Category Archives: Wedding Fashion

Favorite Wedding Dresses for Spring 2013

Posted on April 18, 2012 | Leave a comment

This week is bridal market.  And since I don’t have a wedding to plan or help to plan you might wonder why am I click, click, clicking through Brides.com?

Look at these dresses and you might understand.

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All images from Brides.com

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What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

Posted on February 15, 2012 | 1 Comment

Is your social calendar filling up and your refrigerator door decorated with Save the Date magnets, postcards and invites?  When you’re in a certain age it is always wedding season, even during the winter season.

Look, I’ll be honest when it is cold my “party clothes”  are leggings and boots, maybe a cool sweater… but, when it is someone’s special day it is time to dust off the salt, scrape away the snow and put on your party best.

Is your event a refined afternoon, a lovely cocktail party, or a glamorous evening?  Either way you’ll want to look your best without completely breaking the bank – you do have wedding gifts to buy, after all.  Each set has two outfits with accessories that lend themselves to both.

This set with prim dresses, a feminine coat, and thick navy tights are perfect for a winter’s wedding.  Luckily both of these dresses with their vibrant prints would transition into the spring season with ease.

Daytime Winter Wedding

Shop: Dress, Dress, Coat, Clutch, Tights, Pumps

For a cocktail party soiree mix in some sequins, a more seductive silhouette and playful details like feathers and mixed patterns.  The standard trench coat is a sophisticated and every-season topper that plays just as nicely with sequins as it does with denim.

Winter Cocktail Party

Shop: Dress, Dress, Coat, Clutch, Pumps

If that invite is ready formal and black tie it is time to pull out the stops, go regal, go glam, go as your most fancy self.  Go sleek in black and pair with bold accessories, or bright and playful.  With either outfit you cannot go wrong with long and some sparkle.

Formal Winter Wedding

Shop: Dress, Top, Skirt, Earring, Clutch, Wedges

Of course the other must have wedding accessory, a smile and well wishes for the happy couple – and maybe handwarmers in the car!

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Posted in Her Closet, Her Weddings + Events, Wedding Fashion

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Bridal Trends: Fall 2012

Posted on October 20, 2011 | Leave a comment

I have been married for nearly two years and for the past week I have reviewed more than 800 wedding dresses!  800!  (It is borderline insane.)  Anyway, the research came after Bridal Market, akin to New York Fashion Week for weddings.

I have identified many trends, and as a reminder, my rule for identifying a trend is that it has to appear at least three times, three times a charm (and a trend)!

Let’s walk down the fashion aisle together!

Color and Prints: The runway for Fall 2012 showed a lot of beautiful gowns that went far beyond the traditional bridal white.  I loved the unique patterned treatment in the Seeing Spots collection for a modern and sophisticated bride.  The dresses in Golden Moment stand apart for the bride who wants to make a statement.  The dresses in Black Magic  are for the bride who is fashion forward while abandoning tradition.

 

Shape and Design:  There were a lot of very specific construction trends I identified.  Starting at the top, several designers showed visible corset and boning construction, see The Core Set, in a way that was at once sexy and sophisticated.  The Mini to the Max collection is a favorite new trend, and is definitely for the bride that wants to stand out, it would make for a fabulous party dress.  The Tiering Down set  showed the very common trend of full skirts assembled from layers of cascading handkerchief hemmed chiffon and silk.  Thigh Do is a strongly contrasting look, cut close to the body – but not tight – the emphasis of this trend is all in the slit.  The Princess Bride set is significantly reminiscent of a famous bride from this year, it is full of volume, but still conservative and demure in the styling.

 

Details: Lots of trends were found in the little details.  A favorite new trend is in the Shoulder Moment, the design showcases the bride’s collar (always flattering) with a demure half sleeve in delicate lace.  Another very popular trend was the use of sheer fabric and netting to create illusion necklines and panels, as seen in the It’s an Illusion set.  Pockets are back, I don’t personally love this trend, because no bride is actually holding her keys in her dress, but I can appreciate a trend in Corner Pocket(3x is the rule).  Lastly, texture is key in the Light as a Feather trend; in seasons past runways were filled with oversized creped roses, I like the softer feather trend in this trend.

