A New York Guide To Kate Middleton’s Style
By Julie Parise, CBSNewYork.com
We’re just a week away from the marriage of Prince William to longtime on-again, off-again girlfriend Kate Middleton – and our royal envy here in the States is in full force.
Something else we’re envious of? The future princess’ wardrobe. Middleton gained her position as an international fashion icon long before she claimed the title of fiancée to Prince William – she’s appeared on various “best dressed” lists since 2006. Here in New York City, becoming a princess is a fairy tale most of us can only dream of – but a royal wardrobe can easily become a reality. CBSNewYork staked out NYC to find you the pieces you’ll need to dress like Kate Middleton.
The Engagement Dress
Hours after Prince William and bride-to-be Kate Middleton announced their royal engagement on Nov. 16, the shimmery, navy blue Issa dress Kate wore to the occasion had sold out both online and in stores – and the Internet has been buzzing about the frock ever since.
“Since the announcement of the royal engagement we have been inundated with requests regarding Issa,” British retailer Harvey Nichols’ buying director Averyl Oates told Vogue UK.
Retailers can’t seem to make enough knock-offs of the number, which matched Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring. For a short time, Target even offered a $26 version of the dress, but they sold out quickly and are no longer available.
So what are the princesses of New York City to do? Saks Fifth Avenue carries the Issa line, but not this particular piece (yet). It is reported that online retailer Net-A-Porter.com will receive more stock of the dress later this month – check it out here. To grab a look-a-like dress for less, try Macy’s. They carry a strikingly similar piece by Evan Picone – for $89!
www.net-a-porter.com/product/109781
www.macys.com
Simplicity In Alice Temperley
When dressing for a Christmas gala to support the Teenage Cancer Trust in Fakenham, England, Kate donned a dress from British designer Alice Temperley’s 2009 collection (yes — the future princess wore something from last season – and she looked stunning). The current Temperley line features looks similar to Kate’s black and white silk chiffon Titan dress, though Kate’s nearly $1400 frock is no longer available. A clerk at the now-closed Temperley SoHo storefront wouldn’t dish on whether Kate’s ensemble had any impact on their sales. While the Broome Street Temperley London boutique is no longer open, the British designer will be setting up shop in a new NYC location later this year. In the meantime, shop online to steal the look.
www.temperleylondon.com
The Official Engagement Photos
For her official engagement photo, Kate once again reached into her own wardrobe, donning a Riess dress from the England-based designer’s 2009 line. Due to high demand, Reiss re-released the previously discontinued Nanette dress as a part of their Spring 2011 collection. Check out the SoHo storefront, where you can snag the frock for just under $400, or try on the Kara dress, a slightly simpler version, for $107 — also available online.
www.riessonline.com
Two Wardrobe Staples
Kate has made the suede black high-heeled boots she’s wearing here, at England’s Royal Military Academy, a staple of her wardrobe – and if we only take one piece of fashion advice from this future princess, it would be to do the same. Knee-high boots can make even the simplest jeans-and-t-shirt combination look sophisticated. Better yet, the look won’t ever go out of style, making boots a smart investment for the Big Apple fashonista. Luckily for us New York City girls, it won’t be too difficult to snag a boot that fits your princess-inspired style perfectly. Check out the Jess boot from Bandolino (For New York locations, click here) or the Steve Madden ‘Fabulus’ Over The Knee Boot available at Steve Madden (multiple NYC locations) or Nordstrom.
Kate’s outerwear is another example of a piece worth investing in – you can’t go wrong when you have a long, tailored coat in your closet. For one similar to Kate’s, check out New York & Company’s Red Label Wool Coat in red or Michael Kor’s double-breasted peacoat in the same color, currently in stock at the line’s NYC storefront. You can also check out this Michael Kors double-breasted collared coat from Macy’s for a version of the coat that’s a tad bit longer.
The Jewelry
Looking for the earrings Kate wore in her official engagement photos? You better act fast. The Hope Egg Earrings are made by Links of London, and between the two locations here in NYC, there’s only one pair left. The Park Avenue location has been sold out of the baubles, which will set you back close to $500, since the engagement photos were made public. And while a representative from the store told CBSNewYork that they’re expecting more of the dangly diamond duds, they’re not sure when they’ll be coming in.
A representative at the Madison Avenue storefront said Kate’s jewelry choice has had a significant effect on sales. “[The earrings] weren’t flying off the shelves before,” the clerk told us. The closest store to have them in stock is actually in Massachusetts, but you can have them shipped to the Big Apple directly.
www.linksoflondon.com
Oh, was it the engagement ring she’s rocking that you were looking to replicate? Well, if you don’t have a prince in your life to offer you an oversized sapphire, you can buy the CZ version here for about $50...
www.jewelrypayless.com/Kate-Middleton-Princess-Diana-CZ-Diamond-Sapphire-Engagement-Ring-P106899.html
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Wedding Blog, Ideas, News for the Bride & Groom
Showing posts with label Fashion Blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fashion Blog. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Which Wedding Tiara or Headpiece Should You Choose?
Is a jeweled princess tiara right for you or some other headpiece? It depends on your personal taste, your bridal hairdo, your veil, and your gown. Choose the one that best complements your look and you will walk down the aisle in style.
Tiaras
A tiara is what most people envision when they think "headpiece." Traditionally, tiaras are worn in very formal weddings. The variety of styles available today, however, makes them an option with any hair style, dress or veil. Simple, low profile pieces work well with a veil. More elaborate princess or crown tiaras are stunning without a veil.
Hats
Bridal hats can add character to your wedding and dress. Sizes range from large, flower-adorned varieties to small, pillbox hats. Historically, birdcage veils were popular choices to wear with a wedding hat, but they also look stunning without a veil. Skullcaps are a different type of hat. They fit very close to the head and serve to secure the veil.
Headbands and V-Bands
The single headband is most common, but there are double and triple headbands as well. They can be decorated to match your shoes or bouquet, or can be subtler, depending on how much you want to showcase your wedding hair style. A headband works with all hair lengths, looks equally wonderful with an up do or flowing hair, and can serve as a veil attachment. If you want to draw attention to your face, consider a v-band, which is a type of headband worn across your forehead.
Rings and Wraps
There are several varieties of ring-shaped headpieces. Bun wraps are designed to wrap around a bun. Halos look nice sitting on top of short hair. Floral wreaths, which fit across the forehead, can complement an informal, outdoor wedding.
Combs
These versatile headpieces come in a variety of styles and sizes, and can complement any wedding or hair style. Wear them on the top, side, or back of your head to secure your hair or veil. Combs are often sewn to veils as an anchor.
Barrettes
Small combs and barrettes work well without a veil. These can be simple or flashy, and can be decorated with your choice of crystals, floral pieces, pearls, or rhinestones.
Other Hair Adornments
If you are a nontraditional, second, or older bride you may choose to go without a veil or headpiece. Besides barrettes and combs, there are a variety of other hair gems to choose from. Many stores sell bridal twists or pins made from pearls, beads, or crystals. You can even convert a necklace or other jewelry into hair jewelry. Most stylists are quite adept at weaving these into your hair style.
Whichever headpiece you are considering, ask the advice of your family and bridesmaids. They will help you choose the perfect headpiece - one that will look stunning on YOU!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, and tutorials. Read more about wedding veils (styles, lengths, colors, etc.), tiaras, and headpieces at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Tiaras
A tiara is what most people envision when they think "headpiece." Traditionally, tiaras are worn in very formal weddings. The variety of styles available today, however, makes them an option with any hair style, dress or veil. Simple, low profile pieces work well with a veil. More elaborate princess or crown tiaras are stunning without a veil.
Hats
Bridal hats can add character to your wedding and dress. Sizes range from large, flower-adorned varieties to small, pillbox hats. Historically, birdcage veils were popular choices to wear with a wedding hat, but they also look stunning without a veil. Skullcaps are a different type of hat. They fit very close to the head and serve to secure the veil.
Headbands and V-Bands
The single headband is most common, but there are double and triple headbands as well. They can be decorated to match your shoes or bouquet, or can be subtler, depending on how much you want to showcase your wedding hair style. A headband works with all hair lengths, looks equally wonderful with an up do or flowing hair, and can serve as a veil attachment. If you want to draw attention to your face, consider a v-band, which is a type of headband worn across your forehead.
Rings and Wraps
There are several varieties of ring-shaped headpieces. Bun wraps are designed to wrap around a bun. Halos look nice sitting on top of short hair. Floral wreaths, which fit across the forehead, can complement an informal, outdoor wedding.
Combs
These versatile headpieces come in a variety of styles and sizes, and can complement any wedding or hair style. Wear them on the top, side, or back of your head to secure your hair or veil. Combs are often sewn to veils as an anchor.
Barrettes
Small combs and barrettes work well without a veil. These can be simple or flashy, and can be decorated with your choice of crystals, floral pieces, pearls, or rhinestones.
Other Hair Adornments
If you are a nontraditional, second, or older bride you may choose to go without a veil or headpiece. Besides barrettes and combs, there are a variety of other hair gems to choose from. Many stores sell bridal twists or pins made from pearls, beads, or crystals. You can even convert a necklace or other jewelry into hair jewelry. Most stylists are quite adept at weaving these into your hair style.
Whichever headpiece you are considering, ask the advice of your family and bridesmaids. They will help you choose the perfect headpiece - one that will look stunning on YOU!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, and tutorials. Read more about wedding veils (styles, lengths, colors, etc.), tiaras, and headpieces at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Finding A Cheap Wedding Dress
Your dream is to walk down the aisle looking gorgeous wearing the perfect wedding dress. Whether it’s a long or short, formal or informal, it must be special. It must be YOU. And it must be CHEAP because you are on a tight budget.
Shopping for the perfect inexpensive dress is a time-consuming process. So start early, at least eight to 12 months ahead of time. Your dress will be on display during the ceremony and reception, set the tone for your wedding, and be immortalized by the photographer. It has to be cheap, but it has to look stunning. How do you buy the dress of your dreams when you’re on a budget? You will be amazed at the possibilities. Here are some suggestions:
1. Be prepared to compromise. You will no doubt fall in love with a gown far more expensive than you can afford. Take the opportunity to discover what features you love. What is it about the dress that makes you look wonderful in it? The high collar? Plunging back? The bell skirt? Note those features and look at cheaper dresses in similar designs.
2. Try on dresses with someone who knows you and your style and has a good eye for fashion. Her mission is to help you choose a style that showcases your best features while steering you away from the expensive gowns.
3. There are often outstanding bargains in regular bridal shops. Some stores in our city carry a selection for $100 or less. Always ask about discounted gowns when you are in a dress shop.
4. As popularity of destination weddings increases, so has the selection of cheap ivory and white dresses in department stores. Look in the dress sections of department stores like Dillards, Macy's, or Nordstrom for clearance or sale-priced dresses. Even full-price formals are cheaper than many wedding dresses.
5. Look in upscale consignment stores. The better shops carefully screen incoming dresses for tears, stains, and other signs of wear and have like new inventory. They also tend to carry more brand name dresses and gowns than less discriminating stores. Some cities even have bridal consignments. Check the online yellow pages for options near you (www.yellowpages.com).
6. Cheap wedding dresses in like-new condition are plentiful on eBay. There were over 5,000 bridal gowns listed as of this writing.
7. Free is wonderful relief on a budget. Make your wedding dress the "something borrowed" in your wedding and ask a friend or relative if you can wear hers. (There can be a lot of emotions attached to a dress, so consider carefully before asking to wear someone's dress. They may be flattered, or offended.)
8. There are several outlet chains that carry designer dresses at cheap prices. Find Bridal Mart, Cinderella Bridal, JC Penny Outlets and other bridal outlet locations through www.outletbound.com.
9. Samples are another source of cheap designer wedding dresses. With a bit of online research you can find original designer gowns 50% or more off retail. Search Google for "designer wedding gown samples" (without quotes), or something similar, and you will find many deeply discounted wedding dresses.
By researching and carefully choosing a cheap wedding dress, you can walk down the aisle in style without breaking the bank!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, and tutorials. Read more cheap wedding dress shopping tips at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/cheap-dress
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Shopping for the perfect inexpensive dress is a time-consuming process. So start early, at least eight to 12 months ahead of time. Your dress will be on display during the ceremony and reception, set the tone for your wedding, and be immortalized by the photographer. It has to be cheap, but it has to look stunning. How do you buy the dress of your dreams when you’re on a budget? You will be amazed at the possibilities. Here are some suggestions:
1. Be prepared to compromise. You will no doubt fall in love with a gown far more expensive than you can afford. Take the opportunity to discover what features you love. What is it about the dress that makes you look wonderful in it? The high collar? Plunging back? The bell skirt? Note those features and look at cheaper dresses in similar designs.
2. Try on dresses with someone who knows you and your style and has a good eye for fashion. Her mission is to help you choose a style that showcases your best features while steering you away from the expensive gowns.
3. There are often outstanding bargains in regular bridal shops. Some stores in our city carry a selection for $100 or less. Always ask about discounted gowns when you are in a dress shop.
4. As popularity of destination weddings increases, so has the selection of cheap ivory and white dresses in department stores. Look in the dress sections of department stores like Dillards, Macy's, or Nordstrom for clearance or sale-priced dresses. Even full-price formals are cheaper than many wedding dresses.
5. Look in upscale consignment stores. The better shops carefully screen incoming dresses for tears, stains, and other signs of wear and have like new inventory. They also tend to carry more brand name dresses and gowns than less discriminating stores. Some cities even have bridal consignments. Check the online yellow pages for options near you (www.yellowpages.com).
6. Cheap wedding dresses in like-new condition are plentiful on eBay. There were over 5,000 bridal gowns listed as of this writing.
7. Free is wonderful relief on a budget. Make your wedding dress the "something borrowed" in your wedding and ask a friend or relative if you can wear hers. (There can be a lot of emotions attached to a dress, so consider carefully before asking to wear someone's dress. They may be flattered, or offended.)
8. There are several outlet chains that carry designer dresses at cheap prices. Find Bridal Mart, Cinderella Bridal, JC Penny Outlets and other bridal outlet locations through www.outletbound.com.
9. Samples are another source of cheap designer wedding dresses. With a bit of online research you can find original designer gowns 50% or more off retail. Search Google for "designer wedding gown samples" (without quotes), or something similar, and you will find many deeply discounted wedding dresses.
By researching and carefully choosing a cheap wedding dress, you can walk down the aisle in style without breaking the bank!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, and tutorials. Read more cheap wedding dress shopping tips at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/cheap-dress
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Informal Wedding Ideas
Looking to stray away from the traditional wedding? Here are some fun ideas to make your wedding unique and comfortable.
How to Pull off a Jeans-Friendly Wedding
You and your fiancé have a story completely unique to the two of you – how you met, how you fell in love, and how you got engaged. How you get married should also be unique and not every couple is a 5-foot train down the aisle of a cathedral type of couple. If you’re the kind of couple that would like to see your guests wearing jeans and flip flops rather than chinos and loafers, then follow these tips for making your entire wedding a pro-jeans zone.
Have your bridal party wear jeans
Rather than have your bridesmaids wear a dress that they will simply hide in the back of their closet after the wedding, put them in dark skinny jeans with a brightly colored empire-waist mini dress and a pair of black flats. Not only will it set the tone for the rest of the guests, but you as the bride will stand out even more against their fresh and modern look. And how cute will your ring bearer look wearing a pair of dark jeans and Converse?
Don’t have a reception – have a gigantic party
Have your reception at a venue where beach volleyball, croquet, and bocce ball are strongly encouraged and a part of the fun! On the invitation make sure your guests know that your reception will be a full contact sport and they should dress accordingly. No one will wear a suit and tie when they know that the cuisine includes BBQ ribs and that the bride and groom will be initiating a boys vs. girls softball game.
Put the dress code on the wedding invitation
We’ve all received the wedding invitations that say “black tie encouraged” or “black tie required”. Play off the wording and write “board shorts encouraged” or “black tie forbidden.” A few of your guests might get confused and call you asking if it’s a typo, but this will provide you with a chance to spread the dress code word of mouth.
Provide a dress up box for those that want to feel fancy
Photo booths that utilize dress up boxes are all the rage, but why reserve the feather boas, mustaches, and bow ties for the photo booth? Make sure each table has fake pearls, plastic top hats, and tacky cummerbunds so that when the naysayers (like your cousin Janice) scoff at the lack of class that your jean clad bridesmaids exhibit, you can conga line past them – while wearing a sparkly purple top hat. Now that’s classy.
Personalize your wedding
The most important thing to remember is to plan a wedding that encapsulates your personality as a couple. While having a ceremony that is simultaneously planned down to the detail and casual might seem like a contradiction in terms, you and your fiancé get to write the story of your wedding. So be you! It’s your wedding…wear jeans if you want to.
About the author: Suzanne Townsend is a blogging Seattlile with a healthy obsession with denim. She loves helping her friends with wedding ideas that are unique to their couple personality.
How to Pull off a Jeans-Friendly Wedding
You and your fiancé have a story completely unique to the two of you – how you met, how you fell in love, and how you got engaged. How you get married should also be unique and not every couple is a 5-foot train down the aisle of a cathedral type of couple. If you’re the kind of couple that would like to see your guests wearing jeans and flip flops rather than chinos and loafers, then follow these tips for making your entire wedding a pro-jeans zone.
Have your bridal party wear jeans
Rather than have your bridesmaids wear a dress that they will simply hide in the back of their closet after the wedding, put them in dark skinny jeans with a brightly colored empire-waist mini dress and a pair of black flats. Not only will it set the tone for the rest of the guests, but you as the bride will stand out even more against their fresh and modern look. And how cute will your ring bearer look wearing a pair of dark jeans and Converse?
Don’t have a reception – have a gigantic party
Have your reception at a venue where beach volleyball, croquet, and bocce ball are strongly encouraged and a part of the fun! On the invitation make sure your guests know that your reception will be a full contact sport and they should dress accordingly. No one will wear a suit and tie when they know that the cuisine includes BBQ ribs and that the bride and groom will be initiating a boys vs. girls softball game.
Put the dress code on the wedding invitation
We’ve all received the wedding invitations that say “black tie encouraged” or “black tie required”. Play off the wording and write “board shorts encouraged” or “black tie forbidden.” A few of your guests might get confused and call you asking if it’s a typo, but this will provide you with a chance to spread the dress code word of mouth.
Provide a dress up box for those that want to feel fancy
Photo booths that utilize dress up boxes are all the rage, but why reserve the feather boas, mustaches, and bow ties for the photo booth? Make sure each table has fake pearls, plastic top hats, and tacky cummerbunds so that when the naysayers (like your cousin Janice) scoff at the lack of class that your jean clad bridesmaids exhibit, you can conga line past them – while wearing a sparkly purple top hat. Now that’s classy.
Personalize your wedding
The most important thing to remember is to plan a wedding that encapsulates your personality as a couple. While having a ceremony that is simultaneously planned down to the detail and casual might seem like a contradiction in terms, you and your fiancé get to write the story of your wedding. So be you! It’s your wedding…wear jeans if you want to.
About the author: Suzanne Townsend is a blogging Seattlile with a healthy obsession with denim. She loves helping her friends with wedding ideas that are unique to their couple personality.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Wedding Dress Trends – Top Styles For The Modern Bride
Reflecting the overall trend of breaking away from tradition and steadfast rules, modern brides are choosing wedding gowns that reflect their personality and vision, not necessarily their grandmother's. The only rule for wedding dress style these days is to choose one that suits you. Whether that means wearing a gold wedding dress, trouser suit or sundress, go with it! And even if you are more traditional and have always envisioned yourself as the fairy princess in the white satin ball gown, you needn't worry about being perceived as old fashioned or "not with the times." The modern "rule" for wedding dress style is to choose something that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful on your day.
That said, although certain traditional dress styles are always popular, bridal fashion does follow mainstream fashion to some extent. If you are looking for something a little more contemporary or "now," consider turning to the catwalks for inspiration.
The currently popular 20s-and floral-style dresses can be easily incorporated into a wedding dress. Accessories, such as chandelier earrings, can also transfer from the catwalks to comprise your wedding look. Try to avoid fashion that will date quickly, however, as you will want to display your wedding photographs for a long time. As a general rule, keep your wedding ensemble fashionably forward, not overly trendy.
Today's Hot Wedding Dress Trends
Add Some Color
Using a wedding dress to bring out a colorful personality, modern brides are not afraid to add a splash of color to the traditional white gown. Whether that means adding a colored ribbon or piece of jewelry or foregoing the white wedding dress all together, today's brides find inventive ways to incorporate color into their wedding attire. Particularly popular shades are blue, pink, cappuccino and champagne.
Lace Up
Lace has made a recent comeback, exuding a look vintage romance that is feminine, yet not overdone. Many brides are enchanted by lace, envisioning a majestic day in a lush green garden.
Magnificent Embroidery
For an ultra elegant, opulent feel, glamour girls savor wedding gowns adorned with intricate hand-embroidered details. This look warrants grand chandeliers, candlelight and an isle of red roses.
Ultra-Feminine
As seen on the runway, feminine details are making a big impact. Ribbons, ruffles, flowers and bows are finding their way back onto wedding dresses and taking femininity to a new level. Brides who envision themselves floating along the cobblestones of a historic mansion will love this look.
For more advice on planning your wedding day look, visit the complete wedding dress, attire and accessories guide at Elegala.com - Elegant Galas Made Simple.
Gala Weddings Magazine
Cori Russell, Editor
500 Carol Way NW, Atlanta, GA 30327
P 678.705.9407; F 603.610.0532
Offices in Portsmouth, NH and San Francisco, CA
Gala Weddings Magazine guides brides through the first months of engagement with a regional directory of the best venues and vendors in New England, along with planning articles and tools to help brides get started.
Submitted by Cori Russell, www.elegala.com
Monday, December 27, 2010
Your Dream Dress… Affordably
For many brides, the entire bridal experience boils down to one thing: The bridal gown. People may forget about the food poisoning at the reception, the candles that almost set the church on fire and even Aunt Gertrude’s adventures at the open bar, but everyone remembers how a bride looked when she walked down the aisle. It’s a classic first impression. Unfortunately, in today’s economy, it’s an impression that’s becoming harder to make.
One affordable option is wedding dress rental. Granted, it’s an unconventional idea that may seem a bit shocking at first, but in reality wedding gown rental is the ideal way to achieve a million dollar look for a fraction of the cost. Think of it as the bride’s version of a tux rental. Wedding gown rental shops are specialty stores that make their money by offering repetitive high quality. Therefore, when you rent, you are only paying a small portion of the cost of the items. So that $3,000 gown that you had your eye on may only cost a few hundred dollars to rent.
Most bridal rental stores are very accommodating. Many don’t mind ordering a brand new dress for a client because the owners know that they will recoup the purchase price on future rentals. Also, if, after you wear the gown, you find that you can’t bear to give it back, most stores will put your rental payment towards the purchase price.
If you do consider renting, be wary of the less than reputable shops. These stores aren’t as concerned about the cleanliness of their products and they may try to force brides into purchasing a dress simply because alterations were required. Respectable rental shops know how to clean their gowns so that each one looks brand new regardless of how many times it has been rented. These businesses will also contract with a seamstress who is skilled at making temporary but flawless alterations that can be reversed for future clients. Additionally, most rental retailers are full-service shops. Many offer petticoats, tiaras, veils and all manner of accessories to complete your wedding ensemble.
Remember, it’s a wedding dress not a financial funeral dress. With a little unconventional ingenuity you can make a beautiful first impression the right way!
Submitted by D. Middlebrooks-Bernal, Budget and the Bride, www.budgetandthebride.com
One affordable option is wedding dress rental. Granted, it’s an unconventional idea that may seem a bit shocking at first, but in reality wedding gown rental is the ideal way to achieve a million dollar look for a fraction of the cost. Think of it as the bride’s version of a tux rental. Wedding gown rental shops are specialty stores that make their money by offering repetitive high quality. Therefore, when you rent, you are only paying a small portion of the cost of the items. So that $3,000 gown that you had your eye on may only cost a few hundred dollars to rent.
Most bridal rental stores are very accommodating. Many don’t mind ordering a brand new dress for a client because the owners know that they will recoup the purchase price on future rentals. Also, if, after you wear the gown, you find that you can’t bear to give it back, most stores will put your rental payment towards the purchase price.
If you do consider renting, be wary of the less than reputable shops. These stores aren’t as concerned about the cleanliness of their products and they may try to force brides into purchasing a dress simply because alterations were required. Respectable rental shops know how to clean their gowns so that each one looks brand new regardless of how many times it has been rented. These businesses will also contract with a seamstress who is skilled at making temporary but flawless alterations that can be reversed for future clients. Additionally, most rental retailers are full-service shops. Many offer petticoats, tiaras, veils and all manner of accessories to complete your wedding ensemble.
Remember, it’s a wedding dress not a financial funeral dress. With a little unconventional ingenuity you can make a beautiful first impression the right way!
Submitted by D. Middlebrooks-Bernal, Budget and the Bride, www.budgetandthebride.com
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Couture Bridal Look On A Budget
The rumors are true… you don’t have to spend a fortune on a wedding gown to look like you did!
The details that make couture style so expensive can be recreated on a simple, inexpensive gown. For instance, some of the trends right now are draped fabric, ruching, sashes, broaches, and unique accessories.
You can start with a simple, strapless satin dress with little or no embellishment. (Search online for “simple wedding gown” or “informal wedding dress.”) Add a wide satin sash in a fabulous color, tied either in a bow or square knot, and place a broach in the middle of it. Why not dye your favorite heels to match the sash color? Top it off with a matching satin bolero jacket for a little coverage in case the air is chilly at your reception.
If your wedding is going to be held in an informal location such as a beach or garden, consider a dress in a lightweight, flowy fabric such as chiffon. Complete your look with a satin ribbon around the waist in a beachy color like turquoise or coral, and adorn your feet with footless sandals (or foot jewelry) made with pearls or crystal beads. A long veil is always beautiful blowing in the sea breeze. Imagine those gorgeous pictures!
Another idea for an unembellished dress is to keep the focus on your accessories. A sassy birdcage veil (think Reece Witherspoon in Sweet Home Alabama!) and vintage chandelier earrings give a sophisticated, elegant look to any simple gown.
Remember, your wedding is all about your individual style. So get creative, look for accessories that show off who you are, and make it your own!
Submitted by Shanell Bledsoe, www.bledsoephoto.com
The details that make couture style so expensive can be recreated on a simple, inexpensive gown. For instance, some of the trends right now are draped fabric, ruching, sashes, broaches, and unique accessories.
You can start with a simple, strapless satin dress with little or no embellishment. (Search online for “simple wedding gown” or “informal wedding dress.”) Add a wide satin sash in a fabulous color, tied either in a bow or square knot, and place a broach in the middle of it. Why not dye your favorite heels to match the sash color? Top it off with a matching satin bolero jacket for a little coverage in case the air is chilly at your reception.
If your wedding is going to be held in an informal location such as a beach or garden, consider a dress in a lightweight, flowy fabric such as chiffon. Complete your look with a satin ribbon around the waist in a beachy color like turquoise or coral, and adorn your feet with footless sandals (or foot jewelry) made with pearls or crystal beads. A long veil is always beautiful blowing in the sea breeze. Imagine those gorgeous pictures!
Another idea for an unembellished dress is to keep the focus on your accessories. A sassy birdcage veil (think Reece Witherspoon in Sweet Home Alabama!) and vintage chandelier earrings give a sophisticated, elegant look to any simple gown.
Remember, your wedding is all about your individual style. So get creative, look for accessories that show off who you are, and make it your own!
Submitted by Shanell Bledsoe, www.bledsoephoto.com
Wedding Dress Savings – How to Dress to Impress, For Less
Your wedding gown - arguably the most important garment purchase in your lifetime. No other dress comes with more anticipation – and will be more photographed - than this one. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend like royalty to look like a princess on your wedding day. With these smart strategies, you can still walk down the aisle feeling like a million bucks (without having to spend just that).
Something Borrowed
Today, anything retro screams chic. So consider donning your mother’s wedding gown. You’ll not only honor a family legacy, you’ll save a pretty penny too! With vintage lace overlays and crystal embellishments making a comeback, you won’t have to worry about looking dated. With a few simple (and inexpensive) alterations, you can make it your own.
Avoid Added Adornments
Beading, pleating, stitching, embroidering…all of these trimmings add up and are going to cost you extra. Consider a dress that is simply embellished, yet still elegant.
Shop Savvy
Be on the lookout for sample sales, trunk shows, and outlet bargains. Bridal shops are trying to rid their racks of the previous season’s styles to make room for new ones in the late-summer/winter months. Get ready to brave the crowds for super savings.
Don't Name Drop
Sure, designer duds are nice – but if you’re on a budget – you may want to skip the sought-after label. The good news is that you won’t have to sacrifice on style. If you find a look you like from a high-end dress designer, you can almost always find something similar by another name in your price range.
Be Honest
Just because your wedding dress budget doesn’t match your elaborate vision doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the look you want. Approach this shopping decision with an open mind. When stepping into a bridal boutique, tell them exactly what you can realistically spend, and let them take care of the rest. They are the experts, and you might be surprised to see what they can come up with—the perfect wedding gown exists at every price point.
Think Outside Traditional Tulle and Lace
There’s no written rule that says your wedding day attire has to be an official bridal gown. The look you are going for is often available through another avenue. For instance, many bridesmaids’ dresses come in white or ivory, offering a less expensive, less fussy alternative to the traditional wedding dress.
Get started finding the perfect wedding dress
Now that you’re prepped with some money saving tips, it’s time to start browsing. Look no further than our interactive Wedding Dress search. Here you can search thousands of wedding gowns by price, designer, fabric, silhouette, hemline, sleeve style - you name it.
Cori Russell is Editorial Director for Elegala.com and Wedding Advice from Industry Insiders blog and Editor for Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering a comprehensive national directory of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning articles, photo galleries, expert advice and checklists to keep brides current on today's wedding trends and styles.
Submitted by Cori Russell, www.elegala.com
Something Borrowed
Today, anything retro screams chic. So consider donning your mother’s wedding gown. You’ll not only honor a family legacy, you’ll save a pretty penny too! With vintage lace overlays and crystal embellishments making a comeback, you won’t have to worry about looking dated. With a few simple (and inexpensive) alterations, you can make it your own.
Avoid Added Adornments
Beading, pleating, stitching, embroidering…all of these trimmings add up and are going to cost you extra. Consider a dress that is simply embellished, yet still elegant.
Shop Savvy
Be on the lookout for sample sales, trunk shows, and outlet bargains. Bridal shops are trying to rid their racks of the previous season’s styles to make room for new ones in the late-summer/winter months. Get ready to brave the crowds for super savings.
Don't Name Drop
Sure, designer duds are nice – but if you’re on a budget – you may want to skip the sought-after label. The good news is that you won’t have to sacrifice on style. If you find a look you like from a high-end dress designer, you can almost always find something similar by another name in your price range.
Be Honest
Just because your wedding dress budget doesn’t match your elaborate vision doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the look you want. Approach this shopping decision with an open mind. When stepping into a bridal boutique, tell them exactly what you can realistically spend, and let them take care of the rest. They are the experts, and you might be surprised to see what they can come up with—the perfect wedding gown exists at every price point.
Think Outside Traditional Tulle and Lace
There’s no written rule that says your wedding day attire has to be an official bridal gown. The look you are going for is often available through another avenue. For instance, many bridesmaids’ dresses come in white or ivory, offering a less expensive, less fussy alternative to the traditional wedding dress.
Get started finding the perfect wedding dress
Now that you’re prepped with some money saving tips, it’s time to start browsing. Look no further than our interactive Wedding Dress search. Here you can search thousands of wedding gowns by price, designer, fabric, silhouette, hemline, sleeve style - you name it.
Cori Russell is Editorial Director for Elegala.com and Wedding Advice from Industry Insiders blog and Editor for Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala is a new wedding planning resource offering a comprehensive national directory of superior wedding reception sites and wedding services, along with planning articles, photo galleries, expert advice and checklists to keep brides current on today's wedding trends and styles.
Submitted by Cori Russell, www.elegala.com
Saturday, December 18, 2010
How To Wear A Bridal Tiara
As you begin choosing a favorite wedding gown style, you will notice a selection of tiaras in most bridal shops. They sparkle, shine, and practically cry out to be modeled. Most brides-to-be cannot resist trying on at least a few of them. Before you make a final choice, however, first understand a few things about the best way to wear a wedding-day tiara.
Tiaras Come in Different Styles
Say the word "tiara" and most of us think of the stereotypical princess tiara -- rhinestones or crystals set in silver or white gold, gaily twinkling to a filigreed, front-and-center point. In reality, there are many variations. Pearl tiaras, with many designs of mixed pearls and crystals, are available. And they are not all set in silver. You can buy yellow gold or gold-plated tiaras, too.
The tiara's shape can vary as well. You can choose a headband style to hug your hair -- with one, two, or three bands -- or an inverted v-band to sit on your forehead. There are also crown-like designs that are a more uniform width than the classical princess styles (and may require a wider hairstyle than peaked versions).
Combs and Bands
Tiara construction can also vary. These different constructions dictate how you secure the tiara to your head. Some tiaras have small combs attached on each side, near the end of the bands, to more easily secure the tiara from the sides. Others -- called comb tiaras -- are mounted on a larger, single comb, so you can slip the comb backward into your hair from the front. Still others are made with loops at the end, or plain bands so you can use your hair or hairpins to hold the tiara in place. Take into account your hairstyle and which type of design will be easier to hold in place when choosing your tiara.
A Princess, Beauty Queen, or Bride? It's About Emphasis.
Princesses and beauty queens wear their tiaras on display, predominantly as a status symbol. It is all about what (not who) they are. A wedding, on the other hand, is about the bride herself, not the status of being a Missus. For that reason, a bride's tiara is given a different emphasis than that of a princess or beauty queens. A bridal tiara accents the bride's ensemble. If you compare Princess Diana of Wales' wedding photos to official photos of her wearing the Spencer Family Tiara, for example, you can see the difference between Princess Diana and bride Diana (for photos, go to images.google.com and type in Diana Spencer Tiara). On her wedding day, the tiara was worn as an accessory, surrounded by the tremendous veil. When worn in an official capacity as a symbol of her status, the tiara was much more obvious.
Aside from surrounding a tiara with a veil, the way you wear the headpiece can also make the difference between accent piece and centerpiece. Balanced atop one's head, the tiara is a showpiece, drawing attention to itself. Integrated into the hairdo, it becomes part of the ensemble. You can wrap the tiara around your bun or a mass of curls. Or, tilt it backwards at an angle -- so it does not sit straight up -- and hide the ends beneath your hair. Puff your veil or hair behind a large tiara to de-emphasize it.
Your Hairstyle Matters
Which size and type of tiara works best for you partially depends on your hairstyle. Large hair can carry a large tiara. Small hair means a smaller scale tiara. Consider the front profile. If you wear your hair in a bun, for example, your tiara may be more conspicuous set against the bun or wrapped around it, but your hair will be more conspicuous as well, balancing out the effect. The same tiara that works with the bun may be too tall for a smaller profile hairstyle. If you plan to choose an inexpensive tiara, consider buying two or more and experiment until you find the best look.
However you choose to wear your bridal tiara, consult others throughout the process. Ask your hair stylist and those who know you, but will be honest with you about their opinions. Do this and you will find a tiara the looks fabulous and reflects your personality.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding tiaras at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/tiaras
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Tiaras Come in Different Styles
Say the word "tiara" and most of us think of the stereotypical princess tiara -- rhinestones or crystals set in silver or white gold, gaily twinkling to a filigreed, front-and-center point. In reality, there are many variations. Pearl tiaras, with many designs of mixed pearls and crystals, are available. And they are not all set in silver. You can buy yellow gold or gold-plated tiaras, too.
The tiara's shape can vary as well. You can choose a headband style to hug your hair -- with one, two, or three bands -- or an inverted v-band to sit on your forehead. There are also crown-like designs that are a more uniform width than the classical princess styles (and may require a wider hairstyle than peaked versions).
Combs and Bands
Tiara construction can also vary. These different constructions dictate how you secure the tiara to your head. Some tiaras have small combs attached on each side, near the end of the bands, to more easily secure the tiara from the sides. Others -- called comb tiaras -- are mounted on a larger, single comb, so you can slip the comb backward into your hair from the front. Still others are made with loops at the end, or plain bands so you can use your hair or hairpins to hold the tiara in place. Take into account your hairstyle and which type of design will be easier to hold in place when choosing your tiara.
A Princess, Beauty Queen, or Bride? It's About Emphasis.
Princesses and beauty queens wear their tiaras on display, predominantly as a status symbol. It is all about what (not who) they are. A wedding, on the other hand, is about the bride herself, not the status of being a Missus. For that reason, a bride's tiara is given a different emphasis than that of a princess or beauty queens. A bridal tiara accents the bride's ensemble. If you compare Princess Diana of Wales' wedding photos to official photos of her wearing the Spencer Family Tiara, for example, you can see the difference between Princess Diana and bride Diana (for photos, go to images.google.com and type in Diana Spencer Tiara). On her wedding day, the tiara was worn as an accessory, surrounded by the tremendous veil. When worn in an official capacity as a symbol of her status, the tiara was much more obvious.
Aside from surrounding a tiara with a veil, the way you wear the headpiece can also make the difference between accent piece and centerpiece. Balanced atop one's head, the tiara is a showpiece, drawing attention to itself. Integrated into the hairdo, it becomes part of the ensemble. You can wrap the tiara around your bun or a mass of curls. Or, tilt it backwards at an angle -- so it does not sit straight up -- and hide the ends beneath your hair. Puff your veil or hair behind a large tiara to de-emphasize it.
Your Hairstyle Matters
Which size and type of tiara works best for you partially depends on your hairstyle. Large hair can carry a large tiara. Small hair means a smaller scale tiara. Consider the front profile. If you wear your hair in a bun, for example, your tiara may be more conspicuous set against the bun or wrapped around it, but your hair will be more conspicuous as well, balancing out the effect. The same tiara that works with the bun may be too tall for a smaller profile hairstyle. If you plan to choose an inexpensive tiara, consider buying two or more and experiment until you find the best look.
However you choose to wear your bridal tiara, consult others throughout the process. Ask your hair stylist and those who know you, but will be honest with you about their opinions. Do this and you will find a tiara the looks fabulous and reflects your personality.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding tiaras at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/tiaras
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Friday, December 17, 2010
How To Make A Birdcage Veil
Birdcage veils -- sometimes called net or face veils -- have recently become more popular, partially due to movie and celebrity brides wearing them. Most recently, in 2007, Katherine Heigl wore one in her real-life wedding and Jessica Alba's character wore a birdcage veil in the movie Fantastic Four 2: Rise of the Silver Surfer. While it's possible to buy birdcage veils, brides on a budget may prefer to make their own.
This veil is very short -- usually just long enough to frame the face but can also be eye-length -- and typically worn alone, without additional tiers or a separate blusher. You may choose to attach a traditional veil in the back, to a bun or mass of curls. The birdcage is made of coarse-weave French or Russian-style netting rather than typical fine-mesh veil fabrics. Historically, the veil was attached to a hat. The modern bride, however, often prefers to wear her birdcage veil without a hat. Today, most brides attach this short, circular veil directly to their hair with a pin or comb, so that it hangs down around the head. The front serves as a blusher over her face.
Making a Birdcage Veil
Because of the short length and because netting is stiffer than tulle, creating the effect you want when making a birdcage veil can be trickier than when making a regular veil. For this reason, purchase extra netting and plan to make one or two trial runs before the veil is perfect. Also note that the width of the netting will be the length of your veil (from the point where you attach it to your head to the where the veil falls in front of your face).
Materials You Will Need:
- Up to three yards of Russian or French netting.
- Two or more hair clips (the kind used to secure hair extensions to short hair are most stable).
- Sturdy thread the color of the netting (button thread works well).
- Scissors
Step 1: Cut 36" of 9" French / Russian netting
You can make a relatively full birdcage veil, with many gathers, from a yard of netting. These instructions are for making a relatively full, gathered veil similar to Jessica Alba's in Rise of the Silver Surfer. Cut the netting shorter for a veil that lays closer to your head, with fewer gathers. If in doubt, cut the piece long at first. Then shorten it if you find that the veil is too full.
The short, cut ends will be the sides of your veil and the long, finished edges will be the front and back. These instructions explain how to gather the sides and attach them to clips as well as gather the back more loosely than the sides.
Step 2. Sew on two clips, one at each end of the long (finished) edge of veiling.
The clips will go at the front corners of the veil, with the teeth facing the finished edge. The outside, short side of each clip should be parallel to a raw, cut edge. Position them so that, when worn, the clips' metal bars will face outward, but remain under the veiling. The clips should curve against your head when closed.
Step 3. Gather the cut sides of the veil and sew them to the clips.
Using a slipknot, attach thread at the corner of a cut edge opposite a clip. Weave the thread in and out of the diamond patterns along the cut edge between the attached end and the clip then thread it through the hole in the clip.
Pull the thread tight so the entire cut edge is gathered against the clip. Secure to the underside of the clip (the non-bar side, which will be against your head) so the thread will be hidden when you are wearing the veil. You may want to tidy up by clipping off the frayed pieces of netting. One entire side should now be gathered and sewn to a clip.
Repeat on the second side, gathering and sewing the raw edge against the clip.
Step 4. Make the back gathers.
Attach doubled or heavy button thread to the inside edge of a clip. Weave the thread in and out between the diamonds or holes in the netting. Do not secure the thread to the second clip yet. The length of the thread determines how full the gathers and how closely the veil hugs your head. You will want to adjust the length of the thread so the veil looks perfect on you.
Step 5. Experiment with different veil widths.
Looking in a mirror, adjust the thread length between clips. When you are happy with your veil's width and fullness of the gathers, secure the thread by looping it through the inside holes of the second clip and tying it off. With 8" - 9" netting, you will need to attach the veil near the top of your head for it to hit just below the nose. Attach it farther back for a shorter look.
Leave time to practice attaching the veil exactly as you want it, and you will look like a star on your wedding day!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. For instructions, with pictures, on how to make a birdcage veil visit the website at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/make-birdcage-veil.htm
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
This veil is very short -- usually just long enough to frame the face but can also be eye-length -- and typically worn alone, without additional tiers or a separate blusher. You may choose to attach a traditional veil in the back, to a bun or mass of curls. The birdcage is made of coarse-weave French or Russian-style netting rather than typical fine-mesh veil fabrics. Historically, the veil was attached to a hat. The modern bride, however, often prefers to wear her birdcage veil without a hat. Today, most brides attach this short, circular veil directly to their hair with a pin or comb, so that it hangs down around the head. The front serves as a blusher over her face.
Making a Birdcage Veil
Because of the short length and because netting is stiffer than tulle, creating the effect you want when making a birdcage veil can be trickier than when making a regular veil. For this reason, purchase extra netting and plan to make one or two trial runs before the veil is perfect. Also note that the width of the netting will be the length of your veil (from the point where you attach it to your head to the where the veil falls in front of your face).
Materials You Will Need:
- Up to three yards of Russian or French netting.
- Two or more hair clips (the kind used to secure hair extensions to short hair are most stable).
- Sturdy thread the color of the netting (button thread works well).
- Scissors
Step 1: Cut 36" of 9" French / Russian netting
You can make a relatively full birdcage veil, with many gathers, from a yard of netting. These instructions are for making a relatively full, gathered veil similar to Jessica Alba's in Rise of the Silver Surfer. Cut the netting shorter for a veil that lays closer to your head, with fewer gathers. If in doubt, cut the piece long at first. Then shorten it if you find that the veil is too full.
The short, cut ends will be the sides of your veil and the long, finished edges will be the front and back. These instructions explain how to gather the sides and attach them to clips as well as gather the back more loosely than the sides.
Step 2. Sew on two clips, one at each end of the long (finished) edge of veiling.
The clips will go at the front corners of the veil, with the teeth facing the finished edge. The outside, short side of each clip should be parallel to a raw, cut edge. Position them so that, when worn, the clips' metal bars will face outward, but remain under the veiling. The clips should curve against your head when closed.
Step 3. Gather the cut sides of the veil and sew them to the clips.
Using a slipknot, attach thread at the corner of a cut edge opposite a clip. Weave the thread in and out of the diamond patterns along the cut edge between the attached end and the clip then thread it through the hole in the clip.
Pull the thread tight so the entire cut edge is gathered against the clip. Secure to the underside of the clip (the non-bar side, which will be against your head) so the thread will be hidden when you are wearing the veil. You may want to tidy up by clipping off the frayed pieces of netting. One entire side should now be gathered and sewn to a clip.
Repeat on the second side, gathering and sewing the raw edge against the clip.
Step 4. Make the back gathers.
Attach doubled or heavy button thread to the inside edge of a clip. Weave the thread in and out between the diamonds or holes in the netting. Do not secure the thread to the second clip yet. The length of the thread determines how full the gathers and how closely the veil hugs your head. You will want to adjust the length of the thread so the veil looks perfect on you.
Step 5. Experiment with different veil widths.
Looking in a mirror, adjust the thread length between clips. When you are happy with your veil's width and fullness of the gathers, secure the thread by looping it through the inside holes of the second clip and tying it off. With 8" - 9" netting, you will need to attach the veil near the top of your head for it to hit just below the nose. Attach it farther back for a shorter look.
Leave time to practice attaching the veil exactly as you want it, and you will look like a star on your wedding day!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. For instructions, with pictures, on how to make a birdcage veil visit the website at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/make-birdcage-veil.htm
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Discount Wedding Shoes Do Not Have To Be Cheaply Made
Wedding expenses are looming, precariously overflowing the budget: deposits, food costs, the dress, jewelry -- the list goes on and on. And those bridal shop shoes cost HOW MUCH? You must walk a fine line when saving on your bridal shoes. You will, after all, be in them for at least most of a day, so they should be comfortable. This means quality materials and construction, which cost. Fortunately, there are ways you can save on these more expensive shoes. Give yourself enough time, and you will find the perfect pair of wedding shoes at a discounted price.
First consider what type of shoes you want. Ones made specifically as wedding wear? Dress or other shoes not necessarily made to be worn as wedding shoes, but will meet your needs? Or do you plan to buy plain shoes to adorn with bows or other decoration? The answers dictate what type of sales and discounts to monitor. If you are set on a pair of "real" bridal shoes, then you'll be searching specifically for wedding shoes. If not, you can widen your search to non-bridal sources.
The Definition of Cheap
You are not likely to find rock bottom $5 pricing on quality-made shoes, but you can find great values. When considering how much you can pay for your bridal shoes, think about how many times you can wear them. If you purchase dyeables, for example, have them dyed black or other dark color and they become evening shoes, to be worn over and over. Paying more for a pair like this can be a better value than paying less for a pair you can never wear again.
If having the superior construction and attention to detail of designers like Vera Wang, Stuart Weitzman, Cynthia Rowley and Filippa Scott is important to you, then "cheap" may mean saving $100 to $200 on a very expensive pair. Understand, too, that the more specific you are about your shoes, the longer it will take to find a good deal on them.
Seasonal Shopping
If yours is a beach, destination, or informal wedding -- or if you are looking for dress shoes -- plan around the seasonal clearance sales. Shoes for a particular season hit the market just before that season. By mid-season, clearance sales begin in order to make room for the next season's new designs. This can mean shopping a year ahead. If you have a June wedding, for example, begin looking for clearances the previous June or July.
Locally Discounted Bridal Shoes
Department stores and bridal shops occasionally run shoe clearances and sales, where you may find cheap shoes you like. To find the best deals, sign up for mailing lists and closely watch local advertisements. You can find weekly circulars online at retailers' Websites or visit ShopLocal to see all of the major retailers' sales in your area.
Discounted Wedding Shoes Online
The best opportunities for finding inexpensive or discounted shoes are online. The selection is much wider than in stores, and you will be able to more easily find your size (especially if your foot is wider, narrower, smaller, or larger than average). Most allow you to sort items by price, so you can easily peruse the lower-priced selections. Many of these retailers offer periodic coupon codes, free shipping, or other discounts. Search online for coupons before purchasing at a particular store and you can save more.
Auction Sites
You can usually find many styles of new and used shoes at a fraction of retail price at auction sites (eBay is the most popular). Some brands are readily available. Others are sparse. If you do not find what you are looking for right away, set up notifications that will monitor auctions and email you when relevant new auctions begin.
Online Classifieds
You can find individuals selling lightly worn shoes on classifieds sites. Craigslist is the most established -- recently reporting 40 million monthly users. Find your local Craigslist and post an "item wanted" classified describing what kind of shoes you want to buy. Also, there are always several brides selling their wedding shoes on Craigslist. (Hint: to search all Craigslists at once, go to Google and type in "site:craigslist.org wedding shoes" for a full list of classifieds from all areas. Replace "wedding shoes" with something more descriptive for a shorter list.) As with auction sites, you may have to monitor for a time before finding the right pair.
However you look for inexpensive quality bridal shoes, you will have more success if you use multiple methods at once. You can walk down the aisle for pennies on the dollar and no one will ever know!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about finding discount wedding shoes at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/shop/discount-shoes.htm
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
First consider what type of shoes you want. Ones made specifically as wedding wear? Dress or other shoes not necessarily made to be worn as wedding shoes, but will meet your needs? Or do you plan to buy plain shoes to adorn with bows or other decoration? The answers dictate what type of sales and discounts to monitor. If you are set on a pair of "real" bridal shoes, then you'll be searching specifically for wedding shoes. If not, you can widen your search to non-bridal sources.
