tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9822980133171265972012-02-11T10:26:28.808-08:00Meet Fashion in Wedding moment.Arumnoreply@blogger.comBlogger691100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-80546061043089775092012-02-09T12:56:00.000-08:002012-02-09T12:56:09.578-08:00

An Etsy store that has absolutely captured my heart is Tavin.  Their selection of vintage wedding dresses is off-the-charts.  As you can see in these images the range of decade dressing spans from 1900s-inspired to the 1960s Chantilly lace bridal gown . If you're lucky enough to live in SOCAL, Tavin has an actual brick and mortar shop in Echo Park  Check it out at 1543 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-27989886743567086942012-02-08T09:23:00.000-08:002012-02-08T09:23:33.984-08:00

Some curator on a reality show I was watching last week addressed the issue of what it was like to be the first time owner of one of those lovely dresses from the 40s-50s era.   "I didn't know it was going to be so scratchy on the inside . . ." she confessed.  My rebuttal to this was, well, maybe that's why you see women in 50s movies stripping down to either full slips or some form of

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-40662861435938032962012-02-03T19:55:00.000-08:002012-02-03T19:55:00.414-08:00

Ranier ManindingLast weekend I was honored to be part of the grand opening bash for JonVey Salon in downtown San Francisco. JonVey hairstylists Cameron Hinke and Kao Vey Saephanh showed the full spectrum of their tour de force head chic along with fashion designers Alyssa Nicole, Justin Jamison, Erandeny Torres and Yours Truly here who provided all the silk and lace ooooh la-la . . .  Ranier

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-74951984730453404312012-02-02T18:46:00.000-08:002012-02-02T18:46:00.617-08:00

sourceThe theme was Belle Epoque at the San Francisco Ballet opening Wednesday night.  Rolling out the red carpet for the cavalcade of couture, the most celebrated designer it seemed was Alexander McQueen living on through his art as social sceners paid him the ultimate tribute by wearing his most dramatic pieces.  Above: Always nailing a grand entrance, Deepa  Pakianathan does it again wearing a

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-50525223612048865652012-02-01T23:36:00.000-08:002012-02-01T23:36:00.269-08:00

 SOURCEIt's okay to drool if you're looking at something--- anything by Elizabeth Fillmore.  She's tops on her use of  lace and fit and always seems to get it right using the perfect fabrics with the most flattering silhouette.  And let's give a big welcome back to the sleeve, shall we?  We've had the right to bare arms so long I believe we've forgotten sleeves can be so flattering . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-67409257590828438292012-01-30T22:22:00.000-08:002012-02-01T11:03:20.165-08:00

Here are some fresh looks for the backyard or destination wedding.  Set the pace for you and your guy sporting laid-back chic while looking great, staying comfortable. These amazing photos were shot off Dunk Island, in Australia for Bride to Be April 2011 issue.  Images are by fashion talent extraordinaire, Julie Adams.  Shopping info below. Images courtesy of Bride to be Australia

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-57443217668459484692012-01-30T12:46:00.000-08:002012-01-30T12:46:33.692-08:00

The sheath is a favorite of brides who take pride in working out and strutting their stuff. I'm not referring to the evening gown or any variation with a flared skirt but the sheath Audrey made famous--that snug fitting, long columnar silhouette in a heavier fabric like Duchesse satin or peau. Defined, the classic sheath looks like the images right and below--having waistline and skirt features

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-46404105121378310732012-01-28T21:39:00.000-08:002012-01-28T21:39:46.640-08:00

Let's take a sneek peek at some inspirations for spring that season of which, believe it or not is closer than you think.  From the beautifully wrapped posies to silk white wedding gown, we have Kathryn over at SMP Style Circle for to thank for this wonderful medley of ideas . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-14409599521776529612012-01-25T19:18:00.000-08:002012-01-25T19:18:00.456-08:00

