wedding fashion

#MCM Man Crush Monday - Tux Rentals from The Blk Tux

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Men, today is your day! Gone are the days of spending hours in a tux rental store trying on a suit that you will literally only see for 24 hours. The Blk Tux has completely taken all of the guess-work out of tux shopping and made the process easy and seamless. Not only is this amazing for grooms, but now brides can take one more thing OFF of their checklist. When I was first introduced to this service, I thought it was a great idea but was expecting it to be expensive. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the pricing was comparable to what you would find in your local and chain rental stores, possibly even cheaper if you include the shoes.

The Blx Tux promises three things, Quality, Convenience, and Value.

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Quality: We partnered directly with one of the world's finest suit-makers to create the greatest rental tux ever designed. The old tux shop is offering a worn out tux, with an outdated fit, at a higher cost.

Convenience: We ship anywhere in the continental US, and your order arrives a full week before your event date. Just send it back when you are done. Free shipping, both ways.

Value: We've cut out the middleman, and we're passing the savings to you. Their best $220 tux rental doesn't come close to our quality, and our prices start at $95.

Have you used The Blk Tux? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments below. For more information check out the website here: https://theblacktux.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Favored Friday: BHDLN is Coming to Georgetown!

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Washington brides who want a wedding befitting an Anthropologie catalog will soon have another option besides shopping online for their gowns. The brand's wedding brand, BHLDN, will open a permanent shop-within-a-shop this spring at the Georgetown Anthropologie store on M Street. In addition to the brand's full assortment of wedding gowns, reception dresses and attire for bridesmaids, BHLDN's Georgetown shop will sell an edited assortment of jewelry, accessories and décor. Expect to find in-store exclusives hand-selected for D.C., with a focus on personalized service via BHLDN stylists. I dont know about you but I cant wait to check out the new store! The offical opening date is Friday April 11th!

Source: dc.racked.com

 

#FavoredFri​day Spotlight: Soliloquy Bridal Boutique

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This week's #FavoredFriday Vendor Spotlight features a great minority woman owned local Bridal Boutique, Soliloquy Bridal. Located in Herndon, VA Soliloquy prides itself on helping brides make a statement! “You don't have to conform to anyone's statement but your own. We will ensure that you confidently and enthusiastically choose that unique wedding dress which reveals your inner most feelings and intentions as a bride. We will never apologize for seeking the luxurious and sometimes decadent in designer wedding dresses. You deserve it! You love couture wedding fashion and you've dreamed of this day your whole life, so why settle for second best?”

Maria Karin

To ensure that every type of bride has a unique, fun, and comfortable dress shopping experience, Soliloquy offers several different services:

Appointment via Skype: We are proud to pioneer Appointments via Skype™ and allow brides to connect with the people they trust to give them feedback on their wedding dress if they cannot physically join the appointment.

Signature Appointments: Exclusive and extended three-hour fittings for you and your bridal party as you try on dresses and create joyful memories with your family and friends. Themes: Southern Charm; Mimosa Mixer; or Desserts, Definitely

Styling Saturdays: Our clients receive a complimentary styling session to assist with hairstyle options, hair accessory, and jewelry. Appointments required.

Maria Karin

Soliloquy also offers On-site Alterations, Gown Preservation, Bridal Forums, and my personal favorite In-House Design for the bride that wants to design a custom dress! “If you want to design your own gown or have one designed with some key elements in mind, our in-house couture designer will work with you from concept to development. We will provide a sketch, develop the pattern, and source the fabrics for a custom-fit, one of a kind creation.”

Heidi Elnora

For more information on this phenomenal boutique, make sure you check out their website http://www.soliloquybridal.com today!

Have you ever shopped at Soliloquy Bridal? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.

 

BORROW ME | Kirstie Kelly

borrow me Trying on wedding dresses is one of the most memorable moments of wedding planning, but has the potential to be very stressful. Now thanks to Kirstie Kelly, you can try on wedding dresses in the comfort of your own home. Under the Borrow Me program, you can pick an unlimited amount of dresses from their collection to be delivered to your home for $35 each. Find the one you love and order the dress online, if not return them all with no obligation for purchase. It is that easy! For more about Borrow me and Designer Kristie Kelly, see below.

About Kristie: As a Couture Designer, Kirstie Kelly is known worldwide for her understatedly classic yet original Couture bridal gowns, infusing an accessible spirit with the Couture attention to detail and glamour in everything she creates. Kirstie's passion and drive are centered on helping today’s empowered woman feel extraordinary whether she is planning her dream wedding or planning to strut down the next Hollywood red carpet. After spending two decades honing her couture and tailoring skills, Kirstie has evolved into the designer and entrepreneur she is today because she truly understands her clients and the complexities of their contemporary lifestyle. As Kirstie's collections developed, a new area of client service organically evolved into dressing women of discerning taste for day and night functions; thus, the Kirstie Kelly Essentials line-- priced from $400-$5,000 --was born. Now with her new offering of a capsule collection of women’s tailored shirting that enhances every woman's wardrobe, she continues to help women everywhere feel extraordinary regardless of their own personal style. No matter what envelope Kirstie is pushing, everything stays firmly rooted in her skills at creating beautifully tailored pieces in which women -- no matter what their body type or stage of life -- will feel and look amazing.