The Definition of Cheap
You are not likely to find rock bottom $5 pricing on quality-made shoes, but you can find great values. When considering how much you can pay for your bridal shoes, think about how many times you can wear them. If you purchase dyeables, for example, have them dyed black or other dark color and they become evening shoes, to be worn over and over. Paying more for a pair like this can be a better value than paying less for a pair you can never wear again.
If having the superior construction and attention to detail of designers like Vera Wang, Stuart Weitzman, Cynthia Rowley and Filippa Scott is important to you, then "cheap" may mean saving $100 to $200 on a very expensive pair. Understand, too, that the more specific you are about your shoes, the longer it will take to find a good deal on them.
Seasonal Shopping
If yours is a beach, destination, or informal wedding -- or if you are looking for dress shoes -- plan around the seasonal clearance sales. Shoes for a particular season hit the market just before that season. By mid-season, clearance sales begin in order to make room for the next season's new designs. This can mean shopping a year ahead. If you have a June wedding, for example, begin looking for clearances the previous June or July.
Locally Discounted Bridal Shoes
Department stores and bridal shops occasionally run shoe clearances and sales, where you may find cheap shoes you like. To find the best deals, sign up for mailing lists and closely watch local advertisements. You can find weekly circulars online at retailers' Websites or visit ShopLocal to see all of the major retailers' sales in your area.
Discounted Wedding Shoes Online
The best opportunities for finding inexpensive or discounted shoes are online. The selection is much wider than in stores, and you will be able to more easily find your size (especially if your foot is wider, narrower, smaller, or larger than average). Most allow you to sort items by price, so you can easily peruse the lower-priced selections. Many of these retailers offer periodic coupon codes, free shipping, or other discounts. Search online for coupons before purchasing at a particular store and you can save more.
Auction Sites
You can usually find many styles of new and used shoes at a fraction of retail price at auction sites (eBay is the most popular). Some brands are readily available. Others are sparse. If you do not find what you are looking for right away, set up notifications that will monitor auctions and email you when relevant new auctions begin.
Online Classifieds
You can find individuals selling lightly worn shoes on classifieds sites. Craigslist is the most established -- recently reporting 40 million monthly users. Find your local Craigslist and post an "item wanted" classified describing what kind of shoes you want to buy. Also, there are always several brides selling their wedding shoes on Craigslist. (Hint: to search all Craigslists at once, go to Google and type in "site:craigslist.org wedding shoes" for a full list of classifieds from all areas. Replace "wedding shoes" with something more descriptive for a shorter list.) As with auction sites, you may have to monitor for a time before finding the right pair.
However you look for inexpensive quality bridal shoes, you will have more success if you use multiple methods at once. You can walk down the aisle for pennies on the dollar and no one will ever know!
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about finding discount wedding shoes at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/shop/discount-shoes.htm
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Mantilla, Lace and Scallop Veils
To a certain extent lace, scalloped edge, and mantilla veils all describe similar types of veils: elegant-looking veils that incorporate lace designs and decorative edges. If you are a bride interested in this type of veil, you will probably want to explore all three styles.
Lace Veils
Delicate, lace veils are the ultimate in femininity and range from all-over to edge-only lace designs. The lace itself can be Blonda, Chantilly, or lace-embroidered tulle. The first two are found primarily on vintage or extremely high-quality veils. Today's bride most commonly wears the last type of lace, because of versatility and lower cost:
* Handmade Blonda lace incorporates designs crafted from two types of silk: A thin thread for detailing and a thicker one to add depth, more details, or color.
* Chantilly lace is intricately embroidered with vegetable, fruit, or floral designs and is named for the town in France where the lace originated. According to Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chantilly_lace), while most Chantilly lace is black, some white veils bear Chantilly designs.
* Lace-embroidered tulle can be sewn to mimic traditional Chantilly or Blonda lace or reflect other designs.
Lace Trim Veils
Another way to integrate the elegance of lace into your veil is through a lace edge or trim. The veil is made primarily from tulle or other veil material, with lace applied around the edges. This look is highly customizable because the specific material, trim design, and other embellishments vary depending on your preference.
Mantilla Veils
When you think of a lace veil, you may envision a mantilla veil -- single-tier with a scalloped edge. Traditionally, mantillas were made from embroidered Chantilly or Blonda lace. Now days, some mantilla veils are made from tulle, with embroidered edging. They are made from a single piece of non-gathered material, which is draped over the head and secured with an unobtrusive comb or pin.
Scallop Edge Veils
The distinctive feature about a mantilla veil is its scallop edge. A veil's edge is usually cut straight or on a slight curve. The exception is the scalloped wedding veil, which is cut with a unique edge. Picture the curvy pattern a row of semi-circles makes placed side-by-side. Or, for visual examples, go to Google Images (images.google.com) and type in Mantilla Veil.
Wearing a Single-Tier, Non-Gathered Veil
Traditionally, lace or mantilla veils are a single, non-gathered oval or round layer of material, to be draped over the head. This creates a sleek and sophisticated appearance, with no pouf or headpiece to interrupt the profile. You can wear this type of veil by pinning or attaching it to your hair with a small comb. You may also want to wear an unobtrusive bow or other hair ornament to hide a pin. If your veil has a scalloped or otherwise unique edge, the traditional way to wear it is so the lace edges softly frame your face and upper body. You may also choose to wear it "blusher style," so the veil covers your face and the edge falls to your bodice. Or, attach the veil to the back of your head so the decorated edges cascade down your back.
Gathered and Multi-Tiered Veils
While you will probably want a single-tier for an all-lace veil (to show the lace in its full beauty), you can wear a lace- or scallop-edge veil the same as any other. Do be careful, however, of the effect when considering more than one tier or heavy gathering. You may inadvertently create a busy or "crowded" look, rather than elegant.
Whichever way you choose to wear your veil, know that it will reflect your unique personality as you walk down the aisle.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding veils (styles, lengths, colors, etc.) at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Lace Veils
Delicate, lace veils are the ultimate in femininity and range from all-over to edge-only lace designs. The lace itself can be Blonda, Chantilly, or lace-embroidered tulle. The first two are found primarily on vintage or extremely high-quality veils. Today's bride most commonly wears the last type of lace, because of versatility and lower cost:
* Handmade Blonda lace incorporates designs crafted from two types of silk: A thin thread for detailing and a thicker one to add depth, more details, or color.
* Chantilly lace is intricately embroidered with vegetable, fruit, or floral designs and is named for the town in France where the lace originated. According to Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chantilly_lace), while most Chantilly lace is black, some white veils bear Chantilly designs.
* Lace-embroidered tulle can be sewn to mimic traditional Chantilly or Blonda lace or reflect other designs.
Lace Trim Veils
Another way to integrate the elegance of lace into your veil is through a lace edge or trim. The veil is made primarily from tulle or other veil material, with lace applied around the edges. This look is highly customizable because the specific material, trim design, and other embellishments vary depending on your preference.
Mantilla Veils
When you think of a lace veil, you may envision a mantilla veil -- single-tier with a scalloped edge. Traditionally, mantillas were made from embroidered Chantilly or Blonda lace. Now days, some mantilla veils are made from tulle, with embroidered edging. They are made from a single piece of non-gathered material, which is draped over the head and secured with an unobtrusive comb or pin.
Scallop Edge Veils
The distinctive feature about a mantilla veil is its scallop edge. A veil's edge is usually cut straight or on a slight curve. The exception is the scalloped wedding veil, which is cut with a unique edge. Picture the curvy pattern a row of semi-circles makes placed side-by-side. Or, for visual examples, go to Google Images (images.google.com) and type in Mantilla Veil.
Wearing a Single-Tier, Non-Gathered Veil
Traditionally, lace or mantilla veils are a single, non-gathered oval or round layer of material, to be draped over the head. This creates a sleek and sophisticated appearance, with no pouf or headpiece to interrupt the profile. You can wear this type of veil by pinning or attaching it to your hair with a small comb. You may also want to wear an unobtrusive bow or other hair ornament to hide a pin. If your veil has a scalloped or otherwise unique edge, the traditional way to wear it is so the lace edges softly frame your face and upper body. You may also choose to wear it "blusher style," so the veil covers your face and the edge falls to your bodice. Or, attach the veil to the back of your head so the decorated edges cascade down your back.
Gathered and Multi-Tiered Veils
While you will probably want a single-tier for an all-lace veil (to show the lace in its full beauty), you can wear a lace- or scallop-edge veil the same as any other. Do be careful, however, of the effect when considering more than one tier or heavy gathering. You may inadvertently create a busy or "crowded" look, rather than elegant.
Whichever way you choose to wear your veil, know that it will reflect your unique personality as you walk down the aisle.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com, a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding veils (styles, lengths, colors, etc.) at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Thursday, December 16, 2010
How To Wear Veil And Bridal Combs
For brides who have no previous experience with developing a wedding hairstyle or choosing a headpiece and veil (or deciding to go without), understanding how to attach and adorn the various components can be a challenge. In the twilight zone called wedding planning, the simple concept of a comb, for example, can take several forms.
In your everyday life, a comb is probably something to run through your hair in the morning taming nighttime tangles. Your hairdresser will certainly use that type of comb while creating your wedding hairstyle, but there are two other bridal versions you may need as well: a comb to attach the veil and one to decorate your hair. The choice is yours whether to have both versions, neither, or one to suffice for both uses.
The Veil Comb
When you buy a veil, it often comes attached to a basic comb. This veil comb is purely functional and will not be a visible part of your veil or hairstyle. It simply helps secure the veil to the top or back of your head. The advantage to using this type of comb with your veil is you can remove the veil after the ceremony while leaving your headpiece intact for the reception.
To place this type of comb, push it into your hair -- down if you are wearing your veil in back or toward the back of your head if you are wearing the veil on top -- so the hair covers the teeth and the veil hides the top of the comb. For a more solid base, insert with the comb angled then rotate backwards into place after the comb is in your hair. You can make the comb more secure, if needed, with bobby or hair pins.
