the Minaudiere

Judith Leiber

Happy 2012 albeit somewhat belated!! It feels so good to be writing again in the new year. I'm thrilled to resume posting in this special month of PINK the cousin to Valentine red.

What is a minaudiere you may ask? Doesn't the French word itself sound so elegant? It's a small case where a woman holds her special items. Yes, we're talking about a purse, handbag or clutch. A minaudiere is so much more as it's usually beaded with pearls, encrusted with gems or framed with gold or silver. Being the detail fanatic that I am, I especially adore the clasps on these tiny, works of art.  It is an accessory that commands attention and transforms the one who delicately holds it into a lady of style.

So why I ask do brides skip purchasing this special, morsel of chic for their wedding ensemble? Some do as I've sold a few in the bridal boutique over the years, but I emphasize few and over the years. Brides today just don't see the need to carry anything but their bouquet on the wedding day and oh my that really is a shame.  Like any accessory a minaudiere will complete the look beautifully as does a hairpiece and jewelry. It doesn't have to be over the top bling. It doesn't have to be Judith Leiber couture.  Although no one does a minaudiere like Judith. I used my grandmother's beaded pearl, clutch (it wasn't small enough to call a minaudiere) which had sentimental as well as a retro vibe that added to my gown. So many brides love a pop of color today with the gown. Why not with a jewel toned minaudiere? Or keep it neutral with something like those pictured above?

If you've been watching the red carpets for any of the award shows so far this year, you'll see all the celebs with their designer gowns, jewels and minaudieres they introduce by name. I think the minaudieres need a bit more camera time so we can get a good look at those couture, darlings. The stylists feel the red carpet look is complete with such an accessory and I couldn't agree more.

I implore you to consider this tasteful, classic, lady like accessory for your wedding day. You will enjoy owning it not only for your wedding but for all the formal events you attend in the future red carpet or not! It will become an heirloom to be enjoyed one day by your grandchild.

As they say the best things come in small packages and I say the best package is the minaudiere.