 

Do you want to say “I Do” to any of these trends?  Tell me in the comments!

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Posted in Fashion Inspiration, fashion week, Her Closet, Her Weddings + Events, Wedding Fashion

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And the Bride Wore White…

Posted on July 20, 2011 | Leave a comment

When planning a wedding I really thing the dress sets the tone.  Some say it is the location (the beach, a ballroom, a bar – whatever).  But, I disagree.  When brides begin their planning in the back of their head they have a vision of what they will look like on their wedding day.  The bride who sees herself as a princess, sophisticate, goddess will pick the setting to match their style.

I reviewed the Resort 2012 shows to find these looks and created mini inspiration boards to accompany them.

Images: Marchesa, Martha Stewart, Great Gatsby, Martha Stewart

How decadent is this style?  Inspired by the Marchesa gowns, it’s elegant, bright, fresh and while attached to a vintage aesthetic it still feels completely modern.

 

Images: Naeem Khan, Pinterest, Bhldn, Pinterest

Naeem Khan, a favorite of Hollywood and the FLOTUS, this inspiration board feels well traveled, glamorous, and collected by your friend with the most admirable and enviable style.

 

Images: Badgely Mischka, Brides, OneReverie, WeddingBee

This style is for the playful bride – Hello! Polka Dots!  – and yet it is still completely sophisticated and lovely for a wedding.  Added to the playful nature this inspiration board picks up the theme of dots and color.

 

Images: Salvatore Ferragamo, Stella & Dot, Ruth Drennan Cakes, Rosebrook Meyer Stationary

This inspiration board, inspired by the Salvatore Ferragamo gowns, have a sprinkle of sparkle, a fluidity of movement and clean lines.

 

Images: Carolina Herrera, Oh So Beautiful Paper, The Velveteen Baker, Constanca Cabral, Christian Louboutin

Images: Carolina Herrera, Oh So Beautiful Paper, The Velveteen Baker, Constanca Cabral, Christian Louboutin

This set inspired by Carolina Herrera is for the fun, retro inspired bride.  It feels seasonless with the crisp black and white and the pop of red.


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What to Wear to Weddings

Posted on July 13, 2011 | Leave a comment

One night while we were in Mexico we walked on the beach past three weddings in various stages of preparation (set up – rehearsal – ceremony) and the following night a wedding was held at our hotel, and the hotel next door.

It is wedding season, and you are likely invited to one, somewhere.

After slipping that RSVP card into the mail, you might want to think about what to wear.

Is the wedding at a far off tropical destination, where the mood is tiki torch, hurricane candles and a mojito?  (Invite me too, please!) Go full of color, light fabrics and manageable footwear!

Daytime Summer Wedding

L – R: Dress at Net-A-Porter, Necklace at Max & Chloe, Clutch at ALDO, Sandals at Pret-A-Beaute; Sundress at Harvey Nichols, Bracelet by Antik Batik, Clutch at Fashion-Conscience, Sandal at Nordstrom; Dress at Oasis, Earrings at Amazon, Wallet at Nordstrom, Sandal at Macy’s; Sundress at Mary & Paul, Bangles at Simply Soles, Purse at TopShop, Pump at ZapposCouture


Is your next wedding high atop the city on a swanky rooftop, dancing is the main event and the drink is a signature?  Come prepared to party in bold colors and some skin!

Summer Wedding - Cocktail Attire

L – R: Dress at Austique, Hoops at Kyler Designs, Clutch at Zara, Pumps at ZapposCouture; Dress at My Wardrobe, Cuff at Max & Chloe, Clutch at Shopbop, Pumps at ZapposCouture; Dress at My Wardrobe, Earrings at Barneys, Clutch at Endless, Pump at Forzieri; Dress at Bergdorf Goodman, Bangles at Net-A-Porter, Clutch at Forzieri, Sandals at My Wardobe


Is your next wedding bling or bust, with a splash of champagne and crystals dripping from the chandelier and centerpieces?  Sounds mah-velous dahling! Go long or short, but don’t skimp on the sparkle – it is time to make a statement.