FAQ about Borrow ME:

How do I place a Borrow Me order when I find a gown I want to try on?

  • It’s easy. Just select your measurements (bust, waist and hip) then click the Borrow button and the gown will be added to your shopping cart. You can add more than one gown or bolero and proceed to check out.

What is the price to borrow a wedding gown?

  • It’s a $35 flat rate for each gown. That includes shipping both to you and the return shipping to our showroom.

Can I borrow more than one gown?

  • Yes! Its fun to try on a few styles to see what might be best for you. It’s just $35 per gown. That includes shipping both to you and the return shipping to our showroom.

What’s the difference between the bridal collections?

  • Each of the 3 collections is of high quality, using fine craftsmanship. The big difference is the types of details, fabrics and styling.

How much is shipping?

  • Shipping is included in the $35 flat rate per gown.

How long will it take to receive my gown once I place my order?

  • Bridal gowns are typically special order gowns that require 12–14 weeks to fabricate. Certain styles and sizes are available immediately. Please inquire if interested.

I like the personal attention I get in a showroom. Will anyone be contacting me about my gown during this process?

  • Yes! Kirstie Kelly’s stylists will guide you the whole way. Whether you need a little advice about the perfect fit or fabric, we will provide friendly, knowledgeable support on the phone and through email. This is your personal experience so you can feel free to go at your own pace.

What if the gown doesn’t fit?

  • The gown you are receiving will be a sample size based on the measurements you submitted. It may be a bit bigger or smaller just like in a bridal salon but we can work with you so you can get an idea of what the perfect fit would look like.

I loved my Borrow Me dress. How can I buy it?

  • We’re thrilled you love the gown! You have three ways to make a purchase:
  1. Visit kirstiekelly.com and select your gown. Then click the Buy button. You will then be contacted by one of our stylists to assist with the correct sizing.
  2. Call 1.855.KIRSTIE (1.855.547.7843) and our bridal stylists will help you purchase your dream gown.
  3. Send an email to customerservice@signetdesignllc.com to let us know you’re ready!

Can I borrow a bridesmaid dress?

  •  Yes! Just like our wedding gowns, it can be fun to try on a few styles so feel free to borrow more.

How much is shipping?

  •  Shipping is included in the $35 flat rate per gown or bridesmaid dress.

#MCM Tips on How to Dress Your Groom to the Teeth

Man Crush Monday bachelor of the week Cam Newton looking awfully handsome in his suit. Get your groom wedding ready by following some of these great tips on how to pick the perfect suit.

CamIts important to make sure that the suit is properly tailored to your man. The chart below illustrates how the right suit should fit. Suit guide

Next is neck wear. You can choose to go with either a tie or bow tie.

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Whichever one you choose make sure its done right. Bow ties get at little tricky, follow these steps below and your sure to have the perfect bow!

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And lets not forget about the always classy pocket square.

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Stick to these guidelines and your groom is sure to impress! Make sure to send us your pictures of the final product and be featured on our blog!

You're Invited: Carine's Bridal Atelier to host BLISS Monique Lhuillier & Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show This Month!

CBA Logo Brides-to-be! Carine's Bridal Atelier has two highly anticipated events coming up to help you find your perfect dress. Check out both invites below!

CBA BLISS Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show Feb '14 invite

February 6-8 BLISS Monique Lhullier Trunk Show presented by Carine's Bridal Atelier

Brides-to-be will get a first look at the romantic Fall 2014 BLISS collection. Known, for her legendary designs, Monique Lhullier recently introduced the BLISS line as a reworking of some her most popular gowns at a lower price point.

CBA Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show Feb '14 invite

February 13-15 Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show presented by Carine's Bridal Atelier

Just in time for Valentine's Day, brides-to-be can fall in love all over again with the Fall 2014 Monique Lhuillier bridal collection. Lhuillier is known for her ultra feminine designs, her special attention to intricate detail and her use of luxurious fabrics and this collection does not disappoint.

"The gowns had a romantic, heirloom quality, with floral, vine and lattice motifs worked in rich embroideries and delicate beadwork." - Women's Wear Daily

#FavoredFriday Blog Post: Great Expectations Styled Shoot from Studio Laguna Photography

Munaluchi20 What do you get when you combine a bridal shoot with inspirations from the book Great Expectations? You get an enchanting edgy bride surrounded by a neutral color palette highlighted with deep jewel tones. As I was going through the pictures, I fell in love with the sophistication and the seemingly effortless timeless beauty. The photographer, Katrina of Studio Laguna, did an amazing job capturing the essence of the book without overwhelming or overshadowing the venue. I got lost in the pictures and felt like I was experiencing this great day with those in the photos. Take a break from your day and travel with me to Aria, one of Minneapolis’ premier wedding venues below.

