brides – Weddinc

INTERVIEW with Tara Dowburd from Make-Up Therapy

Taryn Henry-Latham — Tue, 08 Nov 2016 19:52:57 +0000

Today we are meeting with sought after Make-up Artist Tara Dowburd, the owner of Make-Up Therapy. Tara and her Beauty Team specialize in Make-up application and hairstyling for celebrity and high-end weddings, the red carpet, TV appearances, special events and photo-shoots. They are known for creating styles that are both effortless, chic and trendsetting elegance, however natural or glamourous. We are very honored to present our latest interview with Tara...

WEDDINC: To get things rolling today, we’d love to know…How did you get started in the business?

TARA: Well, I’ve been enamored with beauty and fashion since I was 7 years old. During those early years, my father would buy me magazines such as Vogue and Bazaar, and as soon as I would get them, I would tear out my favorite looks and then create folders for each of them. In addition, my mother would have a professional Make-up artist come to our house to help her get ready for a galas or events. Every time the artist would come, I would run down the hallway, plant myself on the sink area and watch with excitement and curiosity. I would always ask the artist many questions, as I loved the beauty she created with the brush strokes and colors she used. As a child, I was never really into wearing make-up, however, I absolutely loved watching the application and transformation.

WEDDINC: In your opinion how has make-up style changed over the last decade?

TARA: In the past 5 years, both celebrity personalities and Pinterest images have had a huge influence on the styles of make-up and the way my clients want to look. With so many avenues of social media, it gives us access to so many options, which has actually made our clients more savvy as to the products and details they want. Often times, they share several images with us, more than ever before. For instance, someone may find a current celebrity they like on Pinterest and newly discover the affect of contouring and hi-lighting the face and then specifically ask us for just that. Ironically we always use some form of a contour method in all of our applications, no matter how subtle or dramatic, whatever is best to enhance our client’s features. Having the various avenues of social media are wonderful, however, they can often confuse or overwhelm our clients with too many options, so we are always sure to help them focus and guide them on what look will suit them the best.

WEDDINC: What gives you the most joy about your job?

TARA: I genuinely love every aspect of my job, it is truly rewarding, fun and unique. What gives me the most joy is creating amazing relationships with our clients and all of the fantastic people that we are fortunate to work with. In addition, there is nothing better than giving my client the mirror when I finish taking care of them and see their reaction. I see the light in their eyes, this heir of confidence comes over them and they smile. To know that I had something to do with helping them feel their most beautiful self is everything.

WEDDINC: What is your favorite makeup product?

TARA: The Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick. I absolutely love love it. It’s the perfect consistency, as it is held together with beeswax and when it’s applied on well primed skin, it doesn’t look heavy and gives the face a gorgeous, even, glowing finish the looks both flawless in person and on camera. Great face make-up is about matching the skin-tone (try to match your decollate and then apply a bronzer if needed to give you a perfect match) and Bobbi Brown offers such a wide variety of skin-tone correct shades. Because the Stick contains skin-tone correct pigments, your face is left with a skin-like finish no matter how little or how much you use, as the consistency is build-able.

WEDDINC: What is your favorite brand of cleanser?

TARA: I actually have two. Kate Sommerville Daily Wash or Murad Daily Cleansing Foam. I find that neither of these cleansers strip the skin of it’s natural moisture, they clean the face and remove make-up very well, leaving your face feeling refreshed.

WEDDINC: What is your favorite makeup tool?.

TARA: I actually have two brushes that I love. First, the Chanel Blending Foundation Brush #7. I use this brush to help give the foundation application an airbrush type finish without looking heavy or mask-like. My 2nd favorite brush is the Shu Uemura Kolinsky #11 eyeshadow brush, it truly applies and blends eyeshadow beautifully.

WEDDINC: In your opinion, how important is it to have a facial prior to having your services and how many days/hours before?

