Best Bets for Charleston Brides

Summer 2019

Best Bets for Charleston Brides | The city's style pros share what wedding gowns suit every Holy City celebration

Jean’s Bridal wedding wedding gown Emily Kotarski Bridal Bella Bridesmaid Bella Bridesmaids Big Day emily kotarski maddison row Maddison Row South

Beach Brides: “Dahlia” midi dress with tulle skirt overlay from Emily Kotarski Bridal Studio and Showroom. Why It Works: “Switch up the formal look of ‘Dahlia’ by adding a flowing tulle skirt and you exude major beach wedding vibes.” —Emily Kotarski

“Dahlia” midi dress with tulle skirt overlay from Emily Kotarski Bridal Studio and Showroom.

Best for Outdoor Weddings: “Myra” 2857 Tara Keely by Lazaro (2857). Why It Works: “Ethereal Boho looks are great for outdoor weddings so the bride doesn’t have a lot of dress weight to contend with.” —Jessica Kiss, Veritá. A Bridal Boutique

Best for Ballrooms: Calla Blanche’s “Paulette.” Why It Works: “This gown will really light up under chandeliers.” —Jessica Kiss, Veritá. A Bridal Boutique

Best for Ballrooms: Amsale’s “Rene.” Why It Works: “It’s crisp and sophisticated, and will look good on all bridesmaids as they dance the night away.” —Alex Moring, Bella Bridesmaids

Best for Ballrooms: Morilee by Madeline Gardner’s “Providence.” Why It Works: “An elegant and timeless silhouette pairs nicely with a ballroom venue.” —Blake Devereux, Jean’s Bridal

Best for Beach Brides: Allure Romance’s Style 3205. Why It Works: “The crochet lace bodice and chiffon skirt give this dress a more casual and flowy look that’s ideal for the beach.” —Blake Deveraux, Jean’s Bridal

Best for Eloping: Allure Romance’s Style 3205. Why It Works: “This bridesmaids’ dress in an ivory, blush, or champagne is more casual than most wedding gowns but still feels bridal.” —Jessica Kiss, Veritá. A Bridal Boutique

Best for Eloping: TwoBirds’ convertible jumpsuit. Why It Works: “It’s easy to wear, and comes in their classic jersey fabric or velvet.” —Lissie Summer, Bella Bridesmaids

Best for Outdoor Weddings: “The Peony” from Emily Kotarski Bridal Studio and Showroom. Why It Works: “This is the dream dress for a Southern bride looking for a fun, elegant look. Its 3-d floral appliqués and detachable cape adds flair.” —Emily Kotarski

Best for a Reception Exit: Any of Amsale’s Little White Dresses (pictured: LW133 High Neck Shift). Why It Works: “Amsale’s LWD collection is all about fun, flirty styles. Any one of them are great for departing on the back of a motorcycle or dancing the night away at your after-party!” —Michelle Miller, Maddison Row South

Best for Summer: Morilee by Madeline Gardner’s “Rasia.” Why It Works: “Rasia’s a super dress for summer because of its lightweight fabric and its spaghetti straps that dip into a low back.” —Blake Deveraux, Jean’s Bridal

(above) Best for Beach Brides: “Dahlia” midi dress with tulle skirt overlay from Emily Kotarski Bridal Studio and Showroom.

Given our tropical summers and temperate (but possibly chilly winters), and our varied landscapes and settings, Charleston isn’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to wedding gowns. Here, we ask those-in-the-know, the pros at area bridal boutiques, to share what their favorite in-store looks are made for what Lowcountry Big Day. Enjoy!

Vendors

Bella Bridesmaids: www.bellabridesmaids.com

Emily Kotarski Bridal Studio and Showroom: www.emilykotarski.com

Jean’s Bridal: www.jeansbridalcharleston.com

Maddison Row South: www.maddisonrowsouth.com

Verità. A Bridal Boutique: www.veritabridal.com

Images (2) by Clay Austin Photography; Photographs (9) courtesy of the designers & (Emily Kotarski) by The Happy Bloom

Feature

Votive Lanterns

Top any plain votive with lovely little shades like these, designed by Perla Anne stationery's Stacey Bradley, and you’ll add a touch of sweet style to any wedding party