Fashion Fever: Gorgeously Gatsby

Fashion Fever by Corine Brosseau

With the latest film adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” right around the corner, the idea of showing up to your wedding looking like a 1920s film star is surely a popular one. Today, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite fashion details taken right from the grand Gatsby tradition.

Clockwise, from top left: Glamour and Grace, Style Me Pretty, YolanCris, Style Me Pretty, Johanna Johnson, Michael Segal

1. Feathers – Opulent and dreamy, some stunning plumage really brings that vintage elegance to a wedding day ensemble. Whether at the bottom of a snug mermaid gown or as a beautiful element for a headpiece, they are a great way to incorporate a 1920s theme.

2. Headpieces – The more intricate, the better as far as headpieces go. A lace cap really brings to mind that quintessential Flapper style while an intricate headband is a bit more Daisy Buchanan.

3. Beading – A dress that skims close to the sides while simply dripping in elegant beading transports you back to the lavish parties at Gatsby’s home.

4. Dropped Waists – A dropped waist is the perfect silhouette for a 20’s look.

5. Bold Makeup – Dark, smoky eyes, wispy lashes, and a bold crimson lip add to the sultry intrigue of the 1920s woman.

These are just a few of the 1920s details we adore! Stay tuned for our latest project, a beautiful 1920s, Gatsby-esque inspiration shoot. Here is a sneak peek from the shoot, featuring our beautiful model, Alexis Monnie:

While you wait for the photos to drop, be sure to check out the amazing vendors we partnered up with for the shoot: Violet and Verde for florals, SB Beauty for hair and makeup, Hushed Commotion for the amazing headpieces, Saucy by Nature for catering, Cake Alchemy for the cake, Cloth Connection for linens, Little Vintage Rentals for amazing props and tableware, Angelique Bridal and Nearly Newlywed for the fabulous fashion, The Green Building for our lovely venue, and the amazing Moss & Isaac, whose photography brought it all together!!

Fashion Fever: Spring Chill Jackets!

Fashion Fever by Alyssa Aiola

Just because your having your wedding on a beautiful spring day doesn’t mean you wont need a little warmth, and no were not talking about pashminas! Designers have created fresh new options for wrapping yourself up in style for Spring 2013. These looks will for sure get rid of those chattering teeth and goose bumps at the alter. Compared to current fall wrap trends, which are extremely heavy with the use of fur and knits, the spring cover ups are extremely light and airy. In order to keep the edge off a slight spring breeze yet also add drama, Designers are using light organza, lace and tulle toppers.  There are many different styles in which you can pick to make the spring air tolerable such as jackets, shawls, capes, shrugs, wraps and now toppers. We love the look of a lace topper over a sleeveless gown to add that extra POW! Contrary to popular belief, shawls or wraps worn over wedding dresses will neither detract from the style of the dress, nor will it hide the beauty of a carefully chosen gown. Another tip to keep in mind is that your wrap doesn’t have to be matchy-matchy with your dress. Consider adding another element to your look if your gown is on the simple side, like color or a cluster of crystals. Try a piece that adds drama to a clean moment or a quiet piece.

Amsale,(Images from top left to right) Oscar De La Renta, Pronovias, Monique Lhuillier, Monique Lhuillier, Alfred Angelo, Ines Di Santo, Amsale,

Let us know which style you would fight the cold in on your wedding day by writing on our blog, Facebook or even tweet to us!

 

Fashion Fever: Say Hello to the High-Low

Fashion Fever by Corine Brosseau

With Spring on its way and weather very slowly getting warmer, hemlines are sure to be creeping up as well!  There’s no better way to welcome Spring than with the latest bridal trend, the high low wedding dress.  High low hemlines became popular in women’s wear last year and the trend is now making its way through the wedding world, too!

 

For brides who can’t seem to choose between the drama of a full length gown and the flirtiness of a shorter look, the high low hemline is the perfect compromise.  Cut short in the front and full length in the back, it is truly the best of both worlds.  As an added bonus, this fun fusion hemline allows you to show off your wedding shoes and your fancy footwork as you dance at your reception.

Designers have taken this trend and run wild with it.  From sexy to dramatic to a little bit boho, there is an interpretation of this unique hemline for every bride’s fashion preferences.  Pnina Tornai, in her trademark sexy style, created an over the top silhouette with a corseted bodice, plenty of bling, and a full skirt that makes you want to spin.  Claire Pettibone, on the other hand, took the trend in a more subtle direction with a vintage vibe.  She paired a slim, yet flowing skirt with a retro illusion neckline for an understated glamour that really speaks to her aesthetic as a designer.  Jim Hjelm’s take on the style is a bit more princess-y with a sweeping full train and feminine embellishments at the waist.

