Vera Wang continues to create designer looks for brides and bridesmaids everywhere with the White by Vera Wang collection, exclusively at David’s Bridal. The Spring 2012 launch features bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, accessories and shoes.

Nine new gowns are included in the collection, priced between $500-$1,500. Each look is unique in design and aesthetic, perfect for capturing the individual tastes of every bride. The collection features clean, simple details like asymmetrically draped bodices and updated silhouettes, in soft hues of white, ivory and blush. Sizes range from 0-14, with select styles available in sizes 16-26.  To view the entire collection of dresses visit the David’s Bridal website at: http://bit.ly/suoVTa

I just completed altering the gown below for a January 2012 wedding and can tell you that it is stunning! (the style number is VW351011 in Ivory)

Tags: spring 2012 wedding dresses, vera wang vw351011, white by vera wang
Filed under: Blog, Things I Love!, Wedding Dress Designers, Wedding Dress Trends

The wedding dresses of today are taking on a sophisticated and glamorous feeling with the use of feathers that Brides are finding irresistible.  The feathers become a key element in the design and often are the focal point creating a textured effect.  Designers are combining the feathers with Tulle, Organza and Chiffon to create an etherial effect that has the Bride looking like she is floating down the aisle.  The lightweight fabrics allow the skirt to be very full without looking heavy or dated.  Just in time for Sping and Summer 2012 weddings, these gowns by Lazaro, Liancarlo, Monique Lhuillier, Ines DiSanto, Matthew Christopher, and Carolina Herrera are sure to leaving a lasting impression on your guests.

Tags: carolina herrera, ines di santo, lazaro bridal, liancarlo, matthew christopher, monique lhuillier, orange county wedding dresses, spring 2012 wedding dresses, wedding dress trends, wedding dresses, wedding dresses in costa mesa, wedding dresses in orange county
Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dress Wednesday

Hollywood has always set the standard for glamour and elegance.  The 20′s, 30′s and 40′s are eras that have left a lasting impression on fashion.  Think of the beautiful gowns worn by movie stars such as Jean Harlow, Rita Hayworth and Audrey Hepburn.  Those glamorous and luxurious dresses not only impacted the world of fashion, they have a had a major influence on modern day bridal gown designers.  At the recent New York Bridal Fashion Week, designers showcased their Fall 2012 collections (yes I know it is still a year away!).  These gowns are perfect for the Bride that is having a more formal or elegant type of wedding. And of course, they are an absolute a must for an Old Hollywood Theme styled wedding!  Shown here are gowns that epitomize the Old Hollywood Glamour by designers Ines Di Santo, Marchesa, Liancarlo, Lazaro, Badgley Mischka, Sue Wong, Jenny Packham, Reem Acra and Monique Lhuillier

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Tags: fall 2012 wedding dresses, glamorous wedding dresses, old hollywood, old hollywoord glamour wedding dresses, wedding dresses
Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dress Wednesday

Choosing your wedding dress will be one of the most important buying decisions you will make.  Brides put so much focus on the gown that they sometimes overlook a very important part of dressing for the wedding – the undergarments!  The shape and silhouette of your gown will dictate which one to wear.  It will be crucial to buy your undergarments prior to starting your fittings – most salons will not start your alterations until you have your undergarments.  It can literally change the way your gown hangs and fits.  To take some of the mystery out of selecting the right undergarments, here are some top picks that are sure to have you looking picture perfect for your big day!

The Corset - A timeless option that slims your waist and can be worn under a strapless gown.  The bonus is that it is breathtakingly beautiful for your wedding night romance!

Agent Provocateur “Kate” Corset

Body Slimming - The reinforced panel in this Spanx high-rise panty will flatten your tummy and create a sexy waist and hip curve that will flatter your gown silhouette.

Spanx “Hide and Sleek” High-Rise Panty and OnGossamer “Biscayne Lace” Bra

Lift and Lengthen that Voluptuous Booty - These ”long-line” pantyhose will do just that with built-in hip and thigh shapers.  The beautiful convertible bra featured here is a perfect pairing if you are wearing a strapless gown.  (And who can ignore those stunning Valentino “Classic Mena” sandals from Saks Fifth Avenue?)

