Mail Bag: Lobe Adornments

Ellen- this one is for you... I was unable to find my original source for the rings in question (posted on Vintage Lovlies Pt 2)... but found these substitutes- One Two and Three... this earring is actually circa the 1950's in its style- thus you may be able to find a wonderful replica at your local antique store (had to throw that in the spirit of Blog Action Day)...


This little inquiry got the wheels a-spinning... and I realized how often I am asked for my opinion on the pairing of earrings with bridal/bridesmaid options. My feeling is that there is no set answer. Your earrings will be dictated by the hairstyle, formality of the event, face shape, and neckline of the dress. That being said, my basic rule of thumb is that if you put the earrings on and they are a bit distracting then perhaps you need to entertain another option. Chandelier earrings look amazing on those with prominent features, but often overwhelm others-the same is true with studs... they can be elegant on one lass and a massive understatement on the next... use your best judgement and take a few cues from the red carpet...

Vintage Lovelies- part 2

About a month ago, I posted a whole slew of bridesmaid options that spanned across several decades of inspiration. I received a request this past week to give suggestions as to how to bring the overall "look" together... so here they are... I really suggest staying true to both the vintage icons of the day- but modernize it in the small details (the accessories)... have fun and remember that there really is no WRONG way to do your wedding..

Two Birds Bridesmaids

I know that many of you gasped just as I did when you received this little piece of heaven from "Two Birds Bridesmaid"... and for those of you that do not subscribe to BFF Bridal- this is for you... as I feel that NO ONE should miss out... The concept is ingenious- one dress-two lengths-every size- many colors- endless possibilities! This is the perfect solution to any bridal party- any style- anywhere (they'll even loan you a sample for 10 days!) alright... enough... go visit the site already.

Love at first sight.... Liquid Sky Arts

I was going through all of my old picture files- and came across this one... I saved it long ago- with hopes of returning to this site the next day... well about a year has past- and I finally visited Liquid Sky Arts... and I have a new blog-crush... I do believe that this will evolve into a seriously obsessive relationship that may even result in a bit of daily blog-stalking... seriously- these pictures speak volumes to me and I am so inspired by all of the lovelies that this blog has to offer... I am justifying this post by stating that this is a great source of inspiration for brides that just need a pick-me-up in the creative department... so there.

---also... upon reviewing the shop... I found these lovely pieces inspired by recycled postage, paper, and china... what delightful little goodies for your bridesmaids (and very "green")

A Wedding with Moxie...

Found these gorgeous little numbers over at {this is glamorous}.... simply had to share... picturing some stylish lass walking down the aisle in one of these... but what of the wedding party? fear not... Bill Blass has an array of lovely pieces that you are sure to fancy...

Define Vintage....

My dear bride... we need to talk... I am the number one fan of vintage and retro-chic and every other term you may use to describe the timeless lovelies of yesteryear... but you see, with each passing day- these terms broaden and with fashion going into decade overload- it is really difficult for me, as a designer, to pinpoint how retro and vintage you want to be.... are we talking cloches and bow lips.... or tea-length A-lines and birdcage veils? I went on a search through http://www.bluefly.com/ just to show you a range of the vintage-turned-modern inspirations out there....

{top to bottom: Vera, Vera, Karanina, Soshana, A.B.S., Abaete, Adam plus Eve}

and I absolutely love each and every one of them for a bridesmaid option... but you can see where this can lead to uncertainty and confusion over your vision... when you are asked for six words to explain the look and feel of your event... should you wish to go the vintage route... lets try and utilize those adjectives like mid-century modern, roaring twenties, art deco, etc... (and if you'll do that... I'll even count "mid-century modern" as just one word...)

Dear Bride...

I am all for a trip to a fabulous bridal shop. I really love spending an afternoon sipping champagne with Vera and Claire.... but when it comes to selecting the attire for bridesmaids- I feel it necessary to step outside of the bridal salon. I urge brides to remember this:

-Your bridesmaids are a group of ladies that have been there for you through makeups and breakups, through late nights and early mornings. They have probably covered for you a time or two, and also know all your dirty little secrets...

That being said- why would you request such a loyal confidante to purchase that vanilla dress for your wedding? Give her a little spice and flair, and most of all remember that she, unlike you, is not sporting a duel-income. Thus, it is probably more cost-effective to select a spectacular dress that will look stunning on her from a line that she will actually wear again.

I really love the idea of selecting a fashion-forward dress from a current clothing line... something that will pay for itself in future nights out on the town- (BCBG, Anthropologie) or at least find a line that is flattering and "now" (Thread, JCrew, Melissa Sweet)...

This day IS all about you so remember that this can be a great way to really emphasize that spectacular color scheme that you took so long to choose... or bring in your vintage feel through heirloom broaches and accessories... or even select a graphic print that goes well with your invitations.... keep it YOU without taking away from HER...

Whew... I'm glad we had this little chat (and your maid of honor is as well)...