Destination Weddings Bring New Look to Bridal Dresses

Amazing new directions in bridal fashions have emerged in response to the ever-growing popularity of destination weddings. Whether a wedding is at a country inn 50 miles away from home or as far off as an exotic South Seas island, brides-to-be are discovering a whole new world of pretty gowns that travel well and have an easy, breezy "pack-and-go" quality.

Unlike the more formal and elaborately designed traditional bridal gowns, destination-wedding dresses tend toward a fluid, ethereal attitude and are made in a variety of soft, featherweight fabrics such as lace, chiffon, silk, and organza.

Watters Brides, a Texas-based company has been in the vanguard of this trend and includes several styles in each season's bridal collections. Maria Prince, vice president of Watters puts it this way, "We like to refer to these modern styles as 'alternative wedding dresses' because they offer an option to the traditional wedding gown" Furthermore, she says, "brides can choose such designs even when exchanging vows at home rather than in some distant venue. The point is, alternative dresses can be worn in a traditional setting as well as a far-off location."

Usually either long or classic tea-length, these slim silhouettes exude romance. Shapes range from body-skimming, fluttery strapless and slip dresses to stunning halter-neck sheaths with low, skin-revealing backs. Design details and special touches abound - ribbon trims and belts, lace and pleated chiffon edging, and splashes of sparkle - subtle crystal and pearl beading.

Accessories complement the graceful and flowing ease of these dreamy dresses. Delicate, well-chosen, pieces of jewelry and bare, dressy sandals add just the right accents.

Whether it's a matter of a more relaxed wedding theme in a far-away place - in a garden, at poolside, by the ocean at sunset - or a more traditional setting in a nearby house of worship, the new alternative options are perfect for every wedding style.