Shopping for the perfect wedding dress can be quite an overwhelming experience, though also a rewarding experience once that special gown has been found. However, most brides become quickly overwhelmed by the vast amount of wedding gowns available. A great way of bypassing any extra stress related to finding "the dress" is to learn a little bit about the different types of wedding gowns before heading to the store.

There are just about as many different types of wedding gowns as there are brides wearing them. There are many different styles, shapes, lengths, fabrics, and designers. So how does a bride to be decide which dress is right for her? The formality of the event is important because it can influence the style gown a bride should choose. However, the categories of wedding styles are somewhat flexible; this should give you the basic idea.

Formal Weddings

Formal weddings usually occur in the evening though some have been known to take place during the day. Formal weddings during the day usually occur in the late afternoon. Formal evening weddings are usually elaborate, ornate, and classic. The bride’s gown may follow suit. Fabrics for formal evening weddings usually consist of beading, satins, peau de soie, and shantung. Brides may choose gowns with longer trains and veils for formal evening weddings.

Formal daytime weddings usually call for formal gowns, though a little more casual than the evening wedding. In most cases, the daytime formal wedding gown may be of lighter weight fabric, especially if the wedding takes place during a warm season. The gown may be short sleeved or strapless with gloves. Taffeta and silk are very popular for these types of weddings. Brides often choose shorter veils and trains for daytime formal weddings.

Semiformal Weddings

When it comes to semiformal weddings, brides may choose gowns typical for either daytime or evening weddings. Though these gowns are often less elaborate than formal wedding gowns, they are no less beautiful. Popular fabrics for semiformal weddings include chiffon and very little lace and beading. Wedding gowns for semiformal events may be short or long-sleeved, with a train or without, and may or may not have a veil.

Informal Weddings

Many brides opt for short dresses (tea-length or to the knee) or even cocktail suits for informal weddings. While you may see some lace and beading on an informal wedding gown, it is not likely. Common fabrics include chiffon, satin, or even shantung. Usually, there is no train or veil during an informal wedding, as many brides will wear a tasteful hat or flowers in her hair. Many beach weddings are informal, with shoes optional as well.

Finding the Dress

While tradition states that certain types of wedding gowns are ideal for certain types of weddings, there is no rule to say what you absolutely can and cannot do. If you find a formal wedding gown that you absolutely adore (and can afford) by all means, wear it to your semiformal wedding. After all, you are the bride and it is your day.

Keep that in mind as you shop for your special dress, pay particular attention to fabrics, lengths, and looks that you like. For example, if you know that you are not a fan of satin, beading, and lace do not bother, even if that wedding of yours is going to be a formal evening event. The most important rule when it comes to choosing between the different types of wedding gowns is that you find what you love.

Because there are so many different styles and types of wedding gowns, be sure to purchase a couple of wedding and bridal magazines before you go to the dress shop. This way, you should have an idea of what types of wedding gowns appeal to you. Do not forget to tear out the pictures to show the dressmaker or shop assistant when you meet for your first time. Armed with what you like, he or she should be able to effectively help you find the wedding gown of your dreams.

In addition, remember, shopping for your wedding gown should be a fun experience, not a stressful one. If you feel overwhelmed after seeing the variety of gowns available in the store, just take a step back and relax. Let the shop assistant help you with a few options and give them a try. You may find the perfect dress you have been searching for. Before you go shopping for a wedding gown, you should know the formality of your wedding celebration. This is important because it makes shopping for a dress much easier. There are many styles to choose from and some of these styles may not be appropriate for a formal or informal wedding. By knowing this information, you can eliminate many styles from the selection, resulting in a less stressful purchase.