{Behind The Scene} Style to the Aisle...a Bride's RUNWAY

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of styling the models and hosting the 2nd Annual Style to the Aisle...a Bride's RUNWAY.  This awe-inspiring bridal fashion event was a huge success and had a hint of romance, allure and old world glam.  The show showcased some of the hottest trends compliments of several of our favorite bridal boutiques and designers.   My assistant was able to snap a photo of me striking a pose with one of the models after the show.  Fun times behind the scenes playing bridal dress up with all the gorgeous gowns.  I'll be sure to share photos (professional - of course) once they become available.

The Daily Swoon ● Carmel Valley Dress

What a refreshing color and style for a Bridesmaid or Jr. Bridesmaid compliments of Siri .  We can't tell you how much we adore the hidden side pockets, asymmetrical neckline, fitted waist band and pleated knee length skirt.  So chic!

The Daily Swoon ● Sole Talk Thursday

What a dramatic statement sandal by Giuseppe Zanotti - these brushed-leather sandals are embellished with a gunmetal spider {which I absolutely love} and so perfect for an elegant evening or my Halloween outfit that I have yet to decide on.

The Daily Swoon ● Glove Passion

We are a sucker for girly girl accessories and these tea-stained crochet gloves compliments of BHLDN are a cross between shabby chic and southern charm.  The beaded and sequined grosgrain bows on the wrist really add a demure touch and would instantly change the look of any blushing Bride's attire. 

Styling Note: 
Before entertaining wearing gloves on your special day, consider the fabric, style and length of your gown to ensure that your gloves compliment your entire look. 

The Daily Swoon ● Viva La Etsy!

Feminine, Modern, Sophisticated . . . 

There are hundreds of reasons why we love Etsy and one of them is because we can always find unique bridal accessories for our clients.  These handmade bridal sashes compliments of DENIZ03 are so timeless.  The exquisitely designed fabric flowers and vintage inspired pearl and diamond brooches will truly make an enchanting statement on any Bride’s big day.

Happy Wedding Wednesday!

The Daily Swoon ● It's All In The Clutch . .

This pleated box clutch by Sondra Roberts is the perfect accessory for any special occasion.

Tuesday's Featured Gown ● Vera Wang {Spring 2012 Bridal Collection}

In early Spring, I featured this pale pink strapless mermaid gown after seeing it at New York Bridal Market.  Clearly, it was love at first sight and I had to feature it again, since it is my source of inspiration today.  The pleated chiffon bodice, tissue organza blossom peplum with draped petal technique detailing and grosgrain multi-bow sash made me love it and and I still adore it today.  This gown has character, volume and is simply freaking stunning!

There are only a few things that make my heart skip a beat and this gorgeous gown by Vera Wang does it every time.  Isn't she lovely?

Beauty Event ● Danielle Lewis Beauty Lip Lustre Launch

Lip gloss was definitely poppin' last night. . . . 

I had the pleasure of celebrating with Danielle Lewis {Danielle Lewis Beauty} last night to commemorate the launch of her new Lustre Lip Gloss line.  Danielle specializes in bridal, runway, editorial and fashion makeup and is the epitome of a professional.  The event was hosted at Topaz Boutique in Baltimore, Maryland {which by the way, sells cute shoes and handbags}.  

Upon arrival, I was immediately introduced to the signature cocktail coined “Smooch.”  I loved it and had two {don’t judge me}.  The ambiance was very nice and John Legend crooned in the background as we glossed up our lips and decided which colors we admired the most.  I’m already in love with the collection because it does not feel like thick sticky glue and it survived my first sip of tea this morning.

Prior to my camera battery retiring for the evening, I was able to snap a few photos.

There are 12 Lip Lustre Colors -  Kendell (Fiery Orange Red); Krystal (Ultra Shiny Crystal Clear); Logan (Baby Pink with Golden Shimmer); Sydney (Peach Nude with Golden Shimmer); Robin (Golden Brown with Golden Shimmer); Exposed (Soft Beige Pink); Melrose (Lilac Pearl); Marley (Bright Pink Shimmer); Charlie (Golden Peach Pink); Drew (Deep Berry Wine); Harper (Deep Blue Plum) and SuperGorge (Magenta Shimmer)

The "Smooch" signature cocktail was delish - Danielle needs to bottle it up and sell it wholesale!

My two fave Fall colors Harper (l) + Charlie (r)

I am all smiles with the Lady of The Evening Ms. Danielle (left).

I love how I'm meeting more empowered, motivated and accomplished female entrepreneurs - Who Runs The World?!  

Want to know more about Danielle Lewis Beauty Lip Lustre, contact her today!

Monday’s Bridal Fashion Tea • Bridal Blush

Who doesn’t love the delicate, yet romantic color of Blush? 

We created this inspiration board for a client who is gearing up for her bridal shower next month and wanted to wear a gentle hue that is a bit less expected.