We’re really loving the high low trend for spring and can’t wait to see how brides interpret it on their special days.  Would you say hello to high low for your wedding?

Fashion Fever: 3D Flowers

Fashion Fever: By Alyssa Aiola

Flowers on your wedding day are a given. It’s a tradition that even dates back to ancient times. In ancient Greece and Rome, the bride and groom wore a garland around their necks, symbolizing new life, hope and fertility. Traditional Celtic bouquets included ivy, thistle and heather. The garland was not made of flowers but of strong-smelling herbs and spices. The strong-smells were thought to have mystical powers and meant to keep away evil spirits. In ancient China, orange blossoms were used to represent purity, chastity and innocence, while Sarcasen brides carried them as symbol of eternal love and fidelity.

         Now lets fast forward to the most recent bridal shows we saw this year in 2013. All over the runway designers are showcasing styles that reveal a new take on this time less idea: the 3D Flower.  These exaggerated floral details that appear to be in full bloom are popping up everywhere on trims, bodices, and even entire skirts.  You can find this trend all over the runway  in all different styles from slim modern looks to full blown over the top gowns.

 (Left To Right) Liancarlo, Kenneth Pool,  Kevin Hall,  Judd Waddell, Claire Pettibone 

Liancarlos dress looks like a piece of artwork and with a blush shade keeps things feminine and glamourous. This elaborate Kenneth Pool gown takes the trend to a whole new level with a full skirt of flowers, and the fitted, beaded bodice keeps it from coming overwhelming. This dreamy halter gown by Kevin Hall is light and airy and would be the perfect fit for the demure, romantic bride while Judd Waddell takes more of a modern approach to the 3D flower.Claire Pettibone’s whimsical dress looks like it can be worn by the Queen of the Fairies in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Let us know what you think of the 3D trend and if you would ever be bold enough to try it!

Fashion Fever: Background Check

Fashion Fever by Corine Brosseau

With Spring right around the corner, brides are looking to shed some layers and show some skin.  This season’s designer looks are offering a sexy yet sophisticated way to do just that!  The latest trend?  The backless wedding dress.

Clockwise from top left: Catherine Deane for BHLDN, Casablanca Bridal, Claire Pettibone, Robert Rodriguez, Elie Saab, Laure de Sagazan, Jenny Packham, and Rosa Clara

 

Whether you want to bare it all with something totally backless or are simply looking for an interesting detail to add interest as people watch you make your way to the altar, there is sure to be a backless style to suit your fancy.

For the bohemian chic bride, Claire Pettibone‘s gowns are simply amazing.  Claire’s dresses are masterpieces of intricate detail and stunning bits of embellishment that a photo simply cannot do justice.  With each dress, she pays as much attention to the back as to the front, leading to collections full of stunning open and illusion backs with gorgeous appliques, vines, and all sorts of details.

For a more tailored look, Rosa Clara‘s Ballet gown accents an open back with tidy bows that are both polished and demure. This piece encapsulates the retro glamour of the 1950’s.  If you’re not feeling vintage and want a modern style, try Robert Rodriguez‘s Cutout gown that has a sleek silhouette and architectural details.

The fun part about a backless dress is that it’s all in the way you wear it!  Draping a long necklace down your back is a beautiful way to accessorize this type of gown, just like Jennifer Lawrence did with her Oscars ensemble.  For a bit more coverage, try a sheer cape or simply a layer of tulle to keep you feeling more modest.  Choose a veil or headpiece that complements your open-backed gown.  A short veil can really show off this beautiful detail while a flower or brooch in the back of your hair can draw the eye up so you don’t feel too bare.

Would you be brave enough to try a backless dress on your big day?  Let us know!

Fashion Fever: Peplums!

Fashion Fever by Alyssa Aiola

When it comes to showing off your silhouette, there is no look that is more versatile then the peplum! It has been one of the fastest growing trends that has taken the fashion world by storm this season by showing up on the runways in blazers, jackets, shirts, tops, dresses and now wedding dresses. It is amazing to watch this trend unfold yet again since it was the biggest fad in the 1940’s as women wore peplums to give wartime outfits more excitement during strict fabric rations. The definition of peplum is a “short overskirt” but we would like to think of it more as an abbreviated flared fabric that adds dimension to any waistline and skirt. Whether or not you are daring enough to try this new trend, there is a peplum dress out there that is perfectly tailored to your body shape and style.  The key to finding the perfect peplum dress is in finding the right proportions for you in either a more oversized and asymmetrical look, a sleek and simple approach or a cropped and airy feel.  Here are a few of our favorite peplum looks from designers 2013 fashion shows. Let us know what you think and if you have been successful in finding the perfect peplum dress for your big day!

