More women are marrying or re-marrying later in life, and we often have ladies who are in their 40s looking for their dress. They are terrified of looking ridiculous in a wedding dress, and to be honest I can relate to this. I was a 40 something bride, and it’s a nerve-racking place to be. There are some clear rules though, so here are a few things to think about if you are a bride over 40 looking for a wedding dress…
1. Less is definitely more in all elements of your wedding attire.
2. Being in your 40s means you can’t choose a fairy princess look, but you can choose a sexier look and carry it off so much better than a 20 something bride.
Veronique, Alan Hannah
3. Naked is not fabulous — cover up. There are so many options. Look at dresses with straps, jackets, sheer tops, long or ¾ length sleeves. Just give a glimpse of flesh but don’t over expose it. You can always take a jacket off in the evening.
Jessica Dress with Jennifer Coat, Sassi Holford
4. Veils are generally a ‘no’ for a bride over 40, unless you opt for a vintage birdcage veil.
5. You don’t have to have a train on your dress if you don’t want to; perhaps reduce its length to puddle train.
Regency, Suzanne Neville
6. Opt for a well corseted dress that will hold your figure in all the right places.
7. Consider having a dress with subtle colour. Champagne gold or creamy ivory is kinder than white or light ivory.
Mimosa, Jenny Packham
8. You can also add a splash of colour with a sash to look less bride-like, if that’s important.
9. A short 50’s style dress is also a great alternative with a stunning pair of Jimmy Choos or Manolo Blahniks — very Sex in the City!
10. Finally, adopt the mantra, “I want to look elegant, sexy, fabulous and classy”. This will help in everything you choose, from your dress to your glamorous earrings.
Guest post by Ellie Sanderson
Images from…
Veronique Wedding Dress: Alan Hannah
Jessica Wedding Dress with Jennifer Coat: Sassi Holford
Regency Wedding Dress: Suzanne Neville
Mimosa Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham
