Fabric: Lace, Hem Line: Long, Strapless lace sweetheart neckline, cross over ruched bodice. Asymmetrical ruched lace below waist with flared lace skirt.12” train.
Mikaella - 1202
Fabric: Lace, Hem Line: Long, Strapless lace sweetheart neckline, cross over ruched bodice. Asymmetrical ruched lace below waist with flared lace skirt.12” train.
alfred anglo style 1136
It features crystal beading,rhinestones and sequins it has a corset lace up back with beads flowing down on to the train there is a dark bead in the middle of the lighter beads.It features beading over the bust section and gentle folding fabric and again flows down the front of the dress beads are very sparkly and pretty.
GOOD-BYE WINTER
Enjoy these lovely, free-spirited images by photographer Elizabeth Luna taken at a trash the dress session at Lake Arrowhead, California (yes it snows in SoCal). Elizabeth and a few others planned this amazing shoot that turned out to be so much more than they ever expected . . .
GOOD-BYE WINTER
Enjoy these lovely, free-spirited images by photographer Elizabeth Luna taken at a trash the dress session at Lake Arrowhead, California (yes it snows in SoCal). Elizabeth and a few others planned this amazing shoot that turned out to be so much more than they ever expected . . . Ian Stuart - Mokalita, Devereux
This beautiful ivory taffeta dress has never been worn and is unaltered. It is truly stunning and has elements of Mokalita, Devereux and Curacao styles with a strapless beaded and sequined bodice leading to an asymmetrically draped overskirt. Its underskirts are made up of layers of exquisitely crystal embroidered scallop edged lace and it features a corsage of two hand made flowers to the left side.
Christmas Wedding Dress
Christmas weddings or Christmas-themed weddings are wonderful concepts for Wedding. They do not give an auspicious touch to your wedding but also give a festive feel to it. Via
PEACHES N' CREAM
I'm a redhead so these colors go with my DNA. Wondering how many out there are drawn to this combo of monochromatics. Thanks to Peri Edmonds from Melbourne who whipped up this beautiful concoction on SMP.
PEACHES N' CREAM
I'm a redhead so these colors go with my DNA. Wondering how many out there are drawn to this combo of monochromatics. Thanks to Peri Edmonds from Melbourne who whipped up this beautiful concoction on SMP.
New Year: Luxurious Peacock Wedding Dress
Every bride wants to feel spectacular on her wedding day, but the most expensive wedding dress spotted this year is typically more about attracting a mate than making a commitment. Via
Best Planning a Christmas Wedding
It's the most wonderful time of the year, your family is gathered around you, and the church is already decorated. Why not have a Christmas wedding? Here are ideas and tips to have a fantastic Christmas wedding with all the trimmings.Via
ALL A FLUTTER
Martha StewartThis article ran in Martha Stewart Weddings Winter 2002 and almost ten years later still rings true. On the subject of plumes, here's some timeless advise quoting a portion of the the article verbatim:
--For centuries, feathers have been a favorite trimming for hats. Huge Edwardian picture hats were covered in them, while chic little 1940s toques sported single ostrich plumes. A feathered hat is a dramatic choice. It will focus all eyes on your face. To avoid getting lost beneath one, choose makeup that's glamorous and glossy (no natural lips and pale eyes). Also, it is preferable to wear your hair pulled back in a chignon or tucked behind your ears; a fancy hairdo or full tousle of curls would compete with the trimming. A feathered hat usually works best with a straight, narrow clothing silhouette such as a tailored suit or long, columnar gown. But it is not an ideal choice for an outdoor wedding, where an unexpected breeze might send your plumes fluttering over your groom. A large feathered hat should be removed for pictures (it can cast shadows or hide your face). You may also want to set it aside during your reception. Above, clockwise from left: A mini cartwheel with ostrich feathers can be worn at an angle to flatter a round face. A pagoda hat with organza petals and ostrich feathers enhances a narrow face. A dramatic white-felt picture hat with feathers is stunning when paired with a portrait collar. A small pillbox covered with marabou lends a whimsical air to a tailored suit. --
