White or Ivory? ( Or Diamond White or Champagne or Frost, etc.)

The first thing to know about choosing a color for your wedding gown ( and most gowns do come in at least two options, so you will probably have a choice) is that it should be easy. Once you put on a gown, you know whether it flatters you or not, and the same is true of the color. Here are a few things to know though, just to make it even easier : )

1) Every culture is different, but in mainstream American culture now, the color of your dress does not mean anything as far as purity, etc. The choice between white and ivory now is about what is flattering. Champagne tones are quite prevalent as well, for brides of all ages, and they used to be just for the more "mature" bride. So don't worry about what people are going to think about the color- if you look great, that is the most important thing, whether or not everyone gets it.

2)Your true white is actually flattering on very few people. Ladies with darker skin tones wear white the best. Here is a test: Most people try to get a little bit of a tan before their wedding (it looks healthy, right?), but you should not need a tan to look good in your dress. If white washes you out or looks harsh now, it is not going to be much better if you have a tan.

3) I personally think most fabrics look better in ivory. It's richer, and softer, and because it's the most flattering on most people, it's just the best option. For a crisp but still soft look, diamond white is a great alternative as well. In between white and ivory, most people don't know it's not "white" unless you tell them.

So, back to my main point, don't stress it. If you are one of those rare people who looks good in white or ivory, go with what YOU like best, and remember, you are going to be looking at yourself in photographs for years to come, so do what makes you happy! You will be gorgeous!