TARA: If you’ve never had a facial, I feel that it’s best for you to not doing anything too invasive (i.e.. extractions, intense skin peels, etc) the week of your wedding in case you have any bad reactions and need healing time. I am however a huge fan of having an oxygen facial that week, even the day of, for your skin to have a gorgeous glow. In addition, I recommend facial waxing to be done at least 3-5 days before your wedding day, again, just in case you have any reaction and Make-up tends to not adhere well as well on freshly waxed skin. Make-up can help even out redness or dark pigment on the face, however, it’s difficult to cover texture.

TARA: We are like a family. I absolutely love my beauty team and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them, I am so grateful for each and every one of them. I tend to gravitate to old souls and they for sure have that nature. They are genuinely very loyal, kind, talented, professional and are calming yet have a great sense of humor. They are likable and easy and fun to work with.

WEDDINC: What does a day in the life of Tara Dowburd look like?

TARA: Every day is generally so different, I can be working with a bride on her wedding day or with an art director on a photo shoot. I could be taking my clients shopping for make-up/skincare/brushes or getting clients ready for a special event or a television appearance. That said, I’m all about balance in life so I try to do as few make-up jobs on Mondays and Tuesdays, so that I can meet with my Studio Manager to work on “behind the scenes” and also spend quality time with my friends and family.

WEDDINC: Make-Up Therapy is such a great name. How do you introduce the therapy element into your service?

TARA: Thank you, I chose that name for my company Make-Up Therapy, because it’s truly therapeutic for me when I am applying Make-up on my clients, it’s my “Zen” and clients have always told me that it’s a therapeutic experience to sit in my chair, saying things like: “I didn’t realize I was this pretty” or “you put me at such ease”. They would give me this heartfelt feedback and I would get choked up. The additional therapeutic benefit for our clients is that we always listen to them. It’s not about us it’s about them. The “listen” part is so important because we care what they think about what they feel, what they like and what they don’t like before we begin doing their Make-up and/or Hair. When our clients feel heard, they are then comfortable and relaxed and happy to be taken care of.

WEDDINC: Having makeup applied is such a relaxing experience in and of itself. Do you find that people open up to you and tell you interesting stories or secrets that you can tell us without giving names?

TARA: I’ll have to say that I have to keep professionalism, and loyalty to my clients and not really answer it directly out of respect to my clients but they need to trust me and I will say that they can and do maybe tell me TMI but I’ll always protect their privacy.

WEDDINC: Are there any beauty product launches this year that you are super excited about?

TARA: I love that Charlotte Tilbury is now available at Bergdorf’s and Nordstrom’s and will be going into Bloomingdale’s in Century City. I discovered her in Bergdorf’s this year in New York City. She has amazing products.

WEDDINC: What is the one product every woman should have in her bag?

TARA: I feel like it has to be two, if that’s ok. I couldn’t just pick one, the first one is a good pressed powder because it removes the shine and leaves a smooth finish on the skin and the second one is a good lip color.

WEDDINC: What do you currently have in your beauty bag?

TARA: Some of my favorites that I’m using now are…

– Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder

– Christian Dior Diorshow Brow Styler

– Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick

– MAC Lip Pencil

– MAC Lip Color

– Bobbi Brown Blush Brush

– Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss

– Smashbox Limitless Eye Liner Pencil

– Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

– Cover FX Pressed Powder

– Bdellium Smudge Eyeliner Brush

– Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

– Cover FX Pressed Powder

– Bdellium Smudge Eyeliner Brush

WEDDINC: What are some of the most common beauty mistakes women make?

TARA: Not putting on enough blush, using too much shimmer all over the face, going to heavy filling in the eyebrows and not using lip liner correctly (over-lining and under lining).

WEDDINC: How do you prep your client’s skin?

TARA: I make sure it’s hydrated properly and primed properly. Also that they are using the correct product for their skin. I tone their skin, moisturize it and use eye cream. The un-primed skin won’t last no matter what the brand. If the skin is not hydrated, even the best makeup will sit on the surface rather than the skin. It’s like priming a canvas for a painting. The art of makeup is really not much different than the art of painting is to a fine artist.

WEDDINC: What would be the one best piece of advice you would give to someone who would like to get started in the business?

