BRIDES

Here at The Bridal Boutique, we are continually striving to keep our gown samples current. I was extremely happy to see one of the gowns we have in stock on the cover of BRIDES magazine, the March 2011 issue.  The featured gown is Liane by WTOO pictured below.  I love the texture of the accordion pleated train, the asymmetrical lines and sweet heart neckline.  Now not every bride has the personality to pull this gown off, but it fits the fun fashionable bride to a tee.

The issue also features  “The Best Dress For Your Body” in their style section.  The “hip fix” gown featured Maggie Sottero’s Annika Marie, the ruched one shoulder embellished gown.  The full tulle gown is perfect for brides with hips is also in stock for brides to try.

Of course we have many bridal and bridesmaid dress in ads throughout the magazine.  It is always reassuring to the staff at the boutique to know that we are indeed picking gowns that are fashionable.

As always,

…be timeless

Jenny

Pronovias Fashion Video

With our Pronovias Trunk Show starting tomorrow, I thought you might enjoy the 2011 fashion show video.
Pronovias Trunk Show

Fraudulent Bridal Website

The Bridal Boutique received a notice from one of our bridal lines that there are several fraudulent bridal websites who are attempting to sell knock-off gowns. The websites are touting that they are selling the designer lines when they have no contract with the bridal companies. I was given a list of the websites to warn brides.  The following sites are currently facing legal action and you are highly recommended not to do business with following:

www.ubrides.com
www.bridalgown.net
www.buyer100.com
www.dresstimes.com
www.made-in-china.com
www.mingyanbridal.com
www.peridress.com
www.weddingo.net
www.duosheng.cn
www.moonbasabridal.com
www.fashionlande.com
www.dailymoda.com
www.dragonoriental.com
www.2010romdresses.org
www.dodressme.com
www.bridalme.com
www.elledream.com

If you fall in love with a specific bridal gown, go to the manufacturers web page and look under "Authorized Retailer".  This is where you will find a list of authorized bridal shops.  If something seems to good to be true, it probably is!

As always,

...be timeless,

Jenny

Pronovias Trunk Show

It's hard to put into words the excitement that is building  at The Bridal Boutique as we ready our shop for the upcoming Pronovias Trunk Show, next weekend.  To make things even more exciting, we had the pleasure of meeting with our Pronovias Sales Rep. Beth yesterday to view the 2012 Avance' Collection.  In fact, we were able to order six 2012 gowns that should arrive in April or May of this year.

You might be asking yourself, why attend a trunk show?  Well, let me tell you that it is well worth your time.  Although we carry gowns from each bridal line, trunk shows fill in the gap by allowing brides to view the entire or close to the entire collection from the current season.  As the bride, you have the best selection of  from the Pronovias line.



Why Pronovias? This is one of the oldest designer bridal lines in the world.  Located in Barcelona Spain, they are able to keep a close eye on fashion and bring the best elements into the bridal line. Beyond design, their gowns are made from high quality fabric and there is no detail left unfinished.


If you are still deciding on your bridal gown, make an appointment to view and try on the Pronvias gowns.

Until next tme,

...be timeless

Jenny

The Perfect Gown

Your bridal gown is one of the most important elements of your wedding. The gown helps set the tone and formality of your wedding.

As the owner of a bridal shop, the biggest recommendation I can give brides is to plan early.  Bridal gowns are not made until the order is placed and it can take six months to deliver (longer during the height of bridal season).

The time of year and location of your wedding may influence the design, fabric and formality of your wedding.  Bridal designers often recommend gowns based on the brides body shape; knowing what style of gown will enhance each persons shape.

All though there are more, the five classic styles will be discussed (Ball gown, A-line, Empire, Mermaid/Fit-Flare and Sheath).  The differnces in style affect the two half's of the gown; the bodice (top ½) and skirt (lower ½).

Ball gowns are the ultimate romantic style. The fitted bodice and waist with a full flowing skirt. This style has been popular since the 1800’s and is particularly flattering on brides who are at least average height. It is important for petite brides to make sure the full skirts don’t overwhelm their small frames.

An A-line gown has a fitted bodice and un-gathered skirt – shape of a triangle.  It is a universally flattering shape and complements most body shapes – especially brides with larger hips.

