My first time entering Kleinfeld Bridal in the center of Manhattan New York, I was in awe. It was the beginning of winter and the entire boutique was decorated for Christmas. I was there to interview for an internship position as I needed the credentials for college graduation. Sure, I could have chosen an internship somewhere closer to home in Florida but I was in love with the television show “Say Yes to the Dress” and once I found out that Kleinfeld offered internships- it was simply a matter of getting my mom on board. Once she agreed to accompany me to my interview and of course support me financially during my stay, I was ready!
The boutique itself was like a winter wonderland. As I walked in I couldn’t help but stare at all the beautiful merchandise the store had to offer. I was offered the position as a bridal consultant assistant for the duration of my internship. I had the opportunity to learn about the different types of gowns, fabrics, veils, shoes; you name it and it was there. I was honored to meet several bridal dress designers such as Pnina Tornai, Lazaro, and Jim Helm. And as a bonus, “Say Yes to the Dress” was being filmed daily and I was able to see first hand how their filming process worked and meet the producers. It was amazing! Each day Kleinfeld’s had roughly 100 appointments made by women all over the world. I was able to gain firsthand knowledge of what dresses best fit certain body types. Many of the brides we encountered would bring in magazine cut outs of their dream dresses that they HAD to try on before anything else. Upon trying on their “dream dress” they would soon reconsider realizing that the model in the picture wasn’t always a realistic expectation. In reality, most of the dresses on display are a size 2 or 4 in sample sizes, which translates to a size 0 or 2 in bridal. But, with the help of the correct undergarments and accessories- a bride’s dream dress is never too far gone. It could be hiding right under your nose depending on your budget and most importantly your own personal style.
A woman with a slim waist and slim hips can wear several different bridal styles. One being a sheath like dress, usually made of really soft material such as silk, satin, or lace. This dress may look and feel more like a gown but, is perfect for a evening wedding on the beach or an upscale New York nuptial. Another great style can be an A-line or ball gown. This dress cinches at the waist while also giving the bride an illusion around the hips of a full bodied skirt.
A woman with a slim waist and curve of the hips. This bride’s body type is best when paired with a dress that may show off the bride’s curves. A mermaid or "fit and flare" are great styles for this bride. This type of dress will hug your body and should fit like a glove.With the correct undergarments that evenly smooth over the waist area this style of dress can be considered very sexy and glamorous.
The “All over curvy” bride may feel most beautiful in an A line or ball gown. Also, a mermaid with a corset back. The corset back is able to pull and cinch to the fit you desire without feeling like you may pass out. This will give the bride the illusion of a smaller waist and will celebrate the curve of her hips. For this bride or any other bride with a larger chest, the bra will be the most essential item to splurge on as well as the waist cincher/girdle. It is important to get fitted correctly so that you’re not constantly having to adjust your gown and you definitely don’t want to be uncomfortable on your special day.
Last but certainly not least, don’t forget about undergarments! The right undergarments can seriously make or break your entire bridal look. You don’t want to wear the wrong bra and/or Spanx because it can cause your dress to look bunchy and it may not lay flat as it should against your body. Try to remember to take your undergarments with you to your fittings to be sure that your look is everything you desire. Please remember that I am not an expert! But, do keep an open mind when looking for your wedding dress because dresses almost always look amazing on the hanger. It is important to try on all of your options and be sure that it truly is the perfect dress you’ve always dreamed of!
Quote: “The dress is made to fit me, not the other way around.” – Jennifer Lopez (Monster in Law)
