Why We Love Her: Stella York has done is again with another ethereal knockout! Dress 7492 is a floral lace a-line stunner and a favorite among brides. A structured, unlined bodice provides support and makes the bride feel secure as she dances her night away! The floral and vine lace pops against the v-neck bodice, and is held up by delicate lace straps.
Our sample is in curvy size and the photos below illustrate the care taken to make this look beautiful and flattering on every size. Larger cups are added for additional support and accentuating curves, with the same delicate strap adding femininity as well as comfort.
The lace cascades down the skirt, falling in the perfect placements to give the dress some gorgeous detail without being overwhelming. The back of this little stunner is so lovely with illusion, lace, and buttons that cover the zipper! She has a sweep train that makes for a very easy and light bustle for your reception. A layer of glitter tulle shimmers with each step and complements the sequins atop the lace, so you are sure to shine all day long!
She’s Perfect For: 7492 is perfect for the bride who loves a pretty lace pattern! The lace is primarily vine with a gorgeous mix of floral appliqués dispersed throughout. These florals make her the perfect option for the bride with an outdoor component to her wedding! Garden, golf course, and winery venues would be the ideal backdrop for a dress so sweet.
This is also a great gown for the bride who really likes sparkle, but not heavy silver bead. The dress shimmers beautifully without the heavy weight of a beaded gown. The sun or light from the venue catches the sequin and glitter to create the shimmer with every step, but due to the clear bead, the sparkle will not take away from the detail of the lace in photos!
Why She’s Special: With a gown this pretty, we really don’t have to tell you why she is special! Her lace straps with vine detail are a fan favorite as they are not too thin and they provide support without too much coverage. The simple yet gorgeous sweep train makes the dress manageable and low maintenance for brides on the go! The Stella York 7492 is offered in biscotti, almond, ivory, and white to match any color scheme. This gown can also be ordered without the glitter and sequined lace for brides who prefer a little less glitz and glam.
Why we love her: Lucille by Eddy K has a little bit of everything– sparkle, florals, and an alluring silhouette. She’s a delightful blend of modern, romantic, and a little sexy. The appliques, which cover the dress from top to train, are a mix of flowers and leaves. This nature-inspired design is something a lot of current brides are searching for!
The floral appliques shimmer in the light because of lush beadwork. Clear beads, white beads, and sequins top the appliques; their effect is ethereal. Lucille has small pieces of the nature-inspired appliques that peak out over the edge of the V-shaped neckline. These applique pieces add a little more coverage to an otherwise plunging neckline. Flesh-toned illusion netting supports the top of the gown and helps keep brides secure all night long!
The captivating illusion effect is mirrored on the back of the gown. Lucille has a row of buttons the length of the spine; they rest on top of flesh colored netting. The striking button illusion is complemented by leafy, sparkly appliques. The placement of the appliques along the sides of the gown frame the brides’ backs in a gorgeously dramatic fashion. From all angles, she is eye-catching!
Lucille’s gentle mermaid silhouette means she is fitted from the bodice through the hips and thighs, then begins to flare out around the knees. This enticing silhouette is much-loved by brides of all ages and sizes. The flare around the knees allows brides to walk down the aisle and dance all night without having mobility issues.
The lovely beaded appliques continue down the gown and through the train. She has a captivating chapel-length train; this train will catch everyone’s eye when walking down the aisle, and it will also make for stunning pictures. The floral lace lays around the edge of the train, giving a gorgeous finish to an equally gorgeous gown.
Lucille is available with a champagne lining color with ivory appliques; this helps the appliques stand out in photographs. Lucille can also be ordered in all ivory for a classic bridal look.
She’s perfect for: Brides who love botanical motifs will absolutely fall in love with her design. Beaded floral appliques are a common wish-list item for today’s brides, and Lucille delivers in that category. She fits nicely with spring and summer weddings. Venue styles that will vibe nicely with her include gardens and arboretums, historic estates, and grand country clubs. She is elegant without being stuffy, so she is a great choice for venues of different formalities.
What makes her special: Lucille has very unique details on her bodice that make her a must-try gown in our store. The bodice has ruching in the tulle layer; this extra detail adds dimension to the top of the gown. The rushing provides a backdrop for the appliques to transcend the neckline and create the exciting illusion in the front of the gown. The combination of the ruching and the plunging V-shape neckline works to elongate brides’ torsos, helping brides look taller.
