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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Bridal Fashion Week

Alysia — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 22:26:33 +0000

This is a continuation from a previous WWD post. Bridal Fashion week has come and gone, but the dresses are here to stay (fingers crossed). Here are a few from this epic annual event.

Creative and artistic designs made their way to the stage {Marchesa}

Classic silhouettes and fabrics graced fashion show guests {Christos}

Unique fabric embellishments and hemlines were also found in this year’s Bridal Fashion Week {Douglas Hannant}

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Bridal Fashion Week 2010

Alysia — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:49:05 +0000

It is that time of year again. The designers of the bridal world come together and showcase their frothiest and delicate designs. Eye candy sweeps across the runway and onlookers gasp as the ingenious designs float by. Sigh. My fingers are crossed, hoping these stunners will make the racks this summer.

Silver Bullet: Steel gray tulle pours out from a corset-like black lace bodice. {Modern Trousseau}

A soft and feminine look made of French corded lace is paired with a sweepy Italian silk skirt. {Modern Trousseau}

Gather Together: The ruched bodice dips into a drop waist and meets a skirt of taffeta and organza. {Alfred Angelo}

Grecian Gal: One shouldered looks are back. Dripping with fashionable refinement, this Grecian inspired gown is gorgeous. {Jenny Packham}

Twist and Shout: Twists of tulle flowers swirl around the skirt of this ballgown dress. {Kenneth Poole}

Petal Pusher: Droplets of flowers dot the skirt and slowly fade away into the bodice. The delicate sheer straps give a touch of sophistication. {Christos}

Flounce N’ Bounce: The trumpet form is a show stopper silhouette and demands attention. A dazzling belt binds at the waist. {Kenneth Poole}

Glitter Girl: Head to toe in shimmery sequins. This a-line silhouette is perfect for a late night nuptial complete with a champagne and dessert bar. {Jenny Packham}

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Sheer Straps

Alysia — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 19:49:04 +0000

This week’s WDW collection features six dresses with a sheer straps. Sheer straps provide the support without having heavy fabrics and thick straps covering up your body’s nicest features, your neck and shoulders. Sheer straps are matched with various silhouettes for a surprisingly fresh twist on the tradional strap.

Wedding Belle: Voluminous pleated ruffles canopy over the tulle ballgown skirt. The loose diaphanous wrap can be removed for the reception to allow freedom on the dance floor. {Eugenia Couture; $3000+}

Crystal Clear: The ethereal silk chiffon dress glides across the floor. Exquisite beading emphasizes the plunging décolleté. {Jenny Packham; $3000+}

Sheer Beauty: Embroidery and beading pepper the bodice. The intricate details drip to the hip and a glittery brooch cinches the fabric. The sweetheart neckline has an overlay of chiffon to create a halter neckline. {Impression; $750}

Whispy Confection: Vaporous layers of chiffon are gathered at the natural waistline for a pleated skirt. The decorative brooch adds a hard texture in this otherwise soft and whispy gown. {Pronovias; $1700+}

Swept Away: Ruffled sheer sleeves will flutter with the gentlest of breezes making it a perfect destination dress. The shirred bodice distracts the eyes busy from a potential problem area, while the deep cut neckline shows off the bustline. {Dessy; $350}

Streamline Svelte: The sheer lace straps have flourishes of beading that cascasde to the rest of the dress. Swarovski crystals, covered buttons and scalloped hemline are just a few details in this consumate wedding dress. {Mon Cheri; $1000}

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: A Novel Romance Fashion Show

Alysia — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:39:44 +0000

The English Department’s 2010 Bridal Fashion Show was filled with a flurry of frocks from designers like Jenny Yoo, Simple Silhouettes, Thread, Alix and Kelly and our own, Elizabeth Dye.

Please enjoy the sampling from Sunday’s fashion show.

