We could not be more pleased than to write a blog that talks about moving out of the pandemic! Events are back and many happy couples are getting on with their long-delayed wedding plans. That means we’re now turning attention back to wedding fashion!
Because event locations continue to be mix of indoor and outdoor as we write this, there’s a lot of fashion flexibility in not only what the bridesmaids are wearing, but also the bride. Wondering about the groom and groomsmen? Learn more about trendy men’s wedding attire, too.
To learn more about the latest in women’s wedding fashion, we turned to expert Bridget Zimmerman at Agnes Edmunds Bridal & Formal — they’ve been dressing brides and bridesmaids for dream weddings for 50 years. Read on and learn more!
Looks like we’ve turned a corner on the pandemic! How is your shop handling things like fittings?
Bridget Zimmerman:We’re happily moving back into a more normal shopping experience, but we’ve decided to keep the shop appointment-only, and still limit the number of people at appointments. We’re trying to keep our small shop safe and comfortable for everyone. We’ve been following, and will continue to follow, CDC guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety. Masks are encouraged but not necessary if you’re fully vaccinated. Our staff is fully vaccinated, too.
Photo courtesy of Lillian West
OK, now for the good stuff! What’s hot right now?
Everybride is so very different from the next! That versatility definitely makes it really fun to work with our brides. We picked up a newdesigner that we feel is on-point right now: Lillian West is a great fit for the look and feel brides are searching for — it’s been great!Brides have been looking for unusual or different dresses for their big day, something that they haven’t seen their friends or relatives wear. Lace, a less traditional feel, boho, romantic, soft and definitely not stiff or boring. There’s also less interest in beading or sparkle, and even plain without any detail has been popular. Brides like their individuality — they want to be the first to do, or to wear, something special.Veils and accessories are a big addition. Overskirts or straps they can remove for a different feel have been in vogue, as well. Some brides like to have a different look for the ceremony versus the reception; removable skirts and straps saves having to buy two dresses.
Photo courtesy of Lillian West
Given all the reschedules and quite a few outdoor weddings — are brides leaning toward a more casual dress?
Some brides have gone a little more casual for their day, especially for minimonies or micro-weddings. Still, most brides want that classic “big” dress. They want “that feeling” … some have been waiting a very long time to get to their day.
Photo courtesy of Bill Levkoff
How about the bridesmaids’ dresses?
Bridesmaids have been having fun with their dresses, as well. Most bridal parties are doing different styles, sometimes in the same color, sometimes the same material — or not! Some bridal parties take mixing and matching to a whole new level: Different shades to create an ombre effect or different materials to create depth and texture. Most brides just want their bridesmaids to feel good in what they’re wearing. When you feel good, you look good, too. Gone are the days of bridesmaids in the same dress, same color, same shoes and hairstyles. We’re not sure if it’s due to the fact that COVID was so crazy for all of us, or if brides just want to have fun and enjoy their special day.
Photo courtesy of Bill Levkoff
How do you coordinate with the groom/groomsmen’s attire?
Groom and groomsmen’s attire always meets the bride’s vision and coordinates with the bridesmaids’ dresses. You want to blend and have a cohesive look for the day. From what we see — we don’t do men’s attire — suits have been very popular; shades of blue seem to be a big hit.
Tell us a bit about your shop!
We feel Agnes Edmunds is a unique bridal shop. We give all of our customers a personalized, very special experience from day one. We put our heart and soul into everything we do! We want the bride to feel special and unique, as if she’s the only one getting married that day. The shop was founded in 1971 by Agnes, herself, so 2021 it’s our 50th anniversary.Our seamstress, Fern Conard, is amazing! She’s been with us for 35 years, and in the shop every day except Sunday. She’s creative, precise, detail-oriented and magical! Our alterations are complimentary when you purchase your wedding dress with us, a tradition started by Agnes, herself. We keep the experience personal for all of our brides, including a note that all of them to find on their special day along with a small surprise. We’re a small shop, but we’re mighty in our reputation, service and the love we show to our customers. We aim to go above and beyond for everyone — always!
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Robert Ryan Catering & Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a 5-star rating on WeddingWire, and has received WeddingWire’s Couples’ Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in a row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news, and recipes from our executive chef.
Featured photo courtesy of Bill Levkoff
