Everything you need to know about bridal fittings and alterations
Congratulations! You did it! You’ve said yes to your dream dress. You’re in love all over again with the wedding dress you’ll wear as you transform from Miss to Mrs., But the process is not over, yet. It’s time to alter that baby to get a custom, just-for-you fit that will take your wedding day look to a level of perfection.
We sat down with LaTonya, bridal beauty expert, and owner of Elite Secrets Bridal, to get answers to the most commonly asked questions about dress fittings and alterations.
Are alterations really necessary? Absolutely! Just like an everyday dress, wedding dresses aren’t usually made-to-measure. A bride’s measurements rarely match a designer’s size perfectly. After you say yes to your wedding dress, we compare your measurements to the designer’s size chart and order the closest size. Once it arrives, the dress must then be tailored precisely to fit your shape and form.
How much time in advance should I arrange for alterations? Plan to begin the process of altering your dress 8-10 weeks before your wedding day.
How many fittings should I anticipate? Plan for at least three fittings. There could be more depending on the number and type of alterations needed for your gown.
What should you wear for each fitting? “I highly recommend that brides bring the shoes and undergarments they’re planning to wear the day of the wedding,” says LaTonya. “Having the actual shoes helps the seamstress measure for the hem perfectly. A pair of stilettos will require your dress to be a different length than if you opted for a pair of flats.”
How long do alterations appointments take? Allow an hour for each meeting. As you get closer to the day of your wedding, the appointments will go faster. Therefore, the appointment will be shorter.
Want to look flawless on your wedding day? Still need to say yes to your dream dress? We’ve got you covered. Make your appointment today! We’re waiting to serve you!
Bridal Fashion Trend Report 2019
Fall is one of our favorite times of the year. Yes, the leaves are gorgeous, and the apple cider and PSLs are cool, but we LIVE for the Knot’s Couture Show every October. And, just like every other year, the great bridal showcase did not disappoint. If you’re obsessed with bridal fashion (like we are), but couldn’t catch a flight to the Big Apple, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for our 2019 fall and winter trend report from the shows.
Metallic Gowns
This hot trend could easily replace the traditional wedding dress or could be worn for your second look or even for your pre-wedding events—think super chic bridal shower attire. From silver to gold, to copper, have fun with this daring look.
Simple and Classic
If you’re a no-frills type of bride, you will be in heaven. Megan Markle made a bold statement with her simple dress, and the designers took note. Most brands had at least one simple look. No lace or sparkle, the modern look of these gowns allows your beauty to command all the attention.
Capelets
We were stunned to see so many capelets and intricately designed bolero jackets paired with a variety of gowns but loving it all at the same time. Capelets offer the perfect solution for chilly fall nights or a cover-up during religious ceremonies.
Halter Necklines
Another new wedding dress trend featured halter necklines. This sleek look is both timeless and chic. It’s perfect for the bride that wants a regal look. We could not help but try on this beautiful jumpsuit. This ensemble, in particular, has a detachable train offering two looks in one.
Move Over White; Blue is the New Hue
Almost all the designers had some representation of the new blue trend. From soft shades of the sky tone to dramatic pigmentation reminiscent of the sea, we witnessed some departure from the traditional white. Would you dare to go blue for your big day?
Grab your besties and book your appointment NOW to see these trends up close and in person. And, check out our Event Page for our calendar of trunk shows. Say yes to your dream dress at Elite Secrets Bridal. We can’t wait to serve you!
How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress Silhouette
You’ve started a workout regime, changed your diet, and even banned alcohol. Now don’t let all your hard work go to waste. To maximize the results of all those wedding workouts, stick to dress styles that flatter your figure. Here are five common body types and what to wear for each.
If you’re a pear shape…
De-emphasize your hips with a gown style that flares at or above your natural waist. Consider a classic A-line dress or a flowing gown with an empire waist. Exciting necklines and detailed bodices also help draw the eye upward, taking the focus off the lower half of your body.
If you’re an apple shape…
Take the attention off your midsection with an open neckline, a full V-neck or sweetheart. You should also look for softly draped fabrics that won’t constrict your tummy and styles with asymmetrical ruching or beading that visually nip in the waist.
