Wedding Dress Inspirations at the Cinema - by Leila

There is no question that film is a powerful media that inevitably influences fashion trends. How many times have you gone to the movies, just to be distracted from the plot by the thought "Oh I HAVE to have that outfit!" Films have shaped our image of fashion, from flapper's outfits to Marilyn Monroe's infamous pleated white dress. Sex and the City made Manolo Blahnik a household name. So it is not surprising that this influence has made its way into wedding fashion trends. Although bridal attire keeps evolving, some dresses make such a mark that they will stand or have stood the test of time. Here are our top 5 picks for the most unforgettable gowns in film.

#5. Anne Hathaway in "Bride Wars".
School teacher Emma Allen picks a modest and vintage-esque wedding dress that was handed down by her mother. The off-the-shoulder Vera Wang mermaid dress is closely based on a similar dress from her 2005 collection. Costume designer Karen Patch wanted Anne's dress to be "an exquisite taffeta dress with lots of layers, an off the shoulder period gown". Not only is it an exquisite dress, but also one that is very flattering for brides who want to show off their curves since the silhouette follows the body's curves from top to bottom. This dress will make any bride look sexy and classy at the same time.

#4. Kate Hudson in "Bride Wars"
Although the movie wasn't a blockbuster, Karen Patch, with the help of wedding dress guru Vera Wang, selected immaculate creations.
Kate Hudson's character Liv is a successful lawyer who is used to the finer things in life. She is the classic bride, like the one you see on the top of a wedding cake. Her princess dress with a sweetheart neckline is made of a mountain of layers of tulle skirt and a lace bodice. Based on a dress from Vera Wang's 2009 collection, this beautiful dress could make any bride feel like she is right out of a fairytale.

#3. Grace Kelly.
As one of history's most timeless fashion icons, Grace Kelly exemplifies style and sophistication. Although this wedding dress did not appear in a film (but her magnificent 12 carat emerald cut diamond engagement ring with two baguettes, mounted in platinum appeared in "High Society"), this dress had to be on the list. While filming "To Catch a Thief", Grace Kelly just missed meeting Prince Rainier of Monaco. However, fate would not give up that easily. The following year, while attending the Cannes Film Festival, Grace Kelly agreed to pose with the Prince in a photo opportunity. Fast forward a few months, the two were engaged in beautiful New York City. Her wedding has since been filmed and featured in many documentaries. The dress is undoubtedly an iconic gown. Helen Rose, the MGM costume designer, designed the dress in hopes that it would be "..simple but elegant, feminine, ladylike but not necessarily regal. It should not overpower Grace's beauty.".
The dress boasts a high neck with long delicate silk sleeves and a bellowing skirt made of antique Valenciennes rose point floral lace. Helen Rose commissioned thirty-five craftsmen for six weeks to create this historic dress. After her wedding, Grace Kelly donated her dress to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where it is one for the most popular piece in the museums history.

#2. Audrey Hepburn in "Funny Face"
Ms. Audrey Hepburn is another timeless icon. As Jo Stockton, Hepburn dances with Fred Astaire in a ballerina length wedding dress in the classic film "Funny Face". Designed by Givenchy (Hepburn was his muse), this very unique dress boasts a fitted bodice, drop waist, cap sleeves and a bell shaped skirt. It is quintessentially Hepburn and Givenchy: very feminine, classic and graceful. Although this may not be the typical wedding dress, it is perfect for the bride that wants something out of the norm or for a more casual afternoon wedding. And if you have killer legs and some fantastic shoes, what better way to show them off?

#1. Sarah Jessica Parker in "Sex and the City".
It is almost obvious that Ms. Carrie Bradshaw would be number 1 on the list, especially to those who know me and my undying love for SATC. Whether you loved it or loathed it, there is no denying that this dress has made history. Sex and the City stylist, the infamous Patricia Field, selected the dress based on Vivienne Westwood's Gold Label Lily wedding gown for Ms.
Bradshaw's long awaited walk down the aisle. The dress is a daring and inventive piece that is immaculately tailored, feminine and true to Ms. Westwood's style. This stunning champagne gown is accentuated with its built-in corset made of ivory silk satin, an overstated darted neckline, large full puff skirt with an asymmetrical hem and a silk faille underskirt.

Sources: SATC, Grace, Grace, Grace , Audrey, Bridewars