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!
It can be intimidating to step out on your own and build a business from the ground up. As part of our collaboration with Office Depot, we're talking with Selfmade alum and solopreneur Colette Lawrence, the faith-based motivator and relationship builder behind The M.E.E. Movement, about ways in which women in business can find success.
B + C: How did you know M.E.E. Movement was your business to start?
The M.E.E Movement represents motivation, empowerment, and encouragement for women. It is what represents me. I did not know at first that it was my business to start, but then the thought of monetizing what I loved came to me. It scared me, however. I registered the business in July 2020 and have been slowly building my wings since.
B + C: What's one strategy that's helped you start your business?
Thinking through and researching what the requirements are to start my business, and then asking questions of people who are in the business. Not all advice worked; however, it helped me to figure out what I needed to do and not to do.
B + C: Did you always know life coaching would be your entrepreneurial path?
(Smiles) No, I did not. I 'stumbled" on it. I knew that people were always coming to me for advice and I found that I loved having conversations with them, especially with women, young and old.
B + C: What was your most valuable takeaway from Selfmade?
My most valuable takeaway was the first day of training: Get out of your own way. There were a lot of great moments and important takeaways from every presenter. However, getting out of my own way, pushing past doubts, was for me my most valuable takeaway. Doing something that I had never done before took courage. If I do not focus on what is happening with me mentally then I cannot deliver to my clients successfully.
B + C: What's one piece of advice you would give to female entrepreneurs on the brink of starting?
Get out of your head. You have something to offer. You have what you need to succeed so go ahead and do it.
B + C: How do you stay motivated?
I stay motivated by listening to music and listening to motivational speakers, and sometimes someone will just reach out and talk about the impact that I made in their life. That adds the extra juice or sauce I need to pummel through the day.
B + C: What's your best organizational tip?
Keep a diary and journal. It's the best way for me to keep organized and it also provides a source motivation as I record not only my "losses" but my wins as well.
B + C: Who inspires you in the entrepreneurial space?
Shirley Toliver – She motivates and empowers and makes me always want to show up.
B + C: What has receiving the Office Depot scholarship to Selfmade done to help you start or grow your business?
The scholarship was a blessing in that all the areas that were covered offered valuable information that I needed, from social media to HR. As a new business owner, I needed to know this to increase my own personal awareness in what it takes to run a successful business. The candidness of the presenters made it easy to see myself in their shoes and helped me to realize that I can also get there.
Thanks Colette! You can follow The M.E.E. Movement on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Want to feel motivated to take the next step for your business? Let Office Depot OfficeMax give you the confidence you need with a suite of business services & solutions to help you put your best foot forward. Make a good first impression with business cards & build the business pitch of your dreams with custom presentations. With Office Depot OfficeMax you'll find the tools to reach new customers with confidence.
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.