CREDITS Photography . . . . . Donnie Miller PhotographyDress . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Amy-Jo Tatum BridalVeil . . . . Batcakes CoutureVenue and Catering . . . . RavelWedding cupcakes . . . . Baby cakes Bakery (Lower East Side) I have another wedding for you and this one is very close to my heart. You all know how I love and miss New York City. Naturally I was tickled pink when I had the

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-75948439095525152192012-01-25T19:08:00.000-08:002012-01-25T19:08:00.130-08:00

Enjoy this spot on blending of the rustic and elegant touches . . . a cake wrapped in a diamond brooch, a bouquet of just picked cotton . . .a tattered dress of the most exquisite silk . . .Thank you to Tuyet over at SMP Style Circle for this beautifully juxtaposed inspiration.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-66044515745831070482012-01-24T20:43:00.000-08:002012-01-24T20:43:00.505-08:00

Finishing touches anyone? Did you know the right accessories pull your whole bridal look together? Topping it all off right down to the toes, here are a few you're gonna luv . . . THE BRIDAL EFFECT! by Manuela Marques featuring silk pumps Wedding Shop - Bridal Gowns and Wedding Party Apparel | Nordstrom.com nordstrom.com Wedding party shoes » Badgley Mischka 'Randall' Pump $200 - nordstrom.com

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-65428955505448988002012-01-24T18:58:00.000-08:002012-01-24T18:58:00.541-08:00

Photo by Jim Vetter Photography/Model: Curtis Ashford Here's a question: What if your fiance won't wear a tux?  What happens then?  Did you know a dark suit or suit/tux will do just fine. You heard right. Today you'll find me over on Savvy Scoop talking more on this guy topic alongside some top drawer photos by wedding photographer, Jim Vetter.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-1312715838263748822012-01-23T22:44:00.000-08:002012-01-23T22:44:00.067-08:00

For all you brides on a budget I have some good news. It's Fall so I'm selling off some of the photographic samples of 50s style wedding dresses as well as a few other gowns in the collection.   So what you ask, is a photographic sample? It is a mock up made up just for the photo shoot in materials close to but not yet ready for prime time such as the almost priceless silks in which they are

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-34818543297514415292012-01-23T20:19:00.000-08:002012-01-23T20:19:00.275-08:00

The Beckmans and their edgy chic Sophie, Countess of Wessex and Princess Anne It was like Ascot Gavotte in color as guests poured into Westminster Abbey this morning for the long awaited wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. The Oh La La! factor really kicked once the crowd swelled; Cecil Beaton's over the top sets and costumes for My Fair Lady come to mind yet this is all real.  When

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-68627669137377690612012-01-22T22:05:00.000-08:002012-01-22T22:05:00.530-08:00

A little spring preview thanks Naomi Goodman who made up this yummy board so sweet we can taste it.  An inspiring wedding and event planner, her blog, Enchanted Dream Weddings and Affairs is where you'll find more great inspiration . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-84869858459064865192012-01-22T21:42:00.000-08:002012-01-22T21:42:00.404-08:00

Piximage Defining looks for 2011 include long veils paired up with large, voluminous gowns as well as the slimmer silhouettes seen here.  These were just listed on Etsy.  Above and below are both cathedral veils.  The above veil is a double layer ivory tulle edged in satin ribbon.  Below, a white single layer tulle dappled in Chantilly lace.  You can see more images of both on Amy-Jo Tatum Bridal

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-62076674952925366002012-01-20T10:26:00.000-08:002012-01-20T10:26:36.414-08:00

I see the last of November as the perfect break in the holidays for a late fall wedding.  All these deep amber, ochre and aubergine touches say we're just teetering on the brink of winter.  Check out the ivy laced in with the roses . . . the fruits and berries.  Many thanks to Shana over at SMP Style Circle.  I'm forever lifting her beautiful inspiration boards off the site to share with you.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-9072381063826103312012-01-17T22:11:00.000-08:002012-01-17T22:11:00.536-08:00

