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Featured Wedding Dress: Kitty Chen Alessandra

Meet: Alessandra

Designer: Kitty Chen

Alessandra from Kitty Chen front view of beaded straps, plunge neck, lace pattern and fanned to the side train
Alessandra from Kitty Chen

Why we love her: If you are a bride looking to turn heads and WOW your partner at the end of the aisle, look no further than Alessandra by Kitty Chen! This stunning fit and flare has a little bit of everything blended seamlessly to make one knock-out gown. A v-neck plunge dips low into the bodice while side cut outs provide the most flattering hourglass shape. Beaded spaghetti straps nicely hold up the bodice, and adorn the low back with a little bit of beaded flare as they meet the gorgeous illusion back! 

Split beaded back straps
Split beaded back straps

The gown hugs the body nicely with her structured bodice and fitted skirt while still being flexible to movement and dancing with her soft lining. Alessandra’s sequined, shimmery lace lies atop a layer of subtle glitter tulle, and trickles all the way down the flared skirt to intricate, floral hem lace. The double-tiered, asymmetrical train is unlined and emphasizes the beauty of the lace for your walk to say “I do!”. 

She’s great for: the bride who wants a sexy (yet tasteful), fun, and flattering gown! Between the plunged neckline, sheer cutouts, and low back, there is a little bit of skin shown off at every angle while still maintaining a bit of modesty with a bit of lace coverage. Brides looking for some drama will LOVE Alessandra’s incredible back. The train pops against the ground to highlight the unique lace, but remains light and airy when it comes time to bustle her up.

Signature Kitty Chen low sexy back and layered scalloped lace train
Signature Kitty Chen low back and layered scalloped lace train

Alessandra is a very versatile gown when it comes to venues! Her elegant floral lace pattern would be perfect for a more formal wedding held in a country club, hotel, or ballroom. Imagine those photos on a grand staircase or shimmering in the city lights! The lightweight nature of the dress, low back, and cutouts ensure that this is a gown that brides will not overheat in which would also make her perfect for a beach wedding. Traveling with Alessandra is a breeze, only requiring a quick steam out when she arrives to your venue.

Ornate leaves and rose shimmery applique
Ornate leaves and rose shimmery applique

What makes her special: What doesn’t make Alessandra special? To know her is to love her! Her glitter tulle and sequined lace shimmer with each step you take and draw the eye to the incredible detail in this gown. Her low back with straps that split give the low and ornate back an extra boost! Her versatility to appeal to brides of all ages, venues, and shapes make Alessandra an amazing option for any bride. This dramatic fit and flare has it all without being too much, and not every gown can handle this amount of detail without being overwhelming.

Kitty Chen Alessandra is available in store in the khaki color with ivory lace (as pictured), but she is soon to be available in store in ivory with ivory lace! She is also offered in white on white lace. Come try her on for yourself here at Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo!

Dress Shopping… Alone

Wedding dress shopping is often an event that takes on a life of its own: hundreds of pinned photos, an overwhelming number of options, so many stores, and the opinions from large groups. Some brides relish it all, but others want a simple trip solo.

We received a letter for our series that definitely needs to be read whether you are a bride to be, or have been asked to join her dress shopping. It goes nicely with our Guest Etiquette blog regarding the positive comments, although this takes it a step further.

Don’t be insulted if you are not asked to join her.

Dear family and friends,

You know that I love you and I’m thrilled that you guys are so excited to be part of my wedding plans! Your encouragement and support in a time so special means the world to me. I have been enjoying sharing the planning process with you all, so please don’t take it the wrong way when I tell you that wedding dress shopping is something I need to do by myself.

It is no secret that I’m a little self conscious so it should come as no surprise that putting on dresses and standing on a pedestal for your opinions and judgements sounds like a recipe for disaster for my self esteem. These dresses are not all my size and will not be altered to me which leads me to think I will need some extra time and peace to clearly process my thoughts on each dress.

When my sister went dress shopping, I heard the comments that mom, grandmom, and everyone else made during the process. I know they all came from a good place and she handled it fine, but I don’t think I could have a productive appointment knowing that I am being subjected to such judgment from those I love.

I also watched as she was forced into ballgowns and blingy dresses “for fun” – dresses she didn’t even want to try. You all meant well and were just having fun, but that is a nightmare situation for me.

Pictures were being taken of every single dress from every angle and I was horrified imagining myself in that position someday. Now it is my turn and I just cannot go through it.