TARA: I would say go work for a Make-up Artist brand, such as: Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, NARS, Smashbox or Charlotte Tilbury to get hands-on training- there is nothing like it. When you work for an Artistry brand it gives you the exposure to work with all skin types, all skin tones, all ages and all ethnicities and that is a priceless experience to help you feel confident and comfortable no matter who you are taking care of in your chair.

WEDDINC: What are some of the personality traits you need to be a makeup artist?

TARA: That’s a good question. You always want to like your vendors but you should be very comfortable with your make-up artist. She needs to be someone you could also go get a cocktail with too. She must listen to her client and be patient. If she’s not patient, everyone has a bad time. Someone confident, without an ego and calm at the same time, professional and not dramatic. Someone who wouldn’t put red lipstick on someone who doesn’t like red lipstick just because she like it. Someone who has a positive upbeat personality who is able to create an amazing experience for each and every client.

WEDDINC: You have an extensive portfolio of work – it includes bridal, celebrity, red carpet events, etc – which one is your favorite and why?

TARA: That’s a tricky one. Honestly, I personally LOVE doing all of the above! I will say, however, when I do weddings I still get butterflies of excitement and as a company, weddings is the largest part of our business.

Tara Dowburd or any of her team members can be reached under “contact” at Make-Up Therapy – Home OR by calling 323 536-1389 OR by emailing them at studiomanager@makeuptherapy.com

Astrophotography – Interview with Robert Paetz

Phillip Latham — Tue, 11 Oct 2016 00:29:41 +0000

Death Valley Astro Engagement Photography Session

WEDDINC: First of all thank you so much for agreeing to an interview with Weddinc. We absolutely LOVE Astrophotography and everything about it. We’re here today with Robert Paetz, Astrophotographer with Robert Paetz Photography.

Let’s start with a little about you. How did you get into Astrophotography originally and have you always been interested in the cosmos?

ROBERT: I didn’t have a particular interest in the cosmos, but growing up, there were lots of camping trips with my family, and I have always enjoyed the outdoors. I love the feeling of awe and wonder when I look up into a dark sky full of stars.

The very first Astro-session I ever shot was in 2012 when Felicia (my wife and partner, who was shooting with me at the time) told me that a client wanted to their engagement session in Joshua Tree in the middle of August. The thought of being out in the 110 degree heat made her ask, “Can’t we just shoot at night?!”

Then I sat there and thought about it for a second, and said “Wait… maybe we can…”

I had been already been reading a lot about Astrophotography by then and was proficient with off camera lighting. Giving it some thought suddenly made things click in my brain that it might just work.

We are thankful to that first adventurous couple who took a risk on us when we told them to meet us by the vending machine at a desert motel at 2am and let us drive them into the darkness of Joshua Tree.

WEDDINC: Did you stumble upon shooting the Milky Way in the background of one of your shoots or did you set out to shoot it?

ROBERT: At the beginning I wasn’t too aware of celestial movements. During the second shoot we did in Death Valley, the Milky Way rose over the background by glorious happenstance. Since then, I have taken time to learn a bit more about it and use an app called PhotoPills to help me track these.

WEDDINC: What are the challenges you face when shooting the Milky Way or a star-lit night in a photo?

ROBERT: They do involve a bit of planning as these can only be shot a few days before or a few days after a new moon and it needs to be photographed at least 100 miles from a major city to avoid light pollution ruining our view of the night skies. Secondly you need to worry about weather, that’s why the desert works the best: rain clouds blocking out the skies can be a real downer after everyone went to great distances to get out under the stars.

Most importantly though, it’s about having amazing clients who will follow any crazy idea you may have, even when it comes to standing in the freezing desert wind in complete darkness while I rush around adjusting lighting, camera placement and a number of other technical things. I couldn’t do any of this without the trust of my clients.

WEDDINC: How many times have you been able to capture a ‘lucky’ shooting star as in the photo above? Would you say the couples in your photos with a shooting star have had any significant “luck” after the shoot?

ROBERT: Surprisingly, shooting stars actually aren’t as rare as I once thought. I think almost all the couples that have been out under the stars have seen at least a few. That said, the shooting stars work on their own schedule so it’s more sheer luck for one to end up in an image.