 . . . . over on One Wed talking all about awesome UK designer, Terry Fox.  Creating a cross between fairy-tale and shabby chic for over 30 years, Terry has made the corset into a work of art both as a separate as well as component complimenting her full ball gown silhouettes. These pieces from her accessory line, called 'Mine', are a celebration of her love of costume and innovative use of

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-39018987329076756122012-01-17T22:00:00.000-08:002012-01-17T22:00:09.562-08:00

Photo by Lirette Photography Hey all!  Today you'll find me over on Savvy Scoop Blog chatting all about those darling and chic little headpieces called fascinators.  This one called 'Mocha' by Yours Truly has to be my all time faves, a mix of pearls, tulle and dupioni silk.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-41264397623585737782012-01-17T18:50:00.000-08:002012-01-17T18:50:00.771-08:00

As if two royal bashes this year weren't enough, here's another to top 2011 off. Saturday in Edinburgh, Zara Phillips, married British rugby captain Mike Tindall.  The once upon a time rebel grand daughter of the Queen lived up to her image breaking royal wedding tradition on two fronts: She will not take her husband's name and she opted for an off-the-rack gown by Stewart Parvin rather than

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-54367770638440893562012-01-16T23:43:00.000-08:002012-01-16T23:43:00.108-08:00

Tuyet Nguyen over at SMP Style Circle has done it again, inspiring us with all, this time with her spring visions.  The satin here is particularly pretty opposite the blossoms.  Love the different shades and textures . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-69571593202689782922012-01-16T21:23:00.000-08:002012-01-16T21:23:00.201-08:00

Customizing a simple gown with a bustle of florals down the back is breath taking.  I found this image pinned by The Perfect Palette via Pinterest.  I'm always glad to see those inventive touches each bride puts on her gown--as individual as her thumb print.  Curious to hear from brides-to-be and those of you who have tied the knot: What was your own personal and custom touch . . .?

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-30286521172064320162012-01-16T18:52:00.000-08:002012-01-16T18:52:00.408-08:00

Check out these chic little poufs from Alisa Brides on Etsy.  The combo of feathers and use of netting is fabulous.  Paired with a simple gown like this it shows off your gorgeous face.  Wear a suit or shirt dress and you take on a whole new look of elan  . . . The above is a short birdcage with french net, feathers,  tulle, and a crystal flower. French netting with silk handmade flower and

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-44437754345632832082012-01-16T18:41:00.000-08:002012-01-16T18:41:00.815-08:00

 Contemplating 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.  We dropped this delicate circular veil of ivory tulle bordered with Chantilly lace on top of Libby's pretty little head.  How else could she wear it?  Most brides would layer it into a triangle and tack it to the

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-61931673150048431542012-01-15T23:13:00.000-08:002012-01-15T23:13:00.509-08:00

Pnina Tornai I'm so much in love with all these delicate pastels and soft textures.  Spring will always symbolize rebirth and the beauty of looking forward . . . Valentino Camille La Vie

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-78248398394712132102012-01-15T19:40:00.000-08:002012-01-15T19:40:00.082-08:00

So what, you ask, is the difference between The Real Deal vintage and vintage reproduction?  If the above dress still existed somewhere, say in your Grandma's attic, that's the real deal.  If you're considering going vintage--I mean really vintage as in wearing a dress from the actual era you love, here's the lowdown: Many vintage clothing stores stock actual gowns from by-gone eras as well as ‘

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-64246044011960015122012-01-15T19:01:00.000-08:002012-01-15T19:01:01.191-08:00

Somewhere between blue and periwinkle you'll find shades of white and gray.  I love this dress so reminiscent of the one Grace Kelly wore in Rear Window. The white doilies on the wall are tempting.  I want to figure a way to piece them all together into a dress . . . Thank you Tuyet Nguyen of SMP Style Circle for giving us all such an awesome dose of inspiration.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-47410283718791445222012-01-14T22:57:00.000-08:002012-01-14T22:57:00.170-08:00

