The One-Shoulder Wedding Dress

Mori Lee One-Shoulder

The one-shoulder look was big at the Oscars this year – Slumdog Millionaire’s Freida Pinto in blue, Queen Latifah in navy and Marisa Tomei in grey. And who could forget Michelle Obama’s Jason Wu assymetrical number in her first dance with the newly-inaugurated President Obama? One-shouldered dresses are not just for the rich and famous, however, and they have every right to make a star appearance at your wedding.

Very now, a little bit sexy, kind of edgy but also elegant – the assymetrical or one-shoulder wedding dress is a hit if you get it right. It gives away just enough flesh to show off your femininity but is far more subtle than a plunging neckline, distracts wandering eyes from looking towards the waist and hips, and makes your shoulders a feature.

The one-shoulder look in a wedding gown covers many different styles. A toga-style drape is classic and looks effortlessly elegant. An illusionary lace strap or sleeve can also come off the bodice as a decorative feature. Or you can go for the one-strap bodice, decorated with an eye-catching feature, such as a flower or brooch.

The important thing to remember, however, is that, whichever type of assymetrical dress you go for, underwear is a priority and you will need a good strapless bra. So make sure you have plenty of trial runs before you go storming down the aisle!

***Update, June 2009*** Check out Pronovias’ 2010 collection preview for lots and lots of one-shoulder looks!

Anne Barge Fall 2009
Ruched tulle over silk-satin organza torso, matching flowers on skirt and shoulder by Anne Barge Fall 2009
Romona Keveza Fall 2009
A-line ballgown with organza flowers and illusion one-shouler neckline by Romona Keveza, Fall 2009
Silk satin chiffon off the shoulder dress by Priscilla of Boston Vineyard Collection
Silk satin chiffon off the shoulder dress by Priscilla of Boston Vineyard Collection
One-shoulder dress with flower strap by Vera Wang, Spring 2009
One-shoulder dress with flower strap by Vera Wang, Spring 2009

Source: Instyle Weddings

***Check out our other posts on wedding dress styles!***