Featured photo courtesy: Randy Fenoli Bridal in partnership with Coastal Virginia Weddings (featuring Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Ida” gown)
Web Exclusive: Four Stunning Shoulder-Showcasing Silhouettes by Randy Fenoli Bridal
All wedding dress necklines possess unique charms, but there is something singularly captivating about an off-the-shoulder neckline. In addition to striking an ideal balance between showcasing features and providing coverage and support, this universally-flattering neckline boasts a timeless elegance that is both rooted in tradition and perpetually on-trend.
After originating as a favored style among European aristocracy in the 18th century, the off-the-shoulder dress became a sought-after option for wedding gowns during the Victorian era and enjoyed peak popularity during the 1950s—thanks in large part to Jackie Kennedy’s iconic silk taffeta wedding gown designed by Ann Lowe and worn in her 1953 wedding to John F. Kennedy.
These days, the femininity and romance of the off-the-shoulder wedding gown abide—and with an ever-growing selection of gown silhouettes, there are more ways to sport the style than ever before. In this web exclusive, we’re spotlighting four distinct and dazzling shoulder-showcasing silhouettes from Randy Fenoli Bridal that are sure to make you “say ‘yes’ to the dress.”
Above photos courtesy: Randy Fenoli Bridal in partnership with Coastal Virginia Weddings (featuring Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Harlow” gown)
Mermaid
For a true hourglass silhouette, look no further than the mermaid silhouette. This curve-hugging dress style pairs perfectly with an off-the-shoulder neckline because together, they strike an ideal balance: as the form-fitting cut of the gown draws the eye vertically, the neckline highlights the wearer’s collarbone and shoulders and draws the eye horizontally. Details like those shown in Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Harlow” gown—an illusion bodice, glittery tulle throughout, detachable off-the-shoulder straps, and a dreamy lace-detailed train—add extra drama and dimension.
Above photos courtesy: Randy Fenoli Bridal in partnership with Coastal Virginia Weddings (featuring Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Jillian” gown)
Fit-and-Flare
For those seeking a subtler hourglass shape than a mermaid silhouette creates, a fit-and-flare silhouette is ideal. Whereas a mermaid gown features a pronounced flare that begins at or below the knee, a fit-and-flare gown’s flare tends to begin around the thigh; as such, the latter allows for more movement and creates an overall softer look. Of course, soft doesn’t mean boring: with touches like daring illusion side cutouts and delicately-detailed detachable straps—as seen on Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Jillian” gown—a fit-and-flare off-the-shoulder gown can make a striking statement.
Above photos courtesy: Randy Fenoli Bridal in partnership with Coastal Virginia Weddings (featuring Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Holly” gown)
Classic Ball Gown
Off-the-shoulder necklines are also perfectly suited for ball gown silhouettes because they both have regal roots; together, they create a fairytale look that is romantic, elegant, and slightly daring. A shoulder-showcasing neckline imbues the princess-like silhouette of a classic ball gown with grown-up glamour. To further elevate this storybook silhouette into a showstopping gown befitting a modern main character, consider a gown like Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Holly,” which boasts a dramatic draped bodice, layers of shimmery tulle, and lace floral details on the sleeves and throughout the gown.
Above photos courtesy: Randy Fenoli Bridal in partnership with Coastal Virginia Weddings (featuring Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Ida” gown)
Basque-Waist Ball Gown
Although most well-known for their voluminous skirts, modern ball gowns feature a wide variety of necklines and waistlines that come together to create entirely distinct looks. One particularly stunning combination is an off-the-shoulder neckline paired with a basque waistline. With a corset-like bodice that extends below the natural waistline to form a “U” or “V” shape, a basque-waist ball gown cinches the waist, creates the illusion of a longer torso, and lends structure and support. The resulting contrast between form-fitting bodice and full skirt, especially when accompanied by a dramatic off-the-shoulder neckline, makes an impactful and highly glamorous statement. Randy Fenoli Bridal’s “Ida” gown amps up the glamor and grace with a pearl-adorned bodice, dainty sleeves, and a V-cut back.