Tiptoe through the Tulips: Ruching defines the bodice without overplaying the layers. Slight flare in the skirt creates a flattering silhouette. {Jenny Yoo; $1025}

Fancy Free: Split seam Strapless sweetheart neckline with a twisted knotted at the bust. Double layered skirt shows off the soft under layer. {Jenny Yoo; $935}

Flora and Fauna: Fabric covered buttons line the side of the dress for a twist on tradition. Slimming a-line skirt falls from natural waist. Add a flower for a punch of color or use the detachable sash. {Jenny Yoo; $825}

The Sophisticate: The crinkle chiffon bodice overlaps on the neckline and gives . The mermaid skirt is cut on the bias and adds length and volume. {Jenny Yoo; $800}

The English Dept. 2010 Bridal Fashion Show credits
Millinery – Dayna Pinkham
Accessories – The English Dept & Twigs & Honey
Shrugs and Jackets – Elizabeth Dye
Veils – Modern Romance Bridal
Flowers – Ink & Peat
Hair – Salon 220
Makeup – Madeline Roosevelt
Host – Ace Hotel

More to come….

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Beading and Sparkles

Alysia — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:45:48 +0000

This week’s Wedding Dress Wednesday collection was by special request. Requirements: sparkly, sweetheart, a-line and under $1500. Don’t judge a book by its cover, visit the dress in person or see the zoomed details on the designer’s website. The glittering details can often be lost.

Heavily beaded dresses under $1500 are hard to find due to the complexity and time involved to create the dress. Hand sewn beading and delicate embroidery can add up to a higher dollar amount. Another option is to find the silhouette that accentuates your body and add beading at the time of alteration. Also, some designers allow for customization. Be sure to ask your bridal consultant what the designer is willing to do.

All That Glitters: A structured bodice and neckline meets a free flowing mermaid skirt makes a luxurious yet sexy dress. Lavishly beading and embroidered bodice and skirt makes this dress appear to be at the top of your price point. {Lo-Ve-La Bridal}

Sparklers: Modestly ruched bodice features lace appliques and beading. Asymmetrical sewn fabrics pull in the torso creating a slimming effect. Taffeta has a natural sheen to punch up the shine factor. {Demetrios}

That’s a Wrap: Swarovski crystals adorn this lace a-line gown. A satin wrap composes an asymmetrical feature. A slightly ruched bodice adds dimension without the volume. {Mon Cheri}

Rise and Shine: Matte satin and beaded lace creates an impressive dress. Beaded and scalloped hemline makes a graphic statement and makes for a fabulous finish. The cap sleeves are removable and offer support if left. {Sottero & Midgley}

Beading and the Beast: A sheer tulle overlay floats across the metallic embroidery and gives more sparkle. Pairing Swarovski crystals, glass beads and pearls make a striking statement in this strapless tulle gown. {Emerald Couturiers}

Razzle Dazzle: Soft lace tiers with ornate beading flow down the dress. Soft candlelight will pick up every glamorous detail. A soft sweetheart neckline gently peaks and dips on the chest. Buttons line the back of the dress and trail into a semi-cathedral train. {2beBridal}

If you are interested in a customized WDW post. Please send in your requests to prosttothehost@gmail.com. Be sure to include: formality of the wedding, silhouette, neckline, specific embellishments and any other details. Cheers!

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Shimmery Fabrics

Alysia — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 20:11:45 +0000

The new year is just around the corner. Planning your wedding around a specific holiday can be a unique way to showcase your style and personality. It also allows your guests to take off less vacation days. Wee!

This weeks’ collection feature six dresses that have shimmery fabrics that resemble metallic tones, perfect for a New Year’s Eve celebration. What is better than starting off the new year than partying with the ones you love?