Joshua Tree Astro Photography Engagement Session

WEDDINC: How often do you get requests for Astrophotography and what’s your favorite location for a shoot?

ROBERT: I get many of requests from couples interested in the process of making this happen, but once I educate people on the distance, scheduling restrictions, time and effort it will take for these images to happen (because of the many factors described above) it narrows it down to the most adventurous couples that end up under the skies with me. I don’t set a limit, but I shoot about 6 of these sessions a year. I do not have a favorite spot, because I am always on the look out for new locations, but most of the time I shoot in Death Valley or Joshua Tree.

WEDDINC: What is a Meteor Shower?

ROBERT: “A meteor shower is a celestial event in which a number of meteors are observed to radiate, or originate, from one point in the night sky. These meteors are caused by streams of cosmic debris called meteoroids entering Earth’s atmosphere at extremely high speeds on parallel trajectories.”

I borrowed that from Wikipedia, but essentially a meteor shower is LOTS of shooting star burning through the atmosphere in a short period of time. I’ve never photographed one, but I did spend a few hours watching the Perseids shower with my nieces who were equally spellbound.

The Perseids shower is the most regular and happens from mid July to mid August each year and I would be thrilled if someone want’s to schedule a shoot around then in 2017!

Death Valley Astro Wedding Photography Session

WEDDINC: For our photographer enthusiasts out there, what are some of the techniques you use to capture such beautiful skies?

ROBERT: First and most importantly, check on the moon; before you get into anything else you want to make sure the moon is not in the sky before you set out to photograph the stars, otherwise you (and your camera) just won’t see all that much. Next, bring a flashlight, coat, food, extra water (and maybe a couple beers if you’re not working) – the Eagle Scout in me always tries to focus on the essentials and safety first.

Once you are sure you are not going to get lost in the dark without any light or supplies, then remember to bring your tripod. From there, there are literally hundreds of online articles which would describe step-by-step processes to create amazing nighttime images.

One of my favorite articles is at Luminous Landscape, which covers most of the basics of Astrophotography (https://luminous-landscape.com/landscape-astrophotography)

Death Valley Astro Engagement Photography Session

WEDDINC: If couples are nervous about doing the shoot what is your one trick to make them feel at ease in front of the camera?

ROBERT: For my photography sessions I put the emphasis on having fun and relaxing. I carry on conversations while we shoot and do my best to keep things light-hearted. Most people are worried that they won’t know how to pose or how to be a model, but I always let them know that I will take care of all those details and they just need to focus on their partner.

WEDDINC: What other types of photography do you do besides wedding photography and Astrophotography?

ROBERT: Before I became seriously involved in wedding photography in 2010 I spent about 3 years traveling the globe and taking pictures. I’ve visited approximately 60 countries and I am currently planning to spend 5 weeks in Myanmar and Southeast Asia over the holidays and throughout January. My biggest regret about life in general is that there will never be enough time to see everything, and more importantly, try all the world’s food.

WEDDINC: Have you been able to shoot the Aurora Borealis?

ROBERT: I haven’t made it that far north in the middle of winter just yet, but if anyone out there is looking for an epic adventure, I am totally game to head for Iceland, Norway, Alaska, Finland or anywhere else near the Arctic Circle and create some astounding Aurora Borealis images for you.

WEDDINC: Is there one shoot or one photograph that you are especially proud of?

ROBERT: Photography for me is about constant growth and new challenges. Every time I reach an accomplishment or discover something new in my photography I try to raise the bar for myself. Sure, there are a couple images that gets me super excited about some aspect of photography, but they are not seen as an end point, more likely they are the beginning of something new that I can build on. When I look back over the millions of pictures I have taken over the last 12 years, it’s the images I didn’t create that keep pushing me onward.

WEDDINC: What is next for you career wise?

ROBERT: In 2017 I still plan to photograph weddings, but I also plan on shifting the direction of my photography career to include more travel images as well as documentation of various NGOs and volunteer causes around the world. As I get older I am looking to find ways to give back and telling worthwhile stories through photography seems the obvious way for me contribute. My goal is to start creating some unique images for great causes and projects that could be used to show the fascinating work being done, as well as to create striking visuals to raise awareness and much-needed funds.