Summer Wedding - Black Tie

L – R: Dress at Jane Norman, Bangle at ZapposCouture, Clutch at Lori’s Shoes, Pump at Saks Fifth Avenue; Gown at My Theresa, Earrings at Yes Style, Clutch at The Addison Collection, Pump at Christian Louboutin;  Gown at the Out Net, Earrings at Yes Style, Clutch at Nordstrom, Sandal at Net-A-Porter; Gown at My Wardrobe, Bangles at Nordstrom, Clutch at Nordstrom, Sandals at ZapposCouture


Okay, let’s be reasonable, the dress you wear isn’t the most important dress of the day, and in fairness it really shouldn’t be.  However, I do think that as a guest it is your responsibility to rise to the occasion, without outshining anyone, and be festive and fabulous for your loved one’s special day.

Which outfit is your favorite?

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Posted in Accessories, Her Closet, Her Weddings + Events, Shopping, Wedding Fashion

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A Bouquet of Rose Gold

Posted on June 15, 2011 | 1 Comment

A few weeks ago my Twitter timeline was buzzing with photos and tweets from the Jewelry Show in Las Vegas.  Some lucky staffers at Brides Magazine and Martha Stewart Weddings were touring the trade show floor trying on ring after gorgeous ring.

I kept up with their tweets and noticed a sweetly romantic trend, rose gold.

I have been crushing on rose gold for a little while now.  If the gift of jewelry could be any more romantic, rose gold makes it so.  Softer than platinum and yellow gold it has a sweet, vintage aesthetic.

My rings are platinum, but their is something blush worthy about these styles.


Top Row, L – R: Clear Quartz and Rose Necklace by Ippolita via Saks Fifth Avenue, Rose Gold Diamond Ring at MKULGems, Paloma’s Crown of Hearts Ring via Tiffany & Co, Fancy Pink Diamond Ring via WCM Jewelers

Middle Row, L – R: Boutonniere Ring via Gemvara, Pear Pave Ring by Zoe via Barneys New York, Rose Gold Love Bracelet by Sydney Evan,

Bottom Row, L – R: Ariella Collection Openwork Ring via Nordstrom, Majolie Rounded Diamond and Rose Gold Ring via Max and Chloe, Rose Gold Ring by Heiko Shrem via Stuart Moore, Diamond bangle bracelet from the Fidelity Collection in 18K rose gold via Kwiat

Would you be blushing for rose gold jewelry?  Let me know in the comments!

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Posted in Accessories, Her Closet, Her Weddings + Events, Jewelry, Wedding Fashion

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Inspired Princess Style

Posted on April 29, 2011 | 1 Comment

If everything old is new again, we have to find inspiration somewhere.  For Kate Middleton, there was no better inspiration than Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco.

Kate Middleton, April 29, 2011 – Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen


Grace Kelly, April 19, 1956, Dress designed by MGM Costume designer, Helen Rose


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Seeing Green, Pink and Blue

Posted on April 13, 2011 | 1 Comment

This past week was Bridal Market in New York, my invitation was lost in the mail but thanks to the various people I follow on Twitter and Brides.com I had a virtual front row seat.  A few trends really stuck out to me, and the first was the presence of color in a sea of white.

In a conversation I had last night I told someone there is no right or wrong way to get married, only your way.  These dresses are the visual illustration of that theme.  You can wear whatever you want, and now in whatever color.  Here are some of my favorites:

For Spring I love the bold, and the slight touches of soft sage green.  It is fresh, light and a really lovely take for a bold bride.

Oscar de la Renta – Spring 2012, via Brides.com

Vera Wang – Spring 2012, via Brides.com
Two trends that I loved were the surprising supersized stripes on Carolina Herrera’s runway, and the ombre dyed Oscar de la Renta in radiant blue.

Oscar de la Renta – Spring 2012, via Brides.com
Carolina Herrera – Spring 2012, via Brides.com
In a more classical turn, the runways were filled with swaths of blush, mauve, pinks and lavenders.  The beauty of the bridal bouquet and some ballerina style have influenced the wedding gown.

