CREATING ONE-OF-A-KIND CHIC

 It's those diverse and interesting touches that make you a one-of-a-kind bride. Above, the headpiece circa  late 1940s paired up with black gloves amps the glam factor . . .

I call this, The Ascot Bride.  Same dress and gloves only we've changed out the head wear for a sisal picture hat with a taffeta striped bow and giant daisy, making this a great candidate for all you  My Fair Lady fans.   Gown and hats by Amy-Jo Tatum Bridal Couture

SLEEVES

Ron Greystar Photography

There are probably more variations of sleeve than any other component on your gown.  Believe me, once you've decided to go with sleeves, your possibilities are never-ending.   From a designer's point of view, sleeves can be one of the most creative elements on a gown.  For me, a well-designed sleeve is a work of art; it combines fabric and adornment into the overall image of the gown.  I also think sleeves are the most satisfying part of a gown to work on—the actual stitching, manipulation of fabric and trim— all forming the real character of the gown.  

Smoot Photo

Large motifs embossed on silk chiffon give the illusion of opaque lace on long tight sleeves

Gauntlets proffer the look of sleeves.  The great part is they slip on and off easily so you can change your whole look in an instant.

Lirette Photography

This taffeta hourglass has 3/4 length sleeves.  Great for anytime of year.  

ejones photography

This lighter weight silk dupioni empire cut dress has half length sleeves . . .

  This allover Chantilly lace dress has short sleeves which help add to the air of ladylike daintiness.

All gowns by Amy-Jo Tatum

SOMETHING BLUE

 Psychologists will affirm blue is just about the most soothing if not healing color there is.  Focus an entire theme around powder blue or aqua from your gowns and accessories to invites and food.  Thanks to Mi Amor Weddings and Events over at SMP Style Circle for sharing this lovely inspiration with us.

LOVE SWEET LOVE

S
The soft focus textures and pastel pinks and blues here inspire us into dreaming about nature and light.  Kudos to Helena over at SMP Style Circle for mixing this lovely array of images . . .

INSPIRATION FRIDAY

Ellen Christine Millinery

Love to share images that inspire.  This one a la Dior comes from MS Weddings. There's something ultra-fem and elegant about these little pancake type hats that are becoming so popular.  I'd love to hear from any of you who are sporting a hat on your wedding day and all the reasons why . . . .

LOVE THAT VINTAGE CHANEL

The Great Mademoiselle Chanel left us so much more than fashion.  Besides timeless fragrance and an inspiring bio, she left a certain panache we find in all things classy.  Here are just a few lovely things to remind us what the Chanel experience really means.  Special thanks to Chandra over at the Style Circle over at SMP for putting together these inspirations . . .

WHAT'S NEW IN THE GOWN GALLERY?

Meet 'Madelyn' the newest addition to the Dioresque collection. I set out to create this dress as a near perfect hourglass as I could get.  The bodice is made up of Chantilly lace under shirred tulle atop a tea-dyed tulle gathered skirt. And of course, loads of volume underneath.  Because this dress has an ecru underlining, there's a cast of pink, and beige undertones.  The waist is cinched with a gray satin tie belt.  

The back closure is a tape of hooks and eyes (dyed to match), a bit outside the box from the traditional row of buttons down the back . . . .