For these reasons, those initial appointments will be between me and my consultant. I trust that they will help guide me in the right direction and pull dresses for me that I may not have considered for myself without distracting or confusing me! I am confident that I will be able to find a dress I love with their help.

Maybe if I find a couple I am torn between, I will bring you back to help me make the final decision! If I do find and commit to “the one” without you all there, I will bring you all in to see it when the dress comes in my correct size and color. I would love your help with veils, jewelry, shoes, and other accessories that would complement the dress! I know that you all will have great ideas to make my vision come to life even more than I could have thought of.

Please don’t take this as me trying to exclude you from dress shopping with me. I know most brides love to have their crew alongside them when they say yes to the dress. As much as I would love to, this is a huge decision that I need to make alone without feeling self-conscious. I want to make sure that I am getting exactly what I want and feel beautiful and confident in. I love you all dearly and can’t wait to have the big reveal!

Love,

The Lone Bride

Featured Wedding Dress: Argentina by Eddy K

Meet Argentina!
Designer: Eddy K

 Eddy K's Argentina combines lace, crepe, pearls, and buttons for a unique and stunning wedding dress
Eddy K’s Argentina combines lace, crepe, pearls, and buttons for a unique and stunning wedding dress

Why we love her: Argentina is a seamless blend between timeless elegance and modern flare! A gorgeous leafy and floral lace pattern frames the plunging neckline and lies atop a romantic, ruched tulle bodice. The lace continues effortlessly down the sides to the hips, helping to flatter the figure. If you think the front of this fabulous little fit and flare is pretty, wait until you see the back! 

 Beautiful low back with buttons down to the scalloped edge
Beautiful low back with buttons down to the scalloped edge

Her beaded spaghetti straps lead to the most incredible low, illusion back adorned with lace and a little sparkle. Buttons line the back and lead straight down to her stunning train! The asymmetrical, illusion and lace train is every wedding photographers dream for exquisite dress detail shots. And for an added bonus – the train is lightweight which makes for a very easy bustle to carry around while you celebrate your big day!

She’s great for: the trendy yet classic bride! Every so often we get a bride who is torn between wanting a dress that she will look back on fondly, but also wants some elements of modernity. The crepe skirt is very popular among brides right now, appealing to a variety of brides for the clean and elegant feel. Argentina’s bodice is ultra-feminine with her dainty straps, subtle shimmer, and small pearl detail.

Gorgeous lace placed in scalloped pattern on the train of Eddy K Argentina wedding dress
Gorgeous lace placed in scalloped pattern on the train with buttons running the length

This dress has a little bit of everything wrapped up into one perfect gown. Argentina is also the perfect dress for the bride looking to elongate her stature. The subtle seams flowing down the skirt create the illusion of longer legs while the hip hugging lace defines the torso. She is a great gown if you are looking to emphasize your shape but do not want to sacrifice comfort. This is the perfect choice for the bride who likes to get down on the dance floor or will be on the go greeting all of her guests.

What makes her special: Her versatility! This is a gown that you can dress up to add some more pizzazz or leave as is for a more simple style. Argentina is a low maintenance dress in the sense that she is ready to wear with or without any accessories. She looks stunning right on her own! Her constant shimmer and pearl details give brides plenty of flexibility to decide what kind of jewelry to wear on their special day! Dress her up with some dangly earrings or an understated bracelet. 

Light ruching, lace, and pearls on the bodice
Light ruching, lace, and pearls on the bodice

Like what you see but need a little more drama? Argentina has a matching cathedral veil! The soft tulle falls in romantic pleats while trailing behind the bride and complementing the detail of the front. Her lace pattern begins down at the hemline and extends beyond the train which frames the gown perfectly.

Argentina is also a bridal gown that you can wear in ANY venue! Her elegance lends her to be the perfect choice for a ballroom or mansion wedding while her floral lace would work effortlessly in a garden, barn, or on the beach. This is a wedding dress that checks every box, so schedule your appointment to say yes to Eddy K‘s Argentina!

Rain… On Your Wedding Day

Your wedding is coming and how many times a day are you checking that weather map for rain? Oh no, it looks like rain… on your wedding day.

Did you know that rain is the number one fear of brides-to-be when planning a wedding?

Is rain really that terrible?

Just Married umbrella
A sweet cover for the newlyweds

It certainly can be tricky to say the least if you have an entirely outdoor wedding planned, however there are arrangements that you and your venue can make in advance just in case!

