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!!