Donna Karan Sheer Satin Toner Hosiery complimented by a Va Bien Convertible Bra

For that Hourglass Shape - This tank style corset enhances that beautiful waist of yours while the smooth outer layer ensures a seamlessly, smooth silhouette.  The bonus?  The padding in the bustier will create sexy cleavage with a bit of drama!

Le Mystere “Seduction” Bustier complimented by Her Look “Commando” Thong

For a Smooth Silhouette - To slim the hips, thighs and tummy all at the same time, this is an excellent choice! This thigh-length slip with stitching that smooths and controls.

Cass  ”Invisibellas” Cami Dress Slip

Still need help choosing the right undergarment? Ask your bridal gown sales associate or go to a trusted retailer like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, or Saks Fifth Avenue where they have trained and knowledgeable lingerie fitting stylists.  It may also be necessary to purchase a couple of options and to take to your gown fitting.  If you do purchase more than one undergarment, be sure to ask about the store’s return policies to ensure that you will have a hassle-free experience.

Lingerie, Best Undergarments for Your Wedding Dress, Wedding Dresses

Tags: bridal lingerie, lingerie, spanx, wedding dreses, wedding dress undergarments
Filed under: Blog

Just in time for Spring 2012, designers are showcasing dresses that are inspired by flowers in their collections.  The general look and feel of a gown with flowers is soft and romantic.  From pretty details that include multi-dimensional flowers to bolero jackets that literally have silk flowers sewn on them create the stunning embellishments.  The floral design in your gown can also set the stage (or theme) for the decor and flowers in your wedding.  Drawing upon the beautiful colors of nature, you can coordinate your wedding party’s attire to complement your gown.  Featured here are gowns from notable designers Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Liancarlo, Christos, Claire Pettibone, Douglas Hannant, Pronovias, Kevan Hall, Jenny Peckham and Marchesa.

Tags: Jenny Peckham gowns, Liancarlo gowns, Oscar de la Renta gowns, Vera Wang gowns, wedding dresses inspired by flowers
Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dress Wednesday, Wedding Dresses

Have you ever wanted to break the mold and wear a wedding dress in another color?  Well, now you can!  Designers are branching out to offer gowns in colors that range from Blush Pink, to Blue, to shades of Purple, and soft shades of Green (yes, even Green!).  These gowns are for the confident, fashion-forward Bride who definitely wants to stand out and make a statement.  Colorful gowns are also great for Brides who wore the traditional White or Ivory gown before, but are getting married again want something different.

Since the Bride’s gown sets the tone for the wedding, a colorful wedding dress will determine the shades to be worn by the wedding party, as well as a determining factor in the choices of flowers and decor; her gown actually becomes the focal point in which every detail must compliment her choice of color to ensure a cohesive look throughout the ceremony and reception.     

Featured here are images from Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, Jenny Lee, Oscar De La Renta, Reem Acra, Rivini, Watters and Claire Pettibone.

Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dress Wednesday

As women, we shop for clothing on a regular basis, but when it comes to finding “The Gown” it can become an overwhelming experience.  Here are the top 6 wedding dress shopping tips that will give you insider information you need for choosing the right gown and having a great experience along the way.

Tip #1 – Decide basic details before dress shopping.  The date, location and budget are 3 important factors for choosing your gown. The time of year along with the venue will help determine the style, and your budget will help the consultant guide you to the gowns that are in your price range. 

Tip#2 – Dress for the season.  Choose a gown that works with season of your wedding.  A destination wedding in warm weather requires a dress that travels well and is lightweight enough for the climate, while a Fall or Winter wedding in New York might require a heavier weight gown with a coverup for warmth.

Tip #3 – Come with ideas, but be opened minded.  Try on a variety of styles.  Some dresses don’t have good “hanger appeal”, but once they are on a real body they take shape.  You just might be surprised that you end up with a gown that looks fabulous on you and it would never have been a contender.

Tip #4 – Don’t bring a dozen people dress shopping.  Ask positive people you trust most to advise you and will be completely focused what you want.  Otherwise, you could find yourself listening to well-meaning friends or family that are trying to be helpful but just end up making the process more complicated.  

Tip #5 – Have realistic expectations.  Wedding dress shopping can be an overwhelming experience, which can be complicated if you are not flexible and realistic. Make sure to check in with  yourself throughout the process to be sure you are not asking for something that is not available. 

