Bridal Accessories: The Ultimate Guide

Any bride-to-be knows that when choosing the perfect overall look for her wedding day, there is a constant battle going on in her mind between the need to fit in and at the same time, stand out.

Whereas wedding day traditions pull her in the direction of fitting in by looking almost exactly like every other bride that walked down the aisle before her the need to be remembered and appear more beautiful than other brides pulls her in the opposite direction of wanting to stand out.

So the question remains, how to stand out and be remembered while still dressing like a traditional bride? And the answer is…accessorize! On top of that traditional white dress wear the kind of jewelry and veil that speak to your true individual sense of style. Under it, wear shoes that complement the overall look and enhance it. Lastly, carry a bouquet made of your favorite flowers and accentuate it with accents such as crystals, pearls, or even quirky pins. Use your accessories to make your wedding day look your own!

Here are some options to help you accessorize your wedding day look perfectly and stand out in the best way possible from that other girl getting hitched in all white.

VEILS: RUNWAY VS. READY TO WEAR

Veils come in many different price ranges. A bride has the option of choosing to don a designer veil (from the likes of Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, etc.) for a higher price; or a ready to wear veil at a lower price, without having to compromise on the quality and beauty of the product.

Veils also come in many different lengths which then correspond to a certain overall look. For the sake of simplifying the process, I will break them down into three main categories and showcase both designer and non-designer options for every bride and every budget.

1) Short Length (Birdcage Veils, Blusher Veils and Headpieces). These veils tend to convey a lot of personality, are not traditionally worn and are flirty in appearance. An emerging trend seen amongst designers for this category of veils is headbands. Beautiful headbands worn on their own adorned with flowers or feathers as a headpiece or worn with blusher veils attached to them.

RUNWAY(Bridal Fashion Week 2015)

Jenny Packham

 

Reem Acra

READY TO WEAR

ETUDELOVE by Sara and Eugenia showcases a collection of extremely charming and feminine handmade blusher veils and headpieces that very much resemble those showcased at both Reem Acra and Jenny Packham at Bridal Fashion Week 2015. However, they come at a fraction of the price and are perfect for those brides that want to stay well within their budgets.

ETUDELOVE Blushing Lullaby veil $60.00

ETUDELOVE Pizzicato veil $115.00

ETUDELOVE veils available at ETUDELOVE.com

2) Medium Length (Fingertip and Waltz Veils). These are the most traditionally accepted form of veils and they give off an air of innocence. Most of the fingertip and waltz length veils seen on the runway were versions of mantilla lace veils, with scalloped lace edging which added a romantic touch.

RUNWAY (Bridal Fashion Week 2015)

Naeem Khan

Oscar de La Renta

READY TO WEAR

Erica Elizabeth Designs offers a great selection of traditionally beautiful medium length veils with the same lace edging as Oscar de la Renta and Naeem Khan. These veils would look best when paired with a wedding day look that wouldn’t be too embellished, such as a lightly beaded gown with very delicate, feminine jewelry.

Erica Elizabeth Designs Chantilly Lace edge Mantilla Veil $355.00

Erica Elizabeth Designs Daphne Silk Tulle Chantilly Lace Drop Veil $720.00

Erica Elizabeth Designs veils available at EricaElizabethDesigns.com

3) Long Length (Chapel and Cathedral Veils). The longest veils are meant for the most regal of looks. There were many designer veils on the runway this season with a cascading front.

RUNWAY (Bridal Fashion Week 2015)

Carolina Herrera

Naeem Khan

READY TO WEAR

Great examples of Chapel and Cathedral length veils with cascading fronts can also be found at Sara Gabriel; whose luxe floor sweeping veils lend a dramatic air to complement beautiful gowns paired with statement jewelry.

Sara Gabriel Rachael Veil

Sara Gabriel Chloe Veil

Sara Gabriel Veils available at 155 Wooster St Unit 3W New York, NY 10012 212.206.1915

 

JEWELRY:

Wedding day jewelry should be very carefully selected in accordance with the color and accents on the dress, veil and shoes. A bride can either opt to wear a necklace, earrings, bracelet or headwear. However, a general rule is to try not to wear all of these items at the same time. If a bride wears too much jewelry, it distracts the onlooker from the overall view and if she wears too little then she seems underdressed. Thus, if the veil and dress are heavily adorned, wear less jewelry; if the veil and dress are not as embellished, pile on more jewelry.

