Bridal Fashion

This week (and maybe some of next) I'm devoting all posts to weddings. I know not many of you are getting married and are thinking, "I don't care about this stuff!". But, I'm not just talking about bridal gowns. I'll go over what is good for bridesmaids, as well as wedding etiquette, and what to wear as a guest to a wedding.

It's that time of year, where couples are dropping like flies around us by getting hitched. Even as a single girl, this is one of my favorite times of the year! I love going to weddings. Who doesn't love an excuse to get dressed up where there's great food, an open bar, and fun music to dance the night away? Plus, I just love all that goes into weddings: gorgeous florals, creative table decor, as well as paper products, such as invitations, programs, and place cards. Here's where I'll do my quick plug to my sister's company. :) She has an eco-luxe stationery company. Not only does Copper Willow specialize in greeting cards and other notes, they have gorgeous letterpress invitations, save-the-dates, maps, menus, etc. My sister will design custom products, or you can buy off the shelf at your local retailer. Plus, everything about the company is "green". Who doesn't love that?? Go to www.copperwillow.com for more.

Today is a quick overview of bridal gown designers I like for those who are getting married, or maybe just like to look at bridal magazines and swoon over a dress they'll wear one day (as I admit to doing). Lindsay, on the other hand, probably doesn't. :P


Here's a list of what I consider affordable designers (under $2,500) and don't compromise quality:

1. Jim Hjelm- one of my faves! He does gorgeous lace gowns similar to Monique Lhuillier, but for much less, as well as bead In addition to Jim Hjelm Couture, he has a cheaper line called "Visions". Other designers within this label are Tara Keely, Lazaro, and Alvina Valenta. You can't go wrong with any of these!

www.jimhjelm.com

2. Paloma Blanca-

www.palomablanca.com

3. James Clifford- www.jamescliffordcollection.com

4. Pronovias- one of my other faves. They have gorgeous gowns for an average price point of $1,600. Gotta love that right? They are based out of Barcelona, and have many, many other designer lines that are more expensive (like Manual Mota, Elie Saab, and Valentino Sposa), so be sure to try on their regular line! They are also popular for their variety of laces and natural fabrics such a silk duppioni and shantung.

www.pronovias.com

5. Demetrios-

www.demetrios.com

If price of your dream gown isn't an issue, here's a quick list of some of my favorite higher priced designers.

- Monique L'huillier
- Rivini
- Romona Keveza
- Reem Acra
- Liancarlo
- Vera Wang
- Casablanca
- Amsale
- Amy Michelson (great for destination dresses!)
- Carolina Herrera
- Judd Waddell
- Melissa Sweet