Seasons (depending on fabric) | Dramatic and elegant, offering varying degrees of coverage. |
| Shawl | Cashmere, Pashmina, Lace | Autumn/Winter | Versatile and lightweight, ideal for adding a touch of warmth or elegance. |
Choosing the Right Cover Up
Source: vogue.com
Selecting the perfect cover-up involves considering several factors to ensure it complements your dress and the overall wedding aesthetic.
The cover-up should harmonize with the wedding dress’s style and fabric. A delicate lace bolero pairs well with a romantic gown, while a tailored jacket suits a more structured dress. The neckline of the dress also plays a crucial role. A strapless dress might benefit from a bolero or shawl, a sweetheart neckline might look stunning with a shrug, and a halter neck could be complemented by a cape.
Venue and weather are paramount. A light chiffon shawl is ideal for an outdoor summer wedding, while a luxurious faux fur stole is perfect for a winter ceremony. An indoor wedding might not require a cover-up at all, or a lighter option might suffice.
Accessorizing with a Cover Up, Wedding dress cover up
Accessorizing your wedding dress with a cover-up can elevate your bridal look, creating a cohesive and stylish ensemble.
Here are three outfit examples:
- Outfit 1: Romantic Beach Wedding
- Dress: Flowing A-line gown with delicate lace details.
- Cover-up: Sheer lace shrug with delicate beading.
- Accessories: Dainty pearl necklace and earrings, flower crown.
- Outfit 2: Classic Winter Wedding
- Dress: Elegant mermaid gown with a sweetheart neckline.
- Cover-up: Luxurious faux fur stole in ivory.
- Accessories: Diamond pendant necklace, simple earrings, elegant clutch.
- Outfit 3: Formal Ballroom Wedding
- Dress: Structured ballgown with intricate beading.
- Cover-up: Classic tailored ivory silk jacket.
- Accessories: Statement earrings, delicate bracelet, elegant updo.
DIY Wedding Dress Cover Ups
Creating your own wedding dress cover-up can be a rewarding experience, allowing for personalized touches and potential cost savings. A simple lace bolero is a manageable DIY project.
- Gather materials: Lace fabric, sewing machine, thread, scissors, pins, measuring tape, pattern (optional).
- Measure and cut the lace fabric according to your chosen pattern or measurements.
- Sew the pieces together, paying attention to neat seams and finishing edges.
- Try on and adjust as needed.
Where to Buy Wedding Dress Cover Ups
Various retailers offer a wide selection of wedding dress cover-ups, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
| Retailer Name | Price Range | Selection | Customer Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridal Boutique | High | Curated, often unique designs | Generally positive, emphasizing personalized service. |
| Online Retailer (e.g., Etsy) | Wide range | Vast selection, including handmade and custom options | Varied, dependent on specific seller. |
| Department Store | Mid-range | More limited selection, often mass-produced | Generally positive for ease of purchase and return. |
Visual Representation of Cover Ups
Source: hellomagazine.com
Visualizing the ideal cover-up is key to making the right choice. Here are descriptions of three different cover-up options:
A sheer lace shrug with delicate beading, ideal for a beach wedding, might feature a delicate floral lace pattern in ivory or champagne, with tiny pearl or crystal beads scattered throughout. The drape should be soft and flowing, complementing the relaxed atmosphere of the venue.
A luxurious faux fur stole, perfect for a winter wedding, could be crafted from a plush faux rabbit fur in a rich cream or ivory color. Its length should be generous, providing ample warmth and a touch of opulence. The fur should have a soft, luxurious feel.
A classic tailored jacket in ivory silk, ideal for a formal wedding, would feature a clean, structured cut with elegant detailing. The buttons could be discreet and understated, or perhaps subtly embellished with pearls or crystals. The silk should have a luxurious sheen and drape beautifully.
Questions Often Asked
Can I wear a cover-up during the entire ceremony and reception?
It depends on your preference and the style of your cover-up. Some lighter options, like shawls or shrugs, are easily removable, while others might be more suitable for a specific part of the day.
How do I clean my wedding dress cover-up?
Check the care instructions on the garment’s label. Many can be dry-cleaned, while others may be hand-washable. Always follow the specific instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
Where can I find affordable wedding dress cover-ups?
Online retailers often offer a wider selection and more competitive prices. Thrift stores and consignment shops can also be great places to find unique and affordable options.
Should my cover-up match my wedding dress exactly?
Not necessarily. A subtle contrast or complementary color can add visual interest. The key is to ensure the cover-up’s style and fabric complement your dress, not clash with it.
