Come browse our gorgeous on Sale Designer Gowns...it's the perfect time of year to get your dream dress!
Some of our Designers
Maggie Sottero:
Martina Liana:
Paloma Blanca:
Jasmine Couture:
Essense:
Monday, November 11, 2013
Designer Gowns Galore!
Come browse our gorgeous on Sale Designer Gowns...it's the perfect time of year to get your dream dress!
Some of our Designers
Maggie Sottero:
Martina Liana:
Paloma Blanca:
Jasmine Couture:
Essense:
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Bridal Gown Winner!
WE HAVE A WINNER!
October was our month-long Anniversary event and we gave away lots of goodies, including a BRIDAL GOWN!
The lucky gal who won the dress was Jeanne Lackey! Congrats, Jeanne!
We also would like to thank the following Businesses for contributing in our Anniversary Drawings:
Kourtney Bentley of EnVision Hair Salon for Bridal Makeovers & Bridal Hair Styling
Bella Grace Florals for Wedding Flowers
Monday, September 30, 2013
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Mother of the Bride (and Groom) Dresses!
We dress quite a few "Mothers of the Bride" every season, and have come to realize that there's no hard & fast rules that must be followed. What's a "fashion faux pas" for some, may be the perfect dress for another! But for those who like tradition, here are some standard guidelines collected from various sources, such as "The Knot" and "Wedding Wire" -- again, these are just suggestions.
Q. What's the dress-buying protocol for moms?
A. It's customary for the mother of the bride to purchase her dress first. Her choice is meant to subtly dictate what the mother of the groom will wear. However, this approach can be a little old-fashioned, not to mention a little unrealistic. There's always some factor that make abiding by tradition a lost cause. Our advice: Just play it by ear, and try to be flexible. It's not a competition.
tip
Q. When the mother of the bride buys her dress, is it her duty to then politely "inform" the groom's mother? What happens?
A. Old-school wedding etiquette says "yes." She is expected to notify the mother of the groom (presumably to prevent overdressing, clashing colors, and other fashion faux pas.) And while it's certainly good form, it's not a requirement, especially if you're worried about seeming pushy or bossy. That said, the mother of the groom might really appreciate -- and even expect -- a heads up. You can either have your daughter subtly pass the details along, or, better yet, give her a call youself. Try to sound as friendly and non-territorial as possible: "I finally found a dress that fits! Do you know what you're wearing yet?" Chances are the mother of the groom will want to know more. Of course, she might be totally disinterested, but if that happens, don't sweat it -- you've been heard.
Q. Does the mother of the bride need to touch base with the groom's stepmother about the dress, or should she contact only the mother of the groom?
A. Divorced family situations can get sticky. Don't worry about the groom's stepmother. He'll let her know what you (and his mom) are wearing. You risk offending the mother of the groom if you formally involve her ex-husband's wife in the game plan.
Q. What are the color restrictions surrounding the mother of the bride's dress?
A. Traditionally, avoiding dresses in the white, ivory, and champagne color family (that match the bride's wedding gown), black gowns (that can suggest mourning) and red gowns(or similarly "flashy" shades) is the standard. Though we've seen moms in white who look tailored and elegant. We think black is classic, chic, and formal, and know that even red can be done with gorgeous good taste. The bottom line? Before you start shopping, talk to the bride. She may be very sensitive to the color issue or completely indifferent. If she expresses reservation, think about subdued-but-stately colors in the lavender, silver, burgundy, and blue families.
Q. Does the mother of the bride's dress color have to match the bridesmaids?
A. Some will swear by the "rule" that all the dresses must coordinate. And some brides really love that matchy-matchy look. But there are countless alternatives. Maybe stay within one color spectrum -- if the bridesmaids dresses are baby blue, for instance, the mother of the bride can wear navy. But mixing and matching can be ultra-stylish, too. What's most important, however, is that everyone feels comfortable and beautiful.
Q. When it comes to choosing the Mother of the Bride's dress, how much say does the bride have?
A. Definitely consult her on color -- she may have issues with certain shades (white, black, red) or want your dress to complement the bridesmaids' get-ups. She may also have ideas about style, length, and formality. Do try to respect her wishes -- her opinion should count for a lot, and if she wants long sleeves or if she likes you best in pistachio, what's the harm in obliging? Keep her guidelines in mind while shopping, but the dress you settle on should make you happy, too.