For the stylish bride with a budget, there is always the option of borrowing jewelry for the day of your wedding. Happily Ever Borrowed houses a great collection of elegant jewelry that can be borrowed at prices starting as low as $35.00. On top of the price of the item, the customer just pays a shipping fee of $12.99 and then returns the item back after using it for either four or eight days.

Available at HappilyEverBorrowed.com

If borrowing jewelry isn’t your preference, then there are many fine jewelry retailers that can satisfy a bride’s craving for all things shiny. Mija is home to sterling silver and 18k gold plated jewelry, encrusted with precious and semiprecious stones that are affordable and luxurious.

Available at MijaJewelry.com

Tejani Jewelry incorporates modern flair and traditional Indian accents from designer Urvi’s cultural background into couture accessories. These pieces are one of a kind and perfect for the traditional bride who prefers jewelry with a vintage, feminine feel.

Available at Tejani.com

Powder Blue Bijoux offers a wide range of couture bridal accessories in every category, including headwear with prices ranging from $29.00 to $225.00. Thus, there is a piece on their website to please every bride.

Available at PowderBlueBijoux.com

SHOES:

This is the area where comfort is key and the most experimentation with color, embellishments, textures and shapes is allowed. Even though shoes are hidden under a wedding dress most of the time, do not underestimate their power. The saying goes that the right shoes can make the outfit, whereas the wrong shoes can completely ruin it. This definitely holds true for your wedding day as well, so choose wisely.

Harriet Wilde is a British brand that offers worldwide shipping and is headed by designer Ruth Shaw. It is home to vintage inspired stylish wedding footwear that would glam up any wedding day ensemble.

Available at HarrietWilde.com

Ruche carries a wide variety of shoes from flats and oxfords to wedges and heels in a variety of colors. The prices are more on the lower end and with a wide selection. A bride is sure to find something at Ruche that would make her feet very happy!

Available at ShopRuche.com

BHLDN is a collection of bridal necessities inspired by world travel and the idea of regal and proper dressing at formal occasions. These two ideas are combined and evident in their beautiful collection of shoes that would make any bride blush.

Available at BHLDN.com

FLOWERS:

A bridal bouquet can be as personalized as possible. When selecting one, the bride should keep in mind her favorite flowers, the season during which her wedding falls, and the color schemes of the wedding and her ensemble for the day. Or she can skip the flowers entirely and go straight for a crystal or bejeweled bouquet! Either way, the final result should be a bouquet that will help her perfectly round out her wedding day look.

Here are some of the most lovely flower shops and boutiques that will make any of a bride’s floral fantasies a reality.

Bridal Bouquets by Ky is an Etsy shop that will provide a bride with the most magical bouquets made of things such as pearl beads and mirrored beads. These will look beautiful with any dress and be a keepsake for the sole reason that they are not made of perishable materials!

Available at http://www.etsy.com/shop/BridalBouquetsbyKy

Red Rose and Lavender makes beautiful rustic bouquets out of wildflowers and even succulents that would accompany a bohemian wedding day look perfectly.

Available by appointment at 653 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211. (718) 486-3569

Posy NYC puts together the most perfect little beautiful bouquets that lend a romantic and fabulous air to a traditional wedding look.

Available by appointment at 145 E 72nd St # 2F, New York, NY 10021. (212) 744-7788

Tie the knot

So you have found that perfect suit and you have listened to your bride-to-be complain about every intricate detail of her gown. So grooms, it’s your time to customize your look.

A man with a suit and a nice tie has the potential to mesmerize any woman. Fellas, a high-quality tie will always do the trick. Even Oscar Wilde said, “A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life.” A quality necktie will be made of silk, so don’t get caught out there in a cheap look-alike. Don’t be afraid to try out different styles of ties or knots. Today, men are wearing suits with a fitted cut. I can guarantee a skinny tie with an Eldredge knot will give you that custom look you can’t wait to rock again. Be careful of multicolored and patterned ties; unfortunately those types of patterns may contradict the knot, causing you to look disheveled. Below you will find a few different knot ideas that will look great for your big day or any day. Don’t let her steal the show entirely; show off your individual style and try an exotic new knot.

The Eldredge knot will grab everyone’s attention. It will remind you of a braid, but it will without a doubt spice up your look.

The Trinity knot looks amazing on almost any necktie. It has a three-way symmetry and is a great conversation piece.

The Cape knot is perfect for those multicolor ties. If your necktie has colors or a pattern, this is the one for you.

Havaianas Pop Up Has Landed

Summer has arrived in the Big Apple. This means it is time to bring out those big floppy hats, beach shorts and flip-flops! Before you purchase a pair of ultra comfy thong sandals, think Havaianas. For my summer beach bride these are especially for you.