Heart of Gold: Wrapped bodice fits the torso then flares from the hips. Splashes of beading and embroidery outline the gold taffeta dress. {Mia Solano; $900}

Glimmer of Hope: Luxurious and shimmery silk charmeuse freely flows down the length of the body. The deep v-neckline and halter strap meet with an ornate brooch. {Jenny Packham; $3000+}

Champagne Toast: The mermaid silhouette embraces the body with tulle and lace overlay. Delicate lace details adorn the gown. {Raylia; $800}

Gleaming Gown: Silver satin shimmers from under the intricate embroidery. A basque waist elongates the torso creating a slimmer body. {Christina Wu; $700}

Metallic Bonding: Sleek and glamorous are two words that describe this satin gown. A single strap attaches to the dress with a dazzling brooch. The bodice features assymetrical ruching. {Maggie Sottero; $800}

Heavy Metal: Lustrous silk shantung gives off a soft glow. Strapless ballgown with pickups in back of the skirt. Complimentary sash twists into a bow at the waist. {Tara Keely; $1300}

These gowns are just a few that will help ring in the new year.

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Dropped Waist

Alysia — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:00:00 +0000

Drop it like it’s hot. A dropped waist incorporates a high society feel that highlights a body’s natural curves. It is a sophisticated yet sexy combination. This week’s collection features four dresses with a dropped waistline.

Rock Band: The modest ruching on the bodice instantly slims the waist. A striking band of beads lines the dropped waist. Covered buttons and a sweep train add oomph to the back of the dress. (Allure; $500-1000)

Looking Glass: The two tone shantung organza produces a shimmery effect. A shantung flower accessorizes the waist. Soft and romantic asymmetrical pick-ups are haphazardly placed on the full skirt. (Agape Forever; $500-1000)

Beaded Beauty: Luxurious satin silk paired with delicate beading make this a classy option. More beading also dots the hemline. (JCH by James Clifford; $1000-1500)

Crinkle Cut: Wispy crinkle cut organza creates a light and airy feel to this a-line strapless gown. Flower details the hip and pick-ups add dimension and volume to the skirt. (Demetrios; $1000=1500)

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Retro Inspiration

Alysia — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:01:44 +0000

Sit back and dream about yesteryear. The glamorous silver screen where famous faces would dance across stage with a grace and elegance. My husband and I are fascinated with Old Hollywood 50’s and 60’s, especially the AMC TV series, Mad Men. The TV series is set in the 60’s in New York City at an Advertising Agency, Sterling Cooper. This week’s collection is inspired by the women who fret around the playboys of Sterling Cooper and the timeless style they bring to the screen. I feature a dress with sleeves, since showing one’s shoulders was considered risque. If you like the style, but not sure about the neckline, check out bateau, square or v-neck (with thicker straps).

Night Cap: Duchess satin a-line dress is a perfect for a modest bride. A modified square neckline softens the edges around the bust. Add a double hem in a different color or fabric to add color or texture. (Aria; $225)

Debutante Doll: A ballerina-esqe tea length ball gown is set apart from other frilly frocks. A rounded sweetheart neckline made of silk connected to a full tulle skirt that flounces at every step. (Candy Anthony; $2000)

Tip Off: Lace embellishments adorn this 3/4 sleeve Italian organza ball gown. An off-the-shoulder neckline flatters the collar bone. A basque waist is flattering on all body types, as the hem of the bodice dips downward. (Demetrios; $1500-3000)

Dipping Dots: A 50’s inspired strapless silk organza dress decorated with coin-sized polka dots. A playful and cute dress for a spunky bride. (Michelle Roth; $2,250)

Old Hollywood: Ballerina length (just above the ankles) makes this a feminine and charming option. Tulle wraps the bust and cinches in a bow-like manner. French lace peers from under the circular skirt. (Roz la Kelin; $1500)

Hour Glass Hottie: The bodice is boned and lined to create a fabulous hour-glass shape. Halter neckline paired with a sweetheart outline gives this dress subtle sexiness and appeal. The belt draws the eye to the skinniest part of the waist, flattering all body types. (Vivien of Holloway; $130 )

As you can see, dresses that are inspired from timeless beauty are still relevant and popular almost 50 years later. Glorious gowns with impudent neck and hemlines are created to make a sensational and timeless dress. Find one that fits your style today.

