One thing the pandemic hasn’t changed is brides’ desire for that special dress | Niche
Owner Tracy O’Brien helps bride-to-be Anna
Owner Tracy O’Brien helps bride-to-be Anna Lipowski of Hobart with a Moonlight Bridal fit and flare silhouette wedding dress at Purple Door Boutique.
Anna Lipowski of Hobart models the trend in bridal wear — form fitting with sleeves.
Anna Lipowski of Hobart wearing a Martin Thornburg classic ball gown design that remains popular with brides.
Purple Door Boutique in Lowell has been carrying masks that match the dress during the pandemic.
Bride to be Anna Lipowski of Hobart tries on a Moonlight Bridal gown at Purple Door Boutique, where owner Tracy O’Brien notes that brides are still getting “the dresses they want” despite smaller ceremonies.
A Miri Lee Wedding dress with soft chiffon and lace is paired with a charcoal Ike Behar notched lapel tuxedo with matching vest, bow tie and silver button covers at Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear in Highland.
An Ike Behar white Shawl lapel slim fit tuxedo with black satin trim is paired with Burgundy bow tie and pocket square at Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear.
Ike Behar black Shawl lapel slim fit tuxedo with satin trim paired with terra cotta bow tie and pocket square at Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear.
Jean Yves shawl lapel tuxedo is in plum with black vest and black tie at Elegance Wedding & Evening Wear.
Anna Lipowski of Hobart tries on Cinderella Divine bridesmaids dress at Purple Door Boutique.
It’s an unusual time for couples planning to tie the knot.
With restrictions of the pandemic that have whittled guest lists and placed limits on venues coupled with the uncertainty of what’s ahead, a lot of concessions and adjustments have been made to create a dream day while being mindful of safety. One area of the planning that brides don’t seem to be compromising on is style. While the guest list might have to be scaled down, the dress doesn’t have to be.
One of the biggest trends in wedding dresses right now are the sleeves. The sleeveless look is a timeless one that will probably never go out of fashion, but right now it’s all about the sleeves, says Renee Fennell, owner of Paris House of Bridal in Michigan City.
“Sleeves are definitely the rage … long, three-quarter, short and cap sleeves. We offer a detachable option for sleeves and most brides love the option to change their look for the receptions,” she said. “Bold puff sleeves and blouson sleeves feel poetic and romantic. Lots of brides are thinking outside the box with not just strapless, but off-shoulder or plunging necklines.”
Tracy O’Brien, owner of Purple Door Bridal Boutique in Lowell, sees sleeves as a being more personal choice than a hot trend. “Brides love sleeves, but they are definitely something you need to try on and see if you love them,” she said. “If girls find they don’t love sleeves, brides are going with beautiful fur wraps for themselves and their bridal party — plus they look great in pictures.”