Add a cape to your winter wedding dress
When you decide to walk down the isle in the winter, Duong said it's important to match the dress with the season. Much like the decor and flowers, a winter wedding dress is an opportunity to be whimsical and elegant.
The most popular thing Duong does is to design a cape, coat or jacket that will complement the dress while keeping the bride warm if she is having an outdoor ceremony or having photos taken outside.
"Shawls are also an option, and we always have them, but they can be used all year round," Duong said. "But the cape is more practical because you don't need anything else; it's like a coat and it's easier to throw over the shoulder."
For a winter dress, brides can have fun with the fabric and it is also used to make the garment heavier and appropriate for the colder months, Duong said. Velvet, heavy satin and silk taffeta are beautiful, alone or in combination.
"It's ideal for the winter months, it can be elegant and it gives you warmth," she said.
The colours of these fabrics can be different than the traditional white. Rich ivories, black details or warm colours such as chocolate browns, deep reds, plums and coppers. Interwoven metallic thread brings a beautiful sheen to any gown.
"People want colour but not as bright as the summer months," she said. "These are more neutral colours that will suit almost everyone."
Gloves are also an option that can be heavier or lighter materials depending on the season. Sleeves can also be added to a dress, while trim is also another great design detail for a winter bride's dress, Duong said.
"You can have feathers or lace or crystal embroidery," she said. "We've done some high-end crystal work and it looks beautiful on a winter gown."
