It’s a once in a lifetime look, so attention must be paid when selecting a wedding dress. There are tons of different styles, shapes and designs that can make picking just one pretty hard. Do you want to go structured or free flowing? Do you want something dramatic or a little more toned down? Going for a classic or boho vibe? Decisions, decisions! We want you to look unforgettable on your big day, so we’ve complied a guide of sorts to help you navigate the Pinterest-crazed world that is wedding dresses. From A-lines to princess ball gowns, there’s something here for every bride.
1. Ball Gown: Totally. Timeless. No one will be able to take their eyes off you in an elegant princess ball gown. (Photos via Artography and Millie Batista Photography)
2. Tea Length: Keep it simple and chic in a mid-length dress. Plus, you can dance all night long without worrying about tripping or getting stepped on. It’s a win-win for everybody. (Photos via ModWedding and David’s Bridal)
3. Mermaid: This dress makes for a gorgeous train, and it helps you flaunt your assets, if you know what we mean. (Photos via Vera Wang and Wedding Indresses)
4. Trumpet: Hug your curves in all the right places on your big day. A trumpet gown will accentuate your figure so you feel both elegant and crazy sexy all at the same time. (Photos via Madame Bridal and David’s Bridal)
5. Modern A-line: A free-flowing A-line has so many possibilities. From various textures to different fabrics, it is a perfect silhouette for any bride. (Photos via Marchesa and Bridal Guide)
Necklines
1. Halter: A halter neckline is flattering choice for any woman no matter what size or shape. It highlights the waistline and works for women with varying bust sizes too. (Photos via MCV Photo and Bridal Musings)
2. Sweetheart: A classic wedding style, the sweetheart top can bring some lovely detail to your neckline. You can add an extra feminine touch with lace as well. (Photos via The Knot and Mod Wedding)
3. Strapless: This style is probably the most popular among brides, and it’s easy to see why. (Photos via Vera Wang and One Wed)
4. Boat Neck: A boat neckline has an effortless look about it. The best part? You don’t have to pull up your dress all night or mess with straps. (Photos via BHLDN and Halfpenny London)
Sleeves
1. Lace: This isn’t your grandma’s lace doily. Sheer and light lace sleeves are a great way to cover up while still looking sexy. (Photos via Ciara Richardson Photography and Elle)
2. Cap: A cap sleeve adds a sophistication to your dress, not to mention it’s a great opportunity to include some beaded detail in your gown. (Photos via Bonnie Tsang Photograph and The Knot)
3. Quarter Sleeve: It might seem like a conservative way to go, but a nice quarter-length-sleeved gown can actually be quite regal. It’s definitely a throwback worth trying. (Photos via Jenny Packham and Inspired Bride)
What styles are your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Getting the word out about your brand takes time, drive, and ingenuity. And it doesn't come easy for many entrepreneurs. As part of our collaboration with Office Depot, we're chatting with Selfmade alum Taylor Morgan McPherson, founder of Sustainable Sparkle Bar, about ways in which she scored press as a solo startup brand and what she learned from Selfmade to take her brand marketing up a notch.
B + C: How did you know Sustainable Sparkle Bar was your business to start?
Glitter has always been my thing, so when I started my event company I decided to make it my niche. I started telling people I threw glitter-themed parties where people would get sparkled with glitter body art and makeup. Six months after that I applied to my first festival and to work with SUR restaurant in West Hollywood.
B + C: What's one strategy that's helped you start your business?
I honestly can't say that I've had a specific strategy that I've followed when it comes to getting my business off the ground. I have a PR background so I was just constantly pitching new business and posting on social media.
B + C: What's the biggest challenge you face as a small business owner?
I would say creating a stable income and revenue stream. With a seasonal, event-based business it can be very up and down.
B + C: What was your most valuable takeaway from Selfmade?
The relationships I made and the push to start an email database.
B + C: How do you stay motivated?
I love what I do and I believe in myself 100%. Staying motivated isn't the hard part. Pushing myself to do the work and staying accountable is the hard part.
B + C: What's your best organizational tip? Do you use any apps that help you manage your business?
I keep multiple to-do lists, hand-written and digital. I also tell clients and partners that I will have something to them by a certain time or day so I have to stick to it.
B + C: What's one piece of advice you would give to female entrepreneurs on the brink of starting?
Just do it, take the leap. And don't worry about what anyone else says to thinks.
B + C: Who inspires you in the entrepreneurial space?
Issa Rae, I'm so inspired by everything that she's created being a creative and a black woman. It's my dream to have my own show one day based on my life and where I give advice and talk about the world. She's doing it and making people laugh and giving people joy. And it's based in LA. Watching Insecure only further cemented my dreams of wanting to live in LA.
B + C: How did you hear about the Office Depot scholarship?
One of my friends that I met through Camp No Counselors saw an IG ad for it and nominated me.
B + C: What has receiving the scholarship to Selfmade done to help you start/grow your business?
It's completely helped me level up and take my business to another level. Selfmade helped me host my first virtual event and taught me how to set up my website to sell tickets to events and get RSVPs.
B + C: How have Office Depot services or products helped you accomplish more in your business?
I got new cards to send in all of my orders with my discount code on them. I also bought a really cool 4K camera that I now use for my social media.
Thanks Taylor! You really know how to sparkle. We love her colorful, creative vibe. You can follow Sustainable Sparkle Bar on Instagram @sustainablesparklebar.
Let Office Depot OfficeMax help you stand out in the crowd. From signs, posters & banners to promote your business, to marketing materials to keep your customers informed, Office Depot OfficeMax offers a full suite of business services & solutions to help you & your business get noticed.
Head to Office Depot's Selfmade page to check out even more amazing business resources (and discounts!) to help you accomplish more on your entrepreneurial journey. These offers are available for a limited time only, so be sure to take advantage of all this goodness while supplies last. Want to join the next Selfmade cohort this summer? Check out all of the scholarship details right here.