Lucille, designed with all the thoughtful details Eddy K. is known for, is a sophisticated, stylish, and on-trend choice for any bride!
The calendar is about to flip another year and that means it’s time to see what’s “in” for 2023 wedding trends!
First, the popular wedding dates of 2023. If you have a thing for numbers obviously then 01/23/23 would be the first to hit your brain, at least it does mine. Then 02/03/23, 02/23/23, 03/03/23, these combinations are pleasing to me and I could keep going but I’ll spare you.
There are a few “lucky” dates that are meaningful in different religions and cultures that you may want to explore. My husband and I (okay, it was me) added our birthdays together to come up with our date. Maybe you have a day that means something personal to you or in your relationship and you can start from there.
Next would be venues. While in our area the barn wedding is still around, it is not quite all the rage as it was. Modern facilities and hotels are in with features like grand staircases, large ballrooms, and floor to ceiling windows with spectacular views.
Destination weddings are becoming popular again after finally having the Covid restrictions lifted. Coupled with the strength of the dollar, it makes it much easier to plan a Caribbean or European wedding!
Couples are also turning to TikTok for unique, budget friendly, and/or specific wedding locations. TikTok is an amazing reference for inspiration, but be sure if you are planning to emulate a wedding that went viral to keep in mind how quickly those trends change. What seemed like THE thing to do can very quickly become a “what not to do”.
Give much thought to what you and your fiancé want, don’t just copy someone else’s trendy wedding in the woods or a remote island.
THE DRESS
The latest dress designs for 2023 wedding trends are detachable accessories like sleeves, overskirts, and capes, but the biggest one we are seeing is the split skirt. Go find those spectacular shoes and show them off!
Kitty Chen NaraKitty Chen Wanda
Detachable sleeves and overskirts can give three different looks to one dress and effortlessly turn a traditional dress into a party dress.
Madi Lane Jesslyn
Also trending is the curated bridal attire for the shower, rehearsal dinner, bachelorette party, and morning of, with the mini white dress coming into full focus:
The mini dress is going to become incredibly popular as a dress change for the reception as well as a rehearsal dinner outfit!
Have a peek at our staff new favorite dresses, and below are some of our 2022 best wedding dresses. This year there was a push for more non-traditional dresses in colors other than white, and black was the most requested.
COLORS
The shift is on to color! After Covid, the focus was minimalist with backyard weddings, natural and soft colors. The industry is excited to see color emerging again. Emerald, sea, and sage greens are in, along with dusty blues, and terra cotta.
Emerald is a lovely color especially for fall and winter and every flower choice looks gorgeous against it. Tuxedos in slate and charcoal gray are sharp with emerald, and for fall consider pairing with a brown or camel color tuxedo.
Sola bouquet from Wilusz Way
There are signs that mismatched maids are becoming even more popular and that maids are allowed the freedom to choose their own dress with few guidelines. If you are a bride thinking of giving your bridesmaids the freedom to choose their own dress, please take this advice: they need some direction!
There is too much a choice to simply say, “Get a dress you like in (color).” We see this all the time in the store. Too much freedom causes decision paralysis. You need to give them some guidelines – or your inspiration pics – to help them make their choice.
FLOWERS
As the climate creeps further into couples’ minds, many more continue to choose environmentally friendly flower choices like sola, succulants, and wild flowers. Wildflowers are a great way to add color into your wedding bouquets, and adding extra greenery is both dramatic and sustainable. Brides are also going for smaller bouquets that allow more focus on the dress details than the bouquet itself.
Another change to the boho bride regarding flowers is the moving away from flower crowns and toward delicate flowers woven into braids and other wedding hairstyles.
On the way out:
Predicted on the way out for 2023 wedding trends are: Food trucks, monogrammed bar napkins, full-suite invitations, and programs. Also, the balloon wall backdrop for pictures never looks like a wedding (more like a bridal or baby shower), instead opt for a photo booth. Speaking of walls, it’s definitely time to move on from the donut wall.
