Mexican Wedding
Dresses - Changing Traditional Styles
The
Mexican wedding dress, before the arrival of the Spanish it was the
tribal traditions of which ever Mexican Indian tribe. After then introduction
of Spanish culture the wedding gowns became those of traditional Spain.
These Mexican wedding dresses were Spanish style of black fabric usually
silk and a large lace mantilla veil these veils were an important part
of the dress and ranged in size from waist length to floor length with
a train. Over the years the Mexican wedding dress has changed.
Flamanco
style - This Mexican style wedding dress exactly like the traditional flamenco
dancing dresses. Usually the bottom portion of the dress is ruffled fabric
in large waves through the bottom half.
There
are also Mexican wedding dress styles that feature wide lace collars or
at one time might have been draw or tie string collars. These Lace collars
usually come down and cover the upper arms and fall to around the middle
of the rib cage. The waist of these dresses is usually cinched or it might
be a top and skirt combination. They are typically made of a solid heavier
fabric topped with the lace for the skirt.
Another
style that is popular for a Mexican wedding dress is the Victorian style.
This is a princess or v cut bodice the center of the v is filled with a
thin or gauze type fabric with a tight collar around the neck line. Sleeves
can be either long or short but are almost always puffed. Skirt length
can be either short or long but almost always consists of multiple layers.
Another
vintage style wedding dress that is popular for Mexican wedding dress styles
this is the loose robe style. The dress hangs loosely with a full to the
neck collar usually made of crochet lace. The design usually has only a
small satiny or lace design located need the bottom. Definitely a simple
classic design.
In any
Mexican wedding dress there are a few elements you will almost always find,
ruffles and lace. Almost all Mexican wedding dress styles will have these
two elements usually together but sometimes only one. Lace is used liberally
as decoration on dresses. It can be found on collars, hems and in general
designs over the skirts. Large off the shoulder collars off lace are a
typical style and closely associated with Mexican wedding dress styles.
Also alternating
bands of solid fabric and lace. While some dresses might be made of heavier
fabrics it isn't uncommon to see lightweight almost casual fabrics being
used. This is mainly due to the climate. Ruffles are also a common addition
to the Mexican wedding dress style. These can be anywhere, on the bodice,
the sleeves or the skirt. Ruffles also aren't limited to a particular style
like the flamenco you can find them in any Mexican wedding dress style,
though they are more often found in the flamenco or flamenco style dresses.
Another
thing that you might see with Mexican wedding dress styles is wide full
skirts. This is a carry over from traditional Spanish designs. These skirts
are usually very full and contain multiple layers. They are also usually
subtly decorated with intricate designs done in beading and embroidery.
Some of these types of wedding dresses can be considered works of art and
are often hand made by the family of the bride.
In more
recent years the traditional styles have given way to the more modern styles.
Traditional dresses have been shortened and modernized with a gypsy style
skirts and halter tops. Also non Mexican wedding dress styles have made
their way into the Mexican weddings. Color has also made it's way into
traditional white and black and the brilliant patterns and colors have
come to be part of the Mexican wedding dress as well. Depending on the
type of wedding you might see brightly colored skirts matched with white
tops or a rainbow of colors. This is representative of the festive spirit.
Mantillas are also not always white or black but have started to be developed
for weddings in a variety of other colors to suit the desires of the bride.
From traditional
Mexican wedding dress style to the modern additions, if you are looking
for a festive and fun touch to your wedding give some consideration to
the Mexican wedding dress styles. The Mexican wedding dress has a distinctive
flair that is dramatic and elegant. It speaks of the old world and the
new and brings together some of the best elements of each. The designs
appear simple and plain but when you look closely you can see the elegance
that becomes apparent with all simple lines and designs. When making the
selection for a wedding dress take a look at traditional cultural
designs
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