Wedding Wednesday ● We Love BVLGARI Mon Jasmin Noir

Unexpectedly Modern . .  Refined . . . Sexy . . .  Classy . . .

 This is a follow up to a previous Weddzilla blog post that we shared with our clients and friends last Monday regarding our favorite Spring scents.   We've just added BVLGARI Mon Jasmin Noir {which was launched earlier this year} to the list of must-haves for our clients.  We were introduced to this intoxicating fragrance while attending the Cosmetic Trend Show last Saturday at the Nordstrom located in the Towson Town Center Mall.

This Eau de Parfum dazzles the senses and if you have a deep appreciation for exotic woods, fresh citrus notes mingled with vibrant spices this fragrance is for you.  We noticed that the bottle was a bit contoured and cut like a gem, which is slightly different from the Pour Femme and Rose Essentielle bottles {which are our faves too}. 

Since the fragrance is very seductive and sensual, it could be worn on your honeymoon or date night.  So, the next time you visit your favorite fragrance counter, do not forget to spritz a bit of Mon Jasmin Noir on your pulse points and let us know what you think.

Top notes:

Lily of the Valley

Middle notes:
Sambac Jasmine

Bottom notes:

Musky nougatine + vibrant wood

Tuesday's Garden-Inspired Look ● Celebrating Erdem Moralioglu

There is something charming about garden-inspired weddings.  London-based designer Erdem Moralioglu brings something very fresh and delicate to the bridal fashion world with this flirty lace dress.  Guaranteed to bring out the youthful exuberance of any bride or her leading ladies {a.k.a. bridesmaids}.

Event Styling Tip:

Spring nuptials are our favorite and we suggest couples add special touches of romance to their garden wedding by incorporating whimsical florals, such as peonies, tulips or orchids, think outside of the box by using filigree rustic lanterns for centerpieces, rent shabby-chic inspired china to promote conversation and select pastel linens to achieve a clean look that will capture the true essence of Spring.

Celebrating the blossoming of scented florals, butterflies, soft color palettes and your signature style sets the tone for a gorgeous wedding and the beginning of a new season.  If you could plan a garden-inspired wedding, what "wow" factor would you incorporate?

Playing Virtual Dress Up at Gina Foster Millinery Boutique

My love for haute couture crowns is spiraling out of control these days.  Not surprisingly, we have accumulated the most fashionable headgear from many sources and they all serve a different purpose in my wardrobe.  I like to think of them as props since they allow me to channel my many alter-egos, are an effective way to accessorize and more importantly act as a buffer on bad hair days. 

 So, in honor of the weekend, I am requesting that you virtually accompany me {no Passport required} to the UK to visit Gina Foster's Millinery Boutique.  Gina’s exquisite designs mix elements of your personality into your dream headpiece to create something special for any occasion.   From sleek to sexy, I think we’ve found our four Modage looks that will that will satisfy our millinery appetite until next week.  

It doesn't take much to change your look, sometimes all you need is just a fab hat.

Wedding Wednesday ● {I Dream of Ruffles} - Inspirational Photos

Appropriate for a Bride who is a bit unique, wildly creative and somewhat “out there."   We are ashamed to admit that we adore this paper wedding gown, but we really do.  Not quite sure if it's the magnificent detailing in the dramatic ruffled bottom or the effort that was put into designing this cheap chic gown.  When a colleague forwarded this photo to us, we immediately laughed and thought of one of our favorite gowns designed by Allure Bridal Couture {below}.   

So what are your thoughts on the paper wedding gown?  Yay or Nay?

Haute Holidays - Fashionable Holiday Gift Idea{s} # 13 ● The Frugalistas Delightful Finds

Cheers to all my fellow frugalistas . . .

Are you looking for a holiday gift under $50? Well here are four of our favorite!  As you know, many believe that only expensive gifts are memorable and that’s far from the truth.  Remember, with a pinch of patience, an ounce of style and 3 cups of originality, that's the perfect recipe to ensure that you do not exhaust your coin purse this holiday season.

Want more frugual holiday suggestions?  Feel free to e-mail us and we'll be happy to assist you further!

To purchase the featured goods, visit:

Want to carry your Signature Scent daily? - Sleek + Chic Perfume Roller

Haute Nail Varnish? -  Deborah Lippmann "Layer Cake" Nail Color Trio

Traveling with Bling? - Vintage Mesh Jewelry Pouch by Annabel Trends

Computing In Style? - Chic Laptop Tote

Tempt Me Tuesday ● Shoes We Heart {Under $300}

As I continue to rotate 600 + bridal photos from New York Bridal Market, I took a quick pause and began to drool over these haute shoes my assistant forwarded to me for an upcoming holiday event.  Since unique shoes are my weakness and I'm tempted to purchase both {but I'm in retail therapy - sigh} I just had to share them with you girls so that you can see how gorgeous they are.  

