Here comes the daring bride

When you hear about alternative wedding gowns or dresses, you may oftentimes imagine designs that are "weird" or somewhat "over the top." In some cases, alternative wedding gowns could very well mean black gowns, or fire engine red gowns, or gowns that are ripped and torn. Or, they may be extreme cases where brides have extraordinary personalities or may be victims of a pushy designer.

But these days, "alternative" is not an "underground" term anymore, it is actually what most brides are looking for. "Alternative" is a design that is more individual and true to a bride’s personal style, her wedding theme and lifestyle.

Alternative wedding gowns may simply consist of different choices of materials such as crushed chiffon, frayed cotton or handmade silk as seen on this spread from designer Katrina Goulbourn of Silk Cocoon. Instead of traditional beadwork such as Swarovski crystals or sequins, designer Tippi Ocampo suggests using shells, mother of pearl palliates or even metal studs on traditional silhouettes. She also suggests using colored fabric in pink or other pastels with a soft tulle or chiffon fabric overlay for a more subtle effect.

Brides may also opt for lengths above the knee like Rhett Eala’s design which is perfect for daytime weddings and for young, urban brides. Or designs and cuts that are more architectural like designer Jojie Lloren’s take on a Victorian-inspired wedding gown and Dennis Lustico’s column gown with graphic design.

When going to a designer for your wedding gown, your ideas will be greatly appreciated. Though they will be considered by designers, at the same time, allow your designer to use his/her creativity. This process is a sign of mutual respect; by doing so, you’ll be assured of having your dream wedding gown. Otherwise, if you must take full control, it’s best to buy a gown off-the-rack or having a modista make a gown you yourself designed.

Fashion Persona encourages soon-to-be brides to go to your designer of choice especially if you have never ever gone to one to have a dress or gown made. It’s the best time to try one and have your wedding gown designed. As in all weddings, the process of meeting with the designer of your choice, getting your measurements, fitting, and finally, seeing the work of art you and your designer collaborated on can be truly exciting.

Photographs prove that even in the most derelict of a building, works of art stand out! And they are definitely not "weird." Wedding gowns like these will make you feel bewitchingly beautiful – inside and out! So sing along with me now: Here comes the bride... all dressed in... alternative gowns!

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For more of your suggestions and inquiries, e-mail me at: jenniepperson@hotmail.com