Monique Lhuillier – Spring 2012, via Brides.com

Reem Acra – Spring 2012, via Brides.com

Rivini – Spring 2012, via Brides.com

Vera Wang – Spring 2012, via Brides.com
Watters – Spring 2012, via Brides.com

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Getting Married, for Less

Posted on January 19, 2011 | Leave a comment

Weddings can become expensive, like shockingly so.  While there are many different types of weddings from the courthouse to the beach to the grand ballroom, they all come with a price and these days there is always a way to do it for less.

When shopping for the wedding dress of your dreams the sticker shock can become a bit of a nightmare.  New online flash sale site, The Aisle New York, has worked with the best in the wedding industry to offer serious discounts on wedding finery including new designer gowns, shoes, veils, jewelry and other accessories.  You’ll be hard pressed to find a better deal with dresses retailing for up to 50%+ off.
Rubia Gown by Junko Yoshioka, Aisle Price: $1590, from $3650
The Aisle offers specific sizing guides, and returns for up to 5 days and return insurance.  The dress of your dreams, for a steal!

Don’t forget about your friends, and the many other occasions for dressing up when you get married.  My favorite site to browse, for the events and parties not on my calendar, RenttheRunway.com has now joined the wedding party.

The new wedding section offers suggestions for the bride dresses to take her from her engagement party to the honeymoon, all from today’s top designers at often 15% of the regular price.  The rental option lets you live like a star with new dresses showing up all the time, without having to pay star prices.



Rent the Runway also has terrific options for bridesmaids, whether you want to go the traditional route or high fashion, they can also get a fabulous look, for much less.

Saving money, is always in fashion!

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Posted in Advice, Her Weddings + Events, Wedding Fashion

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The Most Important Dress to Date

Posted on October 20, 2010 | 1 Comment

When I reviewed Spring 2011 Fashion Week I touched on how the fashion cycle is a full season ahead; in the world of bridal it is a full year ahead.  Brides are instructed to always have selected their wedding dress no less than six months prior to getting married.  I bought my dress on June 6, 2009 – my wedding date was January 23, 2010 and you wouldn’t believe the shock from the store attendants.

Anyway, as we are fully into Fall 2010 it is time to look towards Fall 2011.  This week was Bridal Market in New York, and through the power of the Internet it’s like we are all able to attend.

Here are my favorites, so far:

Seriously, I love this dress.  I love the structure, the cut outs, the keyhole at the bust.  I would love it even more Red Carpet in a metallic, or a black.  I’ll take it in my size; thanks Angel!
Angel Sanchez
I love this dress.  It reminds me a glamorous swimsuit with an even more glamorous sarong wrapped just so elegantly at the hip.  I like the metallic sheen and the delicate tied bow at the hip.
Priscilla of Boston
The following bridal gowns are for the following brides:

This reminds me of the punk rock princess.  The dress is all princess, and the styling has just enough edge to keep it fun.  I hope she is secretly wearing a pair of Converse under all of that.
Jewel by Priscilla of Boston
This is the dress I pick for the White (as in Snow White) Wedding.  I can’t ID for sure the fabric of the skirt but it reminds me of fresh, powdery snow.  The simplicity of the bodice is a perfect balance to the drama of the skirt.
Angel Sanchez

This is so classic bride.  I love simple shape.  P.S. what you don’t see is the intricate cut outs across the back.

Angel Sanchez
I love this shape for bride who wants to walk on the edge.  She wants to play with fashion, she wants an awesome pair of shoes, and want to show of her legs all night long.  It also doesn’t hurt that it reminds me of the skirt Carrie wears when she bumps into Aidan in Morocco, err, Dubai.

Wtoo
For the dreamy bride, this dress is a dream come true.  The layers are whimsical and ethereal.  She looks like she is floating in style.
Monique Lhuillier
For the bride with aspirations to float down the aisle like Marion Cotillard, a la her John Paul Gaultier 2008 gown.  Love the scales down the skirt.
Rivini
No matter the style, it is great to see bridal taking a cue from high fashion.  On her wedding day a bride is any thing: a movie star, a model, a princess, and luckily she’ll have no trouble dressing the part.

What style do you favor most?

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