   Growing up, I was so intrigued by these ads, once asked who my favorite designer was I answered, "Modess . . . "  For all you gals born after the last Modess ad graced the home and fashion glossies round about 1973, Modess was not the super star designer I'd once imagined but a sanitary napkin put out by Johnson and Johnson.  With a real glitzerama of an ad campaign, it had some of the most

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-87194450613966941372012-01-14T22:38:00.000-08:002012-01-14T22:38:00.494-08:00

St. Pucchi Do you know the difference between tea-length and ballerina length? Short or mini? Here are some images to inspire you along to finding your perfect hemline. . . . FLOOR-LENGTH Sassi Holford Most common length for bridal gowns, this hemline is graceful and elegant; typically not touching the floor in front but 1-3" above for ease with walking. BALLERINA Amy-Jo Tatum Photo by

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-33791540414894334822012-01-14T19:17:00.000-08:002012-01-14T19:17:00.225-08:00

Claudette Colbert as Ellie Andrews, Audrey Hepburn as Jo Stockton. No, they weren't real brides but the designers, writers and producers who created them certainly were. Hollywood designers and the actresses who wore their creations influenced the way we look at weddings and fashion today. All the gowns pictured here are works of art and stellar representatives of their times. What could be more

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-5245672297592411932012-01-13T22:55:00.000-08:002012-01-13T22:55:00.819-08:00

Isn't this an awesome set of pics?  The white Star Lillies and red roses are an ideal bridal bouquet or center piece while the Temperly gowns upper right are perfect for the winter wedding.  Thank you Lindsbinz of SMP Style Circle for inspiring us all post Xmas and ushering us into a splendid winter . . ..

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-9715206596800227672012-01-13T20:28:00.000-08:002012-01-13T20:28:01.082-08:00

Jennifer Davis Photography Bling defined is any crystal or jewel sewn onto your gown--sometimes incorporating intricate embroidery.  How can you tell the exquisite bling from the paste?  Like a lot of things, you know it when you see it.  But you do have to see it.  If you are contemplating a gown or dress with bling, please get a look at it before ordering.  Realize that given the right

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-17343586544889478492012-01-13T18:45:00.000-08:002012-01-13T18:45:00.560-08:00

Okay, let's admit it, I'm smitten with all things lace especially any form of Chantilly.  This stunning real life bride is wearing an equally stunning gown by Elie Saab, called Erato.  I stumbled upon it on Once Wed in the must see post, Hyde Park Wedding.  I've always thought bare skin the ideal backdrop for lace turning it into a real work of art in soft sculpture.  A combination

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-32135698973355485972012-01-12T22:47:00.000-08:002012-01-12T22:47:01.049-08:00

Etsy has a way of bringing out the best designers in the wedding industry.  One of my very favs is D' Marie Bridal Couture.  She does gowns celebrating eras as well as the artists and icons who inspired the times.  This one belongs to Audrey.  Audrey who?  I think you already know . . . 

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-15453192952122022752012-01-12T19:24:00.000-08:002012-01-12T19:24:00.156-08:00

  First sight of these gowns and I was in love. Aren't they simply gorgeous?  They're from Minneapolis-based designer, Joy Teiken aka Joynoelle. The Joynoelle Bridal Collection is completely handmade in Joy's Minneapolis atelier. I especially love the romantic/vintage/boutique feel that really make each piece one-of-a-kind.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-10683294565757716732012-01-12T18:30:00.000-08:002012-01-12T18:30:03.269-08:00

Face it, we all have a soft spot for kids.  Stephanie Staub, already well-known in the UK for her Little Eglantine line has just unveiled pieces from the summer 2011 collection..Here's the 'Gallia' green flower girl dress and 'William' green page boy outfit. The white silk taffeta flower girl dress, with a peter pan collar, puff sleeves and pale green sash is perfect for summer weddings . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-5046913319393295652012-01-11T23:46:00.000-08:002012-01-11T23:46:00.377-08:00

