Hilton Head Island Bridal Fashions

Island brides claim it is nearly impossible to find a gown on the Island, so you’ll most likely want to find yours before you get here; you can bring it with you or have it delivered. If, however, you are determined to find your dream dress on Hilton Head, there are a few designer boutiques and consignment stores (not to mention the Shelter Cove Mall or the Tanger outlets) nearby where you might be able to find what you’re looking for. If you’re not having any luck, grab a couple of dresses from a consignment boutique or from married friends or relatives and an Island seamstress can develop something unique: this way you can save money and end up with a one-of-a-kind gown. Also consider your potential to gain or lose weight before the ceremony: some folks suggest that brides should buy a dress two sizes larger in preparation for the weight gain accompanying planning stresses, but remember that wedding gowns are already made with extra fabric on inside seams, in the event they need to be let out.

When dress shopping, don’t take a busload of friends along. If you refuse to go alone, take your best friend and/or your mother because you know they’ll be both honest and supportive without pushing their influences on you.

Veils and tiaras can be extremely expensive over-the-counter. At least one of your friends or family members probably knows a seamstress who can make your garter, flower girl basket, ring bearer pillow, and even a cathedral-length veil for hundreds cheaper. Some budget-aware brides find their tiaras on EBay!

Remember to have your gown dry cleaned after the wedding. Bodily oils (sweat, spilled beverages or food, etc) can permanently stain. You might consider gown preservation, too.

Did you know that the fashion trend of wearing white began at the end of the 15th century? Notoriously worn by the bride of King Louis XII of France, the color largely symbolized wealth (only the rich would risk choosing such posh attire, which one could only wear once). Most brides wore simply their best duds regardless of color. A white gown now symbolizes happiness; the veil and train actually symbolize purity, as does the color blue. According to old rhymes, the best gown colors were pink and blue in addition to white. Another interesting note: some brides during the American Revolution wore red gowns honoring soldiers' courage, and a few others wore purple during the Civil War in memory of lives lost.