Lace

"I consider lace to be one of the prettiest imitations ever made of the fantasy of nature; lace always evokes for me those incomparable designs which the branches and leaves of trees embroider across the sky, and I do not think that any invention of the human spirit could have a more graceful or precise origin."

Coco Chanel

A few weeks have passed since the royal wedding, but bridal fashion is still abuzz with talk of Kate’s gown, and comparisons to style icon Grace Kelly. The lace, perhaps the most surprising element considering Kate’s penchant for simplicity, has also become a re-popularized trend in bridal gowns. Departing from its over-worked stereotype, Kate demonstrated that an all-lace gown can be stylish, classic, simple, and even as fashion icon Tim Gunn states, “sexy.” Here are some tips for shopping for your own lace dress:

1. Decide how much lace you would like. An all-lace dress is beautiful, but a dress with lace accents can also echo classic style, and is more affordable for the budget-conscious.

2. Sometimes lace details can be added to simpler gowns. If you’re in love with a certain silhouette, keep in mind that there are still embellishment options if you wish to jump on the lace bandwagon.

3. If you’re in doubt as to whether lace is “modern enough” for you, try gowns with a more modern neckline… adding a contemporary edge to the classic look. This is perhaps one of the most raved about elements of Kate’s dress.

Photos: http://3.bp.blogspot.com, http://www.weddinginspirasi.com

BREAKING BRIDAL STYLE NEWS!

Dress by Sarah Burton

Photo: US Magazine, Dan Kitwood, Getty Images

The Time is Now-KSU Fashion Show 2011

The Kent State fashion show presented a wide variety of interesting inspirations and genres this year, debuting senior work as well as individual pieces created by underclassmen. Check out former intern Kelsey's McClellan's senior collection!

"My collection is inspired by organic architecture. Whereas a building complements its environment, clothing too should augment our natural shape. The resulting form is fluid and supple, like the body. My design reflects the liberation of the bridal genre from some of its formality and structure, and instead encourages celebration through simplicity, comfort, and the use of sustainable materials."

"Shoe Love is True Love!"

Marilyn Monroe, a famous fan of the peep toe heel, once said "Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world!" The peep toe heel has long been regarded as a fashion-forward mix between an open and closed toe bridal shoe. With a reference to vintage styling, the peep toe adds a flair of old hollywood glamour to any wedding look. To update this style for your event, try incorporating floral or gemstone details to this classic shoe silhouette to create a fashionable, yet distinctly bridal look. Check out these peep toes by the Grace Footwear line carried by A Bride's Design!

The Wedding Reception

I am delighted to say that our first ever "The Wedding Reception" bridal show at Avon Oaks Country Club was a success. Thanks to my fabulous models who rocked the gowns and all the very talented vendors who helped make our show incredible. My favorite part was test tasting the cupcakes from About the Cake. My taste buds were held powerless against exceptional selection... I just had to eat two!!! Everything was beautiful at the show and can’t wait to do it again!Thanks to "The Wedding Reception" Participating Vendors: A Bride's Design, A Touch of Italy Bed & Breakfast, About the Cake, Ahern Catering, Amy Nixon Events, Avon Oaks Country Club, Becky's Photography, Big Sky Travel Cecilia Ilg McKay, Harpist, Catherine's Chocolates, Event Source Isagenix, Jia Li Salon & Spa, Mary Kay, Shutterbooth, Silpada Designs, Streetplayers DJ Company & Emcee Service Trio Creative, Weddings in Cleveland, Willow House

Wedding Cakes For Spring

"My dad thought all wedding cakes should be white. Times have changed."

-Frances Wollenzien

We hope you find inspiration in these wonderfully striking wedding cakes... all of which are interesting twists on classic wedding motifs, but with a distinctly spring feel! From flora to fauna, consider these innovative ways to individualize your cake by departing from the ordinary and traditional in favor of the beautifully unique!

Images: http://www.inspiredbythis.com, http://www.theknot.com

3 Bridesmaid Dress Trends For Spring!

Dresses for breakfasts, and dinners, and balls;
Dresses to sit in, and stand in, and walk in;
Dresses to dance in, and flirt in, and talk in;
Dresses in which to do nothing at all;
Dresses for Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.
~William Allen Butler, "Nothing to Wear"

This just in: A runway report from the Spring 2011 bridesmaids lines!

(Be sure to keep these ideas in mind when planning your warm weather wedding!)

1. Chiffon- This season designers favored light and sheer fabrics such as chiffon as opposed to heavier satins. This material, while bringing an element of almost fairy-esque fantasy to your bridesmaids' wardrobes, is also perfectly comfortable and breathable for the warmer Spring weather!

2. Neutrals and Darker Colors- Pastels were noticeably absent from the Spring runway. Instead, designers chose to highlight neutral colors such as beige and tan, as well as navy blue and darker greens and magentas.

3. Playing with Length- Across the board, the runway shied away from mid-length dresses in favor of either the short and flouncy babydoll silhouette, or a long, full skirt.