These combs can be various widths and lengths and made of wire or plastic. Wire combs cost more than plastic, but are more versatile and can be pinned if necessary (as opposed to plastic, which is thicker and more cumbersome).
The Decorative Bridal Comb
Unlike the plain veil combs, decorative bridal combs are made to be seen. They can be a perfect accent for your veil, or add interest to your hairstyle if you go veil-less or remove the veil for the reception. The range of styles and sizes available make them versatile and can enhance most hairstyles, from classic to ornate. They can be simple, but elegant, depending on how they are decorated, but can also create a less formal look than some other headpieces.
Hair combs can be worn on the top, side, or back of the head. In the back, you can secure a large comb under a bunch of upswept curls, around a French twist, or beneath a low-set bun. On one or both sides, you can wear smaller combs for an elegant style, instead of a larger headpiece. Decorative combs can also be worn on the top to help hold the hair in place or function much as a tiara. In fact, you can even buy tiaras attached to combs instead of built into the typical band.
Tiara Combs
You have heard of tiaras and you have heard of combs, but you may not know that there are also tiara combs. These look like a tiara but hold your hair or veil in place like a comb. These decorative combs are made with the teeth positioned at an angle so the decorated part stands erect when attached to your hair from the front (as opposed to back or side combs, which are made with the decoration attached flat against or parallel to the teeth section).
Combining Veil and Decorative Combs
Some brides prefer to wear the veil and decorative comb as one piece. You can accomplish this by attaching the veil directly to a tiara or other top/back comb instead of to the plain veil comb. This reduces the number of pieces you must deal with when developing a hairstyle for the ceremony, but limits your options for the rest of the day. You will have to remove both your headpiece and veil or keep your veil intact throughout the evening.
Whichever type of combs you use, involve your hair stylist in the decision. He or she will most likely have valuable input into what sizes and types will most create the look you desire, while assuring your hair remains drop-dead gorgeous throughout the day and evening.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding veils at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
In your everyday life, a comb is probably something to run through your hair in the morning taming nighttime tangles. Your hairdresser will certainly use that type of comb while creating your wedding hairstyle, but there are two other bridal versions you may need as well: a comb to attach the veil and one to decorate your hair. The choice is yours whether to have both versions, neither, or one to suffice for both uses.
The Veil Comb
When you buy a veil, it often comes attached to a basic comb. This veil comb is purely functional and will not be a visible part of your veil or hairstyle. It simply helps secure the veil to the top or back of your head. The advantage to using this type of comb with your veil is you can remove the veil after the ceremony while leaving your headpiece intact for the reception.
To place this type of comb, push it into your hair -- down if you are wearing your veil in back or toward the back of your head if you are wearing the veil on top -- so the hair covers the teeth and the veil hides the top of the comb. For a more solid base, insert with the comb angled then rotate backwards into place after the comb is in your hair. You can make the comb more secure, if needed, with bobby or hair pins.
These combs can be various widths and lengths and made of wire or plastic. Wire combs cost more than plastic, but are more versatile and can be pinned if necessary (as opposed to plastic, which is thicker and more cumbersome).
The Decorative Bridal Comb
Unlike the plain veil combs, decorative bridal combs are made to be seen. They can be a perfect accent for your veil, or add interest to your hairstyle if you go veil-less or remove the veil for the reception. The range of styles and sizes available make them versatile and can enhance most hairstyles, from classic to ornate. They can be simple, but elegant, depending on how they are decorated, but can also create a less formal look than some other headpieces.
Hair combs can be worn on the top, side, or back of the head. In the back, you can secure a large comb under a bunch of upswept curls, around a French twist, or beneath a low-set bun. On one or both sides, you can wear smaller combs for an elegant style, instead of a larger headpiece. Decorative combs can also be worn on the top to help hold the hair in place or function much as a tiara. In fact, you can even buy tiaras attached to combs instead of built into the typical band.
Tiara Combs
You have heard of tiaras and you have heard of combs, but you may not know that there are also tiara combs. These look like a tiara but hold your hair or veil in place like a comb. These decorative combs are made with the teeth positioned at an angle so the decorated part stands erect when attached to your hair from the front (as opposed to back or side combs, which are made with the decoration attached flat against or parallel to the teeth section).
Combining Veil and Decorative Combs
Some brides prefer to wear the veil and decorative comb as one piece. You can accomplish this by attaching the veil directly to a tiara or other top/back comb instead of to the plain veil comb. This reduces the number of pieces you must deal with when developing a hairstyle for the ceremony, but limits your options for the rest of the day. You will have to remove both your headpiece and veil or keep your veil intact throughout the evening.
Whichever type of combs you use, involve your hair stylist in the decision. He or she will most likely have valuable input into what sizes and types will most create the look you desire, while assuring your hair remains drop-dead gorgeous throughout the day and evening.
Bobette Kyle-Wagner is publisher at www.MyOnlineWeddingHelp.com -- a Website helping engaged couples get the most use from Internet wedding resources. The site includes online wedding tips, original articles, tutorials, and shopping sections. Read more about wedding veils at www.myonlineweddinghelp.com/veils
Submitted by Bobette Kyle-Wagner, www.myonlineweddinghelp.com
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
When Should You Order Your Wedding Gown?
The big question bridal shops are always asked is “When should I order my wedding gown?” As many of you know, most top designer gowns are special ordered. What some don’t know is that it takes 14-20 weeks to receive them.
Why, you ask. Good question. Because it is made to order, stitch by stitch, bead by pearl. And some of the hottest designers have over 200 designs of gowns in their line, offered in multiple colors up to 15 standard sizes. So doing some elementary math, to have only one piece of all gowns in all sizes if it was available in 5 colors, that means 15,000 gowns, 10 colors, 30,000 gowns.
Some of our designers offer up to 30 colors which is 90,000 gowns. Storage means money means higher priced gowns. Or less selection. Or less quality materials used. Or gowns hanging around getting old. If thats what you want, go to a big bridal chain store.
Now say on the very odd chance there is something about the gown that does not pass our strict quality control and we want to send it back. Add another 14-20 weeks. And then we start the wedding gown alteration process about 12 weeks before the wedding. So I take out my elementary math calculator again, 52 weeks.
Wow, one year before the wedding. So now that you have your wedding gown chosen, you can coordinate your bridesmaids gowns that have a slightly less order time. And you need to order those before your mothers can start thinking about colors. And flowers, linens, invitations, cakes, favors, tuxes… I see the anxiety meter go into the red zone. But take a deep breath. Its all a process. And allowing yourself plenty of time for this specialized process reduces stress, reduces problems, and reduces possible rush cut fees. Can we do it in less time? Sure, many times. But it goes so much smoother and easier if you allow yourself plenty of time for your wedding planning. And it will give you more time to figure out who is going to keep Uncle Pete away from the bar.
Keep it fun, Joyce ... Precious Memories Bridal, Malden, MA.
Submitted by www.bestbridalshop.com
Why, you ask. Good question. Because it is made to order, stitch by stitch, bead by pearl. And some of the hottest designers have over 200 designs of gowns in their line, offered in multiple colors up to 15 standard sizes. So doing some elementary math, to have only one piece of all gowns in all sizes if it was available in 5 colors, that means 15,000 gowns, 10 colors, 30,000 gowns.
Some of our designers offer up to 30 colors which is 90,000 gowns. Storage means money means higher priced gowns. Or less selection. Or less quality materials used. Or gowns hanging around getting old. If thats what you want, go to a big bridal chain store.
Now say on the very odd chance there is something about the gown that does not pass our strict quality control and we want to send it back. Add another 14-20 weeks. And then we start the wedding gown alteration process about 12 weeks before the wedding. So I take out my elementary math calculator again, 52 weeks.
Wow, one year before the wedding. So now that you have your wedding gown chosen, you can coordinate your bridesmaids gowns that have a slightly less order time. And you need to order those before your mothers can start thinking about colors. And flowers, linens, invitations, cakes, favors, tuxes… I see the anxiety meter go into the red zone. But take a deep breath. Its all a process. And allowing yourself plenty of time for this specialized process reduces stress, reduces problems, and reduces possible rush cut fees. Can we do it in less time? Sure, many times. But it goes so much smoother and easier if you allow yourself plenty of time for your wedding planning. And it will give you more time to figure out who is going to keep Uncle Pete away from the bar.
Keep it fun, Joyce ... Precious Memories Bridal, Malden, MA.
Submitted by www.bestbridalshop.com
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Choosing A Wedding Dress For Your Body Shape
Like any bride-to-be, it's easy to fall in the trap of having to find the perfect dress for your wedding day. Does such a thing exist? Yes, but it's wise to remember that you'll go through piles and piles of dresses to find the right one. The pressure of choosing a wedding dress is a common scenario that plays out in many bridal stores, and you're not alone. As with any article of clothing, however, choosing the appropriate dress for your body shape is important. And if that dress is your wedding gown, there's added incentive to find the right one.
Few dresses are ideal for everyone - and there are obviously assets you would like to emphasize and others you'd prefer to downplay. Usually, the sales associate at most bridal boutiques or stores will be able to offer an accurate analysis of the dresses you've selected, though you can also have your gown altered to make sure it 'hugs' you in the right places. While no body is alike, the following guidelines on choosing a wedding dress are designed to help you stick to the right style when browsing through the racks, online, or even having a dress specially made.
The Right Dress for Your Wedding Day
If you're like most women, you've been dreaming about your wedding day since you were a little girl, imagining a beautiful, fluffy white ball gown. Choosing your wedding dress may not be so simple. Today's bride has a plethora of gown options available to her, including A-line, sheath, mermaid, empire, and ball gown silhouettes. Though fitting sessions are the only way to tell what works best for you, the following body shape tips are meant to help you sort through the pile.
Hourglass: This shape is, by far and large, considered the ideal of feminine beauty. Ball gowns are perfect for those with smaller waistlines, while form-fitting gowns work just as well and cleverly show off your curves. Choosing a wedding dress like a dropped waist wedding gown, an updated look from the 1920s that's becoming very popular, works well for those with longer torsos and some height to them. Hourglass-shaped women are usually on the bustier side, so you'll want to avoid the harsh straight lines of some strapless gowns; instead, opt for sweetheart necklines or something with a little twist.
