Twinkle, Twinkle Bright Star

It's the holidays and everything is so bright, festive and warm as family and friends wish us greetings of peace and love! Accepting a wedding proposal at Christmas is such a profound and symbolic declaration of love between two people as it is a time to reflect and celebrate the infinite love of the Lord.

elegant winter look

nicole a chic "snowball" for her
December wedding

ice on the neck by Kristin Morris

We see lots of giddy brides step through our doors this time of year still floating with excitement and staring non-stop at that beautiful, star twinkling on their left hand! Any engagement is special, but during the holidays it conjures a time of "comfort and joy" like no other time of year. The ring is new, light and a fresh chapter for the couple's life together.  Toasts of congratulations around the holiday table for the bride and groom to be are endearing and memorable.

simple accessories capture the season

I adore working with brides planning a Christmas or New Year's wedding. So much inspiration is drawn from the holiday traditions of color and decor with modern twists that reflect the bride and groom. I've seen everything from full on red and green color palettes to soft accents of gold used in these events. I love accenting a holiday wedding with lots of "winter wedding" accessories like the faux muff and stole or pave set deco earrings for that retro glam look. If possible use a "bridal coat" or cloak for amazing drama and style. Faux fur and feathers are my thing and can be done in a simple, delicate presence without overwhelming where they are placed or who wears them.

PINK! floral muff paired with a coat trimmed
with faux cuffs-divine

The New Year's eve wedding is one of the most romantic and equally festive dates to choose. Beginning a life together as husband and wife at the helm of a new year is so rich in meaning. The silver screen "Jean Harlow" black and white aesthetic for New Year's eve is one of my favorites. Everything in the wedding palette is black and white (see my earlier post about the black and white combo) with lots of twinkle from lights and bubbly champagne. It's a built in celebration that is taken to another (literally) brilliant level on the last night of one year and the newborn hours of another. 

I wish you all laughter, love and lots of twinkle during these holidays! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading my relatively new, blog and I hope you'll continue to check in throughout 2012!

Jump!

You can't take your eyes off it. It's the one you've dreamed of. You can't see yourself being with any other, but then there is hesitation and maybe shock. The decision you're about to make is like jumping off a cliff! Saying "yes" to your groom was the easy part, but this is another story. Do you jump and get the dress or continue the search hoping for another that tops the one that had you at first glance?

With all the years I've been styling brides and being a bride myself years ago, I know those conflicted feelings well. It really is like jumping off a cliff and much more difficult than saying yes to your groom's proposal. This is your wedding gown. The only garment you'll buy and wear once in a lifetime. It must be perfect and nothing less. So when perfection is on your body staring at you in a mirror in all its glory, why don't you buy it? I've surmised many reasons why. It's a significant financial leap that can be overwhelming. It's your first boutique experience and committing might seem impetuous. You're the type that needs to cost compare and process, which must be done away from the dressing room glare. You have to see yourself in the dress (i.e. a photo someone snapped that, fyi, is discouraged by designers and boutiques). You just like wedding gown shopping because you're a bride once and you're going to hit everyone boutique you can think of. You must show a friend or a family member to help you decide. You're not sure you want to get married after seeing yourself in a gown that makes it all real.

I've never asked brides all the scenarios mentioned, but intuitively I've collected these roadblocks in my mind and believe they are fairly accurate. I absolutely respect the reasons above, please don't misunderstand. However, they are still in fact obstacles in a bride's mind that deprive her of a joyous search and discovery of "her" perfect gown. I emphasize "her" because without attaching the pronoun a perfect gown doesn't exist--really. It is an extremely subjective and yes emotional choice that is as individual as we all are. We are all created as unique individuals with are own taste and style. If you find a gown that matches your unique attributes, it becomes the perfect gown for YOU and only you.  I always tell my clients it comes from the heart. Don't fret or be shocked if it happens sooner than you think. Some actually do purchase the first gown they try on! For those who have visited 50 shoppes and leave disappointed each time do some soul searching. Determine what you love the most in a wedding gown on YOU and choose accordingly.

Sure I can sit back and write about this and make it sound easy, but try to trust that it really is. The experience of a woman looking for her special, bridal gown for centuries has been an adored tradition that should be joyous.  It's a real glimpse of the wedding day as you imagine your groom next to you while staring at yourself wearing the gown.  Make that glimpse a reality and JUMP! Your landing will be soft, airy, sprinkled with sparkle or lace and AMAZING!

A Match Made in HEAVEN....

