Bridal Gowns for Destination Weddings
March 29, 2002 -- 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.
Romantic Seacoast Bride: Perfect for a wedding overlooking the water, maybe on a rocky coast, this romantic gown comes in ivory chiffon. It is an A-line off-the-shoulder gown with beaded bodice, sheer poet sleeves and a chapel-length train. When you're outside, the air coming off the sea will give this gown a lot of sensual movement, showcasing the body. This style can be worn by brides of very different body shapes. You don't need to be a size 2. To add to the romantic look of this gown and destination, scattered flowers can be placed in the bride's hair. Gown, Jim Hjelm Visions by Natasha Adonzio (jimhjelmvisions.com) for $995. Earrings by Swarovski (swarovski.com).
Alternative Bride: The designer of this dress, Mary Adams, is from downtown New York. She feels that you don't need to show a lot of skin to be sexy. The ensemble includes a white organza blouse and full circle skirt. It is accented with appliqued rosettes, velvet trim and lace. Another special addition: a lime green crinoline with a silk underslip. Appropriately called "Flower Garden," the gown by Mary Adams retails for $2,850. Bra by Chantelle (chantelle.com) and veil by Fenaroli for Regalia (fenaroli.com).
Golf Course Bride: This stunning gown is perfect for the bride who is having a wedding on a golf course, or under a tent. It features a high-standing collar, V-neck satin fitted bodice and a satin sash and bow at the waist. It is a very glamorous look that can be worn in the day on the polo or golf course, or in the evening in a more formal tented setting. Gown by Pronovias (pronovias.com) for $1,625. Bracelet and earrings by Swarovski (www.swarovski.com).
Scottish Couture: A fantasy gown when price isn't an object, for a Scottish destination wedding. This two-piece gown, inspired by the gypsy glamour of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, features the ultra-feminine shapes and fabrics for a free-spirited stylish bride who wants to go all-out couture. The gown features eyelet lace, a ribbon-trimmed corset, and an antique eyelet lace skirt. Corset and skirt by Maggie Norris Haute Couture of New York, veil by Lynn Kiracofe of New York. Necklace and earrings by Swarovski (www.swarovski.com).