Wedding season: It’s not just summer anymore. June brides have been replaced with October couples. “Autumn is so much busier for me now than it was 10 years ago,” says Greg Gittsovich, wedding photographer and owner of Accent Photography in Plymouth. There are some interesting idiosyncrasies to be found in this year’s beauty and style. We spoke with the folks at Christopher J. Salon, Gateaux Inc., The Foursome and Christopher & Banks—as well as local wedding experts such as Gittsovich who see it all from behind the lens—to get the top tips and trends for this fall/winter season, whether you’re a guest, the groom, the blushing bride, a MOB (mother of the bride) or anyone in between.
(The onslaught of lovely lace gowns continues, but keep in mind: These are not your grandmothers’ doily dresses, as they prove to be chic and sexy, even in a more relaxed silhouette.)
The morning of the big day has arrived, and you’ll be on the go all day. “Choose a lightweight outfit that will keep up with you as you go through your busy morning,” says Monica Dahl, vice president of marketing at Christopher & Banks headquarters in Plymouth. A zip-up cardigan is perfect for hair and makeup appointments, allowing for a quick change.
The intricate texture of lace dresses is best paired with on-trend ultra-shimmery makeup; the more you share with your makeup artist or stylist, Tabitha Fredrichs [stylist] at Christopher J. Salon says, the better they can complement and complete your look.
Have you considered a “naked” cake (read: externally icing-free)? The trend came from the coasts this spring/summer, so instead of summery berries or flowers, consider colorful, seasonal fall produce, like cranberry nut or pumpkin spice, and maple-infused frosting between the cake layers—the only frosting you’ll see on the entire piece.
Au naturel continues to be the theme in makeup: soft with a smoky eye and nude/shimmery lip, Fredrichs says.
The Foursome offers a wide variety of suspenders to match the tie for men (think bold colors here), textured patterns, bow-ties or no-ties (which are really in vogue, especially for country chic wedding venues).
Brides and grooms are embracing their hipster generation, exuding a cool, offbeat vibe. Notice accessories such as chunky, hand-knit creations and leather belts contrasting the pristine white gowns.
The grays and sandy tans of summer give way again to the classic blacks, but also to navy suits, which are still top trend. The Foursome also has tuxedos available for rental and sale.
(Perfect for rustic and outdoor weddings, oxfords are a fun option for brides and grooms alike. Many couples are choosing footwear as an expression of self, too, a la running shoes or cowboy boots.)
Fuller skirts are on trend for the season, adding fabric just in time for the dipping temperatures. Brides are adding cardigans or even flannels over the bodice for outdoor photos amid the fall foliage.
“Bridal hair is going to be loose, soft and touchable this year,” Fredrichs says. Savvy brides always save time by planning ahead. A practice—not just a consult—is a must. “You will feel more confident the morning of,” she says, adding it helps her know where any extras such as hair extensions, veils or unique ornamental elements will be placed. “I sometimes map the head to make sure I know exactly where the bride wants everything to be.”
Whatever the style, brides should be sure it is genuine and reflective of them: “If you never wear your hair up, then maybe you should go with it down,” Fredrichs says.
(Colors are rich this year, says Jenna Johnson, kitchen manager at Gateaux Inc. Hottest among these tones are wine-red, copper and acai, a bluish-purple reminiscent of the super fruit from South America.)
Resources:
