Consider the Groom

Something that I think is critically important in determining what a bride is going to look best in is to know what her groom looks like and what the two of them look like together. Weddings have become so bride-centric that the groom is often overlooked, but this day is just as much about him as you. It is about the two of you becoming one, and you should choose garments that visually reinforce that idea.

When I design a gown for a bride, finding out about her fiance is one of the first things I do. How can I make something for this bride that will not only look beautiful on her but also be complementary to her husband and make him look his best?

Remember that the most important pictures you will look back on from you wedding are the ones of you and your husband together and you don’t want your dress (or your hair or makeup, for that matter) to draw unnecessary attention to itself, or overpower your husband. (Think about all the wedding photos from the 1980’s — how many brides regret the lacy beaded pouffy shiny satin sleeves?!)

The Groom’s Tie

I had a client whose husband had a custom tuxedo tailored for him to wear on their wedding day. I provided his tailor with an extra yard of the silk peau d’ange I was using to make his bride’s gown so that it could be made into a tie that matched. It was a beautiful detail that brought the bride and groom together visually, and metaphorically — each of them wearing something “cut from the same cloth,” as it were, to symbolize their union.

Of course, I would only recommend doing this if the wedding gown is made in a tightly woven fabric that would befit a tie or vest, such as duchess satin, peau d’ange, or possibly some taffetas. In any case, you should make sure that the whites your groom wears match the white of your dress as there are many shades of white, off-white and cream.