We’ve had couples get married in blizzards, under threats of hurricane, through ferocious winds, torrential downpours, hail, and lightening. It happens, it’s weather, and there is no sense stressing out over something which you have zero control. You plan for it ahead of time, instead!

Indoor Ceremony Space

If your venue has indoor space, make sure it is large enough to accommodate all of your guests. Find out the details on room set up, views, aisle, and make sure that there is room for the photographer(s) and videographer. 

If you have decor such as an arbor, columns, flowers, lanterns, and the like, can they be incorporated into an indoor ceremony? Who will set up? If you know these details in advance it will take off the pressure.

If there is no indoor space, discuss options for inclement weather such as tenting (does it have sides to block out wind and rain?), portable heaters, a walkway that won’t involve guests walking through wet grass? Chances are good your venue has been through this before and has a great Plan B option for you.

Photos

Ask your photographer/videographer about his/her experience shooting in inclement weather. What is some of their advice on how to get the best photos? Have you seen some of the adorable bride/groom shots under pretty umbrellas and holding hands and cuddling in the rain?

The softer lighting and mist can create incredibly emotional backdrops that photographers are unable to replicate in the sunshine. And, what if you get that rainbow?!

Double rainbow wedding pic
Double rainbow!

Cover Up & Rain Accessories

Don’t stop at the umbrellas! Consider a wrap or jacket to match your dress to keep you dry and warm, and don’t forget shoes! Pretty rain boots might be just the right accessory for you and your wedding party, or consider other options like cute sneakers with no-slip soles. Put some thought into it regarding matching your colors, perhaps customizing the umbrellas with their names and be ready to launch the order if the weather looks iffy!

Bridal wedding rain boots, in white and "something blue"
Something Blue wedding rain boots!

When it comes to those umbrellas, make sure there are plenty of extras for your guests.

Umbrellas ready for the guests in case of rain
Umbrellas ready for the guests

Let It Go!

If you are upset, acknowledge that and then let it go. Breathe and be present. This is the day you are marrying your best friend – for better or worse, through sunshine or rain – and when your day is over you will start your new married life after having had the time of your life.

Now go, plan ahead, and get married!

Featured Wedding Dress: Danica by Morilee

Meet Danica!
Designer: Morilee

 Danica by Morilee is a beautiful fit and flare with a strapless neckline and a fabulous godet skirt

Why we love her: Danica is drama! She’s a stunning mermaid that is every bit as sexy as she is romantic. She will make brides look and feel their best on the big day. Her mixture of sparkle and lace will leave everyone speechless in the best way possible; if they can say a word, it will definitely be “WOW”. Danica has a strapless sweetheart neckline.

She comes with detachable off-the-shoulder straps, giving brides two looks with one dress! The straps are covered in stunning 3-D lace appliques. Danica’s bodice has boning like a corset, which not only helps carry the dress but also creates a dynamite shape on our brides. The exposed boning juxtaposed with rose appliques gives this dress a modern twist.

Danica's sweetheart neckline, off the shoulder straps, and exposed bodice boning
Sweetheart neckline, off the shoulder straps, and exposed bodice boning

Danica has floral appliques that cascade down the gown. The bodice is layered with gleaming flowers, gorgeous leaves, and delicate vines. The appliques continue down the dress where they drip down the skirt like a waterfall. Her sparkle level could be considered a triple threat; she has an ethereal layer of glitter tulle, shiny sequins stitched onto the lace appliques, and delicate beading on her bodice. The layer of glitter tulle is underneath the layer of tulle with the appliques, which softens the shimmer to keep it romantic and elegant. Clear sequins on the flowers and leaves give them a gentle twinkle. It doesn’t get more “WOW” than that! 

Close up of Danica's lace, clear sequins, and glitter tulle
Close up of lace, clear sequins, and glitter tulle

 Danica is fitted through the hips and then flares out at the knees in a classic mermaid silhouette.  The floral lace fades out down the skirt, allowing the sparkle tulle to steal the show! However, there is a stunning design with applique on the very bottom the train; this will make the bustle look extra-special when it’s time to party!

She has a cathedral length train; the fabric of the train is lightweight, so it won’t feel too heavy or cumbersome! Fanning out in a circular shape, this train radiates from every angle!

The back of Danica showing all the pretty details
The back of Morilee‘s Danica showing all the pretty details

Danica is available in Ivory/Cappuccino (pictured) and Ivory/Ivory. 

