Aisle Royal: Fashion-forward brides rule their runway

 Wedding industry experts are saying 2007-08 wedding fashions are looking a lot like those from 50 years ago, with an emphasis on delicate lightness and sophistication, lace and an air of austerity.
“Ruffles and lace are pretty big right now, and the skirts are the pick-ups with a lot of rouching on the bodices,” said Gerri Belfy, office manager at Petoskey Bridal.
More brides are also planning destination weddings out of the area — way out, like Jamaica and the Caribbean — for the cooler months ahead, and gowns for beachside ceremonies are quite popular as well, she said.
For those saying “I do” up North, earth tones of browns and beiges are again in style for bridal attendants. Seasonal favorites like cranberry continue as well, plus long dresses remain en vogue, though some brides choose shorter dresses for their bridesmaids when it’s a more casual affair.
With the chillier air on the way, some brides choose cover-ups or capes, though many tough it out to show off their beautiful gowns.
“Occasionally we have little jackets or shawls, but it’s not a major part of our business,” said Belfy.
Wedding gowns aren’t always white anymore, either, with many brides preferring a light taupe “café” color, Belfy noted.
Strapless gowns are still brides’ favorites, though a tank, halter dress or styles with a short cap sleeve seem to be preferred options in the wintertime.
The Petoskey Bridal Salon has about 300 bridal gowns in stock, with around 200 bridesmaids’ dresses as well. The salon can also order from a variety of sources, and staff says choosing a gown a year in advance is typical.
The store also carries shoes, gloves, bridesmaid gifts, jewelry and handles shoe dyeing on site. Brides are choosing waist or fingertip length veils, many embellished with crystal or ribbons coordinating the design on the dress.
While the world becomes more Internet dependent, Belfy said the local store has not, believing customer service is key in the bridal gown business. Often brides will need custom orders and personal measurements prior to the wedding day.
“We like to keep it as personal as possible,” she said.

Guys have it a little easier in picking out wedding fashion. After all, a tux is a tux, right?
“The majority of people go with the traditional look and the colors for fall are black or charcoal gray,” said Anahid Adams, of Anahid’s in Harbor Springs, which offers tuxedo rentals.
Most grooms choose to wear a vest rather than a cummerbund, because it looks dressier at the reception when jackets come off. A regular tie also seems to be more popular now than a bowtie, Adams added.
Tuxedos, especially rentals, are also considerably less expensive than the bridal gown. Adams said rentals start at $69.99 and up, depending on the style.

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