If you would like to inquire about a photoshoot or would just like to reach out and chat with a really neat guy, please contact Robert Paetz at www.RobertPaetz.com

11 Honeymoon Must-Haves — Tropical Edition

Taryn Sheppard — Mon, 25 Jul 2016 20:48:53 +0000

You’ve found the dress, you’ve outfitted your bridal party and even managed to find some swag for dad. The rest is easy! Planning for your honeymoon is one of the most relaxed parts of wedding planning. If you’re like us though, you believe no such event should occur sans shopping trip. So for you ladies of luxury, planning a tropical honeymoon in paradise — we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover your new must-haves!

1. Tried and True

First things first — you’ve got to pack your goodies in something! You simply can’t go wrong with Louie Vuitton. LV is so iconic because their designs never go out of style!

Louie Vuitton via us.louisvuitton.com

2. Sneakers on a Plane

Here’s hoping your plane ride to your honeymoon destination is nothing like “Snakes on a Plane”. Your snakeskin sneakers on the other hand, will undoubtedly turn some heads! If you’re looking to travel in comfort and style, (and who isn’t?) these designer sneakers are for you.

Jimmy Choo via saksfifthavenue.com

3. Beach ~~Bum~~ Babe

If you’re planning on doing a whole lotta nothing on the beach with your babe, you’re going to need a swimsuit that makes you feel like a million bucks! Lucky for you, one-piece swimsuits are back and better than ever. This striped suit puts off some serious retro vibes, but features the very modern, low-cut back that is so trendy right now.

Ann Marie via barneys.com

4. Oversized Obsessions

*Disclaimer — You’ll need a beach bag this large by the time you’re done reading this list. We’re overly obsessed with this oversized tote for two reasons. 1. It’s big enough to carry your stuff and his (but don’t tell him that). 2. It has a seriously classic beachy vibe, while remaining seriously chic.

Sole Society via shop.nordstrom.com

5. La Mer = Luxury

While you’re soaking up the sun with your sweetie, remember, there’s nothing glamorous about skin cancer. This luxury product protects your skin from harmful UV rays, while reversing signs of aging.

La Mer via cremedelamer.com

6. Breezy and Beautiful

For those days when you just want to wear your swimsuit all day long, you’ll need something breezy and beautiful to throw on. It’s not every day you see a denim colored cover-up, which is why we love this one!

Joie via saksfifthavenue.com

7. Dior Does it Again

Speaking of sun protectants, let’s talk sunglasses! Dior does a beautiful pair in this seasons trendiest color, rose gold. Protecting your retinas from the sun has never looked so chic.

Dior via saksfifthavenue.com

8. Effortless Style

Spending a day exploring your tropical paradise? Rompers are the perfect way to look like a goddess without putting in the effort of putting together an outfit. Just throw on this gorgeous, teal number on and you’re ready for a day out and about with your handsome man!

ASTR via shop.nordstrom.com

9. The Essentials

Because you can’t run around barefoot for your entire honeymoon, you’ll need something basic and comfortable that you can dress up or down. Steve Madden can do no wrong in this department.

Steve Madden via shop.nordstrom.com

10. Your Year in White

Dinner date for two? Continue Your Year in White with this crochet maxi. The pretty, romantic look of it really sells us. The crochet fabric (i.e.breathable) is just a bonus. Perfect for a romantic getaway on an indescribable (and hot) island.

Temptation Positano via barneys.com

11. A Little Lingerie

You know we had to include this somewhere on our list! A little lingerie never hurt anyone, so if you’ve never been the type to wear something so luxurious to bed, your honeymoon is the time to try it out. Nothing too scandalous here — just a fun, tropical printed, short and tank set in satin.

Carine Gilson via barneys.com

Hope you found this list fun and useful! Which of these luxury items (if not all of them) will you be taking with you on your honeymoon? If you’ve already taken your honeymoon, what’s the number one thing you would recommend packing? Discuss in the comments!