We did not forget you gentlemen, because they also have the ultra comfy sandals for your beach nuptials! We were able to preview the Brazilian flip-flop collection at the pop-up shop in New York City at 74 Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District. The pop-up shop has been there since May and will be in business until September 3rd, featuring a grand assortment of flip-flops and rain boots for women, men and children.

Havaianas are perfect for my beach brides; the store is featuring a “Make Your Own Havaianas” station. The station is a great idea that allows guests to create their own flip-flop! The sandals are perfect for gift bags; you can switch up the straps or customize a pair with cute pins. Many celebrities such as Nicole Richie, Natalie Portman and Ke$ha have had their Havaianas customized to fit their individual styles.

For my beach bride planning a destination wedding, custom flip-flops are great gifts for bridesmaids and guests. Get your pair now before the shop disappears or go to us.havaiana.com for more information.

 

 

 

 

Think Chelsea Taylor Jewelry for Spring

Looking for some great gift ideas that may suit your bridal party? Well look no further. With a little bling and color, you can provide your bridal party with a gift that will not only suit your immediate need to accessorize their bridal look as they walk down the aisle for your wedding, but they have something memorable from your wedding that they will cherish.

Chelsea Taylor jewelry has teamed up with Swarovski crystals to come up with a fabulous and bold jewelry line. This line is a celebrity favorite and has been featured on the Today show, Good Day New York and Good Morning America. It is time to bring out those bright colors you have been hiding in the closet, ladies. Luckily, this line features pieces that have blossomed just in time for the season. Chelsea Taylor offers lush greens, beautiful pinks and far from mellow yellows to add a pop that will complete your look. Chelsea Taylor is your go-to for statement rings and bold earrings. Think retro 70s and 80s pieces for 2014. Another amazing feature is every piece is ready to be customized and available in 20 shades.

Go to chelseataylor.com for your must-have spring and summer accessories. I took a look at the site and picked out my favorite pieces for you. ENJOY!

 

 

 

All About Eve: Fashion

I grew up listening to Eve here in Europe and I am a huge fan of her work; however, as much as I have admired her talent, I have always found it difficult to appreciate her sense of style – uncertain if she was creating her own image or if a styling team was. Either way, I never felt that her public fashion image was quite right for her. There was always something missing or wrong with the final outcome, making it very difficult for me to find some red carpet looks I could appreciate. Don’t get me wrong, I think she is a beautiful woman with a beautiful figure, but her wardrobe just did not quite fit the woman and her talent. As she developed into womanhood, I must admit that I noticed a shift in her style – an evolution into a more feminine and fashionable Eve. Thank God for growth! Nowadays, her fashion faux pas are less obvious and not so damaging. Below are a few of my favorite looks on her and one epic fail I had to feature, so that we can avoid it in the future. Currently, Eve is embarking toward another phase of her life: becoming a bride! Realistically, this will be her biggest red carpet moment in her life, both personally and professionally. Given, I took the liberty of putting together a list of suggested bridal gowns for her big day… with diamonds of course! If anyone knows my sense of style (from the designs of my clothing collection, to my styling some of the most amazing people) then you know that I study people first, acknowledging their past sense of style while cultivating a new image. My bi-lateral approach helps them to appreciate their new look without feeling like a completely “new” person. So, congrats to our beauty, Eve, on her nuptials, and may her choice in wedding attire fit the occasion!

Eve in Bill Blass at the amfAR and GBCHealth to end Aids Evening.

