The perfect bridal gown: I think definitely white for an elegant wedding. Ivory or cream can look great if done right but can often look too 'antique-y'. So I think a traditional white dress is great, but not an overly full pouff-y one, especially if you are a slender woman (it will swamp you).
I'm not fond of halter-neck wedding dresses (too informal of a look) unless it's a beach wedding or less formal event.
Overall I think you can't go wrong with a classic traditional look... if it's too 'trendy' the wedding photos will look dated in a few years. I'm not so fond of the strapless trend; I think spaghetti straps (or something more modest) give a classier look. Anyhow that's just my opinion... there's a huge variation in wedding dresses so clearly there is a huge variation in people's ideas and opinions!
I agree with Giselle. Picking to trendy of a look can make you look dated later. There are many classic silloutes and dresses that will look incredible forever.
But I personally am a big fan of cream or ivory. It doesn't wash you out as much if your fair skined.
Overall though the perfect gown is whatever you feel most comfortable and beautiful in.
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