There is a couple I know who I truly believe are a match made in heaven. They celebrate all the joys and endure all the challenges of life because they are soul mates who are eternally bound. A genuine team, always together in this earthly life and beyond.
In a strange way this is how I feel about the classic color combination: Black and White. Don't misunderstand, I am a color fan as indicated in my last post. I adore color on a bride somewhere on her ensemble ranging from an accessory whisper to a pale blue gown with hot, pink stilettos. It's just the crisp, sophistication of black and white is so chic and FRENCH I can't resist it as an inspiration for a bride and/or the wedding aesthetic.

Over the years I've seen horrible versions of black and white wedding gowns that are way too literal in my opinion. You don't need black flowers to drip down a white wedding gown to achieve the effect. Black accents need to be bold, but balanced and not consuming as done beautifully in this gown via a black and crystal sash. Belts/sashes are still going strong this season and are a perfect way to accent a gown in just the right presence of black or any other color. I also like how belts flatter beautifully and provide an instant hour glass to any body type. Black achieves this the best as it provides the boldest contrast.

Maybe wearing black is not your thing or your mom can't fathom even a hint on you for your wedding day. It is a bit edgy and somewhat daring, which understandably is not for everyone. Perhaps black and white peep toes under that gown might just do the trick for a little unexpected twist.

Consider the inspiration and may this eternal, pair made in heaven guide you in fashion and perhaps life itself.

colorful RUNWAY magic!

Watters Bride-BLUSH gown! I'm feeling faint:)

Lazaro- Elegant drama with a stunning focal, belt.

Marchesa bringing the gentle, cap sleeve back!

Oscar De La Renta flirtatious, cocktail dress. Perfectly retro.

Vera Wang epitomizes ethereal in this chic, stunning hue.

Miriam Haskell piece - simply amazing on the wrist of my BLUSH bride.

Statement necklace by Kristin Morris.  Modern vintage at its best.

The intricate work of Paris by Debra Moreland.  I was a fan at first glance.

So great to be back blogging after a self-initiated absence.  My brief departure was in part due to October Bridal Market analysis and all the wonderful inspiration I've been seeing from the runway.  The Spring 2012 lines are magical and I just can't help but style the brides in COLOR somewhere in the ensemble if not via the gown itself! My latest obsession- BLUSH! This angelic, peaceful hue has been around on the bridal gown scene for several years, but this season I've been won over by this delicate whisper of color combined with taupe accents. It's fresh- vintage and I'm in love! Above are some of my favorites from the Spring 2012 season. I'm thrilled brides today have so much choice and somewhat sympathetic too because it really can be overwhelming. That is when the stylist at your intimate bridal, boutique becomes your instant friend! As the professional, fresh from seeing the 2012 collections from several designers, he/she will guide you along the road of goodies that await your choice which hopefully in some aspect include COLOR!

The Co-Star...

By definition an accessory is "something added" or  "help", which doesn't sound very chic or exciting. Ahh but when referring to an accessory for a bride, then it gets interesting and the ho-hum word becomes synonymous with style!
Your wedding day look is often referred to as an ensemble. Though you probably don't say to your family and friends when asked what your gown looks like: "My ensemble consists of ..." However, that is exactly what you have when your look is complete. It's an ensemble of stars; some the lead (your gown) and others supporting (accessories) that harmonize beautifully.
After the gown is chosen, your should start thinking about accessories which range from statement necklaces to diamond studs, cathedral veiling to french nets, belts to pashminas, headbands to plumes and of course brightly colored shoes! Whatever you choose, those pieces should reflect the gown but not particularly match and each accessory should stand out on its own. If you are wearing an embellished belt and a chunky, bling bracelet the two compete as the wrist isn't far from the belt area. A large, statement necklace with a crumb catcher neckline will get lost together, but on their own- wow! The colored shoe trend is fantastic, but keep that the only color to give that co-star its time in the limelight.
Even if you're not always an accessories girl, consider at least a short drop or button earring to frame the face which especially impacts photos.

www.popjewelaccessories.com 

When I present a tray of jewelry options to a bride I refer to it as a "dessert tray." A collection of goodies to choose from that have zero calories! How can a bride resist?

more than just a feather..