ALL A FLUTTER
Martha StewartThis article ran in Martha Stewart Weddings Winter 2002 and almost ten years later still rings true. On the subject of plumes, here's some timeless advise quoting a portion of the the article verbatim:
--For centuries, feathers have been a favorite trimming for hats. Huge Edwardian picture hats were covered in them, while chic little 1940s toques sported single ostrich plumes. A feathered hat is a dramatic choice. It will focus all eyes on your face. To avoid getting lost beneath one, choose makeup that's glamorous and glossy (no natural lips and pale eyes). Also, it is preferable to wear your hair pulled back in a chignon or tucked behind your ears; a fancy hairdo or full tousle of curls would compete with the trimming. A feathered hat usually works best with a straight, narrow clothing silhouette such as a tailored suit or long, columnar gown. But it is not an ideal choice for an outdoor wedding, where an unexpected breeze might send your plumes fluttering over your groom. A large feathered hat should be removed for pictures (it can cast shadows or hide your face). You may also want to set it aside during your reception. Above, clockwise from left: A mini cartwheel with ostrich feathers can be worn at an angle to flatter a round face. A pagoda hat with organza petals and ostrich feathers enhances a narrow face. A dramatic white-felt picture hat with feathers is stunning when paired with a portrait collar. A small pillbox covered with marabou lends a whimsical air to a tailored suit. --
Tips for choosing a dress
You can option for attractive cocktail wedding dress, wedding gowns by many of the prominent wedding dress designers in this season. Make sure for your lucky & effective wedding dress style. Get a magazine contains article and designs of the best wedding dress and option for the offshore wedding dress design.
COMING UP SHORT
For those of you contemplating going tea length or shorter for your wedding, Novia d'art has some of the most original looks going. The exquisite detailing as well as fabric/lace combos put these dresses in a class by themselves.
COMING UP SHORT
For those of you contemplating going tea length or shorter for your wedding, Novia d'art has some of the most original looks going. The exquisite detailing as well as fabric/lace combos put these dresses in a class by themselves.2009 new wedding dress
2009 new wedding dressTwo pieces hand made My Lady couture wedding dress. The strapless bodice is a corset decorated with the finest Swarowsky crystals and the skirt is made from the finest organza fabric. Via
Amazing gown! Featured in Elegant Bride's "In The Details" as Precious Petals. ViaPARASOL CHIC
Do you recall last summer all those weddings featuring brides and their maids carrying parasols? I certainly noticed, especially after seeing that great flick, The Painted Veil with Naomi Watts and Edward Norton. Set in 1920s China against a magnificent landscape of the Yangtze River and picturesque mountains, Watts sports quite a wardrobe of these chic little props with some of the most intricate detailing I've ever seen. In 1920 however, the parasol was hardly a new concept. Going further back than Marie Antoinette, the parasol was considered a necessity in every woman's wardrobe to ward off the sun. By the mid-1800s when they hit their zenith in the Western World, it was at least known then sun prematurely ages skin. A century later we have scientific proof exposure not only ages but can cause melanoma. So our grandmothers had the right idea flaunting beautiful accessories. And so evolved the parasol; at it's most chic it can be an art form full of intricate treatments and applications just like hats, veils, purses and shoes.
Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Priscilla Troy of Priscilla's Parasols here in the San Francisco Bay Area. When constructed in fabric, not paper, parasols are actually made to last and make beautiful keepsakes and gifts to pass on. When Priscilla brought her entire collection in, I was amazed at the range of her designs. The collection has not only more functional products out of linen and cotton but deacquisitioned pieces from The Brooklyn Museum of Art which consisted of silk and lace gems dating back to the Civil War. Raised in the South, Priscilla moved West and pursued a career as a graphic designer and advertising art director. Today, she engages in conceptual textiles and became interested in “Shade Art” by reintroducing the parasol as both a protective devise and a fashion accessory. She feels, "One does not just carry a parasol, but wears it as a lifestyle choice. "
Photos courtesy of Priscilla's Parasols
PARASOL CHIC
Do you recall last summer all those weddings featuring brides and their maids carrying parasols? I certainly noticed, especially after seeing that great flick, The Painted Veil with Naomi Watts and Edward Norton. Set in 1920s China against a magnificent landscape of the Yangtze River and picturesque mountains, Watts sports quite a wardrobe of these chic little props with some of the most intricate detailing I've ever seen. In 1920 however, the parasol was hardly a new concept. Going further back than Marie Antoinette, the parasol was considered a necessity in every woman's wardrobe to ward off the sun. By the mid-1800s when they hit their zenith in the Western World, it was at least known then sun prematurely ages skin. A century later we have scientific proof exposure not only ages but can cause melanoma. So our grandmothers had the right idea flaunting beautiful accessories. And so evolved the parasol; at it's most chic it can be an art form full of intricate treatments and applications just like hats, veils, purses and shoes. Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Priscilla Troy of Priscilla's Parasols here in the San Francisco Bay Area. When constructed in fabric, not paper, parasols are actually made to last and make beautiful keepsakes and gifts to pass on. When Priscilla brought her entire collection in, I was amazed at the range of her designs. The collection has not only more functional products out of linen and cotton but deacquisitioned pieces from The Brooklyn Museum of Art which consisted of silk and lace gems dating back to the Civil War. Raised in the South, Priscilla moved West and pursued a career as a graphic designer and advertising art director. Today, she engages in conceptual textiles and became interested in “Shade Art” by reintroducing the parasol as both a protective devise and a fashion accessory. She feels, "One does not just carry a parasol, but wears it as a lifestyle choice. " Photos courtesy of Priscilla's Parasols
My Lady - Lady Serena
View the original advert on The Dressmarket
This is an exquisite My Lady wedding dress by Haim bar (Lady serena bodice and skirt) in size 10. It is handmade with italian lace, some swarovski crystals and beaded all over. This is for the mordern bride, one who is not afraid to make a statement and to stand out. And with all the sparkles on the dress, it will surely add a sparkle to your day.
Confetti & Lace - Janessa
A stunning wedding dress, made of a beautiful 100% ivory coloured silk which moves wonderfully with the body, very flattering. The dress is a modern yet classic model, with large roses down either side and 2 large roses at the back. The dress is a new model by by Confetti & Lace. It is possible to lengthen or shorten the length. The train of the dress can be tied up and made shorter for dancing. Very easy to move and dance in the dress.
THE DROP VEIL
sourceContemplating a more romantic but simple look perchance? Check out the drop. Yes, the drop veil is exactly that: actually dropped onto the head in a single layer of tulle or lace, sometimes bordered with lace or ribbon. In the above image it looks like chiffon or organza. Generally, more ornamental gowns look best with simple veils, like one layer of tulle whereas all over lace veils or ones edged with wide borders require a simple gown with little adornment. Your dress might have some exquisite back details you want to show off. If this is the case select a try a layer of tulle like that shown in the images here— in a dropped style that doesn’t fall in creases and folds across your back. Tulle is the best fabric for this; it’s transparent enough without being so opaque to fog detail. The exquisite hair ornamentation in this photos is visible and even adds a little mystery with the addition of a drop veil . . .
THE DROP VEIL
sourceContemplating a more romantic but simple look perchance? Check out the drop. Yes, the drop veil is exactly that: actually dropped onto the head in a single layer of tulle or lace, sometimes bordered with lace or ribbon. In the above image it looks like chiffon or organza. Generally, more ornamental gowns look best with simple veils, like one layer of tulle whereas all over lace veils or ones edged with wide borders require a simple gown with little adornment. Your dress might have some exquisite back details you want to show off. If this is the case select a try a layer of tulle like that shown in the images here— in a dropped style that doesn’t fall in creases and folds across your back. Tulle is the best fabric for this; it’s transparent enough without being so opaque to fog detail. The exquisite hair ornamentation in this photos is visible and even adds a little mystery with the addition of a drop veil . . .
