Friday, August 15, 2008

Designer Bridal Dresses: The Second Time Around

"Love is lovelier... the second time around," goes the song that has been covered by everybody from Frank Sinatra to the Goo Goo Dolls.

Given that almost half of all weddings are second marriages for either bride or groom, this old standard is a oft heard refrain. Listen here.

Is the bride's dress lovelier as well?

The beauty of the second wedding is a woman's freedom from convention.

"Been there, done that, doing this my way" is the guiding principal for everything from the wedding march to her dress. Still pastel and ivory are top choices for color and simple, elegant styles reign supreme the second time around.

Here are a few ideas in Scarlett's Closet that make our cut.




Cameron Blake Style 13660 champagne silky crepe and silk chiffon two piece sheath and matching jacket offers an elegant and graceful silhouette to the not so blushing encore bride.

Take me there










Full length palazzo pants with a beaded side split sex up a dressy pantsuit in lavender silk chiffon by Cameron Blake.


Take me there.







A smart tailored silk shantung jacket and gown trimmed in pearls and lace by Alyce JDL Boutique suits the sophisticated Cinderella.


Take me there








Slimming styles such as Maggie Sottero "Chicago" gold stretch satin bridal dress - cut on the bias - are also favored.


Take me there




By contrast, many encore brides are happily wedded ladies who are renewing vows.

These fortunate women may indulge their Cinderella fantasy by wearing the ball gown they could not afford the first time they waltzed up the aisle.


Sposa St. Pucchi Z230 in ivory silk organza wedding gown fulfills any woman's Cinderella fantasy with magical style and yards and yards and yards of skirt.

Take me there




Dressing to be married - again - is simple, really.

Select a wedding dress that both reflects your personal style and matches the tone of your wedding ceremony.

And while you're shopping, hum along: "I feel pretty... oh so pretty..." which has been covered by everyone from Marnie Nixon to Sarah Brightman.

Watch