If you’re curvy…
Embrace those curves with a gown that shows off your hourglass figure. A mermaid style or dropped-waist dress is ideal, though pretty much anything with a fitted bodice will enhance your sexy shape.
If you’re tall and slender…
Want to downplay your height and create some sexy curves? Stick to more voluminous silhouettes. To accentuate your slim shape, go with a sheath instead—the slim styles cling to your body for a sexier take on the typical wedding dress.
No matter your size or shape Elite Secrets Bridal has the wedding dress of your dreams. Book an appointment today and say yes to the dress!
Elite Secrets Bridal Hosts Trunk Show Featuring Mink Maids, December 1-10
Are you ready to find your dream dress and create a lasting memory with your bride tribe?
If this sounds like your jam, we have something in store for you. Mink Maids is hosting one show in all of the DMV, and it’s going down at Elite Secrets Bridal. For 10 days, we will be celebrating Mink Maids’ newest collection of custom gowns so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, December 1st through December 10th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think clean, modern silhouettes, architectural elements with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.
For the out-of-the-box bride who wants a fashion-forward dress that can’t be found at every other bridal shop, the new Mink Maids Collection is everything you’ve ever wanted and so much more.
Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, Elite Secrets Bridal’s Mink Maids Trunk Show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.
Here’s how to say yes to your Mink Maids wedding dress:
- Click the button below to book your appointment between Friday, December 1st, and Sunday, December 10th, or call 410.727.7000.
- Grab your besties. We’ll bring the champagne!
- Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.
About Elite Secrets Bridal
Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors, bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. If it has anything to do with bridal beauty, Elite Secrets Bridal is your source. We serve brides with beauty for their Big Day from bridal hair, and makeup to accessories and wedding dresses Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides! For two years in a row, brides voted us best in class with the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award. Elite Secrets Bridal is located at 330 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.To book an appointment or for additional information, please visit www.elitesecretsbridal.com.
5 Important Things EVERY BRIDE Must do to Look Your Best on the Big Day
5 Important Things EVERY BRIDE Must Do to Look Your Best on the Big Day 'How to look great on my wedding day?' is a thought that runs in the mind of many brides. The truth is, it is not rocket science - and it all boils down to a couple of important wedding day makeup, hair and dress tips you need to follow.
Speaking of which, we are outlining the best ones for making your look absolutely flawless - below.
1. Strike a Pose In Front Of Your Mirror
It may sound silly, but knowing where your hands are at all times during your wedding, and what your pose is, can be actually helpful. The best way to practice it is in front of the mirror, by trying each celebrity pose.
Oh, and did you know that some poses can make you 10 pounds lighter in front of the camera? Grab a friend and have them help you out!
2. Have a Professional Apply Your Makeup
Just because you have a bridesmaid who knows how to apply makeup, that doesn't mean that she will do a great job on your wedding day makeup. Most likely she will have a lot going on and things to do that day to get herself ready. You won't be her center of attention, and your makeup may suffer because of it. A professional makeup artist makes it his or her job to make sure that the bride is the most important face of the day!
3. Learn How to Work your Face for the Camera
Double chins are the enemy of every bride. In case you don't know what it is, it's the pose when you are looking down, and your chin is doubling and colliding with your neck. They can make even the slimmest of women look bad in pictures.
The best way to prevent a double chin from happening on your wedding photos and videos is to always move your head forward. Just make sure you are not looking at the ceiling or making awkward poses, right?
4. Embrace The Beauty Of Laughter
Sometimes, the best wedding photos are the ones where you and your friends laugh. Fake smiles are not flattering for sure - however, the same cannot be said for fake laughs. So, next time when you want to relax - let out a forced 'Ha! Ha!' - and do it again, again and again.
The results? Natural photos that everyone loves!
5. Buy The Dress, The Shoes And The Accessories
Be sure to purchase your attire in the right order. First buy the dress, next select the shoes, and lastly the accessories. That way is the easiest to follow and the most hassle-free choice to go for. And remember - always choose your wardrobe wisely. Try not to get caught up in the trend of the moment, but instead focus on your personal style and what flatters you most.
Looking for the perfect dress? We’ve got you covered. Join us at Elite Secrets Bridal on April 21 and 22 for the Justin Alexander trunk show. Click the box below to make your appointment today! You don't want to miss this!