There's nothing quite like a winter romance, especially a Christmas one.  I think every woman should have one at least once in her life time.  The center image says it all, doesn't it?  For me it means love can survive any snow storm (or ice storm) and survive.  Snow is intriquing because it's so deadly cold but beautiful, magical . . . We have Amvisco over at SMP Style Circle to thank for this

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-12898025797312639302012-01-11T20:23:00.000-08:002012-01-11T20:23:01.412-08:00

photo by Greg Raphael Meet the newest addition to the collection, NORMA JEAN, a white halter dress of silk crepe inspired by none other than Marilyn Monroe.  It's soon to go up on Etsy when more pictures of front and back are delivered.  If you're interested in ordering email me or call through Amy-Jo Tatum.com. More about how Billy Travilla's dress came to fruition . . . .The Hollywood

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-21728122095058893812012-01-11T19:22:00.000-08:002012-01-11T19:22:01.030-08:00

The most bridal of all laces, Chantilly.  Corbin Gurkin Photography Lace as we know it evokes images of woven florals and scalloped edges on flounced skirts and collars. Though these time-honored looks will always be with us, lately we’re seeing new spins on the use of lace in bridal wear. Not only are the traditionals like Alencon and Chantilly now used in cutting edge ways, new inventions in

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-55594077113434750492012-01-10T21:19:00.000-08:002012-01-10T21:19:00.130-08:00

When I first laid eyes on this work of art above by Satanica of Batcakes Couture I got that deja vu feeling I'd probably seen this piece in Hollywood circa the 1940s.  It sure looks like something by the late, great MGM designer, Adrian.  Then again, like much of Satanica's work, it is decidedly 21st Century and very much hers. My own clients love this strictly head piece designer; her talent

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-63132520037456906652012-01-10T20:52:00.000-08:002012-01-10T20:52:00.398-08:00

If you hop on over to Savvy Scoop you can catch me talking about a little shoe art. That's right, these gems by Nora Karen are like something out of the Museum of Modern Art and believe it or not are actually wedding shoes that say, 'I do' on the soles in rhinestone glitter . . . .  She offers a ton of colors and themes to her collection, peacocks and Art Deco to name a few . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-16379591927588849702012-01-10T19:58:00.000-08:002012-01-10T19:58:00.181-08:00

Now here's some inspiration for the bride looking for a real outside the box look on her wedding day.  Hong Kong Stylist, Maribaybee has brought shades of white and textures to a whole new level of chic.  Her asthetic is, 'One picture tells a story better than a thousand words do . . . .'

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-55875143463748333422012-01-09T21:59:00.000-08:002012-01-09T21:59:00.325-08:00

Lirette PhotographyThe hourglass wasn’t Christian Dior’s only reinvention. His A-line hit big in 1955 and stayed with us. An A-line cut is a more modified form of hourglass, bringing with it refinement and understatement. Fitted through the bodice, the A-line can have a slight to moderate flair in the skirt. Dubbed by fashionistas as “The Deb Dress” it’s been one of the most popular silhouettes

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-34345245438451771592012-01-09T21:38:00.000-08:002012-01-09T21:38:00.956-08:00

This Oooooooooooooooh-la-la  headpiece crafted out of point d'espirit and silk dupioni is featured in the latest issue of Martha Stewart Weddings (This isn't the picture they used) Actually a fascinator, it's available through Amy-Jo Tatum Bridal Couture custom order only.

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-56113546276923409282012-01-08T22:54:00.000-08:002012-01-08T22:54:00.243-08:00

Vue DesignxtabayvintageAnother happening 2012 trend is the illusion neckline.  Popularized in the 1950s this style allowed modesty as well as showing some skin, albeit opaque but sexy and demure.  These days illusion is found in a few varieties of sheer fabric: tulle, power netting, organza and chiffon to name a few.  Designers are using softer and stretchier fibers for the max in comfort . . .