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Glittery and Bright frame

Alysia — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:56:31 +0000

It is almost the season that glitter, sparkle and shimmer embellishments take over. The weather is causing you to turn up the heat, so take a hint from nature and enjoy this week’s collection of cool shimmer and spice. These dresses will make you shine!

Silver Collar: A modified halter creates a dazzling display of sparkle on the bust and back. Sparkle adds interest to the ruched bodice and intricate embellished loops frame the back like wings. Airy chiffon glides over the body in this natural waist a-line gown. (Jenny Packam; $3000+)

Bold Borderline: Layers and layers of hand painted pale pink tulle dominate this empire-cut ball gown. The band of glitter outlines the hem of the bust adds sophistication to the dress, making it appealing to chic and of the moment brides. (Vera Wang; $3800)

Silver Supreme: A bold band of geometric figures and crystals wrap the smallest part of the waist. The silk satin gives off a natural sheen that shimmers in all lighting levels. Mini pleats detail the girth of the skirt. (Priscilla of Boston; $3-5000)

Demure Diva: Svelte and shimmer make a lovely pairing. Trumpet silhouette glides over the body and embraces the body’s curves. The simple line of crystal decorates the sweetheart neckline. (No Ordinary Bride; $2700)

Mesh Mash: The smooth continuous bodice eases softly into the full ball gown pleated skirt. The brilliant mesh belt is made of Swarovski crystals and adds flair to this understated silk and cotton faille dress. (Priscilla of Boston; $3000)

Glittery Gal: The sweeping incandescence embroidery outlines the entire dress from bust to hemline to the chapel train. The modified trumpet silhouette is sure to put you in the spotlight. (Sophia Tolli; $1000)

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Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Getting Short

Alysia — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:12:38 +0000

This week’s collection is a second glance at short dresses. If you missed the first posting, here it is. Even as the economy is slowing turning around, brides are still opting for smaller and simpler weddings. Going to the courthouse for a Justice of Peace ceremony and simple restaurant reception is showing you’re financially aware of your situation, but still want to share your love with a close knit of family and friends. Here are eight options that will put the spotlight on you, no matter where you say your “I do”.

1) Flower of Youth: Innumerable cotton flowers dance tightly around the skirt of the dress and create a scalloped hem. The strapless sweetheart neckline and bodice is wrapped in lace. (Watters; $950)

2) Chic Attack: Silky smooth Mikado silk makes this little number a classy choice. Scoop neckline softens the somewhat stiff structure of the dress. A wide waist band sits pretty around the natural waistline. (Jenny Yoo; $500-1000)

3) A Rose By Any Other: This graceful scoop neckline and pleated skirt draws in the waistline and flatters any figure. An accent rosette sits atop of the right shoulder. (Kirribilla; $385)

4) Ballerina Belle: Halter straps and sweetheart neckline adds adulate the torso. A full and flouncy organza skirt waver with the wind. The seam pockets keep your something borrowed hidden away. (Vineyard Collection; $1000-1500)

5) Slim Jim: A sheath silhouette is slimming and feminine. The fabric has room for stretch, thus hugging the body very tightly. The neckline of the dresses features a scalloped edge. (Kirribilla; $75)

6) Double Band: This glamorous dress hits just above the knee. The silk falls naturally from the waist. (Paula Varsalona; $1500-3000)

7) Chip Off Your Shoulder: This refined gown has off the shoulder straps that call attention to the shoulders. This pleated bell shaped skirt swells from the empire waistline. (Jenny Yoo; $500-1000)

Ruffle Effect: Liberated ruffles drip down the dress, giving it a flowy and whimsical feel. Tank style neckline and bodice is sealed with a tie wrap. (Calvin Klein; $178)

Short dresses may still be a way to go, but for some, it is not even an option. Have these options (or prices!) changed your mind?

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