From top left clockwise ( Carolina Herrera, Christos,  David Tutera, Amsale, Sassi Holford, Davids Bridal)

How to choose a necklace that complements your wedding gown?

Fashion Fever by Elodie Kruger

Did you have fun choosing your wedding dress? Now, it is time to accessorize! Unless your something borrowed is a love one’s jewelry, you will need to choose a necklace that compliments your wedding attire. If you fell like to need some guidance in this matter, we are here to help.

Before starting to look for your jewelry, figure out what type of metal will fit better with your gown color. For example, as gold may clash with a very bright white, it goes well with a creamy color dress. Try the gown at home with your own jewelry to find out which color matches the best.

Carolee, Kathy Ireland, Iradj Moini, Soho Gem, BHLDN, Watters Jewelry & Bounkit.

• Strapless or Sweetheart: Round shapes go the best with strapless or sweetheart necklines. You can go for a traditional look of a classic pearl or go bold with multi-strand necklaces or a bejeweled bib. Note that with such a statement, you should wear small earrings. A splash of color can also be a great effect if it matches your bridal color scheme. If you want to be extravagant, strapless or sweetheart décolletage is the way to go.

•  V-neck: Ideally you want to wear the same V-shape for example a pendant necklace. It will bring attention towards your face. Match it with long earrings. In the contrary, a necklace very close to the neck will highlight your chest area.

• One-shoulder:  A one-shoulder is fashionable and beautiful. It is statement enough so there is no need to add anything else to your neckline. Focus then on beautiful earrings. If you are wearing your hair up, make sure that the earrings look good from the back while walking long the aisle. Also to add some balance to your look, wear a bracelet, like an oversize cuff on your bare arm.

• If your dress is very busy with ornaments, do not over accessorize. Less is more in bridal fashion.

In any case, keep things to proportion and choose what best fits your personality. It is YOUR big day and you need to be proud of what you are wearing.

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Glass Slippers

Fashion Fever by Aly Dailey

The right shoes are an essential part of your wedding day fashion. After all, what was Cinderella without her glass slippers? Different ceremony settings and different dresses require different shoes. It’s important to have your shoes by your first dress fitting so that the seamstress can hem your gown accordingly. These cute options are great for starting your wedding off on the right foot.

Ballet Skimmers- These are great if your groom is a little shorter or if you’re simply not comfortable in heels

Peep Toe – Try something with feather or glitter detailing to spice it up a little

Thong Sandals – Great for an outdoor or beach wedding, then pack them for your honeymoon too

Ankle Wrap Heels – These whimsical heels are perfect with a simple wedding dress

Strappy Sandals– These are great for evening weddings and you can wear them again after the wedding

Classic Kitten Heels – This elegant option is a sure thing, dye them black after the wedding to get more wear out of them

Platform– These are great for some extra height but still easy to walk in

Wedge– Great for an outdoor wedding,  get some lift without your heels sinking in the ground

Remember, you don’t have to go with traditional white or nude. Make sure to have fun with your footwear! No matter what your preference, there is a shoe out there for you. Just make sure you can dance all night in them!

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Little White Dress

Fashion Thursdays by: Aly Dailey

For a bride, the most important part of the wedding is often the dress. But what happens when the champagne starts flowing, the music starts going, and you’re being summoned to get low on the dance floor? Will your dress last as long as you will?

Instead of tripping all over your beautiful train, try a Little White Dress.

Brides often turn to a “Reception Dress” after the ceremony so they can cut loose and not have to worry about ruining their real wedding dress. Here are a couple picks for carrying out your wedding’s ultimate goal, to have fun!

– Sarah Seven makes wonderful, whimsical alternatives with chic bodices and poufy skirts.

– Amsale is all about the Little White Dress with tons of different cuts to flatter all body types.

– Go for a slim chic cocktail dress you can dance all night in.

– Or try a detachable skirt or separates for an easy switch from long to short as your evening wears on.

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TOD’s Tip Of Day: Always Trust Martha

Listen ladies, I’ve been telling ya’ll to trust Martha Stewart since she first introduced me to Robbin’s Egg Blue when I was just a wee teenage boy in the small town I shall not mention here. This to die for Carolina Herrara gown from Martha’s recent Bridal Fashion Show with a touch of that gorgeous blue we love so much reminds me of how true it is. Class, all the way. And that sleeve!

(From Martha Stewart Weddings) The details: Carolina Herrera gown, worn with Ben-Amun by Isaac Manevitz earrings, Harry Winston necklace, M&J Trimming ribbon, Ben-Amun by Isaac Manevitz brooch, Oscar de la Renta cuff, Ever After Miami and Memoire ring.

TOD says “A little blue goes a long way on your big day!”