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Step 1
Look for sleeves or a jacket. This is one of the advantages to a western wedding dress, they are really modest. You might have certain religious restrictions that require you to wear sleeves or a high neckline. This can be especially difficult to find in a traditional bridal salon. Almost all of the wedding dresses will be sleeveless with a few spaghetti straps thrown in. If your dress is sleeveless try to find a lace cover-up. You can always wear it to the church or for the ceremony & then ditch it at the reception.
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Step 2
Go all out. A western wedding dress is meant to be seen. There is nothing subtle about it. These dresses use a lot of fabric. They are usually heavy on both lace & beading. Just make sure that your dress isn't so heavy that it's uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. You can often find these dresses on ebay if you need to save money.
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Step 3
Make it chic. A western wedding dress doesn't have to be something that you've seen on "My Big Redneck Wedding." They can be trendy & still have an Old West vibe. Look for a corset style top that will give you the perfect fit. This will change up your dress enough that it won't be the same style that everyone else has been wearing in your town. On the runways ruffles are making a comeback in bridal fashion. These skirts look like petticoats, so they still get your theme across. Plus, it adds a special element to your gown that your guests might not have seen before.
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Step 4
Ditch the bridal shop. You might not be able to find a western wedding gown at a traditional bridal shop. If you do, it might be expensive. Instead, hit the main street of small town America. Even if you don't have a wedding shop, some clothing stores stock one or two wedding gowns that may fit the bill. Plus, you have the added benefit of supporting local businesses.
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Step 5
Consider your audience. You want to feel good & look good on your special day. If you pick a theme dress you might feel self conscious as you walk down the aisle. Consider who is going to be there & also the occasion. This will determine how far you go with your western wedding wear. It's up to you to decide if you want a cowboy hat with an attached veil, or if it's appropriate to wear your boots.
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Step 6
Wear a period dress. This is a unique alternative to a traditional country gown. Some people in your town might do pioneer or civil war reenactments. You may be able to borrow one of these to wear for your wedding for free. It's a true western wedding dress. These dresses usually come in dull colors, but you might just luck out & find your wedding color or a white one. You can even wear your grandmother's dress if you are ok with it being ivory.
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Step 7
Show off your silhouette. This is where the western wedding dress has the advantage over a traditional ball gown. You'll be able to walk around & have fun with your guests. These dresses often have straighter skirts that will show off your shape instead of drown you in fabric.
