Western Wedding Dresses:
Taking a Look at Your Dress Style Options

It's time to choose what you are going to wear at your country and western themed wedding. Western wedding dresses have a unique style of their own which are a bit different from the average selection of bridal gowns. Plus, some brides want a formal look while others will prefer something much more casual. Here are a few design points to keep in mind when selecting your attire.

• When it comes to western wedding dresses, keep in mind that most will have a sweetheart or keyhole neckline.
• Regardless of what type of material the dress is made from, you will find they often have an outer layer of lace or a lot of lace trim.
• The dress typically falls just above the ankle, rather than flowing to the ground as most bridal gowns do. Many of the western style dresses also come with handkerchief hemlines.
• Another option is the upswept skirt where the dress falls to the ground in the back, but is cut up higher (about shin height) in the front in a scoop.
• If you choose a short sleeve or sleeveless dress, consider buying a matching bolero jacket for cool evenings.
• In some cases, you may opt to have fringe lining the front yoke, hemline… even the sleeves, instead of lace
.
• The most popular styles in sleeves are the full length Gibson sleeve or the short Cap sleeves.
• Buttons closures are the most popular rather than zippers.
• An old Victorian style dress is also a great choice for a western wedding dress which was very popular during the 1800's (high neck, long sleeves, bustle, fitted waist, full skirt, wedding bonnet).

Let's Accessorize Your Western Wedding Dresses

Wedding Hat and Veil - Typically, you don't usually see a western bride with the "common" headpiece and veil. Rather, you should choose a western hat with a short gathered veil at the back or no veil at all. The hats are usually decorated with a fancy lace band in a floral accent or a line of pearls as the "hat band". Hats are made from wool, straw or fur felt.

Wedding Garter - No need to spend a lot of money on a "themed" wedding garter. Make your own by purchasing or making a simple lace garter. Sew on a small ribbon bow and a western charm (horseshoe, horses head, etc.) for decoration.

Jewelry - A lovely touch would be to find some symbol of the west in a matching necklace and earring set.

Boots - Yes, boots not shoes. Choices are the old-fashioned Victorian lace-up boots or white or beige cowboy boots.

Bridal Purse - Don't forget to include a matching purse with your outfit.