 

Empire waist gowns have shorter waist with the gather right under the bust line. Skirts can be straight or A-line.  Empire waist gowns are romantic and whimsical– think Romeo and Juliette. 

Trumpet style gowns are fitted through the bodice, waist and hips. The skirt flares below the hips (fit and flare) or at the knees (mermaid).  This is a classic Hollywood style that is now presented with a modern twist.

 

Sheath gowns are straight, but not obviously fitted. Their shape is achieved by darts and artfully placed seams that result in a gown that softly outlines your shape.  This past year there seems to be a revival of the sheath. I love some of the new lace sheath gowns that are two pieces – the charmuse layer with a light second layer of unstructured lace.   

No matter what gown you choose, keep in mind that your look will be etched in time through your wedding photos; so choose wisely.

As always,

…be timeless

Jenny

Caring for your gown

I know it’s very popular to take bridal photos prior to your wedding, but please use extreme caution and care with your gown.  Vintage and outdoor locations are wonderfully beautiful, however they pose some hazards.

If you are dead set on bridal portraits for your wedding, consider the location of your photos carefully.  Wood floors are havens for oil and dirt so it is advisable to take a sheet or drop cloth with you.  The same is true for outdoor locations.

Photo by Wedding Chicks

Your gown is dirty, now what?  First, be calm.  Take your time and find a trained dry cleaner – there is specific training and certification for cleaning bridal gowns.  Many chemicals are harsh and can destroy threads causing beading to come off.  The heat used with some cleaning can harm fabrics and melt the boning used in designs.  In Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills Cleaners does a wonderful job. 

Now that your wedding is over, consider preserving your gown.  It is well known that white and ivory fabrics yellow over time. To avoid this chemical process, your gown should be sealed in an air tight bag. The Bridal Boutique works with the Wedding Gown Preservation Company. Gowns are sent to the company, carefully cleaned and sealed.  It is possible to add your veil, garter, etc. There are different levels of preservation, with the more expensive option to include museum quality preservation.  The cost ranges from $185.00 to $250.00.

You have invested in your gown, so protect your investment with proper cleaning and preservation. Your daughter or granddaughter may want to wear it one day!

As always,

…be timeless

Jenny

Happy 2011!

The Bridal Boutique is starting 2011 with a very busy schedule that will include bridal shows, a huge sample sale, three upcoming trunk shows, new gowns arriving daily, and a lot of new brides. Without a doubt, this year will be our best yet.

We are very excited about two new lines we are now carrying; WTOO by Waters and Pronovias. Their gowns are truly amazing.  Gowns from Essense of Australia, Allure Bridals, Casablanca Bridal and Maggie Sottero are arriving each week. You won't be disappointed - they are wonderful.

In January, we will be attending the OK Bride bridal show on Sunday, January 23, 2011.  We love being a part of the OK Bride shows, they are professional and offer new brides the largest number of wedding vendors in one location.  It is well worth your time and effort.

Beginning January 26-31, 2011 (10:00 to 6:00 daily), The Bridal Boutique is holding the biggest Sample Sale to date!!!!!  Our sale is so big; we have moved the event to a separate location in Brookhaven Village Shopping Center (the Appello location).  We will have a large selection of bridal, bridesmaid, mother-of -bride/groom, flower girl, veils, shoes, prom, formalwear, etc.  No appointments are necessary!

One of the best opportunities for brides to see entire collections is to attend trunk shows. We have three events upcoming:

Pronovias -  February 25-26, 2011

Essense of Australia - March 25-25, 2011

WTOO by Waters - April 29-30, 2011

The trunk shows are by appointment.

During 2010 we began Day-of-Services where our staff will come to your wedding, steam your gown on-site and assist the bride with her bridal gown.  If you are interested, we can give you additional information and pricing.

Best wishes to all.

...be timeless,

Jenny

Winter Wonderland

There is snow on the ground, the branches are covered with ice and s a chill in the air. Winter weddings sparkle with ice crystals and snow flakes.  There is something inherently romantic about the winter wedding season. Silver colors work wonderfully and complement white and ivory hues to create the perfect winter wedding theme.

