If you are getting married a little later in life (whether for the first time or not), your wedding tastes and dreams are likely to have changed somewhat from when you were younger. In addition, your skin and body shape may have changed somewhat, and need to be kept into account so that you can [...]

If you are getting married a little later in life (whether for the first time or not), your wedding tastes and dreams are likely to have changed somewhat from when you were younger. In addition, your skin and body shape may have changed somewhat, and need to be kept into account so that you can look great and feel confident. No matter what style or colour you choose, ensure that your wedding outfit suits your personality. Do not opt for something merely because you feel that it is expected of you. You are at an age where you know yourself and are comfortable in your own skin, regardless of what others think. So, if you feel that a pants-suit best represents your personality, style and comfort, feel free to wear one.

When choosing the colour for your outfit, older brides or those getting married again have more flexibility in terms of people’s expectations. White is traditionally considered to represent a virginal bride. However, when we consider how unrealistic that is for the vast majority of brides today, it is reasonable to assume that one does not have to be a virgin bride to wear white. Still, you may not feel comfortable donning a white dress, in which case absolutely any colour is acceptable. If you would like to have a similar look and feel while steering clear of a pristine white, consider a champagne or ivory colour instead.

There are so many styles of dress from which to choose, if you decide to go with a gown. Consider having a shorter dress for a second marriage, as this is elegant, but not as grand and dramatic as a formal gown. There are incredibly beautiful knee-length wedding dresses that have made their appearance for 2011, making it a very stylish year.

Second weddings or those between older couples are as flexible, if not more so, than those enjoyed by the young folk. By this age, you know what you both enjoy and can really spoil your guests with an elaborate do or a relaxed party for the entire family. Subsequent weddings are generally more casual than the first, but this need not limit you.

Older brides-to-be should remember that wrinkles and exterior flaws are only testimony to the rich life that they have lived so far. However, some women may understandably not want this testimony to be quite as evident at their wedding. Here are some great make-up tips for older brides:

• Your foundation is of utmost importance as this creates the canvas for the rest of your look. Be careful of applying too much foundation in an effort to cover wrinkles or skin discolouration as this can actually accentuate uneven skin and make you look old, with caked skin.  Rather, use a light, liquid foundation that is exactly the right colour, and dust over it with a bronzer or very light amount of rouge.
• To prevent your lipstick from bleeding into any small wrinkles that are around the mouth, use a lipstick that is specifically designed for this purpose. Avoid very glossy balms and lipsticks as these make your lips look smaller than they really are. Rather, create a full, plump look by using something with only a little shine.
• Your eyes will look bright and alluring with thick, long eyelashes. Either use a brand of mascara that achieves this look or have false eyelashes put on for the day. Fake lashes are very popular, creating a dreamy, sexy look. Batting these in the direction of your new spouse is sure to make you feel as young and in love as ever.

Photo Courtesy of W Wedding Gowns