Rectangular: Finding a dress for your wedding day is all about knowing your body shape. The idea here is to look for gowns that create curves even if you don't have them. Elegant sheath dresses cut on the bias or bust-enhancing necklines create curves where none exist. A cinched waist dress on your wedding day, one with slightly puffier skirts, will similarly capitalize on your small waist and create volume.
Slim: A mermaid or trumpet dress for your wedding day is perfect for the slimmer bride with smaller hips, though this style can favor anyone on the slender side. A dress with a ruched bodice will create the appearance of a larger bust line, and, again, add curves where needed. Modified A-line gowns with slightly higher waist lines will make you appear taller as well.
Oval: Oval-shaped and plus-sized brides benefit from the classic lines of empire dresses; whether simple or jazzed up with some embellishments, this dress (a wedding day classic) hides numerous figure flaws and enhances the bust line. When choosing a wedding dress in the empire style, remember that it should be somewhat fitted, since a gown that's too loose can become billowy.
Show Off Your Wedding Day Style
As a last note, an A-line dress on your wedding day is more often than not universally flattering. Tall brides should keep the lines, detailing, and fabric simple, though smaller brides can pull off fabrics with high sheen; however, they, too, should avoid decked-out gowns, opting instead for nice touches at the neckline or the bust line to draw the eye up. Choosing a wedding dress in this style hides a lot of flaws, but still offers that big skirt appeal from your girlhood days in a stylish way. Sheath gowns, too, offer the same benefits as A-line gowns, meaning they camouflage many of the flaws you're looking to hide. In this case, however, differentiating between constructed (more curvy brides) and loose sheaths (slender brides) makes the difference when choosing a wedding dress.
Also, consider trying out this handy dream wedding gown creator that walks you through your unique body type and which styles would suit your shape best. It's easy to use and provides some tips that will pay off during your shopping trips!
Cherie Johnson is the founder and owner of Creative Wedding Favors, a one-stop shop for a large selection of party and wedding favors. Cherie's articles have been published on numerous websites including Blissfully Domestic, Dress Up Your Wedding, and Wedding Museum. Since starting Creative Wedding Favors in 2006, Cherie has helped countless couples, families, and friends make their gatherings a success. Prior to Creative Wedding Favors, she worked as a professional wedding photographer, capturing the most memorable moments of the couple's big day. To find favors and gifts for your upcoming event, please visit www.CreativeWeddingFavors.com.
Submitted by www.creativeweddingfavors.com
Few dresses are ideal for everyone - and there are obviously assets you would like to emphasize and others you'd prefer to downplay. Usually, the sales associate at most bridal boutiques or stores will be able to offer an accurate analysis of the dresses you've selected, though you can also have your gown altered to make sure it 'hugs' you in the right places. While no body is alike, the following guidelines on choosing a wedding dress are designed to help you stick to the right style when browsing through the racks, online, or even having a dress specially made.
The Right Dress for Your Wedding Day
If you're like most women, you've been dreaming about your wedding day since you were a little girl, imagining a beautiful, fluffy white ball gown. Choosing your wedding dress may not be so simple. Today's bride has a plethora of gown options available to her, including A-line, sheath, mermaid, empire, and ball gown silhouettes. Though fitting sessions are the only way to tell what works best for you, the following body shape tips are meant to help you sort through the pile.
Hourglass: This shape is, by far and large, considered the ideal of feminine beauty. Ball gowns are perfect for those with smaller waistlines, while form-fitting gowns work just as well and cleverly show off your curves. Choosing a wedding dress like a dropped waist wedding gown, an updated look from the 1920s that's becoming very popular, works well for those with longer torsos and some height to them. Hourglass-shaped women are usually on the bustier side, so you'll want to avoid the harsh straight lines of some strapless gowns; instead, opt for sweetheart necklines or something with a little twist.
Rectangular: Finding a dress for your wedding day is all about knowing your body shape. The idea here is to look for gowns that create curves even if you don't have them. Elegant sheath dresses cut on the bias or bust-enhancing necklines create curves where none exist. A cinched waist dress on your wedding day, one with slightly puffier skirts, will similarly capitalize on your small waist and create volume.
Slim: A mermaid or trumpet dress for your wedding day is perfect for the slimmer bride with smaller hips, though this style can favor anyone on the slender side. A dress with a ruched bodice will create the appearance of a larger bust line, and, again, add curves where needed. Modified A-line gowns with slightly higher waist lines will make you appear taller as well.
Oval: Oval-shaped and plus-sized brides benefit from the classic lines of empire dresses; whether simple or jazzed up with some embellishments, this dress (a wedding day classic) hides numerous figure flaws and enhances the bust line. When choosing a wedding dress in the empire style, remember that it should be somewhat fitted, since a gown that's too loose can become billowy.
Show Off Your Wedding Day Style
As a last note, an A-line dress on your wedding day is more often than not universally flattering. Tall brides should keep the lines, detailing, and fabric simple, though smaller brides can pull off fabrics with high sheen; however, they, too, should avoid decked-out gowns, opting instead for nice touches at the neckline or the bust line to draw the eye up. Choosing a wedding dress in this style hides a lot of flaws, but still offers that big skirt appeal from your girlhood days in a stylish way. Sheath gowns, too, offer the same benefits as A-line gowns, meaning they camouflage many of the flaws you're looking to hide. In this case, however, differentiating between constructed (more curvy brides) and loose sheaths (slender brides) makes the difference when choosing a wedding dress.
Also, consider trying out this handy dream wedding gown creator that walks you through your unique body type and which styles would suit your shape best. It's easy to use and provides some tips that will pay off during your shopping trips!
Cherie Johnson is the founder and owner of Creative Wedding Favors, a one-stop shop for a large selection of party and wedding favors. Cherie's articles have been published on numerous websites including Blissfully Domestic, Dress Up Your Wedding, and Wedding Museum. Since starting Creative Wedding Favors in 2006, Cherie has helped countless couples, families, and friends make their gatherings a success. Prior to Creative Wedding Favors, she worked as a professional wedding photographer, capturing the most memorable moments of the couple's big day. To find favors and gifts for your upcoming event, please visit www.CreativeWeddingFavors.com.
Submitted by www.creativeweddingfavors.com
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Black... Continues To Be A Fashion Statement
Black is not only an elegant color, it continues to be a very popular choice in 2009 /2010 for wedding colors! Black roses or rosettes, and black and white table linens provide a very sophisticated, modern, and ultra chic look! Splashing the color around can provide a beautiful backdrop for your photographers/videographers!
Black and white weddings are coming back in a big way! Utilizing the colors in the right way can act as a "blast from the past" - 40's retro styling, in a very modern and stylized way. Black always sends a timeless elegance message, and whether you do white table linens with black splashes of colors, red rose petals scattered over the tables, or whether you do a black or white lace overlay, it can be utterly beautiful! Of course, you have to include the satin chair covers with a color coordinated sash, to make the whole schematic work.
If you are looking for a very trendy, ultra chic and modern planning concept for your wedding, do not underestimate the power of black! Having your photographer snap a couple of black and white pictures also will capture the moment in a very elegant and modern way!
Submitted by Heart and Soul Events
Monday, December 6, 2010
Choosing The Right Wedding Gown Style For You
Full Figured Women
• A-line style is best because it lengthens the whole body without drawing attention to the waistline.
• Empire waist is another good choice because it is narrowest below the bust and conceals the waist and hips.
• Many plus size girls tend to purchase gowns that cover skin; however, skin is sexy and showing arms or neckline can often make one appear smaller.
• Deep V and scoop necklines flatter curvy figures and always look best on full figured women.
Petite Women
• A-line style is flattering because it lengthens the whole body.
• Petite women should avoid sheaths because they seem to shorten a small body even more.
• Steer clear of very full skirts because they make petite women look bottom heavy.
• A cap-style gown works well because it gives the feeling of a strapless and serves a practical purpose of keeping the gown in place.
Large-Busted Women
• Off the shoulder gowns look wonderful on full busted women because it draws our attention upward, emphasizes the shoulders and minimizes the chest.
• Keep your skirt narrow; wearing a full skirt makes you look large on top and bottom.
Bottom Heavy Women
• Women who are large through the hips and buttocks should look for a wedding dress that focuses on their upper body.
• Women who are large through the hips and buttocks can wear well gowns with full skirts.
• Showing your arms, back, and bustline work well for you.
• A corset style bodice with lacing will highlight your upper body and draw attention away from your hips.
• Avoid pleated or gathered fabric around the waist
• An A-line skirt always works best.
Submitted by Heart and Soul Events
• A-line style is best because it lengthens the whole body without drawing attention to the waistline.
• Empire waist is another good choice because it is narrowest below the bust and conceals the waist and hips.
• Many plus size girls tend to purchase gowns that cover skin; however, skin is sexy and showing arms or neckline can often make one appear smaller.
• Deep V and scoop necklines flatter curvy figures and always look best on full figured women.
Petite Women
• A-line style is flattering because it lengthens the whole body.
• Petite women should avoid sheaths because they seem to shorten a small body even more.
• Steer clear of very full skirts because they make petite women look bottom heavy.
• A cap-style gown works well because it gives the feeling of a strapless and serves a practical purpose of keeping the gown in place.
Large-Busted Women
• Off the shoulder gowns look wonderful on full busted women because it draws our attention upward, emphasizes the shoulders and minimizes the chest.
• Keep your skirt narrow; wearing a full skirt makes you look large on top and bottom.
Bottom Heavy Women
• Women who are large through the hips and buttocks should look for a wedding dress that focuses on their upper body.
• Women who are large through the hips and buttocks can wear well gowns with full skirts.
• Showing your arms, back, and bustline work well for you.
• A corset style bodice with lacing will highlight your upper body and draw attention away from your hips.
• Avoid pleated or gathered fabric around the waist
• An A-line skirt always works best.
Submitted by Heart and Soul Events
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