Bridal Gowns for Destination Weddings

ByABC News via logo
March 28, 2002, 7:48 PM

March 29 -- Madonna and Guy Richie did it in Scotland, Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor did it in Hawaii, and Vanessa Williams and Rick Fox did it in the Bahamas. It's the hottest new trend destination weddings.

In anticipation of our "Love in Times Square" wedding series, Good Morning America took a sneak peak at some bridal gowns for the spring. Each one represented a different "destination" wedding, the hottest trend of the moment.

"It's having a wedding in a dream location, where you might actually end up for the honeymoon," said Millie Martini Bratten, editor-in-chief of Bride's magazine, GMA's partner in the wedding series. "It can range from exotic locales, Scotland or the Bahamas, or Hawaii, or someplace you've always wanted to go, to exchanging vows on a mountaintop."

The benefit to the wedding couple is the price tag. Sometimes this type of wedding is less expensive than church weddings. Couples save on honeymoon costs, because they are already at the honeymoon location, and the celebrations tend to be smaller than church weddings, because the couple usually doesn't pay the cost of travel for the guests, but just the attendants.

Bratten looked at some fashions for destination weddings. Here are the looks that were on the show:

Beach Bride:

Off-white bias-cut chiffon gown with center beading and criss-cross back with a sash that ties in the back.It features a very sexy, almost bathing suit-type back. Beach brides should avoid veils, since wind may be coming at them from off the water. Instead, use extra-hold hairspray to keep tresses in place. Gown by Ristarose (ristarose.com), retails for $2,600. Necklace by Swarovski (swarovski.com).

Vineyard Bride: This is a classic dress for any bride, but works well for weddings held at a vineyard. White strapless silk gown features slim sheath, tulle train and natural waist. The back is accented with French silk roses. Gown by Amsale (amsale.com), retails for $2,900. Necklace and earrings by Swarovski (swarovski.com). Headpiece by Tia Mazza in New York.