She’s great for: modern brides who want to feel sexy! Danica and all her pizzazz will make brides glow with confidence and radiate beauty. Danica has a lot of support in the bodice, which will give brides a stunning silhouette. She is perfect for brides who want to make a statement! She suits all venues well, from country clubs, to arboretums, museums, and beaches!

Godets in glitter tulle on the skirt add fullness and flare between the layers of lace
Godets in glitter tulle on the skirt add fullness and flare between the layers of lace

What makes her special: Definitely her godet-style skirt, meaning triangular pleats give her so much volume and movement! Brides will look like they are gliding down the aisle with this skirt. The placement of the lace appliques flowing down the skirt between the pleats allows the sparkle tulle to shine through. The pleats start high enough that dancing will be a breeze, and there is enough volume to twirl like a princess! Morilee‘s Danica will help brides make a dazzling statement walking down the aisle and on the dance floor.   

Time to Preserve Your Wedding Dress

If you are a Fall 2021-Winter 2022 bride, it’s time to preserve your gorgeous wedding dress!

Preserve your wedding dress, kits and pick-ups at Darianna Bridal  Tuxedo
Dress Preservation kits and pick-ups at our store

Why preserve?

A wedding dress is the single most important piece of clothing there is by many women. It’s no wonder there is such concern regarding preserving these gowns, whether it’s to keep as a memory of your best day ever or to pass on to another. One thing is for sure – you can’t leave her stuffed in a bag in the closet!

Unfortunately, many brides don’t realize the importance of wedding dress preservation until many months or even years after their wedding. Wedding dress preservation should be the first step one attends to after returning from a honeymoon.

Wedding dresses come in different styles, colors, and fabrics, all of which may need special attention. Lace will require a different cleaning method than silk, and the same goes for cleaning a wine stain versus a sweat stain. Beading is especially tricky to properly clean. Check the tag or label on the dress to determine if it has special care instructions related to dry cleaning or the type of chemicals that may be used on the dress.

Be cautious of going to a standard dry cleaner even if they say they can clean wedding dresses. As a rule of thumb, it is best to research and then choose a professional cleaner or preservationist who specializes in cleaning wedding gowns.

Fortunately, your research does not have to take you far! Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo uses a company that has been preserving wedding gowns for over a hundred years. They are so good and trustworthy at providing this service that we use them to clean our sample gowns in our store! They are returned to us looking like new.

The dress is organically cleaned, pressed, and preserved. It is placed in a beautiful display box and comes with a handy carrying case. The service also includes 3 basic accessories (veil, jacket, garter, gloves, etc.) for preservation at no extra charge. Include a program, hanger, or special memento for inclusion and display through the oval window.

Wedding dress preservation is also a thoughtful gift idea. If you know a bride recently married or soon to be married, call or come in for a gift card for her to use for this wonderful service. This is a great gift for bridal parties to present to their bride as well.

Darianna Brides get a special discount, too!

Don’t let that beauty that made you cry happy tears sit in the closet! Preserve her and get excited all over again! No appointment necessary! Just stop in and drop it off and it will be returned in 4-6 weeks ready to be reunited with you again. Call or text with any questions 215-491-8500!

Featured Wedding Dress: Cairo by Eddy K

Meet Cairo!

Designer: Eddy K, Italia Collection

Cairo by Eddy K bridal is a fit and flare with an incredible amount of sparkle
Cairo by Eddy K is a fit and flare that shines and sparkles from every angle

Why We Love Her: Cairo is a drop-dead gorgeous dress for brides looking to make a statement. She has a stunning fit and flare silhouette that will hug every curve on the bride while the bodice boning will give a dream hourglass shape. Her stretchy material will let the bride move freely without being too restricted as well! She has a slight plunge neckline that is lined with mesh in order to give a sexy look without being too scandalous. Extending up from the bodice are thin, mesh double-bead lined straps that perfectly transition into the scoop-back.

Thin double beaded straps on Eddy K Cairo dress give extra support to the plunge neckline
Thin double-beaded straps lend extra support

Cairo’s back is just another glamorous detail that contributes to this dress. It begins with a beaded-edged illusion lace low back that makes it have a sexy look while also showcasing the lace design of the dress. The lace then graciously transitions down into the beautiful lace-edged tulle train. Because the ivory underlayer of the dress is cut to floor length, the extension of the tulle train shows off Cairo’s detail even more!