If you've been wedding shopping, scouring the web for gown ideas, or glanced at wedding publications you probably noticed a common thread- plumage.  Those light, airy bird clothes are everywhere!! Sarah Jessica Parker may have been the catalyst to get the trend kick started, but as we know feather usage has been part of human customs for thousands of years. Feathers are symbols of strength, royalty, peace, energy. All of which a bride should feel on her wedding day. Not just a chic, trendy statement Sarah Jessica so boldly personified, plumage offers the bride a connection to the past and hope for the future all in one accessory!
Of course, as you know I'm a slightly obsessive fan of all things retro. When a bride considers a feather hair piece, I immediately channel those hair bands of the 1920s as inspiration. Ask your bridal boutique to show you a range of feathered, pieces even if you have initial doubt. Brides are usually surprised how much they like them. Some are very diminutive, but still pack that symbolic energy and chic, modern punch. Or you could opt for a large, peacock colored plum that says wow and commands all eyes on the ultra, fashionista bride. I adore a whisper of color on a bride and what better way than with a natural, work of nature that birds need, but brides can enjoy.

a WINDOW to the soul

It was love at first sight. I was 8 when I saw it--THE WINDOW! Little did I know that glimpse, that awestruck feeling that stirred was the beginning of my future career. That day in tow with my mom at "the mall" was the day I saw my first bridal shoppe window. It happened to be Priscilla of Boston, which at the time (without dating myself too much) was actually one of their satellite boutiques strangely located in a mall! With the news Priscilla of Boston in all its grandeur sadly ending its gift to our bridal world, I couldn't help but get nostalgic and reminisce about the moment I fell hard for wedding gowns.

Boutique windows of any kind always fascinate me to this day. I love how artistic, dynamic and simply quaint they always are. They give a sense of comfort and character to any street they grace. Boutique owners large or small take great pride in window design. In fact, it's an art and a skill many get degrees in. The windows in NYC have been famous inspirations for many films over the years.

Of course, the window of a bridal boutique is my creme de le creme. It allows the bride to get a her first, glimpse and perhaps inspiration for her gown. Something about a whimsical, elegant gown on a mannequin under soft lighting makes brides excited to find their special one and future brides (ages 8 to 80) wonder with delight about what they might find someday. It's a momentary, magical escape.

Before you step inside your boutique, take a minute or two to adore the window. Whether you did as a little girl  for years and now can enter those doors with a sparkling ring on your finger or you just happened to notice yesterday while on your way to a meeting. I just implore you to look, admire and escape for a few moments.

FIT is Fabulous and First

Some may say it's all about "the look" and fit comes in second. Perhaps similar to wearing those hot, shoes you just had to have only to suffer dearly with sore tootsies. I'm guilty of the latter. However, shoes do not compare to your wedding gown! You must absolutely love the silhouette and fit of your gown for comfort, confidence, investment integrity and most importantly to proudly show YOUR dress that is a unique, reflection of you!
I've witnessed several brides do the following: (keeping in mind this is normal if you've done it or thinking about doing it) 1. Choose a gown from a photo only to find when the real thing lays on the body it is confusing and disappointing. Photos can inspire, but be weary when you try on the sample in the boutique. It may not be what you had hoped for. Allow the stylist to choose/suggest gowns for you as they are professionals and know how to match body to silhouette.
2. Similarly, from photos a laundry list of "must haves" in a dress is given to the stylist only again resulting in frustration and disappointment when all those items are not found in one dress. I always say brides should have two "must haves" in a dress. If those are satisfied, the bride will love the other details too because they all work in harmony with her "must haves."
3. When a gown is purchased a photograph is taken to capture the excitement of choosing "the one." Then the photos are looked at again and doubt creeps in. This leads to panic and then OMG I chose the wrong dress.  Sometimes it's just a normal reaction to purchasing such a large item, but always keep in mind how the dress made you feel the moment you decided it was "the one" AND most importantly if you loved it as a sample that never fits well, you'll love it ten times over when it's fitted and customized to you and only you.
AND that is the moral of this entry...Choose a gown that suits YOU the bride who will be wearing the garment proudly and confidently. During the appointment, the stylist will manually adjust the gown to give you a sense of fit and how it will lay on you. Once you feel that "glove like" fit and the gown has your two "must haves" that's it! You've fallen in love again (groom don't worry).. with your dress!

eureka! is that a covered shoulder?

Change is good, right? I think so. It's not always easy, but in the world of wedding gown fashion I think it is finally time to see some options beyond the strapless neckline. FINALLY! thanks to the beautiful Princess Kate and some other very, chic ladies around the world whom designers clamor to style the runways will produce a plethora of neckline options for boutiques to purchase and offer to brides. The neckline above is one of my favorites I doubt will be repeated again. In the 60s and 70s this collar neckline was very popular and quite demure. Today the sophisticated, modern bride doesn't want to be covered to the neck and confined. (with the exception of those fanatical vintage slaves like me who would wear that neckline in a heartbeat!)