I can only give this look the thumbs up. Very demure, simple, soft, feminine and perfect color on her. The metallic belt “cuts” her waist perfectly and elongates her legs. The metallic color brings the color of the dress out and gives an edgy look. Floor length is a must for this type of design. Right choice of jewelry too.     I love the whole combination, great LBD with the hem detail and the thigh jewelry that makes the whole difference. It is just the little fashion touch this look needed. The shoes are divine and feminine. Keeping the top half “classic” and jazzing up the bottom half is the right balance when you do not want to overdo it. Simple, sexy, feminine and definitely rocking!     Where do I start? This is just an epic faux pas. The whole leather look just does not work. The chunky zips, ermmm, hell no! This is fashion diarrhea to my eyes. When you have such a top, you cannot add any jewelry to it. Crotch zips showing on pants are always a no go ladies… The top would have looked a million dollar better if just worn with the perfect cut denims. The shoes are by Mugler and even though they are an absolute delight, with this styling disaster, they look cheap and definitely not chic! I will not even discuss her braid overkilling the fashion. This look makes her look shorter which none of us wants to do! Eve deserved to fire her whole styling team on this one.     I absolutely adore this look on her. The knee-length floral dress with the ruching/draping on the bustline accentuates any woman’s assets. The dress has a little late 50s feel to it, the peep-toes modern Mary-Janes are exquisite…     My first suggestion for Eve’s wedding would be this ivory organza wave bridal ball gown, sheer alencon lace bodice with organza petal accent, platinum jeweled ribbon belt at natural waist, circular skirt, chapel train. This design is by Lazaro. I would team it up with De Beers diamonds necklace and earrings from their Swan Lake collection. The Swan Lake collection is inspired by the harmony and grace of the prima ballerina and her corps de ballet. It is said that a ballerina will only reach her prime if she dances the part of Odette and Odile, the shapes of the prima’s perfect moving form and the balance of the dancing formation of the corps of swans is core to the harmony of the necklace. Each rare and stunning diamond is positioned to bring out its character and life, its unique brilliance living up to its shape and size.     This charming 18K white, pink and yellow gold necklace captivates the eye with a selection of 100 white and colored beads and pear-shaped marquise, oval, round brilliant, baguette and rose-cut diamonds, each in a half-bezel setting.     These delectable 18K white, pink gold earrings captivate the eye with a selection of 10 white and colored pear-shaped, baguette, oval and round brilliant diamonds in a half-bezel setting.     Her veil should be this one from Vera Wang. Two-tier chapel length veil with raw cut edge and lace applique detail. Beautiful hand-detailed lace appliques adorn the bottom edge of the long tier. Two layers of raw edge tulle create an ethereal, romantic bridal look.     I am a fan of Elie Saab and this magnificent gown is just a dream come true! The fishtail which brings old Hollywood glamour to the aisle, the statement backs, the illusion necklines, and sheer, embellished sleeves are superb. The veil is simple which is exactly how it should be as the dress tells a story by itself, the rest should stay minimal.     To go with this Royal Gown, you need Royal Diamonds and to stay simple it should be this Graaf Tiara. Worn by royalty for thousands of years, the tiara is a symbol of power, splendor and significance. Graff is known for its stunning tiara designs, and this latest incarnation of this iconic treasure is shown here with magnificent radiant, round and pear shape yellow and white diamonds – all hand set by Graff’s master craftsmen. 284 Diamonds, 122.63cts make this crown a delight to the eyes.     When it comes down to weddings, Vera Wang is The Queen of The Aisle! And this dress is from her archives/classic designs. As you know with wedding gowns, seasons do not matter as most designs are timeless and this is the perfect example. I love the latte color, the constructed bustier is super feminine; the draping, the layers of the silk organza and the oversize flowers are to die for. The bow belt accentuates the waistline. This is such a Princess dress. And we all know that any woman was a Princess growing up! I would choose Garrard’s jewelry to go with this gown… And from their Star and Garter Collection…     Star and Garter bangle featuring a focal rose cut diamond within star emblem, created in 18ct rose gold.
The Star and Garter collection is inspired by the rich and expansive heritage of this British jewelry house. Badges and decorations that the brand has made over the centuries form colourful ensembles of shapes and motifs.     Star and Garter pink tourmaline earrings surrounded by pink sapphires and white diamonds with a suspended rose quartz drop, created in 18ct rose gold.     Star and Garter rose quartz pendant surrounded with pave white diamonds and delicate trace chain detailing, created in 18ct rose gold.     My last choice of gown is from Maria Senvo, a newcomer in the bridal industry but I predict a beautiful and bright future for this brand. This design is from their debut collection. 
I would team this gown with some Stephen Webster diamonds from his Couture Voyage collection. Those pieces are inspired by iconic destination from around the world. Made in 18ct white gold, these couture pieces illustrate the architecture, culture and style of Africa, New York and Russia.         Francesca Marotta, is an Italian born designer, who is an incredible stylist, living in London.  But the world is her playground in search of fashion. www.francescamarotta.com

Introducing “Oscar De La Renta” Spring

Wedding season has begun and Spring has sprung and Oscar De La Renta says “Don’t leave home without a pop of print”.  All you Bride-to-be Oscar De La Renta will keep you up to date on all the latest spring trends. Scarf’s and belts are all a must have this season! Oscar uses bright and vibrant colors to get you ready for spring . Below you will find shoes belts and scarfs to accessories your ensemble. Add these accessories to your look and heads will turn.

 

 

I have picked out a few to die for pieces to ensure you ladies look radiant.

