The Margareta Method: How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress

Guidelines to the perfect bridal gown

Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting and significant parts of your wedding planning journey. Your dress isn’t just an outfit for the day—it’s a reflection of your personal style, your love story, and the vision you have for your wedding. With the Margareta Method, I approach wedding photography with an eye for storytelling and capturing every beautiful detail, which also extends to helping you choose a dress that photographs beautifully and feels authentically you. Here’s how to   choose the perfect wedding dress, using the Margareta Method as your guide.

Start with Your Vision

Before you even step foot in a bridal boutique, take some time to envision what you want your wedding day to look and feel like. The Margareta Method is all about telling your story through images, so think about the overall vibe and setting of your wedding. Are you dreaming of a romantic, fairytale wedding in a grand ballroom? Or perhaps a rustic, bohemian celebration in a garden? Understanding the style and theme of your wedding will help guide your dress choice.

Your dress should complement the setting and atmosphere of your wedding. For example, a flowing, ethereal gown with lace details might be perfect for an outdoor garden wedding, while a sleek, modern dress could be ideal for a city rooftop celebration. When your dress aligns with your vision, it enhances the storytelling in your photos and creates a cohesive look for your day.

Consider Your Personal Style

Your wedding dress should feel like an extension of you—something that not only looks beautiful but also feels true to your personal style. The Margareta Method focuses on capturing authentic moments, and when you’re wearing a dress that feels like *you*that authenticity shines through in your photos.

Think about the styles you’re naturally drawn to in your everyday life. Do you love vintage-inspired fashion, or are you more into sleek, contemporary designs? Are you all about understated elegance, or do you gravitate toward bold, statement pieces? Your wedding dress is a reflection of who you are, so choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Understand What Flatters Your Figure

While it’s important to choose a dress that aligns with your vision and style, it’s equally crucial to find a silhouette that flatters your body shape. The Margareta Method emphasises the beauty of every bride, and the right dress can enhance your natural features and make you feel amazing on your big day.

Here’s a quick guide to understanding what might work best for your body type:

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– Hourglass shape: Dresses that cinch at the waist and highlight your curves, such as mermaid or trumpet gowns, can be incredibly flattering.  

– Pear Shape: A-line or ball gown dresses that accentuate the waist and gently flare out can balance your proportions beautifully. 

– Apple Shape: Empire waist or flow dresses that create a long line can be flattering and comfortable.

– Athletic Build:Dresses with ruching, embellishments, or asymmetrical details can add dimension and create a more defined waistline.

– Petite Frame: Simple, unbroken silhouettes like a sheath or a fit-and-flare can elongate your figure and prevent the dress from overwhelming you.

Remember, these are just guidelines. The most important thing is how you feel in the dress. When you find the right one, you’ll know—it’s the dress that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and completely yourself.

Think About the Details

The Margareta Method places a strong emphasis on capturing the intricate details that make your wedding unique, and your dress is a key part of that. Consider the details that will make your dress stand out and photograph beautifully.

– Lace and Embroidery: These details add texture and depth to your dress, creating stunning close-up shots.

– Beading and Sequins: For a touch of glamour, consider a dress with subtle beading or sequins that catch the light.

– Unique Back Designs: An open-back or intricate lace pattern can create a breathtaking focal point for your photos.

– Train and Veil: A long train or veil can add drama and elegance to your look, especially in wide-angle shots.

– Colour: While white and ivory are classic choices, don’t be afraid to consider dresses with hints of blush, champagne, or even bolder colours that reflect your personality.

When choosing your dress, think about how these details will look in your wedding photos. The Margareta Method is all about capturing every little element, so choosing a dress with beautiful details will ensure your gown is showcased in all its glory.

Comfort Is Key

No matter how stunning a dress looks on the hanger, if it’s not comfortable, it’s not the right dress. The Margareta Method is about capturing real, authentic moments, and it’s hard to be in the moment if you’re uncomfortable in your gown. You’ll be wearing your dress for several hours, moving, dancing, sitting, and embracing your loved ones—so it’s crucial that you feel at ease.

When trying on dresses, move around in them. Sit, walk, and dance a little to see how the dress feels. Pay attention to how the fabric moves with you and whether any parts of the dress feel restrictive. A comfortable dress will allow you to be fully present on your wedding day, and your photos will reflect your joy and ease.

Don’t Forget About the Season

The time of year and weather conditions can play a significant role in your dress choice. The Margareta Method encourages you to consider how your dress will look and feel in different lighting and weather conditions.

– Spring/Summer: Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, organza, or tulle can keep you cool and comfortable. Consider strapless or sleeveless options for warmer weather.

– Fall/Winter: Heavier fabrics like satin, mikado, or velvet can add warmth and elegance. Long sleeves or a high neckline can also be a stylish and practical choice.

If you’re having an outdoor wedding, think about how your dress will interact with the natural elements. A long train might look stunning in a garden, but it could be challenging on a sandy beach. Your dress should not only suit the season but also the specific environment of your wedding venue.

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. The Margareta Method is all about capturing the authentic, emotional moments of your wedding day, and the right dress will evoke an emotional response the moment you put it on. If you feel a connection to a dress, if it makes you feel like the best version of yourself, then it’s likely the one.

Don’t be swayed by trends or what others think you should wear—this is your day, and your dress should be a reflection of your unique style and personality. When you trust your instincts and choose a dress that resonates with you, it will show in your photos, creating images that are not just beautiful but also deeply personal.

The Perfect Dress for Your Perfect Day

Choosing the perfect wedding dress is a journey that requires time, patience, and a little bit of intuition. By following the Margareta Method, you can find a dress that not only fits your style and vision but also enhances the story of your wedding day. Remember, the perfect dress is the one that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and completely yourself. When you find that dress, you’ll know—and together, we’ll capture every stunning detail in a way that tells the story of your love, your style, and your unforgettable wedding day.