The Evolution of Bridal Gowns

Krystal Polonia — Thu, 19 May 2016 02:34:07 +0000

Over the past decades we have come across many different trends, especially when it comes to bridal gowns. Year after year we have been able to witness many different looks and materials that have taken center stage when it comes to bridal attire. Although the framing ideas of bridal gowns has remained the same, there are some things that have evolved.

Here are a few of our favorite looks and how they have evolved into today.

1990sPhoto credit- Left- www.angeliepangilinan.com Right- www.theknot.com

Modesty was fundamental in the 1990s bridal gowns were very modest with high necklines and long sleeves, occasionally layered with gloves. Veiled hats and long trains were very prevalent in this time period.
On the left side we have the classic 1990s look with a beautiful but modest neckline, while on the right we have the evolved version of the dress. With a deeper V and risen sleeves, this bride bares a bit more skin; however, the dress and appearance are still kept very modest.

1920sPhoto credit- Left- www.bridesmagazine.co.uk Right- www.theknot.com

The 1920s was a complete change for bridal gowns. Modesty was no longer in. Shortening the hem and plunging the neckline, fun dresses were all the rave in the 1920s. Pieces of the 10s endured, still seeing covered arms, but long dresses were no longer the look for bridal gowns.
One the left we have the classic 1920s look: short and flirty with decadent accessories and embellishments. On the right we have the evolved version, which showcases the essence of the Great Gatsby in all of its deserved glory.

1950sPhoto credit- Left- www.becauseiloveyoubridal.com Right- www.mydaily.co.uk

The 1950s is a classic era. We can thank Elizabeth Taylor for this, who made the sweetheart neckline the must-have; it was likewise the era of lace.
Look at the dress on the left, and you have the classic 1950s lace-sweetheart combination, with the newly-introduced, tea length dress. On the right you have the evolved version with multiple layers of lace, an eye-catching hem, and delicate pops of red lips and nails to kick it into our decade.

1960s

Photo credit- Left- www.pinterest.com Right- www.pinterest.com

The 1960s was the year of the flower print. Floral and metallic detailing became very popular among bridal gowns, as did empire lined silhouettes. And, while gown length returned, veil length began to retract upward, skimming the lower back and even shoulders.
On the left you have the perfect 1960s gown with an empire waist and floral design and shortened veil. On the right you have today’s recreation, which showcases a building floral design brushing the top of a champagne colored gown with a sweetheart neckline and the shortened veil.

1980sPhoto credit- Left- www.unbridaled.com Right- www.bellethemagazine.com

The 1980s was the decade of BIG and BOLD, and “The bigger, the better.” Bridal gowns doubled in size. Big puffy dresses, with cathedral trains and full veils strutted through this decade proudly. Inserting color into your gown also became a big trend. Choice colors included beige, ivory, champagne and magnolia pink.
On the left you have the classic 1980s dress with the iconic cathedral train and well-endowed shoulder decor. On the right you have the evolved version; while sleeveless, the encrusted jewels and princess ball gown skirt definitely descent from 1980.

1990sPhoto credit- Left- www.galeriaslondres.com Right- www.bridelle.pl

The 1990s was the decade of the simple and minimal bridal look. Although the hair was big, the gown was simple. Lace and beads fell from bridal fashion as the silhouette became the star. Flower crowns replaced overdone veils, and natural-hued makeup played upon the bride’s usual features.
Simple, yet tailored to the bride, we at Weddinc love the simplicity the 1990s brought to us. The focus draws toward the bride rather than the gown by baring unadorned skin. While our version of this dress has added detailing, it acts as personality for the bride to own, rather than being overtaken by all the bells and whistles, or should I say tulle and sparkles.

2010sPhoto credit- Left- www.feeldress.com Right- www.tumblr.com

There may be now year of the fish according to the Chinese calendar, but 2010 proves this to be wrong. This decade is bridal gowns that curve and hug, making the fishtail gown one of the most popular bridal gowns of this era, but this is about all brides of this era have in common. This time marks one of the most versatile. Creeping out of the church and into destination weddings, experimenting with brighter, bolder color schemes, and implementing various cultural traditions, this decade is one of personality!
The dress on the left is a traditional fishtail paired with a sweetheart neckline and incorporating gems and lace to bring attention to the bride’s curvature. The dress on the right gets a bit bolder by implementing a slight train into the skirt itself and introducing a bejeweled, halter neckline
Over the decades, we have seen many different changes in fashion and bridal gowns. Share the stories of your own bridal gown in our comments section. We love getting to know our readers past the likes!