Why we love her: Juliette is a gown with a traditional “Madi Lane” feel! This sweet little a-line is lightweight, comfortable, and stunning. She has a fitted, unlined bodice that makes the incredible floral and vine lace pop against any skin tone! The lace cascades down the waistline and trickles down the skirt. The v-neck neckline has more lace atop illusion straps that fade into a gorgeous scooped back. Subtle sparkle shines as the sun hits the sequins in the appliqué.
Juliette is a low maintenance dress that does not sacrifice any beauty for comfort. The skirt is flowy yet slim for the brides who do not want a ton of volume and the straps help keep the dress in place all night long. Madi Lane’s signature charmeuse lining is soft and traps no heat, keeping you cool as you dance the night away! This beauty also has a small 25” train that makes bustling a breeze. You cannot go wrong with a gown like this!
She’s perfect for: The summer time bride! The botanical lace and sparkle on this gown is exquisite underneath the sun, and golden hour pictures in this gown are to die for! The unlined bodice allows air to flow freely so that no heat is trapped within the gown. Juliette is lightweight so moving, dancing, and posing for pictures are a breeze whether you are getting married in a garden, at the beach, on a golf course, or anywhere in between!
This gown is very flirty, whimsical, and feminine. Brides who like Juliette love just how romantic the dress feels without having too much going on! Juliette can be ordered with a lined front bodice, and in ivory/mocha or all ivory. We have even had brides add a layer of glitter tulle into the gown to make the gown shimmer just a touch more! Ask your consultant about customizations to make her feel like a one-of-a-kind gown.
What makes her special: Her lace pattern! It is no secret that Madi Lane has the prettiest floral laces, but Juliette has both a beautiful assortment of florals and a gorgeous vine throughout the gown. The framing of the vine on the straps elevates the look of the bodice just a touch more. If you follow Madi Lane, you know the incredibly gorgeous Harper, Elora, and Halani gowns. Juliette is reminiscent of these a-line beauties but redeveloped into a fresh, new gown. This gown is a stunner and will have all of your guests in awe!
Many customers come to Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo and ask us whether they should buy or rent a tuxedo. The answer to that question is not always obvious. There are several things you should consider when deciding to buy a tuxedo. In today’s tuxedo blog, we are going to outline the questions you need to ask yourself when deciding whether to buy or rent a tuxedo.
Should I buy or rent?
How many events a year do I need a tuxedo?
The first question you need to answer for yourself is how often do you really need a tuxedo? If you wear a tuxedo once every 5 years, we certainly don’t believe it’s necessary or prudent to invest in a tuxedo purchase. Opinions vary as to how often you wear a tuxedo each year when it would be worth investing in such formal attire. About 10% of our customers purchase a tuxedo if they attend 2 or more formal events a year, but most of our customers feel that they need to attend at least 4 events a year to justify purchasing a tuxedo. Later in this blog, we will cover other reasons for purchasing or in this case, not purchasing a tuxedo that go beyond the number of times you need a tuxedo each year.
Fitting garments to get the right size
Does my weight and sizing fluctuate?
If your weight fluctuates enough throughout the year, or years, we usually do not recommend purchasing a tuxedo. The author of this blog is embarrassed to admit that on his last vacation, he gained 10 pounds and many of his suits no longer fit him! Typically, an increase or decrease in weight of 10 pounds would cause a change in jacket size by a full size. As an example, if you are a size 42R jacket and you lose 10 pounds, you would most likely now be a size 40R. If you lost or gained 5 pounds, that would typically require a change in jacket size by what I would call a half a size. As an example, if you were a size 38R and you gained 5 pounds, you would now be a size 39R.
If your weight does fluctuate, not so dramatically, we often recommend that you have the tuxedo jacket taken in or let out to accommodate your new size. Oftentimes, this is less expensive than buying a new tuxedo jacket or even renting your proper size. A tailor or seamstress will be able to tell you if the garments are able to be altered.
Fortunately, many tuxedo pants are adjustable by 3 inches on each side of the pants with straps and clips to fasten the straps. This convenient feature is very forgiving when you lose or gain weight and we often do not have issues with customers needing new pants if their size changes.
We frequently advise customers that it may be better to rent the tuxedo rather than buy it. You will be surprised how many times we will see the same customer come back in 18 to 24 months after purchasing their tuxedo needing to rent a tux because the one they purchased no longer fits.