Best wedding dress
Best wedding dressThis is newest comfort Dream Beach discount wedding gown, here is many reliable wedding dress available but it is different from look and designing. It is not more expensive, you are easily affordable.Details of the clothing are also important factors in your selection. To get beach wedding dress light, is light fabrics and light as silk or chiffon, silk, organza leads to better results. Via
Suzanne Neville - Mirabeau
Stunning Suzanne Neville Mirabeau wedding dress. This dress is has an internal corset and is slightly fishtailed to give the bride a curvaceous outline. A matching ivory bolero jacket is also available for £150 (this wasn't even worn). Guaranteed to make you feel like a million dollars on your big day.
CUSTOM DESIGNED PART II: DESIGNER OR DRESSMAKER?
On Friday we covered the process of making a gown from the ground up. Today we're exploring the difference between hiring a dressmaker or designer to create your vision and how to go about finding a good one. So what's the difference?
DRESSMAKERS-Once upon a time before mass production, every woman either had a dressmaker or became her own. Nowadays most dressmakers specialize. You'll want one with expertise in bridal and/or evening wear. Dressmakers either work on an hourly basis or estimate out their labor. They usually work from store bought patterns and expect you to supply the fabrics and materials such as buttons, zippers, etc. This is a good option if you already have a unique cut of silk or know how to shop around yourself for the fabrics.
CUSTOM BRIDAL DESIGNERS-More and more have sprung up in studios and ateliers over the past two decades. They're experts in helping you translate what you see in your imagination as reality. Like a dressmaker, they work one on one with you. Unlike a dressmaker, they usually have tonier establishments and higher prices. The reason? Their services are zeroed in on brides. Most offer small sample collections as well as bolts of fabric right in the studio to inspire you along with your decision. Custom designers usually work all the materials and labor into the price of the garment. Prepare to pay more here. Prices can range from $1K for something simple and unadorned, up to $10K and beyond for the works: full trains, layers of petticoats, underskirts, bustles, intricate beading, etc. Median price range for a custom wedding gown as of this writing would be around $2-5000.00.
WHERE TO FIND DRESSMAKERS AND DESIGNERS
ONLINE- Most bridal designers have their own sites and more are using Etsy to promote their lines. If your heart is set on a star designer like Vera Wang and you happen to live in her area, try to make an appointment. Realize some (read: some) top designers do custom work in their flagship store. Remember though top designers get top dollar. As for custom designers without Vera's name but heavy on talent, if you're near a metro area, your chances of connecting with the right one are good. First thing you want to do is check out the gown photos the site. Is her vision and your own on the same page? Next go to her 'Real Brides' gallery . . . (if there is one) see what others looked like on their wedding day in her creations.
SALONS-Bridal salons and specialty stores sometimes employ custom designers or dressmakers either in house or as outside contractors. Depending on how they are set up, sometimes they'll give a referral if it doesn't interfere with the flow of business. In the olden days (1970s and further back), most salons had an experienced staff to deal with custom evening, gala and bridal.
CONSULTANTS-Bridal consultants or planners are an excellent source for referrals and usually know who is truly expert in the area by years of working with them. Some consultants are willing to work on an hourly basis or for a small referral fee.
FASHION EDITORS-Fashion or wedding section editors come in two different types: Regional mags and big time bloggers. The regional mags like San Francisco Bride can be helpful if you reach them directly or run across their editorials on bridal wear. Most newspapers feature a spread on weddings twice a year. Here, private designers are sometimes featured and listed. Ask for back issues. The big time bloggers you already know: Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes and Bride's Cafe to name just a few. They feature the finest and best in the industry and sometimes (mostly random) do regional posts because some designer, big or up and coming, peaks their fancy.
MAGAZINES-In the past few years, studio and private wedding designers have put gallery style or half page ads in some of the major bridal glossies. A few run regional sections with listings and the designer's particular specialty. Years back (like in the 80s-90s before internet) I found the only mags with these listings were the UK bridal publications. Now, thanks to the work of such publications like The Knot, these listings now exist here in the states.
