by Elizabeth Mitchell for BRIDES
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Wedding dress regret is real. And unfortunately, some brides will look back on their wedding photos and cringe at what they wore. While it's critical to choose a wedding gown you love right now, you still want to love it just as much in 10, 20 or 30 years. Here's how to ensure that happens:
Take a cue from your favorite icons.
Check out all the royal, society and celebrity bridal photos that are constantly referred to as iconic, suggests bridal expert and editorial director of You & Me TV Anne Chertoff. "Think Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy, Kate Middleton and Audrey Hepburn. Their wedding gowns are the perfect examples of the timeless details brides should look to for inspiration."
Choose traditional fabrics.
Want your wedding gown to truly stand the test of time? Then it's a good idea to opt for traditional fabrics, such as lace, organza and tulle.
Go for a classic silhouette.
While a high-low dress might look dated in 10 years, according to Chertoff, a classic ball gown, mermaid, sheath or even an empire waist gown won't. "These are the shapes that are never referred to as trendy," she notes.
Know yourself.
Your should be looking and feeling fabulous on your big day so ask yourself what cuts, colors and fabrics flatter you, advises Ilana Stern, CEO of Weddington Way. "What in your closet do you absolutely love? You should never base your wedding-day style on trends or what looks good on models; start with what looks amazing on you!"
Don't be different just for the sake of being different.
When you're a bride-to-be, of course you want to stand out from the crowd. However, if you're leaning toward a color that's not ivory or white, you need to get to the bottom of why, urges Chertoff. "Is it because a celebrity recently wore a dress in that color or because it's been your favorite since you were a little girl?"
Consider the full package.
"Remember: Your wedding day look isn't just about the dress; it's hair, makeup and accessories too," notes Stern. Keep everything classic and clean, including the add-ons, and your photos won't look "vintage" 20 years from now.