The one very beneficial part of renting a tuxedo is that your fit will be perfect for you each time because you will be able to choose any size jacket, pants, shirt, vest and shoes each time you rent.
I Bought a Black Tux, Now I Have to Wear a Navy Tux!
Three years ago, we had a proud father of four daughters tell us how he bought a black tuxedo in anticipation of the eventual marriages of his daughters. He wore his purchased black tuxedo to his first daughter’s wedding and it looked great, as he told us!
A year after his first daughter’s wedding, he was in our store because his second daughter insisted that he wear a navy tuxedo! This rendered his black tuxedo useless for his second daughter’s wedding. Who knows what his third and fourth daughters will want him to wear? Once again, this father’s investment in his expensive black tuxedo purchase is not really panning out. The lesson here is that you may not be able to wear the tuxedo you purchased for every event and renting is sometimes a better and more affordable option.
In general, a black tuxedo is a good choice because it’s a classic, timeless look and is not trendy. However, if the color scheme for your events could potentially change as they did for this father, then it may just be better to rent your tuxedos. This will allow you to rent any color combination that you need or prefer for each different event.
Is the tuxedo color and style I am considering purchasing timeless?
Should you choose to purchase a tuxedo, we highly recommend purchasing a more timeless tuxedo. Black tuxedos are always a good bet or possibly a dark gray tuxedo. The dark gray shades are often so dark that they look black. A navy tuxedo is not a bad choice however keep in mind that navy may not be as popular as it is today.
As we wrote about in one of our blogs, black tie optional affairs do not necessarily require you to wear a black tuxedo. The point is to wear a tuxedo and not a suit. Unless specifically requested in your wedding or formal event invitation, wearing a tuxedo that is not black is acceptable.
What is the price difference to buy or rent?
As with most products, there are many styles, colors and designers when it comes to tuxedos. Prices vary dramatically and oftentimes; the designer and fabric quality often drive the price of a tuxedo rental and purchase. As an example, a Michael Kors tuxedo rental and purchase will cost you much more than a lesser-known brand.
Typically, high-end brands like Michael Kors and Ike Behar will cost about $1,000 for the jacket pants and vest. Then you will need a shirt, tuxedo shoes, long tie or bow tie, pocket square, studs and cufflinks. Lesser-known brands may run you less than half that price however, keep in mind that the quality and fit are not nearly as good as the high-end brands. In addition, the quality of the fabric often does not last as long as the high end brands. As they say, you get what you pay for.
Buy or Rent
When you purchase a tuxedo, you typically need to purchase the jacket, pants, vest, shirt and shoes. You’ll also need to have the pants hemmed to be the proper length and often the jacket sleeves as well. Some customers want additional alterations such as bringing the jacket in at the waist to give it a more fitted look.
Changing Styles
In the past 8 to 10 years, slim and skinny fit have been very popular. I personally prefer a fitted suit or tuxedo and do not like something that looks boxy on anyone. However, based on our meetings with European designers in the last year and a half, relaxed fit is becoming more popular again. We are seeing double-breasted suits and tuxedos coming back.
Double-breasted Navy Tux
As we write this, 2023 and 2024 are predicted to bring back more relaxed fits and looks. Personally, I am still going to wear slim fit tuxedos because I like the look better. However, if things start trending to a more relaxed fit by the majority of people, I would certainly consider a smart looking double-breasted tuxedo.
Quick Q&A of Buy or Rent Tuxedo Decision:
Q: How many times do I need a tuxedo every year? A: If you wear a tux less than two times every year, we suggest renting. If you wear a tuxedo 2 – 4+ times a year, buying is probably a good idea.
Q: Does my size and weight change often? A: If your sizing and weight changes frequently, then we suggest renting. If your sizing does not fluctuate dramatically, then you can still buy a tuxedo and have it altered when/if there is a size change.
Q:Is there a risk that designs I am considering will go out of style? A: If you are thinking of a trendy color for a tuxedo purchase, it’s probably better to rent. If you want a black tuxedo for use many times over, then it’s a safer bet to buy.
We hope this helped you with the decision to buy or rent your suit or tuxedo. Chat with us if you want to talk through in more detail!
