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About Oregon daily emerald. (Eugene, Or.) 1920-2012 | View Entire Issue (April 10, 1964)
Tradition Comes Second There once was a time when all weddings followed the same general pattern; they were planned by the dictates of tradi tion. Today traditions play a role in all weddings, but the decision concerning how many or how few of them are observed if strictly that of the bride. Wedding gowns once were pri marilv the same in style: a fitted bodice, long sleeves, a full skirl and a long train. The only fab rics considered were satin and lace. After the wedding day had passed, the gown was packed away in a box and kept far out of sight, until perhaps one da> a daughter asked to see “mother’s gown ” Trains Now Detachable Now the styles in wedding gowns are nearly as varied as those in other apparel, and the range of fabrics is wide. Gowns are designed to keep up with the faster pace of life today. Detach able trains and bolero jackets arc the major innovations, making possible use of the gown after the wedding. Traditions are still prevalent and always will be, because a completely rational young wom an becomes a hopeless romantic when it comes time to plan hex wedding. Most brides follow the “something old, something new something borrowed, something blue” tradition. Many of them choose to wear heirloom gowns or veils, or perhaps carry a hand kerchief carried in previous fam ily weddings. Skirt Styles Vary Bridal gown styles, despite their wide range, can put in four basic classifications: “modified “A” line, sheaths, controlled skirts and bouffant skirts. The modified “A” line skirt fea tures a fitted waistline and subtle shaping of the skirt, widening as the length increases, until it forms an “A” shape. The sheath style gowns give an air of dig nity to a wedding with their long, slim lines. Both empire and nat ural waistlines are popular. Simplicity Important The controlled skirt, too, can portray dignity, and it tends to disguise either a too-heavy or too-thin figure. The more sleek lines of the controlled skirt are contrasted to the billowy, fullness of a bouffant gown. The bouffant skirt may feature a straight front panel, tiers of lace, the ever-ini portant back interest, or simply be extremely full. Simplicity is the key word in achieving elegance in a bridal gown. The billowy petticoats and hoop skirts are relatively un common in wedding attire at pres ent. Instead, the gowns are de signed to use the cut and sub stance of the fabric to form the ^hape, rather than an artificial means. Ruffles and flounces have been virtually eliminated with the trend toward simple, clean cut lines. Tradition Retained The molded look is popular, no matter whether the gown is a sheath or bouffant style. Straight front panels in bouffant gowns are accented with a fullness at the sides and in back, giving a dignified, modern look, yet re taining the traditional fullness of a bridal gown. Sheath gowns, although they are slim and straight, are never tightly fitted Detachable trains are predom inant in sheath and bell skirted gowns, allowing future use of the dress, minus the train. Trains may be attached at the waistline of the gown, or flow from the shoul der as panels. They are usually not worn for daytime weddings, although the style varies from area to area, and decisions should be left to the bride. If she has always dreamed of a flowing train on her bridal gown, and finds a morning or afternoon wedding to her liking, there is no reason she should not wear the dress of her dreams. Empire Look Popular Until recent years bodices on bridal gowns were fitted, although the neckline styles and sleeve lengths varied. In the past a sweetheart neckline and long sleeves, coming to points over the hands, were the rule. Now the choice includes wide-scooped necklines, "V’s,” square necklines, high necklines, and even gowns with wide collars. Occasionally gowns are sleeveless and are topped by a bolero jacket, there by enabling the bride to use the dress as a ballgown or opera gown by removing the jacket, and train With the advent of the empire waistline last year, bodice styles underwent a change. The more full, bloused effect is gaining popularity, especially on the east coast, while the traditional fitted look remains more popular in the west. Bows are often used to mark an empire waistline, as well as lace jackets, wide ribbons or hands of the gown material Em pire waistlines are generally used with a modified “A” line skirt, or a sheath style. Fabrics Change, Too Fabrics have undergone the most noticeable change in all wedding style traditions Satin or lace are still used extensively, but (Continued on page 11) A SPARKLING YOUNG DRESS fashioned of silk linen for the spring bride is modeled here by Linda Lea. The bodice is banded in Venise lace, which is repeated on the bell skirt and outlines the detachable train. The lace pillbox hat clasps an elbow length veil. The bridal ensemble is completed with white linen pumps, short white gloves and a white prayer book. BRIDAL CONSULTANT Bessie Cambell will help you arrange every detail; make your photography appointments, order your stationary, even secure tickets or reservations and keep your wedding day serenely uncluttered. He ability to make a small wedding elegant, or ismplify the most formal large wedding is without equal in our area. BRIDAL GOWNS AND TROUSEAU PLANNING are a comfor table pleasure at BMR. You'll find exactly the right thing for bridesmaids, the mother-of-the-bride, and the groomsmen, as well as bridal veils, trouseeu lingerie, white satin pumps, and the other accessories. And Eugene's largest selection of bridal gowns in all price ranges and styles. BRIDAL GIFT REGISTRY service saves overlapping gifts and exchanges; is a wonderful convenience for friends who choose to help you fill your silver and china service Our selection includes America's leading silver and china pat terns; a wide choice in holloware and memorable gift novel ties. There is no charge for your registration, gift wrap or local delivery. ANNOUNCEMENTS AND INVITATIONS are available in your choice of papers and imprint through the cooperation of our stationary department. Mrs. Campbell will assist you if you like. I RECEPTION TABLE SERVICE is a prized complimentary fea ture. If you wish, BMR will furnish the silver service, punch b*owl, candelabra and linens for a triumphant climax to your wedding pageant. Arrange your reservation with Mrs. Camp bell when you select your gown, or when you complete your wadding plans. i BRIDAL SALON, SECOND FLOOR is centarlly located for one stop shopping convenience. Select your gown, your attend ant's gowns, your foundation, veil and trouseau costume all within a step of the Bridal Salon. Spacious dressing rooms insure your privacy if you desire; your fittings will be as leisurely as you like. j C^uyene 3 only, complete Lriclaf Service and yij^t registry • • • a(d Services cotnp(imenlury, oj course. bon marc lie russells