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-11928393099757164602012-01-08T22:12:00.000-08:002012-01-08T22:12:51.557-08:00

  Here's a sneak peak at a little something for the 2012 Bride.  Not only are the traditional laces still inspiring, check out above and below.  These are separates from Alberta Ferretti's knit and cotton laces, definitely on the cutting edge. For the eco-conscious bride who wants to find a better alternative for her bridal ensemble than storing it in a box under her bed, any of these could

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-17708830219733948472012-01-08T22:08:00.000-08:002012-01-08T22:08:00.866-08:00

Exploring more crocheted laces, check these out.  Reminiscent of the 1970s era, a crocheted star accented with a diamond gives the headpiece below a bit of jaunt!   Looking for alternatives for your wedding dress perchance?  This one is so outside the box chic especially paired up with the succulent bouquet . . . From BHLDN--Above: Hand-cut silk blooms set atop airy tulle. Below:

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-30269214945949424122012-01-08T21:25:00.000-08:002012-01-08T21:25:00.474-08:00

For those of you who missed the City Chic editorial, jump on over to All Women Stalk and check it out.  I absolutely loved doing this shoot.  Natalie and Dave to spent their fifth wedding anniversary on an improvised trek through San Francisco landmarks as bride and groom again, Natalie wearing my creations. Since she's been doing editorials for Bride Chic going on three years now, having hubby

Arumnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-982298013317126597.post-2227529886197599362012-01-07T23:21:00.000-08:002012-01-07T23:21:00.385-08:00

A gown with a train suggests formality; typically the longer the train, the more formal the gown. So what is a train exactly? A train is that extension in the back of the skirt that follows when you move. There are two types of trains: built-in and detachable. Built-ins are integrated in the actual skirt pattern when the dress is made. These are the kind that are pulled up and bustled after the

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You may have known this shop on Etsy as Boring Sidney, creator of  beautifully crafted vintage hats with that unmistakable twist on theatrics.  News is, Boring's bridal  and special occasion section has moved over to it's very own and new Etsy space, called, Belle Millinery for easier shopping and tons of the same inspiration only in white . . ..     

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Guest blogging over on one of my fave sites, Walks With Bella.  For those of you who are new to the blog, Bella is actually a Boston Terrier who on first sight had my heart.  A truly one of a kind lifestyle blog, Manhattanite, Tamra Sanford (Bella's mom) writes about everything from weddings to awesome interiors.  So here it is Wedding Wednesday already on Walks With Bella and I'm over there

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The late sixties/seventies era is known primarily for wild and off-beat chic except for a few pockets of elegance here and there  Thanks to a some savvy designers, the funk was fine-tuned into into high fashion.  The era was the most politically charged of the century and invariably spilled over even into haute couture.  The above gown is   out of Vogue UK 1966, a bouffant out of lace and satin

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I've had so many points of inspiration this spring.  Here's what the muse brought to the line of 2011 head chic.  Paris and the expression, Oh la la! has been on my visual radar lately and what better example than this poufed tulle picture hat scattered in hand rolled rosettes.  You'll find a lot of these hand beaded snoods in 1940s flicks but almost nowhere out there on the market now which

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Meet 'Fifi' the newest addition to the Oh La La Collection.  Just off the work table, I'm dubbing 'Fifi' the New Years because she reakkt looks like party time personified.  The bodice is made of silk taffeta trim wrapped around the midriff.  A huge wired bow in the back wraps around the front and runs down yards and layers of tulle skirt.  The shoulder and hip are accentuated with giant tulle

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I adore this board !  I can't count the times that Naomi Goodman of Enchanted Dream Weddings and Affairs has led me down the path of inspiration with her medleys of color.  Take her pink composition here, all the different shades say femme-fatale and little girl innocence at once.