Why we love her: Minnie is a sweet little dress for the bride who wants elegant simplicity! This crepe a-line is lightweight, comfortable, and timeless. Her v-neck neckline gives a touch of cleavage without too much plunge, and creates a gorgeous shape in the bodice. Thin spaghetti straps pull up the top and lead to a low, v-back that falls to emphasize the most flattering parts of the bride’s back.
One of the most loved parts about this gown is the band at the waist! The double seams at the natural waist and directly under the bust work to chisel out the most flattering part of the bride’s waist, emphasizing a cinched middle section. Brides LOVE the way that Minnie flatters their figure! The soft skirt flows freely without adding volume, and the train falls in romantic pleats as the bride moves. Fabric covered buttons begin at the top of the zipper and cascade all the way down the train. When bustled with a French bustle, these buttons will align perfectly to make a seamless transition!
She’s perfect for: This gown is perfect for a bride who wants a dress that is simple and timeless with a touch of modernity. Her clean cut transcends time while her bodice is reminiscent of the styles of today! Minnie is also a perfect dress for a bride who likes ornate details. This gown is a gorgeous blank slate with no lace or beading that will clash with any jewelry, florals, venues, etc. Brides can have ornate floral arrangements without having to worry that it may take away from their gown in pictures.
This also lends itself to the option of having a dramatic cathedral veil! There are some truly incredible veils out there that will only work with a gown that does not have a ton of detail on it. Some with intricate beading, lace patterns, sparkles, or 3D lace would look amazing paired with a gown like Minnie! There is also the option of adding a belt or sash to the waist on this gown. The natural waist seam creates the perfect place for a belt, or add another belt to the seam under the bust to create a double belted look that would further highlight that cinched waist! The options to customize are endless!
What makes her special: Minnie has a feature that almost every bride loves – pockets! Tuck away your vows and some tissues for the ceremony, then swap them out for your phone so you can get some great posts for your Instagram during the reception. Whatever you choose to keep in your pockets, you will be happy that you chose Minnie as your gown.
She is also a special gown for her versatility in different wedding aesthetics. Depending on how you dress her up or down, Minnie can be perfect for a number of different themes and venues. She can be as casual as a gown for a backyard wedding or, dressed up with jewelry and veils, could be gorgeous at a country club! Her lightweight, flowy nature also would make her perfect for a wedding on a beach. There are so many options for a gown as clean and timeless as Minnie!
Why we love her: Callie is a fan favorite at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo! This romantic a-line appeals to brides of all tastes with her perfect blend of lace, shimmer, and color. She has a gorgeous structured bodice that provides just the right amount of support while the plunged neckline adds a touch of spice.
Delicate, beaded spaghetti straps lead into the low, scooped illusion back. A small row of buttons and loops hold the illusion together and is the perfect touch to a back that pretty!
A gorgeous leafy lace begins at the bodice and trickles down the skirt, tapering off to give the gown just the right amount of detail without being overwhelming. Sequins adorn the lace to give the bride just a touch of shimmer as she makes her way down the aisle! A small train cascades behind with lace and tulle framing the shortened underlay beautifully. Callie comes in Nude, Champagne, Ivory, and White.
Nude/ivoryAll ivory
She’s perfect for: This is a dress that is perfect for all brides! It is rare to find a gown that is versatile enough to work for brides of all sizes and aesthetics, but Callie is that gown. We have her in store in sizes 2, 8, 12, and 18 curvy cut, and she looks incredible on every bride who tries her on. The various color options also make the gown perfect for a range of brides, and often the color choice comes down to the bride’s venue! The nude color looks incredible at weddings with outdoor ceremonies and fall color palettes while the ivory fits seamlessly at country club or ballroom weddings!
Love Callie but wish she had maybe a little more sparkle or a thicker strap? We have brides fall in love with her but think she would be perfect with just a little tweak. Casablanca will fix that for you! We have seen variations of this gown arrive with a later of glitter tulle added, two sets of spaghetti straps, a higher neckline, and much more. We even had a bride who reconstructed it to be drop waist, strapless, and off the shoulder! The flexibility of making the dress into exactly what the bride is looking for really elevates a gown already so gorgeous.
What makes her special: One look at Callie and you will see exactly what makes her special! This is a dress that has it all. A flattering fit, a flowy skirt without all the volume, a sweet sweep train, and some subtle shimmer. There’s a little bit of everything without being too much of everything!