Your bridesmaids will look great in this silver WTOO bridesmaid dress http://www.watterscom/ . I love the fit and flare style and the color of the dress is deep and rich.

The silver snow flake theme can be carried through with the use of winter detailed invitations as demonstrated by Bliss Tree www.blisstree.com

Details, Details, Details! The finishing touch of your bridal look is the shoes that you wear. Although they will only be seen when you are sitting or while walking, they are an important element of your entire look.  The Sharmain shoe from Touch Up shoes http://www.benjaminwalkcorp.com/ died silver will complement your wedding theme.



One of the finishing touches will be your wedding bouquet and this is the perfect opportunity to use crystals or broaches. Another popular trend is the use of natural elements to create a soft and natural wedding bouquet like this one found at the Wedding Dress Store www.weddingdressstore.org

Winter brides, go ahead and indulge yourself in the season.

Until next time,

…be timeless.

Jenny

 



A Touch of Sunshine

Yellow denotes happiness, joy, enlightenment and optimism.  It’s just a happy color! Yellow works wonderfully with the other colors of the rainbow.  Lately, it seems that yellow has been paired with black to create a bold contrast. Yet, pale yellows blend well with like pastels to creat a soft look.

These mustard yellow wedding invites are modern and abstract - found at W Wedding Invitations www.w-weddinginvitations.com

Okay, what girl wouldn’t wear these shoes a million times?  I love the bold color and imagine them peeking out from your bridal gown as you are walking up the aisle.  They are from Luiching and can be found on Shoes.com www.shoes.com

WTOO from Waters www.waters.com style #874 in citronella is eye catching.  This long bridesmaid dress could easily be worn in a  garden or church wedding.

This soft daffodil chiffon dress from Bari Jay www.barijay.com is fabulous.  It has great details with its whimsical vertical ruffles.

Candy Bar’s are very popular at weddings. Project Wedding www.projectwedding.com demonstrates how easy it is to utilize yellow candies to complement your wedding reception.

Shine on yellow brides,

Until next time,

….be timeless

Jenny



Red Hot

The color of passion, red is the warmest color and symbolizes action, confidence and courage. Many times winter and Christmas weddings use red to celebrate the season.  I absolutely love the red and black inspiration board that was posted on Aylee Bits www.ayleebits.com  This color combination is sophisticated and fashionable.

Jordan Fashions www.jordanfashion.com  offers brides many styles of bridesmaid dress. This long Jordan style 941 is elegant and perfect for a formal wedding.  The flower girl by Sweet Beginnings, style L629 will complement the bridesmaids’ dresses perfectly.

Again, WTOO has a wonderful selection of style and color in bridesmaids.  This bridesmaid dress is the perfect for a semi formal occasion.

 

As said in prior posts, dyed or colored bridal shoes are all the rage.  I love, love, love these red stapy heels.

It’s possible to carry your color scheme through all aspects of your wedding, including your invitations. Carlson Craft offers brides a wide array www.carlsoncraft.com  style, color and pricing.

Until next time,

…be timeless

Jenny



Abundant Green

The color green represents growth, abundance, health, nature and self respect. Green makes us happy and connected to earth, so it’s not surprising that this multi shaded hue continues to be a popular color choice. The inspiration board from Ali Eli Floral www.alielifloral.com  exemplifies the use of green hues to coordinate your wedding.

We are so excited about the 2011 WTOO  http://watters.com/indexNoFlash.php bridesmaid dresses.  I love this new 2011 kiwi bridesmaid dress: it is pretty and the shape will complement your bridesmaid’s body shapes

Bari Jay http://barijay.com/  is one of our most popular bridesmaid lines.  This line is fun and fashion forward – truly dresses that can be worn again.  Style # 922 is so cute with its sweetheart neckline, charmuse fabric and short bubble hem.  It is shown below in an amazing emerald green.

There is nothing more fun or whimsical than adding that touch of green with fun shoes. I just love the shoes I found on Joyologie http://www.joyologie.com/blog/   

Until next time,

….be timeless

Jenny

A touch of blue!

The color blue evokes a multitude of emotion.  The color is associated with calmness, tranquility, truth, nobility and faithfulness. The other great feature of blue is its flexibility; it works well with a multitude of colors. The below inspiration board from Simply Dazzling Events http://www.simplydazzlingevents.com/ exemplifies the ease in which the color blue is easily assimilated into all aspects of wedding decor.