Bourne 'Mena' Jeweled Fringe Sandal
The color/details make these my favorite {Love the blinged out fringy-tiered look}.
$265

Betsey Johnson 'Walford' Pump 
I love these jeweled encrusted open-toe pumps which are aorned with pleated chiffon and rich suede trim.
$199

 Both are extremely pratical and can be worn perfectly with a short skirt or pants.  Which are your favorite, how would you wear them, and where would you wear them? 

Ok, now back to editing photos . .

Components of a Feel Good Closet ● What's In Yours?



I just finished reading What To Wear For The Rest of Your Life - Ageless Secrets of Style by Kim Johnson Gross and it was a great "self-confidence" booster. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book in the evenings and was able to jot down a few key points that I plan to incorporate into my personal fashion chronicles.  For example, I admired how Ms. Johnson-Gross provided insight on how to navigate everyday fashion trials and tribulations by just staying true to yourself.  Further, she created a space within her closet where she could find solace for her special garments (i.e., comfy clothes, accessories and shoes) which enabled her to feel amazing at any given moment.  After reading this book, I've learned how to organize my closet more efficiently by having a mixture of comfort clothes, power clothes and clothes that make me feel pretty.   Getting dressed daily will become more inviting and easier as you begin to group your feel-good clothes together.  You will start wearing them more frequently - but in different ways. {Like remixing vintage with contemporary, or sporty with formal}.

You still may be wondering what's a "Feel Good Closet," - so we've outlined the key elements and discovered that you do not need a lot of stuff in your closet, just the right stuff.

Components Of A Feel Good Closet:

• Your feel good closet is within your budget because you already own what you choose to put in it.
• Your feel good closet is flexible and assists with recognizing the common fashion elements which are color, style and the texture of the clothes that you enjoy wearing.
• Redefines your self-image and teaches you how to dress from the inside out.
• Your feel good closet is a sanctuary where you can turn a deaf-ear to the fashion police, your mother, children, husband or anyone else with an opinion - even if you value it.
• Your feel good closet is a source of confidence!

"When you are clothes-confident, you will feel more body-confident, which will help you feel more life-confident" - Kim Johnson Gross

Tell us - what's in your feel good closet?

If I Was A Rich Girl ● My Favorite Vintage Statement Pieces

As I was driving into the office this morning, one of my favorite songs played "Rich Girl" by Gwen Stefani and that song inspired me to visit my favorite haute couture marketplace, 1stdibs and dream about various vintage baubles that I would love to have in my jewelry box, if I was a rich girl.  So in my quest to play virtual "dress up," on this gloomy Wednesday - here are a few of my eccentric favorites.

1stdibs has amazing vintage finds from various eras and I've acquired a few for past clients when styling them for their special day.  From fine art to mid-century modern furniture, I love visiting this site monthly to see what new additions are added.  Let us know what caught your eye as you peruse one of our favorite websites.

Singing to myself . . "Cause I'd have all the money in the world, if I was a wealthy girl..."


 SEAMAN SCHEPPS
18k Sapphire Ear Clips
USA
1960
A chic pair of sapphire earrings by Seaman Schepps. The 1 1/2" 18k yellow gold multi-stone cluster ear clips set with natural -color cabachon sapphires.  Flattering, elegant and classic.

  


Rose-Cut Diamond Ball Drop Earrings
Contemporary
10 1/2 cts. pave rose-cut diamond ball earrings set in silver with 18K wire.

 

Lapis Cufflinks
USA
1980s
14K yellow gold and Blue Lapis Cufflinks in a schlumberger style.

  
 

DAVID WEBB KUNZITE
 Diamond Brooch
USA
1950's
The elegant, geometric brooch centering a faceted oval-cut Kunzite (25x20mm) colored a candy pink within a domed frame of polished yellow gold arcs, twisted gold rope work, and platinum segments set with diamonds. The brooch can also be worn as a pendant worn close to the neck.



TONY DUQUETTE
Tony Duquette Tourmaline Briolette Beads Necklace
USA
21st Century
 Offered is an extraordinary torsade of faceted deep rose Tourmaline briollettes attached to a large cushion Tourmaline cabochon gold mounted clasp.



YVES SAINT LAURENT
France
1980's
Unique, sculptural brass and gilt metal pieces make up this dramatic collar from Yves Saint Laurent -strung on cord with beads at ends.

 

FOURTANE
1960'S
18K Yellow Gold, White Gold & Diamond Bracelet
Over 22.00 carats of Diamonds!

 

TIFFANY & CO
Unique Retro Platinum, Ruby and Diamond Ring
1940
A Retro platinum ring featuring invisibly set rubies and diamonds by Tiffany & Co.

 

CARTIER
Ruby and Diamond Buckle Ring
1940's
Fabulous, functional and flexible buckle ring by Cartier in 14k yellow gold with rubies and diamonds.

*Savvy Approved Indeed*