As a fashion journalist and the Toronto Editor of a lifestyle magazine, dressing for the occasion isn’t just second nature—it’s part of the job. When I got engaged in 2023, that instinct only intensified, especially in the lead-up to the big day. I wanted to look the part.
When I wrote about my surprise proposal for the Toronto Star, I didn’t expect the immediate reaction: friends, family and industry colleagues were asking for wedding outfit inspo or speculating about what my dress would look like. Some even joked that I’d turn my entire wardrobe into a walking Pinterest board in white. Challenge accepted.
Here are all the major events I fully leaned into bridalcore for—along with the outfits I chose for each one.
First Bridal Dress Appointment
Going into your first dress appointment is a rite of passage—and for me, it was the moment it really hit me that I was getting married. I went all in with a head-to-toe white look; it felt like the perfect way to get into the bridal spirit—and to start getting used to seeing myself in white, a shade I never used to embrace.
For a look that’s equal parts tailored and relaxed—perfect for hopping between appointments—I love ivory linen-blend wide-leg pants paired with a matching linen-blend vest. Style it with chunky white sandals or classic ballet flats for something stylish, comfortable and unmistakably bride-to-be.
If there’s one event where you can be unapologetically extra, it’s this one. Whatever your theme, there’s always a way to give it a bridal twist in white.
For my après-ski winter bachelorette, I went full snow bunny: a white knit cardigan layered under white overalls, topped off with white earmuffs, leg warmers and boots.
If I were doing a summer bachelorette, you can never go wrong with sequins—they’re festive, photogenic and easy to tailor to your theme. An understated yet glamorous option I love is the white Sequin Daisy Dress or the Square Neck Sequin Dress—pick the one that best matches your vibe.
For a bridal shower, I like something shorter and sweeter—especially as a contrast to the floor-sweeping gown you’ll wear on the big day. I wore a baby doll dress with a giant white bow at the front, paired with white heels adorned with red roses (my wedding flowers), and a bold red lip.
I kept the dress simple so I could play with accessories; if you're looking for something equally versatile and elegant, I love the white Twist Waist Dress (which also features a statement bow at the back), the Ruffle Detail Dress or the Sleeveless Midi Dress.
Rehearsal Dinner
For my rehearsal dinner, which was held in the cathedral where we were getting married, I wore this exact Mesh Flower Dress from Laura. I saw it and was immediately stunned.
It was modest enough for a church setting while still being incredibly chic—and the elegant keyhole neckline and subtle A-line silhouette, adorned with shimmering rhinestones and 3D mesh flowers, gave it an air of old-money glam—an aesthetic I’m really drawn to.
The weekend before the wedding, to celebrate with all the family who had flown in from abroad, my husband’s family hosted a backyard dinner party. I approached it like I was dressing as a guest for an outdoor wedding.
I wore a white satin midi dress (which I ended up changing into during the reception, too). Satin is breathable and elegant, and its natural sheen photographs beautifully in soft lighting, especially during golden hour.
Two styles I love for a similar look are the Satin Corset Dress and the Satin Halter Neck Dress, which features a beautiful tie neckline. The halter dress also layers perfectly with the oversized Single-Button Blazer in case it gets chilly, adding a bit of structure without taking away from the romance.