Massachusetts Wedding Guide

Bridal Gown Cover-Ups & Outerwear

New England weather is never predictable so brides have that extra challenge for finding the right cover up to wear over their wedding gowns. Breezy spring and summer afternoons or cooler fall and witner temperatures may call for some added coverage especially for brides with strapless gowns.  Although fall and winter brides will most likely be indoors for most of their wedding day, there are times like getting in and out of the car at the ceremony and reception, perhaps taking photos, and going to the honeymoon suite at the end of the night where outerwear may be needed.  Here are some cover up options available for brides:

bridal shrug   bridal bolero  

The Shrug
A shrug is a cropped, cardigan like garment typically knitted.  Available in short or long sleeves, it is more tailored than a shawl and it covers a small portion of the upper body.  Shrugs may be tied just below the bustline or cut off at the sides like sleeves joined at the back. Featured is a laced shrug from VOWs Bridal.

 

The Bolero
A bolero jacket is essentially a short or cropped tailored jacket.  Bolero jackets are available in short or long sleeves, and for weddings, are made in a variety of elegant fabrics. Featured to above is a tailored bolero from VOWs Bridal, closed with a glamourous rhinestone pin.

 

The Shawl
A shawl is a rectangular, square or triangular piece of cloth loosely worn over the shoulders, upper body and arms.  Shawls can be made of many fabrics like cashmere wool, faux fur or brocade and can be embellished with embroidery, lace, or beads. Featured is a silk and viscose shawl from Berniolie.

         
bridal stole   bridal wrap   bridal cape

The Stole
A stole is a narrower type of shawl wrapped around the shoulders and can be made of expensive fabrics just like a shawl. Fur stole featured above from David's Bridal.

 

The Wrap

A wrap is actually a skirt, like what you would wear with a bathing suit, but it is widely used with the terms shawl and stole, i.e. wrap shawl or wrap stole – basically, it’s a cover up that wraps around your shoulders. Organza wrap by David's Bridal.

 

The Cape
A cape is a sleeveless outer garment that fastens around the neck and may be short or full-length. Sometimes worn in place of coats so as not to cover or crush bridal gown.  Made from expensive fabrics like velvet, silk, or satin, and may be trimmed in faux fur. Featured cape by David's Bridal.

We’ve mentioned some of the most popular styles of outerwear available for weddings but there are other options as well, like wearing a cardigan sweater, a knitted shawl, a sheer lace jacket, or even a full length coat. No matter what type of cover up you do decide on, shop for one when you are dress shopping so you can find a style that complements your gown. 

Find a local bridal shop | Find jewelry options to accent your gown and cover-up
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