Even Princess Kate, though her gown was classic Grace inspired, had movement in her illusion lace bodice. Her collar bone was not hidden! This look already has flooded the bridal market and will be in a store near you soon! Yes, long/ three quarter sleeves are BACK!

Another neckline that will make its way to your boutique is the classic boat neck! I haven't seen this neckline in several seasons and yet here it is by Armani looking incredible on Princess Charlene of Monaco.

Let it be known I have absolutely nothing against the strapless gown. It is a wonderful, option for most brides with its clean neckline (zero confinement) that can be styled with a fabulous statement necklace or not. You also don't have to be royalty to set a trend with your wedding gown. Just enjoy wearing it, feel beautiful and be thankful you are a 21st century bride that has many necklines (again!) to choose from!

boutiques--a dying breed

I was in a large city this weekend (don't want to disclose only to possibly affect the industry more) and marveled at a quaint avenue once charmed with unique, independently owned, hole in the wall boutiques now replaced with "chain" retailers. I certainly don't have anything against those big, box retailers I myself shop in, but slowly but surely they will be our only option for clothing, accessories and yes, bridal gowns if we don't encourage those few surviving boutiques with our patronage.
This possession of the bridal boutique soul is also happening all over our country. What concerns me more than these shoppes exiting our style cravings, is more and more young women like those I see in the bridal boutique every day will not know what quality, couture and originality means. They will only know copies, synthetics and crooked seams. It's almost like our grandmothers dying before they pass on the family recipe and those wonderful homemade delights never to be enjoyed again.
Many brides would argue the boutiques are just too expensive and the larger retailers have what they like for less. That is a valid argument and I respect it.  However, I suggest you visit at least one boutique in your search for your once in a lifetime garment. You should find those prices translate to two things service and quality. The boutique will probably offer a range of price points that will meet most budgets.  Many brides make assumptions boutiques are snobby and unwelcoming. In fact, it's just the opposite. A small, boutique dotes on their client and even in some cases remain friends with brides long after they walk down the aisle.
Give them a try and I suspect you'll have the time of your life and purchase the gown of your dreams all under one roof!
The bridal industry needs boutiques more than ever today. Those intimate, girly places were and are those special stores you peak in the window as a little, girl hoping some day to walk inside. Keep them alive and well so our daughters and theirs get to be brides who know the gown they choose for their special day is a fine, garment they will proudly wear and remember for a lifetime.

inspiration

Inspiration can mean so many different things.  For me, when I'm styling a bride I look to images and objects I see around me in print, on-line and in person to motivate me to create something great. I do have an affinity toward gowns of the past, because like anything in fashion trends tend to run in cycles but each time with a modern spin. We can learn so much from gowns of the past-silhoette, applique, fabric. The image I always carry in my mind is the elegance of the late Princess Grace as a bride in 1956. Not all brides want that "classic" look for their wedding day, but most brides still want a subtle reflection or perhaps just a whisper of that iconic Princess Grace look. Look around for your inspiration before your meet with your stylist at a bridal boutique. It may be a piece of jewelry your grandmother has had since you were a child. Whatever and wherever your find your inspiration--it's uniquely yours!

And so it begins...

You are reading my very, first post to my brand new blog. Probably not as excited as I am, but simply can't contain my enthusiasm! I have so much to share and can hardly figure out what should be first after years of various thoughts related to brides swirling in my brain!
Today I'll just start at the beginning since this is my first post. Yes, I'll get to the point and spare you the drama:
My take on each and every bride not matter who, what, where, when and how many times is this. For a short time during the prep process and when they walk down the aisle transform into an ultra feminine, symbol of optimism and romance. Each and every one uniquely portrays her own example of pure joy because in those moments wearing "her" own gown she feels incredible. Sometimes not an easy feat for women. The confidence and positive energy flowing from a bride is unmatched and it's infectious to all her guests. I always tell my brides if you feel anything short of amazing in a gown, it's the wrong dress. More about choosing the dress later. Lots to say about that.
So check in with me often and I'll take you behind the scenes in the world of brides to help you prepare for one of the biggest roles you'll ever assume: Being a BRIDE!!!
Oh! and why: PINK FRENCH BRIDE?? I like all three and it sounded cool, together. The title photos will be mostly vintage because I adore vintage wedding gowns of any era! They are fabric time capsules-- fascinating and inspiring. Hope you do too! See you soon!!