Bridal Attire
By Katie Sauck
“The Silhouette is one of the largest bridal stores in the area and has been serving brides since 1981. With over 25 years of experience, the staff at The Silhouette understands the bridal industry. Located in downtown of Easton, Minnesota, this bridal shop is a treasure. Womeninc interviewed The Silhouette’s owner, Joline Pearson.
Womeninc: What’s the most valuable piece of advice you have for a bride-to-be?
Joline: Enjoy the process and accept the fact that sometimes things don’t go exactly the way you envision them. You will run into obstacles and challenges, but everything will work out. Keep focused and remember, “a wedding is an event, but a marriage is an achievement.”
Womeninc: Are there color options for brides?
Joline: Brides have several options to choose from. Diamond white, ivory, spun gold, champagne, oyster and platinum are just a few that are available. Gowns accented with bolder colors such as red, black, navy, espresso and several other colors, are chosen by brides who want to make a striking entrance. Approximately one-half of the brides choose traditional white, but more and more are opting for alternative colors, allowing the bride to create her own unique look.
Womeninc: What about accessories?
Joline: No bride is complete without a headpiece, veil, jewelry and shoes. Longer length earrings and bracelets have been popular for both brides and bridesmaids. Tiaras, decorative hairpins and combs, along with veils on separate combs are just some of the items brides are choosing. By attaching the veil to a separate comb, brides have the option of removing the veil for the reception and dance. The headpiece remains in the bride’s hair allowing her to maintain her look of elegance. Shoes are available in a variety of styles from plain to crystal and rhinestone embellished.
Womeninc: What should brides know
about alterations?
Joline: Gowns are produced in standard sizes. We order the size closest to the measurements and alter the gown as needed. We like to start the alteration process approximately six weeks before the wedding. Proper foundation garments and shoes will ensure the best fit.
Womeninc: How far in advance should a dress be ordered?
Joline: Brides should order their gown a minimum of six months before the wedding. Many organized brides are ordering nine to ten months in advance. For the fast-track brides, some manufacturers offer an express delivery option at an additional charge. Bridesmaids should order their gowns five to six months before the wedding. To ensure the same dye lot, all bridesmaid dresses should be ordered from the same store and placed on the same order.
Womeninc: What are the trends for bridesmaids?
Joline: Bridesmaid dresses follow the trends of the bridal gowns. We are seeing fabrics of taffeta, satin, chiffon and charmuese. Contrasting trim and beading are adorning the dresses. A variety of hemlines are available including cocktail and hi-lo lengths. Bridesmaids can also choose tops and skirts from the separates collections to create their own look. This option works great when there are a variety of sizes in the wedding party.
Womeninc: What are the trends for mother-of-the bride dresses?
Joline: When mothers shop for their dress, they can expect to see fluid fabrics such as chiffon, soft taffeta, georgette and lace. They can choose from simple styles as well as beaded styles. Gowns are available in several colors and a variety of skirt lengths. Many styles come with a jacket for those who want a cover up.
Womeninc: Do you have advice for the mother-of-the-bride?
Joline: Be patient. Sometimes moms and daughters have ideas that are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Try to deal with the dress shopping anxiety as best you can.
Womeninc: Since you also provide tuxedo rentals, what’s popular?
Joline: The gentlemen in the wedding party have several options to choose from. Black tuxes are still the most popular choice, with the chocolate brown next in line. We will see two button coats, lightweight wools and the return of the peaked lapels. Shirts are available in many colors with vest and tie options in a palette of colors to coordinate with the wedding party.
Womeninc: What sets your bridal store apart?
Joline: Our excellent, full-service and large selection. Our clients receive an authentic experience, one that’s honest to the core. We understand the emotional factors when brides are planning their wedding and dedicate ourselves to helping our customers have the best wedding experience possible.
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