Callie curvy with veilMatching veil from back
She also has a matching fingertip length veil that can be ordered in chapel, cathedral, and royal lengths. The fingertip length veil has lace that begins more toward the elbow so as to not detract from the gorgeous bodice and spaghetti straps! With a cathedral veil, you can keep your cute sweep train with the manageable bustle and still get the dramatic, traditional look. Callie’s versatility and fit gives a bride everything she needs to feel confident and beautiful on her big day!
One of the best parts of working at a bridal shop is definitely new arrival season! It is like Christmas when the new dresses start filtering into the store and that means new favorite dresses.
Our consultants favs change frequently as they try each dress on to get photos for social media. It has been a while since we asked everyone what their favorite dress is, and we have had many new beauties come into the store recently. Let’s see what our lovely ladies are loving now:
Tori Scavillo
Tori is in college and finds new dresses in the store every time she comes home for breaks! It was tough for her to decide between her summer favorites, so we let her choose two from her favorite designer, which happens to be Madi Lane:
JesslynJuliette
Her first favorite is Madi Lane Jesslyn. Tori loves the modern, floral leafy lace that is perfectly placed throughout the gown. One of the best features of Jesslyn is that she is very versatile to fit the vibes of any bride! She has the unique ability to change to different tastes by switching out the layer of Chantilly lace, adding detachable sleeves, and opting to wear the detachable train. The fit is gorgeous and comfortable, and can appeal to many venues.
The other dress Tori cannot choose a favorite between is Madi Lane Juliette. She loves that the bodice can come lined for more modesty and support or unlined to make the bold florals really pop! This gown is lightweight that makes moving and dancing a breeze. Juliette is a great dress for many different body types which makes her a fan favorite, too!
Courtney Malland-Hauschild
We are pretty certain there is one consultant who has made it a personal mission to try on every single dress that enters the store, and that is Courtney! Just married in September 2022, Courtney has learned the ins and outs of EVERY designer we carry. Although she loves many dresses in the store, it takes an impressive dress to win over her top spot.
We can finally post the details of her wedding! Two dresses for sure: her ceremony dress was the gorgeous satin beaded Vida by Eddy K.’s which was absolutely magical! Her reception dress was Kitty Chen’s Paisley which was just as eye-popping in a different way:
Vida details are stunningKitty Chen Paisley
Aside from the two she chose, she has two more from the newest collections that rank very highly in her eyes:
FortunataCameron
One of Courtney’s distinguished dresses is Morilee Fortunata! This is a gown that is equal parts gorgeous and fun. The fit and flare silhouette hugs all of the right places and has a gorgeous sparkly, plunge neckline. The frosted floral lace pops against a layer of glitter tulle that shimmers with each step you take. The fabric is also extremely comfortable and flexible so there is no need to worry about sacrificing comfort for beauty – you get it all with Fortunata!
Her second favorite dress is Eddy K Cameron! This dress currently a bride favorite dress in store, too. Cameron is the sweetest little dress with gorgeous, pearl beaded appliqué atop an unlined bodice. She is available in a sand color to really make the ivory lace pop and or pure ivory to maintain a formal bridal feel. The sweetest line of buttons run down the train making a pretty and easy bustle!
Sarah Kline
As assistant manager at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo, Sarah spends A TON of time with the gowns. There are many dresses that have caught her eye here, and many Sarah may feel a little biased on since she helps choose the dresses we bring in! One of her newest favorites is Evie Young Reagan.
Evie Young Reagan
This is an incredible dress for the bride who wants a dress as bold as her! She has a lace pattern unlike any other gown that is a beautiful blend of Art Deco and glamorous. Sarah loves the cut outs on the side and how they flow into a strap that are supportive and comfortable.
Maria DeSandre
Maria has quite the eye for fashion, and you can often find her wandering the dress gallery in her downtime! She loves all things dresses but when you ask her favorite, only one comes right to mind for her: Blue by Enzoani Ollie!
This pretty little mermaid has the most exquisite traditional lace that is perfectly placed throughout the dress, but Maria’s favorite part specifically is the incredible train. This is a fabulous dress for a bride with curves to flaunt what she has got! The bustier illusion back keeps the bride cool and adds some gorgeous, subtle detail. Maria also loves the addition of the tulle off-the-shoulder sleeves that you can detach for the reception when you are ready to dance the night away!