Top 10 Trends from Bridal Fashion Week

Taryn Sheppard — Wed, 11 May 2016 05:50:12 +0000

This year, Bridal Fashion Week coincided with Tax Day and Earth Day. Unless your job depends on it, you may have missed the lavish event. Were you buried in old receipts? Busy wondering if you want to attempt taxes yourself? Maybe you went green for the day and turned off the tele. Lucky for those who missed out, following anything and everything wedding IS our job; so we listened, we watched and we Instagram stalked. Alas, we present you, the top 10 trends from Bridal Fashion Week.

Plunging Necklines

You probably saw it coming. Whether you were circling your way through the dizzying collection of fast fashion that is Forever 21, or perusing the racks at Nordstrom, a beautiful dress with a neckline you’re not sure your mother would approve of likely caught your eye. Dying to don this trend on your big day? No matter your style, your options are endless. Plunging necklines were found on the runways of Oscar de la Renta, Lela Rose, Marchesa and so many more.

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Pretty Pantsuits

These aren’t your average slacks. Designers such as Alice Temperley, Angel Sanchez and Naeem Khan took separates to the next level this year. Wide legged pants, fitted trousers, lace leggings and satin suits stole the show. If you feel most beautiful in pants, or just want to go with something more unconventional, then go ahead — say yes to the dress (pants).

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3D Appliques

This is one of those trends that really pops out at you – No, seriously. At first we thought “Floral appliques? Been there, done that”, as countless designers took this timeless bridal trend into modern day, but one did it better. Victoria KyriaKides has begun a wave of bold brides reaching for her gowns, which feature petite polka dots, voluptuous roses, and intricate beading.

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High-low Hemlines

High-low hemlines have been around for awhile now, but not often on the runway of a bridal show. If you’re looking for a wow factor that’s perfect for showing off your designer stilettos, this trend may be for you. Moreover, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, this hemline may prove to be functional as well as fashionable. Several variations of this trend have popped up on the runways of Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier and Ines Di Santo.

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Pretty Pops

Cream, stark white, champagne, ivory, candlelight — the options are endless, but why stop there? This year, several designers stirred things up by putting some color on the runway. The colors are still muted, light and beautiful, but for the bride itching to make a statement, color may be the way to go. Keep it subtle or wow your guests with a loud pop of color by looking to designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Hayley Paige and Christian Siriano.

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Sweet Separates

Cropped tops are nothing new. You see them in the summer, you see them in the winter, at work parties, barbecues and brunch, but at a wedding? On a bride? We say YES. When designers such as Don O’Neill, Carolina Herrera and Sarah Seven do cropped tops they are classy, cute and figure flattering.

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Flashy Feathers

Follow the lead of Monique Lhuillier, Lela Rose and Marchesa, and go for a gown decked out in feathers. These designers threw a few on their gowns and the results? Stunning. So go ahead, shake your tail feather.

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Beautiful Bows

When you were a child, your mom tied bows in your braids. You soon learned to loop your shoelaces into perfect bows. Each year your birthday gifts were wrapped in bows. This year, brides are gliding down the aisle in gorgeous gowns, tied together with a beautiful bow. Carolina Herrera made this timeless trend a regular on her runway!

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Off the Shoulder Sleeves

This trend has been showing up everywhere lately, so it’s no surprise the likes of Rosá Clara, Sareh Nouri and Marchesa put it on the runway at Bridal Fashion Week. It’s romantic. It’s unique. It’s number nine on our list.

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Capelets

To cap off 10 trends? Capelets. When a piece of clothing is so practical, it’s hard to call it fashion, but these are beautiful! It might keep you warm, it might keep you modest, it might just be beautiful. You don’t need a reason when designers like Monique Lhuillier, Jenny and Lela Rose are producing show stopping capelets.