YELLOW PAGES-Before the internet, this used to be the first place brides looked. After word of mouth, this is still the best place to find a dressmaker (not designer) in my opinion because the designers have all gone online.
FRIENDS-Finally word of mouth and recommendations through friends find the best designers and dressmakers. Someone knows someone who knows someone and often the same name will keep popping up in discussion. Follow it.
AFTERWORD
A custom designed gown is the pinnacle of pure construction. Brides who opt to go custom believe a gown should be comfortable as well as beautifully lined so she can wear it like a second skin--the whole component moving with her as if it is part of her body. If you think about this, it makes sense. She's connecting with a man. In spirit they link. The dress is symbolic of all that, so it should be a part of her and move right along with her. In the end, a custom designed gown is definitely worth the wait.
CUSTOM DESIGNED PART II: DESIGNER OR DRESSMAKER?
On Friday we covered the process of making a gown from the ground up. Today we're exploring the difference between hiring a dressmaker or designer to create your vision and how to go about finding a good one. So what's the difference?
DRESSMAKERS-Once upon a time before mass production, every woman either had a dressmaker or became her own. Nowadays most dressmakers specialize. You'll want one with expertise in bridal and/or evening wear. Dressmakers either work on an hourly basis or estimate out their labor. They usually work from store bought patterns and expect you to supply the fabrics and materials such as buttons, zippers, etc. This is a good option if you already have a unique cut of silk or know how to shop around yourself for the fabrics.
CUSTOM BRIDAL DESIGNERS-More and more have sprung up in studios and ateliers over the past two decades. They're experts in helping you translate what you see in your imagination as reality. Like a dressmaker, they work one on one with you. Unlike a dressmaker, they usually have tonier establishments and higher prices. The reason? Their services are zeroed in on brides. Most offer small sample collections as well as bolts of fabric right in the studio to inspire you along with your decision. Custom designers usually work all the materials and labor into the price of the garment. Prepare to pay more here. Prices can range from $1K for something simple and unadorned, up to $10K and beyond for the works: full trains, layers of petticoats, underskirts, bustles, intricate beading, etc. Median price range for a custom wedding gown as of this writing would be around $2-5000.00.
WHERE TO FIND DRESSMAKERS AND DESIGNERS
ONLINE- Most bridal designers have their own sites and more are using Etsy to promote their lines. If your heart is set on a star designer like Vera Wang and you happen to live in her area, try to make an appointment. Realize some (read: some) top designers do custom work in their flagship store. Remember though top designers get top dollar. As for custom designers without Vera's name but heavy on talent, if you're near a metro area, your chances of connecting with the right one are good. First thing you want to do is check out the gown photos the site. Is her vision and your own on the same page? Next go to her 'Real Brides' gallery . . . (if there is one) see what others looked like on their wedding day in her creations.
SALONS-Bridal salons and specialty stores sometimes employ custom designers or dressmakers either in house or as outside contractors. Depending on how they are set up, sometimes they'll give a referral if it doesn't interfere with the flow of business. In the olden days (1970s and further back), most salons had an experienced staff to deal with custom evening, gala and bridal.
CONSULTANTS-Bridal consultants or planners are an excellent source for referrals and usually know who is truly expert in the area by years of working with them. Some consultants are willing to work on an hourly basis or for a small referral fee.
FASHION EDITORS-Fashion or wedding section editors come in two different types: Regional mags and big time bloggers. The regional mags like San Francisco Bride can be helpful if you reach them directly or run across their editorials on bridal wear. Most newspapers feature a spread on weddings twice a year. Here, private designers are sometimes featured and listed. Ask for back issues. The big time bloggers you already know: Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes and Bride's Cafe to name just a few. They feature the finest and best in the industry and sometimes (mostly random) do regional posts because some designer, big or up and coming, peaks their fancy.