Q. How far in advance should the Mother of the Bride purchase her dress?
A. Start dress shopping as soon as possible. If you must put it off (maybe you're trying to firm up or just dread shopping in general), aim to have made a decision at least one month before the wedding. We know you're going to get around to it eventually -- just be sure to let the groom's mom know she can forge ahead without you and keep the bride informed of your progress.
Q. Does the Mother of the Bride have to get dressed up for the wedding, even if fancy isn't her style?
A. If it's an evening wedding, you're going to have to dress up more than usual. You don't want to stick out or appear disrespectful. But this doesn't mean you have to sport sequins and satin or velvet and rhinestones. There are many frill-free formal looks out there. Stick to your guns and you'll find an outfit (pants are okay!) that's unembellished, easy, and elegant -- perfect for your casual style.
Q. Can a young-looking MOB wear a strapless ball gown -- is there such a thing as looking too young or sexy?
A. On one level we think you deserve to wear a fabulously sexy dress, but on another, we're wondering how the bride will feel. If she's supportive, go for it -- you're both going to sizzle! But if your daughter seems concerned about "Mommy" turning heads, not acting her age, and otherwise upstaging her, let her be selfish. It's her day, not yours. Besides, you're not limited to "frumpy" or overly conservative attire at all. It's quite possible to be glamorous without ruffling any feathers.
Q. What's the dress-buying protocol for moms?
A. It's customary for the mother of the bride to purchase her dress first. Her choice is meant to subtly dictate what the mother of the groom will wear. However, this approach can be a little old-fashioned, not to mention a little unrealistic. There's always some factor that make abiding by tradition a lost cause. Our advice: Just play it by ear, and try to be flexible. It's not a competition.
tip
Q. When the mother of the bride buys her dress, is it her duty to then politely "inform" the groom's mother? What happens?
A. Old-school wedding etiquette says "yes." She is expected to notify the mother of the groom (presumably to prevent overdressing, clashing colors, and other fashion faux pas.) And while it's certainly good form, it's not a requirement, especially if you're worried about seeming pushy or bossy. That said, the mother of the groom might really appreciate -- and even expect -- a heads up. You can either have your daughter subtly pass the details along, or, better yet, give her a call youself. Try to sound as friendly and non-territorial as possible: "I finally found a dress that fits! Do you know what you're wearing yet?" Chances are the mother of the groom will want to know more. Of course, she might be totally disinterested, but if that happens, don't sweat it -- you've been heard.
Q. Does the mother of the bride need to touch base with the groom's stepmother about the dress, or should she contact only the mother of the groom?
Q. What are the color restrictions surrounding the mother of the bride's dress?
A. Traditionally, avoiding dresses in the white, ivory, and champagne color family (that match the bride's wedding gown), black gowns (that can suggest mourning) and red gowns(or similarly "flashy" shades) is the standard. Though we've seen moms in white who look tailored and elegant. We think black is classic, chic, and formal, and know that even red can be done with gorgeous good taste. The bottom line? Before you start shopping, talk to the bride. She may be very sensitive to the color issue or completely indifferent. If she expresses reservation, think about subdued-but-stately colors in the lavender, silver, burgundy, and blue families.
Q. Does the mother of the bride's dress color have to match the bridesmaids?
A. Some will swear by the "rule" that all the dresses must coordinate. And some brides really love that matchy-matchy look. But there are countless alternatives. Maybe stay within one color spectrum -- if the bridesmaids dresses are baby blue, for instance, the mother of the bride can wear navy. But mixing and matching can be ultra-stylish, too. What's most important, however, is that everyone feels comfortable and beautiful.
Q. When it comes to choosing the Mother of the Bride's dress, how much say does the bride have?
A. Definitely consult her on color -- she may have issues with certain shades (white, black, red) or want your dress to complement the bridesmaids' get-ups. She may also have ideas about style, length, and formality. Do try to respect her wishes -- her opinion should count for a lot, and if she wants long sleeves or if she likes you best in pistachio, what's the harm in obliging? Keep her guidelines in mind while shopping, but the dress you settle on should make you happy, too.
Q. How far in advance should the Mother of the Bride purchase her dress?
A. Start dress shopping as soon as possible. If you must put it off (maybe you're trying to firm up or just dread shopping in general), aim to have made a decision at least one month before the wedding. We know you're going to get around to it eventually -- just be sure to let the groom's mom know she can forge ahead without you and keep the bride informed of your progress.