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Breaking Down Bridesmaid Dresses: Symmetry vs. Deconstruct

wedwpadmin — Sun, 24 Apr 2016 17:25:14 +0000

Photo Credit Jennifer Jeanne Events

The evolution of bridesmaid dresses has been rapidly changing since the beginning of the 21st century. Bridesmaid’s have now taken center stage and are sharing the spotlight with the entire bridal party. We can all remember the time we were asked to be a bridesmaid for one of our friends and our first thought was “here we go again with the matchy-matchy dresses”. Today, that may no longer the case for some brides.

Although the symmetrical look is here to stay many brides are choosing the slightly-rebellious deconstructed look, giving their bridesmaids carte blanche as far as dress style and design goes.

A symmetrical look is achieved when the basic silhouette or shape remains consistent, like the girls on the left. For example the fabric such as chiffon and the color or hue will remain the same but perhaps just the shoulder strap or the waistline may change slightly.

A deconstruct look is the opposite of symmetry as shown in the photo on the right.. If we compare the look to an English Garden where all the lovely flowers are different, yet they all blend together achieving a variegated and colorful look. This trend screams confidence and trust in one’s bridesmaid’s giving them full control of their choice and can result in very dramatic effects.

We have put together our favorite Symmetry vs Deconstruct looks. Please tell us which bridesmaid dress style is your favorite in the comments below.

Photo credit-meet-your-match.info

There are many ways a bride can create a symmetrical look when it comes to her bridesmaid dresses, the image on the left is the perfect example. Our favorite part about this look is the fact that the bride kept everyone, even the flower girl in almost identical dresses and in a beautiful shade of mint. However, she gave everyone their very own unique twist by slightly changing the top structure of the dresses. Just imagine this look at a vineyard or a beautiful garden wedding.

Our favorite part about the look on the right is the fact that all the dresses are different. However, all the hems hit perfectly symmetrical above the knee and the way they are lined up creates a perfect arrow pointing directly to the bride. This look would be perfect in a country setting, such as a rustic barn.

Photo credit-vowslove.wordpress.com

The blush dresses above create a symmetry between the bridesmaid’s and the bride and is our favorite part about the look on the dresses on the left. The bride and bridesmaid’s are all wearing very similar dresses but a stylish cut that looks great on everyone. It’s the perfect detail for an enchanted forest look or country estate.

The look on the right is for the bride who breaks all the rules and wishes to be more creative on her wedding day which is what we love. A wedding in the garden at a 5 star hotel? No problem, this look is slightly laid-back but with a touch of class.

Photo credit-us-exchange.info

Grey is a color that has quickly become a bride’s favorite, it comes in various shades, styles and finishes. The bride and bridesmaids on the left showcases the perfect example of symmetry. Every detail is exactly like the last and played out to a tee, the bridesmaid’s are all dressed identical from head to toe and even the placement of their flowers is on point. This makes us love the look even more. This look would work great at a mansion or private estate.

The bride on the right is the whimsical bride. She chose a flowy style of dress for her bridesmaid’s and for herself. This look is enchanting and whimsical from the colors to the style it all screams enchanted forest. This look would be perfect for a enchanting forest or magical garden wedding.

Photo credit-www.dressedupgirl.com

Yellow is the perfect color for a spring-time wedding. It is ideal for the bride that wants to bring pops of color to her wedding color palette. The bride on the left is a lover of all things bright and beautiful. She chose a symmetrical bright yellow look for her bridesmaid’s to wear while she kept it simple. We love the symmetry in this look as everyone is cohesive and simple at the same time. This look would fit well at a 5 star hotel where everything is elegant and put together just like the bride.

The bride on the right is the edgy bride, the bride that is creative and into art. We love the creative look that this bride has given her bridesmaid’s. It is the perfect look for the bride that is edgy and likes to have fun. This look would be amazing for a city wedding or even in a library. They do say the greatest love stories are stored there.

When it comes down to planning a wedding it can be difficult finding the exact look that you are going for. However, we have broken down our favorite symmetrical and deconstructed looks for you. Which look has caught your attention the most? Which look would you use on your special day.