100th Post!

This is my 100th post!
I'd like to thank my mom, for giving me the faith in myself that I could do whatever I put my mind to.... just kidding : )

I may be the only one who's excited, but that's ok. I've learned a lot researching some of these posts, and I like to think that there are brides out there, maybe reading but not responding, who've found some little tidbit useful.

Next week, I will begin doing intros to all the designers we carry, with info that I hope will be helpful in navigating the many many choices that are out there.

Flower Power!

Whether or not you embrace or eschew a wedding veil, a flower in the hair is often the perfect accent to complete your look. Most flower accessories are extremely versatile: you can place them wherever you want, and they will work with almost any hair style. There are a vast variety of different styles out there, so whether your style is classic, out-there, or anywhere in between, you can find something that complements your gown and shows your personality. Above are three different styles by Erica Koesler (my favorite veil/headpiece maker!) to give you taste:

The first style is A-5341. It's cute and sweet and a little bit retro. Next is A-398- it is a gorgeous, softly romantic piece that has just a hint of sparkle. Last is A-418. It's much more dramatic, and guess what? IT COMES IN BLACK!

Check out www.ericakoesler.com for lots of other fabulous options!

Fact or Fiction?: Strapless means it'll Slide Down

Have you ever heard anyone say this: "Oh, you don't want a strapless dress. You'll be pulling it up the whole night!"? I'm sure many people have been to a wedding where this is the case. But, the issue is not the lack of straps but a lack of fit. Let me explain what I mean.

Every woman's body has a curve in at the waist and out at the hip to some degree. Some people have it more than others, but it's there no matter what. So if you get a dress that is fitted at the waist at all, whether it's natural waist or drop, if that dress is fitted properly to your waist, it should not be able to slide down over the hip. The shape of the body won't allow it, unless the dress isn't fitted enough. So make sure you have alterations to make the dress fit perfectly.

There are also a couple of other things to keep in mind as you select a strapless gown:
1) If you are busty, make sure the bodice has adequate depth. Every dress is cut a little differently, so some will work and some will be too shallow. If you get something that doesn't have the right shape in the bust to be able to accommodate your figure, it won't be comfortable even when it's "correctly" fitted.
2) If you are small busted, make sure have to the bodice taken in enough, and know that you may need to sew in cups to fill it out. Most bodices are boned to enhance a woman's shape, some more so than others, so look for things that have a delicate cut.
3) Gowns also have different amounts of structure. Almost all strapless gowns have some type of boning in the bodice- they have to ! But some are more structured than others, so choose accordingly. Make sure the bodice of the dress you choose has enough structure that you feel secure.

So, the strapless=sliding down thing is a fiction, as long as you get your dress fitted. Even the perfect cut for you will most likely need to be altered so that it is also a perfect fit. Be sure to take it to a good, experienced seamstress so that you can enjoy your day worry free!

White or Ivory? ( Or Diamond White or Champagne or Frost, etc.)

The first thing to know about choosing a color for your wedding gown ( and most gowns do come in at least two options, so you will probably have a choice) is that it should be easy. Once you put on a gown, you know whether it flatters you or not, and the same is true of the color. Here are a few things to know though, just to make it even easier : )

1) Every culture is different, but in mainstream American culture now, the color of your dress does not mean anything as far as purity, etc. The choice between white and ivory now is about what is flattering. Champagne tones are quite prevalent as well, for brides of all ages, and they used to be just for the more "mature" bride. So don't worry about what people are going to think about the color- if you look great, that is the most important thing, whether or not everyone gets it.

2)Your true white is actually flattering on very few people. Ladies with darker skin tones wear white the best. Here is a test: Most people try to get a little bit of a tan before their wedding (it looks healthy, right?), but you should not need a tan to look good in your dress. If white washes you out or looks harsh now, it is not going to be much better if you have a tan.

3) I personally think most fabrics look better in ivory. It's richer, and softer, and because it's the most flattering on most people, it's just the best option. For a crisp but still soft look, diamond white is a great alternative as well. In between white and ivory, most people don't know it's not "white" unless you tell them.

So, back to my main point, don't stress it. If you are one of those rare people who looks good in white or ivory, go with what YOU like best, and remember, you are going to be looking at yourself in photographs for years to come, so do what makes you happy! You will be gorgeous!

The look for less: Chelsea Inspired style: Ceremony Dress

The Vera Wang dress Chelsea Clinton wore was very on trend but traditional at the same time. I thought this Impressions dress was a simplified version of this idea. Instead of a really full textured skirt, it has a more fitted one with just a few ruffles. The top is more sweetheart, still has some ruching, and the beaded detail is sewn on, not a separate belt. The style is "Fiorella"

http://www.impressionbridal.com