Q. Does the Mother of the Bride have to get dressed up for the wedding, even if fancy isn't her style?
A. If it's an evening wedding, you're going to have to dress up more than usual. You don't want to stick out or appear disrespectful. But this doesn't mean you have to sport sequins and satin or velvet and rhinestones. There are many frill-free formal looks out there. Stick to your guns and you'll find an outfit (pants are okay!) that's unembellished, easy, and elegant -- perfect for your casual style.
Q. Can a young-looking MOB wear a strapless ball gown -- is there such a thing as looking too young or sexy?
A. On one level we think you deserve to wear a fabulously sexy dress, but on another, we're wondering how the bride will feel. If she's supportive, go for it -- you're both going to sizzle! But if your daughter seems concerned about "Mommy" turning heads, not acting her age, and otherwise upstaging her, let her be selfish. It's her day, not yours. Besides, you're not limited to "frumpy" or overly conservative attire at all. It's quite possible to be glamorous without ruffling any feathers.
Monday, September 2, 2013
10 of the Best Celebrity Wedding Dresses (last 20 years)
We're going to list 10 of our favorite celebrity wedding dresses from the last 20 years. We realize there are many more, but we're stick to groups of 10 and revisit this topic a few times. Enjoy and please comment!
10. Ivanka Trump
9. Portia de Rossi
8. Chelsea Clinton
7. Gwen Stefani
6. Nicole Ritchie
5. Jenna Bush
4. Alyssa Milano
3. Jewel
2. Salma Hayek
1. Duchess Kate
10. Ivanka Trump
Monday, August 19, 2013
Crowning Glory...Veils, Headpieces, Tiaras, Oh My!
It's the moment of truth...the final piece that brings it all together and makes everyone gasp, sigh, or even cry...the veil. Boasting a rich history in cultures across the world, the veil has been said to symbolize everything from warding off evil spirits to showing the status of the brides family...some lore, some logic, all lovely!
Here at Designing Bride, we love adding the veil to that perfect dress. There are so many styles to choose from, and if we don't have your perfect veil; our expert, custom couture seamstresses can create your perfect headpiece!
Some brides choose a traditional veil, of varying lengths:
Here is an adorable short veil:
Or even polka dots!
And a trend that's been building with more and more bohemian style brides, is this lovely vintage lace veil, knotted:
Some choose no veil, but instead go with alternative headpieces, like this floral wreath:
Or this silk flower bouquet with bandeau birdcage piece:
A tiara for the princess in all of us:
A whimsical headband, for an ethereal look:
Or finally, jeweled and beaded lovely ornaments, which we can customize just for you!
We could go on for days...there are really no limits when it comes to your crowning glory!
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Incorporating your "something blue" ~
We've all heard the saying..."Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue" -- it's been around forever!
We've decided to look into fun & unique ways to incorporate your "something blue" -- feel free to comment with ways you've seen or dreamed up, too!
A peek of blue on the bottoms of your shoes!
Or how about all blue shoes?
A gorgeous blue sash for your dress...
Amazing blue earrings!
And last, but certainly not least...blue lingerie!
We've decided to look into fun & unique ways to incorporate your "something blue" -- feel free to comment with ways you've seen or dreamed up, too!
A peek of blue on the bottoms of your shoes!
Or how about all blue shoes?
A gorgeous blue sash for your dress...
Blue manicure (or pedicure!)
And last, but certainly not least...blue lingerie!
70% Off Summer Sale!
Drop in to check out our amazing SUMMER SALE!
In Stock Bridal gowns up to 70% off! ~ Layaways Available ~ Ends September 1st!
In Stock Bridal gowns up to 70% off! ~ Layaways Available ~ Ends September 1st!
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed...
It's taken a huge trend and turned it into another bride-based reality show...this one about having your Mom's wedding dress revamped to fit you and your style! The brides are given the choice at the end to choose their Mom's altered dress, or a new one!
It may be upsetting to the original owner of the dress to see her cherished memento being cut to pieces, but as the bride to be in the video said, "They're bringing it back to life!" We can do this here at Designing Brides! We specialize in custom designed and created gowns, headpieces, veils, etc...so revamping a vintage gown is second nature to us.
Give us a call and let's discuss what your dream dress is, and how we can create it, or if it's your Mom's wedding dress, we can "Bring it back to life!"
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