Incredible sparkle and detailing on Eddy K Cairo dress as seen from the back featuring the chapel train
Here you can see the incredible sparkle and detail!

Cairo’s intricate detailing and over-the-top sparkle is to die for! She has a tulle skirt that is heavily embroidered with various sized iridescent sequins and will sparkle in any lighting. On top of that layer, Cairo has a gorgeous floral and leaf lace layer that softly cascades down the dress. And of course those appliques have sequins on top!

Close-up showing the lace detailing including floral overlaid on vines with sequin detailing underneath on Eddy K Cairo
Close-up of the lace details and sparkle

Cairo is available in two different colors: all ivory (shown in store pictures) and ivory/mocha/almond. As you can see, the all ivory version focuses on showcasing the glitz and glam of this dress, whereas the ivory/mocha version will make the lace pop!

She’s Great For: Cairo is great for the glamorous bride that wants to have a WOW wedding dress! Her sparkle will be seen by every person at the weddings no matter how far the bride is standing. With the sparkle vibe of this dress, it would perfectly fit into a ballroom venue. However, if the bride wanted a more summer themed wedding, then switching this dress color to the ivory/mocha version and highlighting the floral lace would be the way to go!

Eddy K Cairo dress has a very low back with mesh detailing and buttons and a very unique and sexy sweetheart at the back waist!
Gorgeous details on the back including a very sexy addition of a sweetheart at the waist!

What Makes Her Special: What makes Cairo special is the amount of sparkle that she has, and her ability to completely transform looks by simply switching the color of the underlayer. Unlike most dresses whose sparkle gets muted, Cairo’s sequins will be easily seen throughout the entire night and in photos (as pictured). Also, because her glam comes solely from sequins, the bride will not have to worry about the shedding glitter that sticks to ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING!

Another unique characteristic of Cairo is that she has a matching veil! No need to worry about the hassle of finding the perfect matching veil, because the Eddy K design team already did the work for you!

Dear Bridesmaid With A Toddler

Another letter in our series is from a bride to one of her bridesmaids. Much time has passed and Bride now has a Toddler of her own, but still hopes others will listen and learn!

Dear Bridesmaid,

We have been friends for years and I am grateful you said Yes to standing for me at my wedding. I was honored to do it for you as well. The difference: I did not have a child.

Thinking back to shopping for my dress and the maids dresses, the memories should be joyful. Instead mine are mixed with regret, stress, and anxiety because of Toddler.

I asked everyone to join me to shop for my dress and asked those with children to please have hubby/mom/sitter watch them since it was a full day and traveling to multiple stores with a girl’s day lunch planned. You couldn’t find anyone so Toddler joined us.

All I remember is you chasing Toddler at every store, the staffs of each asking you to please not let Toddler run through the dresses, grab headpieces, smear mirrors, and one asked you to take Toddler outside because of the crying and wailing. My other maids tried to help entertain Toddler which wasn’t what I wanted them to do, but they tried. When Toddler needed a diaper change other brides/groups were uncomfortable but polite about it.

I was upset and embarrassed. I could barely concentrate. We had lunch (also not what I expected with a highchair, goldfish being smashed, the sippy cup being thrown over and over) and I said yes at the next store without even going to the last appointment. I loved the dress, but I really wanted it over with. My anxiety was off the charts and my mom was very angry with you. I cried on the way home.

I booked the maid appointment months in advance with the same request for a sitter. Once again you couldn’t find one. I offered to do your appointment separately when you could find someone but you seemed offended and said it would be fine. It wasn’t fine, it was a disaster. While the staff mopped up the coffees that Toddler immediately knocked over, you were busy chasing and picking Toddler up while Toddler screamed to get down. Toddler ran into random dressing rooms with another bridesmaid group in them and you were surprised that they got mad at you. Toddler eventually sat still for a short time blasting Elmo at volume level 10 on an iPad. I will never forget how uncomfortable this was for everyone, yet you thought it was fine.

Fast forward and I now have a squirmy Toddler of my own. That’s how they are and it isn’t Toddler’s fault for being placed in stores where they should not be! Guess what I will never do?!

With love but regret that I did not handle this differently,

A Considerate Parent AND Bridesmaid

Do you have a letter that you would like to write to someone regarding your wedding? Do you have any advice for future brides or bridesmaids? Email us for an anonymous publication in our blog series!