                                                    

Happily, The Bridal Boutique recently added the WTOO line by Waters Bridal http://www.waters.com/ .  Their bridesmaid dresses are available in several shades of blue with the style below shown in Baltic.

The LOVE bridesmaid line by Enzoani http://www.lovebyenzoani.com/ offers brides a sophisticated choice of bridesmaid dresses.  Although their color choices are limited, I love the depth of their midnight blue as shown on bridesmaid style A11.

For the bride who has everything, why not add your something blue with a great pair of Badgley Mischka's - found at http://www.shoes.com/



For brides contemplating a blue hue, rest assured that your wedding day will look lovely!

Until next time,

…be timeless

Jenny

Purple, Eggplant, Plum and Aubergine

This royal color has been all rage for the past few years. Although some planners would like to see this color fade into the background, brides continue to love the majestic hues of purple.  This hue varies from the darker shades of eggplant and aubergine to lighter purples and plums.

Photo from Style Me Pretty http://www.stylemepretty.com/

Purples are flexible and can be used year round. Eggplant and Aubergine are more commonly used during the fall and winter, while the lighter plums and purple hues adorn spring and summer affairs.

At The Bridal Boutique, we look to bridesmaid designer Bill Levkoff http://www.billlevkoff.com/ for traditional classic styles. This long chiffon and satin gown is elegant and styled to complement most body shapes.

LOVE from Enzoani http://www.lovebyenzoani/ bridesmaid dresses are exquisitely constructed from high quality fabrics. Although their color selection is limited, their hues make a statement. What bridesmaid wouldn't want to wear this dress?

Of course, the purple hues offer brides a multitude of options for coordinating their flowers, decor and invitations.

Photo by Paper Olive http://www.paperolive.blogpot.com/

Until next time,

...be timeless.

Jenny



Wedding Color

The color you choose for your wedding is important and requires a lot of thought.  Are you going to choose your color to coordinate with your venue, the season or the colors that you love?  Whatever color scheme you choose, it will set the tone for the overall feel of your wedding. 

Over the next few weeks, we hope to give you a little inspiration for coordinating your upcoming celebration.  Inspired by the fall season, we are starting with oranges. The color orange appears to be making a comeback and I have seen several bridesmaid lines adopt this color over the past year.  Colors that are closely associated with orange are persimmon and coral.

Two bridesmaid lines that have embraced the color are Bari Jay and Pretty Maids.  I love both of these lines for different reasons.  Bari Jay http://www.barijay.com/ is a progressive bridesmaid line that offers brides a more fashion forward look for their bridesmaids. Their dresses are often embellished with flower details, one strap and ruching.

Pretty Maids http://www.prettybridesmaids.com/ dresses offer brides an alternative when looking for a more affordable bridesmaid line.  Not only is the line budget friendly,  it continues to produce fun and flirty bridesmaid looks.

Now that you have selected your colors, it will be easy to add the coordinating elements; such as shoes for the bride or bridesmaids.

Although it's not necessary, you may use your colors when designing your wedding invitations.





Wedding colors are normally used as part of the flowers and decorations for the ceremony and reception.



Color allows you to express individuality and using your color scheme throught will give your wedding and reception a cohesive look. 

Until next time,

...be timeless,

Jenny

Pronovias

The Bridal Boutique is enthusiastically awaiting the delivery of the 2011 gowns from Pronovias.  It was a matter of luck, or what I would like to refer to as destiny, that brought the line and the boutique together.

Pronovias is an international company based out of a location just outside Barcelona Spain.  This is a family run and operated business that has been thriving since 1962. The company entered the US market in the 1990’s and is present in 75 countries around the world.

Their design team presents an amazing selection of gowns each year that stand on the driving principles of the company: innovation, change, internationalism and the commitment to designing and delivering a finely crafted wedding gown.

It is our pleasure to share some of the upcoming gowns from the 2011 collection.



The above represent just a small sample of what the Pronovias line has to offer. Plese visit their website at http://www.pronovias.com/.

Until next time,

...be timeless

Jenny