CHERRY

Lovely monochromatics of hot pink to the most gentle pastels remind us despite all this cold, spring is once more on the way with blossoms and froth.  Thanks Helena over at SMP Style Circle for sharing your thoughts and inspiration here with us . . .

TRES CHIC

What could be cleaner and neater than black and white stripes? Mix in some shades of pink and you have a truly lovely palette.  Thanks once more to Shana over at SMP Style Circle for sharing these lovely images today. . . .

LOVE STORIES

CREDITS

Photography:  Jim Vetter Photography

Gowns: Amy-Jo Tatum Bride

Hair: Style by Lana

Makeup: EliteStylist

Florals: Victoria's Florals and Event Planning

Models: Joy Mann, Rocio Flores, Curtis Ashton, Keith Hamrick

Venue: Robson-Harrington Park, San Anselmo, Ca

As an indie designer I believe creating a collection for brides can be a bit like writing a romance.  Every piece begging to be created has a certain character to be developed.  In this ongoing saga of layered skirts and yards of crinoline, I've tried to keep the hourglass silhouettes looking fresh and forward by introducing new fabrics and textures to a decidedly vintage line. Mixing lace and tulle is an ideal combo for these romantic pieces.  For that little extra something this season I added some lace blouses. I opted for a cutout Swiss cotton over blouse with vintage laces added to the waist and neckline. An ivory high-necked blouse out of stretch lace lends a real Edwardian look and the Val lace over blouse with a scalloped Sabrina neckline gives off the classic and beloved 'Audreyesque' image.   

No study is complete without the adept eye of a photographer who understands the work. First off, I have to say, Jim Vetter is tops.  His vision about how a shoot goes together both artistically and professionally is unparalleled.  He will work straight through a session and keep your vision as well as his own fresh.  Late spring of this year Jim called me in an emergency because he needed designs for a stylized shoot where the gowns didn't show up.  Unfortunately he called at one of the busiest times here in the Land of Bridal so we both took a rain check,scheduling something for summer. All I can say is, some things are well worth waiting for . . .

About the project as a whole, Jim says, "I had a vision to create a set of images that portray an intimate mood fitting for the classic designs of Amy's  gowns. The impetus for this shoot was my desire to truly highlight my work and the work of my collaborators - and to do this in a controlled way that isn't really possible at an actual wedding. This project allowed us to capture the best of every one's work."

THAT LITTLE WHITE DRESS

Suzannah.com
Like I keep saying, it's a great time to be a bride.  Whether you're going for a short and understated look on your wedding day or are looking for the perfect shower, rehearsal  or reception look, check out these little white gems I found out and about the net. . ..

 Above: Beautifully cut and immaculately tailored 1940's inspired boudoir dress . Wonderful body sculpting silhouette create with corsetry boning and soft pads which flatter all sizes. Cut to flatter, lifting and shaping the body. A boned peplum hip part adds additional drama to the beautifully sophisticated vintage couture inspired dress. 100% Triple Organza in the softest Rose Pink with self lined body part and acetate lined skirt. Dry Clean Only Detachable washed velvet rose at the centre front. Detachable silk ribbon at the waist seam. Below the knee, centre back vent.

  coggles.com

1950’s pale blue lace prom dress. The dress is a frothy and romantic confection of pale powder blue lace and features a Ruched bodice, scalloped waist seam, full A-line skirt with underskirts and a rear zip fastening. The Natasha dress is lined and sits below the knee. An original and unique vintage piece This piece has been lovingly restored by Priestley’s Vintage for you, any imperfections which may have occurred through the years only add to the individuality of this garment.

net-a-porter.com Platinum silk-crepe sleeveless dress with silk-organza ruffles through front and skirt. Notte by Marchesa dress has a V-neck, a silk-satin band at waist, an oversized rosette at front, and a concealed press-stud and zip fastening along back. 100% silk; lining:

janenorman.co.uk

This one shoulder wonder features delicate flower design with sequin detailing along the shoulder strap, chic ruching on the front and a back tie to create a fabulous silhouette. Check out our glamorous accessories range to complete this sexy and stylish look.

HEADPIECE, VEIL (OR BOTH)?

Since Chelsea Clinton's wedding last year, the long tulle veil is suddenly in the spot light once again. There are brides like Chelsea who choose to wear a veil without a headpiece and brides who wear headpieces, ditching the veil altogether.  But what about the bride above?  She's wearing my 'Oralie' headpiece with the  cathedral veil.  The point is, you can do whatever you want as long as you feel beautiful.  A few tips on matching veils to headpieces:

The headpiece: headpiece, gown and veil should all work in tandem. Modern gowns go with beaded hair combs, tiaras and any hat with a veil. A more traditional gown will look great with a Juliet cap, a bow, wreath, hair comb. The ultra-formal gown shouts out for a tiara of Swarovski crystal.  Consider also a hat, Juliet cap (classic) or  mantilla.

The veil: No rules any more about legnth of veil dictated by formality of ceremony.  That means you can wear a Juliet cap with a waltz length veil, a pillbox with a very long cathedral veil.  Just remember to keep everything in balance. If you're tiny maybe the huge hat with your veil is going to be a bit much.  Scale down. . .

POCKET STYLE

Rosa Clara

Check out these gems, all are top designer bridal gowns with pockets--some even the focal point of the design.  While some eras went for pockets, even in formal attire, this is the first we've really seen them show up in bridal.  After all, once-upon-a-time a bride didn't have to carry anything.except a bouquet.  She had maids to handle everything else.  However, pockets, like collars, peplums and hoods are all functional in their way but still a stylish fashion component to be added and enjoyed. Think of it: no bridal purse, your hands are free.  Brides are going to find out what the guys have known all along: life's a lot easier with pockets  

Manuel Mota

Angel Sanchez