Saharrah Heidrick
One of the benefits of having a Gen Z consultant is that Saharrah is ahead of ALL of the fashion trends! Her valuable input is a breath of fresh air as she provides many different viewpoints to advocate for the emerging group of brides. Our first look into the upcoming trend for Gen Z brides comes from Saharrah’s favorite dress: Blue by Enzoani Oliviana.
Enzoani Blue Oliviana
This gown is both sophisticated and sexy! This crepe beauty has a gorgeous leaf and vine lace and an unlined bodice with a plunged neckline. She loves the beaded straps that lead to a gorgeous low, illusion and lace scooped back! Saharrah’s favorite part of the gown is the one-of-a-kind scalloped, lace train! It is perfection!
Daria Capaldi
Daria is the manager and ultimately responsible for all of our inventory. While everyone has input into which dresses come in, the gallery is mainly a result of her amazing eye for on-trend dresses that will be perfect for all of our unique brides. It isn’t just what looks good on models, it’s pricing, quality, and what will look beautiful on real brides.
Having said that, she always has favorites and she has narrowed it down to two:
Gwendolyn
Her first pick is Morilee’s Gwendolyn, of which she says she loves the bead work and thinks the detachable long sleeve is a really fun idea for a bride who wants two looks! It’s a very elegant dress with a modern touch.
AlessandraBeaded back strapsMatching veil
Second fav is Kitty Chen’s Alessandra, with the illusion side cut outs and the beaded straps, she told us, “This dress is a knockout. The train is to die for, the lace is gorgeous, and I love the dramatic matching veil.”
Wendy Ianieri
What does it take to be the favorite dress one of the store owners? You have to be VERY special, and that is exactly what Franca by Calla Blanche is!
Calla Blanche Franca
The light nude underlay makes the delicate lace and bead shine beautifully. Wendy loves the shape of this fit and flare and the sweet, slightly off-the-shoulder cap sleeve. She thinks that the deep plunged neckline in the front and the open back make a demure dress sexy! Buttons trail down the back to the end of the train, adding more dimension to a dress that absolutely WOWs.
We hope you enjoyed reading about our favorite dresses for 2022 and we cannot wait to show you our new favorites that will be coming in very soon for 2023!
Why we love her: Style #6305 by Daniela Di Marino is a quiet stunner. She has a fresh and boho style while remaining very bridal and elegant. She is perfect for minimalist brides, summer brides, and every bride in between!
Boho-style lace covers the bodice, and it is offset by a smooth chiffon skirt. Stitched into the bodice’s lace is a touch of clear sequins, which give the dress a very subtle sparkle. The bodice is unlined, making the lace pop against all skin tones because it looks like it is resting directly on the bride’s skin. This adds a layer of depth and dimension to give the dress a little extra pizzazz.
Speaking of pizzazz, scalloped lace detailing frames the sweetheart neckline and sweeps effortlessly into off-the-shoulder sleeves. The neckline of this dress is romantic and delicate. The illusion top keeps the lacey off-the-shoulder sleeves in place, so brides can focus on getting married without fidgeting or worrying about a wardrobe malfunction; flesh-toned mesh gives this a seamless look. Style 6305’s bodice is intricate, and it is flattering on all body types.
The back has the same textured lace on the bodice. It flows from the cap sleeves across the back of the gown; the lace extends upwards in the middle of the back, creating another gorgeous illusion. Satin buttons hold the gown together in the back. The lace detailing extends just a touch past the waistline, which softens the transition from bodice to skirt. A subtle lace belt cinches the waist to give the perfect hourglass shape before the chiffon skirt begins.
Chiffon, as a lightweight material, is a great option for beach weddings and weddings in very hot locations. It is a highly breathable material. The skirt is soft and delicate, just like the bodice. It is flowy without being poofy. There is not a lot of volume to it, but it also does not hug brides’ curves. It is a fantastic option for brides who do not want a ballgown or a full a-line, but do not want something fitted or clingy either.
Chiffon skirts, like this one, are comfortable and flattering. And this skirt has an extra special detail- a split! Splits are common in chiffon skirts, and for good reason. Splits make walking around easier, especially when on a beach or natural ground; also perfect for accentuating brides’ shoes! They make for dramatic photos, and they are the perfect excuse to have some fun with footwear!