Tip #6 – Trust your consultant.  Be open and honest with your consultant to get the most out of your shopping experience.  Trust them when they suggest a dress that you would not have considered,  They have seen the dresses on numerous women and can suggest a gown that looks great on you.

Just like you found the “The One” with your partner, you will also know it when you find “The Gown”.  There is an emotional reaction that occurs in your body that you cannot ignore, just trust your intuition. 

Happy Shopping! 

Filed under: Blog

Ball Gowns have always been a staple in bridal fashion, but this season they are taking center stage on the runway.  At the recent New York Bridal Fashion Week, designers showcased their collections with a variety of styles, which included a new take on Ball Gowns.  The main difference now is that designers are using lightweight fabrics such as Tulle and Organza to create skirts that have volume but still look like light and airy.  These lightweight fabrics are being laser cut, twisted, swirled and layered to create an etherial feel that is very modern and romantic.  Some designers are also adding glamorous touches of silk flowers, feathers and lace to create a textured and 3-dimensional feeling.  Featured here are gowns from coveted designers Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Pronovias and Ines Di Santo.

Tags: 2012 spring weddng dresses, ball gowns, ines di santo, monique lhuillier, top wedding dress trends, vera wang, wedding dresses
Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends

Butterflies are one of the hottest wedding dress trends for Fall 2011.  Butterflies evoke a feeling of whimsy and lightness and can set the theme for the entire wedding.  Does the thought of having Butterflies all over your gown make you nervous?  Then add a few as a simple but interesting design detail – you will look like these beautiful little creatures landed just in time to escort you down the aisle! 

Disney teamed up with Alfred Angelo to create a line of princess inspired wedding dresses that are dreamy and add a touch of magic to any wedding.  Featured here is ‘Rapunzel’, the newest addition to the collection of Disney Fairy Tale Weddings by Alfred Angelo. This gown shows that an overall Butterfly design can look glamorous, sophisticated and whimsical all at the same time.

 ’Rapunzel’ Gown (listed as Style 208 on the website)

 This Silk gown by BHLDN (Anthropologie’s new line of wedding dresses launched earlier this year) features hundreds of appliqued butterflies scattered over the entire gown.  The airy Organza A-line dress has a pleated tulle lining peeking out from under giving an added touch of lightness that will have the bride looking like she is floating rather than walking. 

‘Ethereal Monarch’ Gown

Orange County Wedding Dresses, Disney Fairy Tale Weddings, BHDLN Wedding Dresses, Runway Dresses, Orange County Wedding Gowns, Orange County Wedding Dress Consignment

Tags: alfred angelo, BHLDN wedding dresses, butterflies, disney fairy tale weddings, wedding dresses with butterflies
Filed under: Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dress Wednesday, Wedding Dresses

Designers were proud to debut their Fall 2011 wedding dress collections with a wide range of silhouettes and details.  Bridal fashion has evolved over the years and wedding dresses are now mirroring the Red Carpet gowns worn by A-list celebrities.  The designers of today are becoming more creative with texture, unique details, and fabrics.  More than ever, wedding dresses have a 3-dimensional quality with layers of lightweight fabrics that create an airy feel that has the bride looking effortless.

Long Sleeves - There is no doubt that Princess Kate’s stunning bridal gown has had an impact on bridal fashion.  She proved that wearing a high neck, long sleeve gown can be very elegant and graceful without looking dated.  The wedding industry quickly took notice and now designers are offering gown with long sleeves and covered shoulders.

Feathers and Bows – Gowns can be voluminous and still look light when feathers are part of the textured detail.  Bows are the hottest detail of the moment, whether they are structured, soft, or oversized, they add a feminine flair to any style gown.

Blush Color – Not every bride wants to wear White or Ivory, and now gowns are being offered Blush or shades of Pink that flatters every skin tone and is soft and feminine.

Butterflies – Butterflies are another hot detail of the moment.   They can appear in the overall style of the gown or added as a touch of detail as though they landed just in time as the music starts to accompany the bride down the aisle.

Silver Embroidery – While crystals and pearls will always be in style, gowns are now appearing with Silver embroidery only as the detail.  This fine, special thread shimmers in many types of lighting and adds a glamorous feel to any gown.

Tags: 2011 fall wedding dress trends, orange county wedding dresses, wedding dresses
Filed under: Blog, Wedding Dress Trends, Wedding Dresses