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 Meet Olivia Yip, a rising star out of Hong Kong, aka Olivia Couture. Starting out as a graphic designer, Olivia moved on to fashion once she saw the volume of creativity offered in bridal and special occassion wear.  The press worldwide loves her work, the British press in particular after the impression she made at Harrogate, in England; Peta Hunt of You & Your Wedding had this to say in

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  Photo S1 Studio/Gown Amy-Jo Tatum I've found while brides are searching for new ways to economize these days they still want to keep that 'ultra-chic factor' going . .  As a result, more are opting for the simple budget-conscious gown then taking it to the dressmaker or designer to get it personally customized. So how is customizing your gown different than a custom made gown? A custom gown

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via Pinterest Looking for a more casual look on your weding day?  Or maybe you want something special for your rehearsal dinner or shower.  Check out these gems from Kelsey Genna's Begonia House Collection. If you're wondering why you haven't seen her collection anywhere Kelsey Genna's work is realtively new, handmade and out of New Zealand. Read: handmade, something I love to see and promote

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Fascinator, headpiece or tiara? Well, you make the call. And, I wouldn't be at all surprised to find any of these pieces by Pina gracing the galleries of MOMA or The Guggenheim. Floral and feather combos have come into the bridal fashion arena big time. Although even the most fashion forward brides might tone these down a little, I consider them some of the most inspiring I've seen thus far . .

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CREDITSPhotography- Stuart Lirette and John Truong                                       Wedding Dresses and Bridal Headwear- Amy-Jo Tatum/ Dioresque 2011                                           Jewelry- Denise Hazelton and Hot Rocks for Studiolo Makeup- Pretty by JulianneHair- Intertwine Design Special thanks to photographers John Truong and Stuart Lirette who teamed up again, this time

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 Catherine Alhinc Some brides are moving into and combining two very important transitions in life, wife and mother all at once. If perchance you are or will be a bride expecting, brace yourself--there are some absolutely gorgeous gowns out there. You'll be impressed to find slick, editorials like these of Mom-to-Be /Brides holding full, rounded tummies. Designers are finally heeding the call for

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Another great Etsy find.  Check out this gorgeous little white dress by Lily Fleur The baby doll dress is one of Boho's chicest options lately especially if you're going for a more informal look.  Just the right dress for summer, this one's semi-sheer, made of ivory and white fabrics, an under layer of organza with triple layer of tatter organza at the hem. Vintage battenburg lace and handwork

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Elie Saab Has bridal fashion become less traditional and more in sinc with haute couture? Think of the brides of the 1960s-70s era. Did their gowns have that fashion forward edge like they do now? No. They were more like satin uniforms trimmed in Alencon lace--the stuff society expected? Bridal fashion aside, women just don't dress up like they used to. Once upon a time we dressed at least three

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It seems like the bulk of bridal designers have never heard of December weddings in places like Minneapolis and Toronto.  If you're going to be a winter bride, you probably know by now, staying warm and elegant all at once can be a challenge. Thanks to Alex Bridal on Etsy, you'll find quite a few chic warmers in faux fur. They specialize in keeping you chic during the harshest weather with

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It'sofficially winter!  At least here in Northern California where the temps have been dropping below freezing at night.  To celebrate the coming of warm and cozy, please enjoy this series of images that the talented Sarah Ehman over at SMP Style Circle whipped up for us.  Want even more inspiration?  You have to see her blog oomphasis, all about mail enhancement (ha, ha!) and other

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What could be more apropos for a January Saturday than Coffee, tea and pastries?  For me it's the little things in life that really make me enjoy it to the fullest.  Thanks Naomi Goodman over at SMP Style Circle for this beautiful gift.  Her blog, Enchanted Dream Weddings and Events is not to be missed if you're after a good dose of inspiration . . .

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  Not only are the traditional uses of lace still inspiring, there's a whole new spin on that old tradition thanks to a few savvy designers. Above and below are separates from Alberta Ferretti's knit and cotton laces, definitely on the cutting edge. For the eco-conscious bride who wants to find a better alternative for her bridal ensemble than storing it in a box under her bed, any of these could

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