She’s perfect for: Style 6305 by Daniela Di Marino is perfect for weddings taking place outside. Beaches, forests, and gardens will work very nicely with this gown. The chiffon skirt and train will do better on textured grounds like in these locations as opposed to delicate, lacey skirts and trains. Warmer months and locations (hello, destination weddings!) also work well with this wedding dress because of the lightweight skirt and unlined bodice. Style wise, minimalist brides will love her simplicity and elegance, and boho brides will love her lace detail and illusion neckline.
What makes her special: She is stunning from every angle, but her back really makes her stand out! The detailed illusion back is a highly coveted feature. Today’s brides are very interested in intricate, detailed backs on gowns. Between the sleeves, the lace placement, and the buttons, there is much to adore about her back. The chiffon skirt ends with a plain, chapel-length train. This gives brides the opportunity to wear an exciting and dramatic veil. Veils with lace on the end are a great accessory option for this gown because it will tie in the lace from the bodice and add some dazzling detail on the bottom of the simple train.
Between veils on the plain train, and shoes peeking out from the split in the front, brides can have so much fun accessorizing Style 6305 by Daniela Di Marino!
Why we love her: Another masterpiece from Kitty Chen in the store, Carolina is a chic and dramatic gown. Fitted, lacy, and classic, she will have brides looking and feeling their best. The design of this gown is timeless and absolutely stunning.
Carolina has a classic fit-and-flare silhouette. She hugs brides’ curves without restricting around the legs too much. Traditional lace appliques rest on top of a layer of chantilly lace. This adds dimension to the gown and makes her fascinating to look at– up close and far away! The lace appliques are more concentrated on the bodice, but the amazing lace detailing is still present on the skirt and in the train.
Bodice LaceTrain Lace
Big appliques on a cathedral length train adds another wow-factor to Carolina. The train is a scalloped shape, so brides can create some really dramatic pictures with it! There is also hem lace that continues around the bottom of the dress. This gives her a polished, finished look.
Carolina has gorgeous long sleeves attached to an illusion neckline with a deep plunge. This plunge adds a touch of modernity and spice to a traditional gown. Illusion netting helps keep the dress in place, so brides can dance all night long without fiddling with the sleeves. The long sleeves have the same lace appliques on them as the rest of the dress. Made with flesh-toned tulle, the sleeves give the illusion that the lace is resting directly on the bride’s skin. The sleeves end with crystal button closures.
Illusion lace sleeveCrystal buttons
And if you thought that the sleeves, or the scalloped, cathedral-length train were the most extraordinary things about this beauty, you would be wrong!
Expertly-placed appliques climb up the back from the waistline; the placement of these appliques is strategic as it helps draw the eye in and make waists look snatched. This applique, combined with the lace appliques from the long sleeves, help frame the real star of the back of the gown: the beading! Carolina has an illusion back with some of the most intricate beaded detailing you’ve ever seen! An elaborate mix of pearls, rhinestones, and silver beads, the bead work on the back of the gown is absolutely show-stopping. Crystal buttons are incorporated into this design; they extend the length of the illusion back and down over the rest of the zipper closure.
Carolina is available in Ivory/Nude (pictured), Ivory, and White.
She’s great for: Carolina by Kitty Chen brings the heat– while keeping it super classy at the same time. This lacy, intricate design is perfect for brides who are aiming for a vintage vibe. She is traditional but not stuffy, classic but not boring. Her vintage vibes will work nicely in event spaces like refinished barns, historic mansions and hotels, and ornate religious spaces. With her long sleeves and beaded design on the illusion back, is best suited for weddings taking place in the fall and the winter, but she will stun in every season!
What makes her special: Everything about her is special, but the back of the dress is what really sets her apart! The bead work on the illusion back is masterful; guests will want a closer look at it from the moment they see it coming down the aisle. Also, the lining of the dress does not extend the length of the train, creating a dramatic illusion train. This also gives the gown a very light-weight bustle, which will be appreciated when it is time to dance.
Carolina has a matching cathedral-length veil available to order as well. The veil has matching lace applique, making her the perfect accessory for brides who want to look like royalty.
