A wedding dress or wedding gown is the clothing worn by a bride during a wedding ceremony. Color, style and ceremonial importance of the gown can depend on the religion and culture of the wedding participants.
Weddings performed during and immediately following the Middle Ages were often more than just a union between two people. They could be a union between two families, two businesses or even two countries. Many weddings were more a matter of politics than love, particularly among the nobility and the higher social classes. Brides were therefore expected to dress in a manner that cast their families in the most favorable light, for they were not representing only themselves during the ceremony. Brides from wealthy families often wore rich colors and exclusive fabrics. It was common to see them wearing bold colors and layers of furs, velvet and silk.
The embellished neckline is the important runway news in bridal wear right now, as seen in the spring 2010 and fall 2010 collections. Designers are taking advantage of elaborate details to trim the bodice of simple sheaths and draped silhouettes, billowing skirts and even ball gowns. Creatively used trims include hand embroidery, rhinestones, crystals and pearls. These and other effects like ruffles, pleats, rosettes and lace represent a refreshing update.
Uncharacteristically, the shapes of classic necklines have undergone a bit of revamping too…halters, v-necks, scoops and sweethearts are plunging, the one shoulder and off-the-shoulder are even more alluring, and even the demure and sophisticated high collars and bateaus have more sex appeal. There are so many reasons to choose a particular dress, and the neckline is a consideration. Here, a rundown on popular wedding gown necklines, plus the coveted looks to consider.