 

Eliana is nothing short of adorable.

 

These Jeweled Drop Earrings are a statement piece  to any ensemble.

 

This Painted Dot Print Scarf is far from ordinary it  is a modal and cashmere mix.

 

This Cabochon Buckle Belt is definitely a head turner.
There are so many other stylish pieces that will leave you wanting more!  Check out Oscardelarenta.com for all the deets!

 

Nail Art- Modernizing Your Wedding Details

Your wedding look no longer has to be bland.  You can incorporate some of your creative expressions in a small but effective way, your nail art.

The idea of nail art can be viewed as gaudy or juvenile.  The trend has become enormously popular among women of all ages and can be a great way to express your personality.  Whether you wear your nails neatly manicured wear tip extensions or UV gel there is a design every woman can enjoy.

All forms of nail art doesn’t  have to be elaborate . Below you will find nail collage.  You can show a picture to your to nail tech or piggy back from one of these ideas.  Feel free to to be inspired by one of these great works of art.

After all it’s the little things that count.

For great popping colors we recommend some of our go to brands: Chanel, Dior, YSL, Tom Ford and Nars.

For great nudes can’t go wrong with: Essie, Spa Ritual, OPI, Orly, and Revlon.

For art tricks and tools: Color Club, Kiss Products are the way to go.

 

Welcome the Silver Branch Collection

The new spring collection for Shaune Leane has arrived and  delivers the most exquisite gold vermeil pieces one can imagine.

The new collection is one of 5  Shaune Leanes silver collections. What makes this collection remarkable is how it encapsulates nature.  The line uses white moonstones and pearls along with gold vermeil to create a organic structure.  The pearl necklace and Gold vermeil branch attract rays from light, which reflects the warmth from the gold and the pearls. The gold adds statement while maintaining the classic timeless look of the pearls.

Another asset to the booming collection is the highly polished Gold Branch Ring.  A beautiful Pearl sits in the center of the ring while being protected by two branches. The arrangement encompasses peace and stillness upon the wearer. To accompany the necklace comes a  branch style Earring .  The branches dance around a pear shaped stud in the center. This piece embodies the modern minimal approach of the line.

These pieces are also available in silver.

 

Gold Vermeil Silver Bracelet            Gold Vermeil Silver Bracelet 2

Silver Branch Single Bracelet      Silver Branch and Pearl Drop Earing

Visit shaunleane.com for details.

Bridal Hair Trends for Spring 2014

Undoubtedly, the top Spring hair trends for 2014 has to be wearing romantic flowers and undone hairstyles giving you a Boho look. As seen on the catwalk, Dolce and Gabbana Zac Posen, and Anna Sui all used romantic blossoms to decorate their models on the runway. This look is also gorgeous for real brides. Try incorporating small flower heads by pinning them all over the hairstyle. One single bloom can be worn on the side of the head if trying to achieve a more conservative look.

Boho is also a hot look that’s in full effect! Rachel Zoe graced us with Old World-style braids for this years look. Braids, twists and beach wave texture are very trendy right now for brides. This style is great because it’s not overdone, and is still sexy.  If you are going with this look for your wedding, aim for natural looking curls for your tresses with earthy details like knots twists, and braids. You can also add flowers to this style or opt for gold hair accessories for a more glamorous look.

All Images- Imaxtree.com

Beauty Contributor and Expert: Sonia Castleberry http://www.bridesbysoniacastleberry.com | http://www.soniacastleberry.com

The pair of shoes you have been waiting for is here!

SJP is finally here.  Sarah Jessica Parker finally launched her highly anticipated shoe line and it is every Sex in the City girls dream! If you ever caught a glimpse of the infamous Carrie Bradshaw she was the Manolo Blahniks QUEEN.

What took her shoe line so long you ask? It was only right that she collaborate with the CEO of the dream shoe himself, George Malkemus III.  Parker makes a point to mention she was only willing to work with the CEO to ensure her vision would come to life.   It is  incredible how a character on a television show can have such a influence on the fashion scene.

On top of her shoe line the 48 yr old actress has a handbag line and continues to make waives in fashion.  SJP includes booties, pumps and flip flops. She says it was hard to decide on her signature shoe,”Carrie” a T strap heel in purple.  There are 25 shoes in the line and they all have names to fit their character.  The line is sold exclusively at Nordstom and ranges from $200-$500. Parker ensures the quality of the shoe is worth every hard earned dollar spent.

Brides, Bridesmaids you can step out with style now…. Visit  www.nordstrom.com to purchase your pair.

 

The “Carrie”