Flattering Details
Bridal gowns have sheer bows.
Veils have detachable layers.
Gloves have cascading ruffles.
These are the details that
distinguish the season.
BY BARBARA PASH
1E
N or spring-summer 1989
bridal gowns, concentrate
on the details. Notched
necklines, iridescent
fabrics, sheer bows and tiny ruffles are
among the flattering new details that
distinguish this season's gowns.
The newest styles have pegged
skirts (fuller at the hip, narrowing at
the ankles), prominent peplums,
raised waists, sheer puffed sleeves
and/or back interest. The newest
necklines are off-the-shoulder, pearl-
studded collars or novelty collars (for
example, a sheer capelet or a lacy
Bertha collar). Some gowns have
matching jackets, often in a quilted
fabric.
The favored fabrics are
transparent, such as chiffon, organza
and silk flower-studded tulle. The
latest trend is an iridescent finish
which gives the transparent fabrics a
frosted effect. Lace is an important
detail, either mixed with chiffon for
a sweetly innocent look, or shown
with metallic trim or in various
46 BRIDES 1989
bradings (soutache, ribbon or corded)
for a more sophisticated look.
The newest headpieces are worn
at the back of the head with a peak
over the top, or they are face-framing
styles. If a veil is chosen, the newest
are decorated with dimensional
flowers, beading and pearls; or the veil
comes in detachable layers.
The attention to detail continues
in the accessories. For jewelry, brides
are wearing seed pearl necklaces, Vic-
torian-style chokers and/or elegant
drop earrings. Gloves in various
lengths, depending on sleeve length,
come in antique-looking crochet or
lace; for a more dramatic look, gloves
are decorated with jewels, silk flowers,
ribbon trim, sheer bows and/or cas-
cading ruffles. Shoes have curved or
slanted heels, and are richly decorated
with pearls, buckles, clips, even
feathers. An entirely different shoe is
the ballerina slipper trimmed with
rosettes and ribbon ties. Ultra-
feminine hosiery has floral patterns,
back seams and/or scalloped and
appliqued trim.