MAGAZINES-In the past few years, studio and private wedding designers have put gallery style or half page ads in some of the major bridal glossies. A few run regional sections with listings and the designer's particular specialty. Years back (like in the 80s-90s before internet) I found the only mags with these listings were the UK bridal publications. Now, thanks to the work of such publications like The Knot, these listings now exist here in the states.
YELLOW PAGES-Before the internet, this used to be the first place brides looked. After word of mouth, this is still the best place to find a dressmaker (not designer) in my opinion because the designers have all gone online.
FRIENDS-Finally word of mouth and recommendations through friends find the best designers and dressmakers. Someone knows someone who knows someone and often the same name will keep popping up in discussion. Follow it.
AFTERWORD
A custom designed gown is the pinnacle of pure construction. Brides who opt to go custom believe a gown should be comfortable as well as beautifully lined so she can wear it like a second skin--the whole component moving with her as if it is part of her body. If you think about this, it makes sense. She's connecting with a man. In spirit they link. The dress is symbolic of all that, so it should be a part of her and move right along with her. In the end, a custom designed gown is definitely worth the wait.
Donna Salado - Fedora
This stunning dress was from the 2005 Couture collection. It has a beautiful, lace, corseted bodice and a gorgeous silk skirt. The train is amazing and very princess like, being lace. It also has a bustle at the back.
REDESIGNED!
I found this Portland designer's redesign work while cruising around the blogs. Sonia Kasparian has developed a collection of restyled wedding gowns. Because they are reworked, each and every gown is one-of-its kind, borrowed from pieces of old wedding and evening wear. Her label is Urchin though at this writing the site is still under construction. If you link through Xta-Bay here you can see more of her marvelous work.
REDESIGNED!
I found this Portland designer's redesign work while cruising around the blogs. Sonia Kasparian has developed a collection of restyled wedding gowns. Because they are reworked, each and every gown is one-of-its kind, borrowed from pieces of old wedding and evening wear. Her label is Urchin though at this writing the site is still under construction. If you link through Xta-Bay here you can see more of her marvelous work.
Benjamin Roberts - 912
The Benjamin Roberts 912 has delicate beading across the top of the dress which gracefully flows into the rest of the dress. It is gathered at both sides which creates soft pleats that disappear in to the dress and creates a gorgeous sweeping, layered style. The wedding dress has a beautiful trail and is fitted with a corset that flattens the waist. The coset has a button finished.
Fabulous wedding gown
A wedding to most people is a most important & big thing and it should be; by all the rules of the game. However, these days a wedding is not all that important to people for many reasons. Via
BOUQUETS AND YOUR DRESS
Better Homes and Gardens, known for gorgeous garden and flower features has the most imaginative bouquets I've seen in a long time . From country charm to downright exotic, check out these magnificent combos I found on their site. Finding an inspiration point and blending that idea with your dress is just the beginning of working one or a few colors into an overall theme. The dress above is paired up with a bouquet of Celadon hydrangea clusters and hypericum berries combined with soft yellow orchids, chrysanthemums, and peach-pink roses.
Loops of rich green grass encircle this creamy clutch of flowers. Pure white roses are nestled alongside yellow-tint orchids and roses with pale green petals. Soothing green foliage and berries unite the bunch.
The evening gowned or beach bride will love this tropical bouquet. To add an island or beach vibe to your wedding, use bold colors like these orange tulips surrounded by lisianthus.
Intricate and colorful bouquets work in tandem with a minimalist dress with few details like the one pictured above . . .This bouquet is a twist of modern elegance. Jade roses and white calla lilies are surrounded by banana leaves to give this bouquet a unique look. To bring out your wedding colors, wrap your bouquet in ribbon and add special touches like this dragonfly to accessorize the bouquet
Believe me, this is just the beginning of all the fabulous flower chic. To find more bouquet inspiration you can hop over to BHG's Editor's Picks .
Believe me, this is just the beginning of all the fabulous flower chic. To find more bouquet inspiration you can hop over to BHG's Editor's Picks .
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