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Great Expectations

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Creative Team:

  • Bride & Groom - Melat & Eyob
  • Photography – Studio Laguna Photography
  • Venue – Aria
  • Florist – Summer Harsh Bontanical Artistry
  • All gowns and dresses – Mestads
  • Groom's tux - Hermes
  • Invitation and Menu – A Milestone Paper Company
  • Linens and Glassware - Linen Effects
  • Decor – Bungalow 6 Design
  • Makeup for both men and women – Brett Dorrian Artistry Studios
  • Desserts – Patissierie 46
  • Custom Lace Plates – Painter Steph Guidera (www.stephguidera.com)

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Baltimore Brides! You're Invited: Betsy Robinson's Bridal Collection Trunk Show

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Go to www.robinsonsbridal.com for more information!

You're Invited: Carine’s Bridal Atelier Hosts Liancarlo Trunk Show

trunk show Luxury bridal boutique Carine’s Bridal Atelier will host a designer bridal gown trunk show at the boutique in Georgetown at 1726 Wisconsin Ave NW, 2nd Floor, Washington DC, on August 8th, 9th, and 10th.

Brides-to-be will have the wonderful opportunity to view the Liancarlo Spring 2014 collection and be guided by Carine Krawiec and her expert consultants; dedicated to making their brides-to-be dreams come true. Brides will receive a 12% discount with the purchase of a Liancarlo gown on Thursday and Friday of the trunk show and 10% discount on Saturday. Appointments are available by calling Carine’s Bridal Atelier at 202.965.4696 or by emailing an appointment request to info@carinesbridal.com.

From August 8th to August 10th the Liancarlo Trunk Show at Carine’s Bridal Atelier will feature gowns detailed with refined elegance with a traditional yet modern twist; body-skimming silhouettes; and ethereal fabrics.

For more information, contact Carine’s Bridal Atelier by phone 202.965.4696 or email info@carinesbridal.com

ABOUT CARINE’S BRIDAL ATELIER: Carine’s Bridal boutique has been in the heart of Georgetown for more than 6 years and has established itself as the nation’s capital destination for the finest selection of designer wedding gowns and accessories. Carine has built personal relationships with most of her celebrity designers through the years and the boutique has earned the exclusive right to carry some of the world’s most well-known names in the bridal industry: Monique Lhuillier, Liancarlo, Marchesa, Carolina Herrera, Jenny Lee, Junko Yoshioka, Rivini, and Angel Sanchez.

Please visit www.carinesbridal.com to learn more.

Carine’s Bridal Atelier

1726 Wisconsin Avenue NW, 2nd floor, Washington D.C. 20007

(202) 965-4696

http://www.facebook.com/CarinesBridal

http://twitter.com/CarinesBridal

2013 MET Gala Wedding Gown Inspiration

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Brides look everywhere for wedding inspiration and if you are a bride leaning towards a black and white theme, this year’s punkesque Met Ball Red Carpet was the perfect place to look! Monday night, Hollywood’s hottest stars came together for the 2013 Met Gala to kick off the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Exhibit. Every year the gala organizers pick a theme to give our favorite celebs an opportunity to wow us with their sense of fashion. “Punk: Chaos to Couture” was this year’s theme and whether you want a nice soft look with a slight edge like Katie Holmes or Nicole Ritchie or a dress that is sure to turn heads like Emma Watson the Ball had it all!

 

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Emma Watson and Gwen Stefani showing us how to do edgy in the right way. Emma's look may be a little risque for a wedding but with few modifications it could be perfect for the bride that isn't afraid to take a few risks.

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Nicole Ritchie and Katie Holmes gave us a softer side of Punk but still displayed a bit of edge. The white hair and dark lips on Nicole works for her and is a nice contrast to the simple dress. Katie's dress is very soft and elegant from the front but the train and back of the dress shows she is definitely ready to party.

Just for fun, I picked my favorite and least favorite looks of the night! Do you agree or disagree? Let us know!!

Loved:

"PUNK: Chaos To Couture" Costume Institute Gala_jennifer-lopezLa-La-Anthony-met-gala-2013dakota fanning

Miley Cyrus in Marc Jacobs, Jennifer Lopez in Michael Kors, Lala Anthony in Zac Posen and Dakota Fanning in Rodarte

Missed the Mark:

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I hate this dress on Kim and the full length matching gloves make her look like shes missing limbs. Katy Perry just looks blah! This was her moment to go all out and she came out with this... no bueno! Beyonce....King Bey...it hurts my heart but this look is just not doing it for me. I think its the matching boots and belt that throw me off.

I couldn't do this post without including Sarah Jessica Parker's head piece. I love how she is always taking chances with fashion!

"PUNK: Chaos To Couture" Costume Institute Gala

For a full list of all of the red carpet looks click here

 

Wedding and Events Boutique by Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor

Still looking for the perfect dress for a wedding or other special event coming up? Try Ann Taylor! Looking for a wedding dress? Ann Taylor has that to!

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Perfect for bridesmaids or as a guest. A soft look for a nice spring outdoor event.

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Still need accessories? Complete your look at Ann Taylor as well.

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Find a beautiful Wedding Dress without breaking the bank! Simple yet very elegant.

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Stand out in this Royal Blue Dress. Perfect for an evening formal event.

For more of the Ann Taylor Wedding and Events Boutique click here!