Jenny Packham: Flattering Finds for Full-Figured Brides

Fabulous Gowns for Curvy Brides from Jenny Packham
By: Stacy Shiffner

This season's runways had many unique highlights, but one in particular had us pleasantly surprised. For her Spring 2015 runway show, designer Jenny Packham featured stunning wedding dresses for full figured brides. Often under-represented, we are happy to share these wow worthy wedding dresses for curvier brides-to-be.

Famed plus-size model Marquita Pring opened Jenny Packham's show wearing a gown featuring lace sleeves and an embellished bodice. The skirt flows away from the body, while the belt accentuates the smallest part of her waist line.

Model Camilla Hansen stunned the runway in this perfectly draped gown for the art deco bride. The blouson top flatters the arms and chest by providing extra coverage. The graphic lines on the dress will make brides appear taller while slimming the appearance of the torso.

Ashley Graham modeled this ethereal empire waist gown with full skirt. The halter neckline is ideal for brides with a larger bust and provides optimal support. The adorning cape adds both coverage and a whimsical touch.

We look forward to seeing models of all shapes and sizes walk the bridal runways in the future.
This is one trend we hope never goes out of style!

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Monique Lhuillier: Fall 2014 Bridesmaids Collection

Monique Lhuillier: Fall 2014 Bridesmaids Collection

By: Amy Darwish

Monique Lhuillier is best known for her couture wedding dresses, but she's showing the bridal party some love too with her bridesmaids dresses collection. From draped dresses in a range of colors, to little black dresses you could wear time and again, this collection is sure to make both 

brides and their bridesmaids very happy!

  

Draping is key when looking for bridesmaid dresses to suit girls of all shapes and sizes. This flattering style will make it easy to select a dress that all your bridesmaids will be happy with. Plus, in a variety of bold colors these dresses are sure to brighten up the color palette for your wedding day.

One of our favorite fall colors, Bordeaux, is a dramatic hue which we predict will be popular for many autumn weddings. A great color on all skin types, you'll certainly want to have your bridesmaids try out this shade.

Every bridesmaid wants a dress that they can wear again and again. These little black dresses (or LBDs) are sure to please any of your friends who will be beside you on your big day. These fun, pleated, cocktail dresses can not only serve as bridesmaid dresses, but can certainly be worn at future parties or for a fun night out. 

Stay Tuned for More Collection Reviews from the For The Bride Mag Team!

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Editor's Picks: Spring 2015

Personal Picks from Patricia Canole, Editor In Chief of For The Bride Magazine 

By: Patricia Canole

With body-hugging cuts and lush, layered fabrics and dramatically rendered embellished footwear, designers are offering a windfall of wedding gown and accessory options. I noticed these trends throughout Bridal Fashion Week and took note for all our brides-to-be. Here's a look at my personal notes of this upcoming seasons hottest trends...

Monique Lhuillier

ARTSY ACCENTS Designers are playing with texture: tucking and twisting fabric at the waist, asymmetrically pleating hems and adding jewels wrapped with tulle.

COLOR Shades other than white or cream were once used only in small amounts (a sash or subtle overlay). This season the runways lit up with wedding dresses featuring all-over color, from saturated hues like sky blue to pretty blush pink.

SHORT Let’s here it for the short dress! For weddings or after-parties—be it properly ladylike or seriously sexy—is always the perfect choice.

Aruna Seth

SPARKLE PLENTY Designers know that gowns with beautifully beaded bodices will always dazzle the crowd.

EMBELLISHED FOOTWEAR The floral and jeweled appliques so popular on wedding gowns are now showing up in an unlikely spot, on the feet. Brides are wearing everything from butterflies to rosette-adorned shoes for a touch of femininity.


                           
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Wedding Registry: Ideas for Couples Who Already Live Together

Modern Wedding Registry Ideas
By: Stacy Shiffner

If you are a modern bride trying to pull together a wedding registry wish list, then you've probably noticed that traditional registry lists have not kept up with the times. Today, nearly half of all soon-to-be married couples live together prior to their weddings and that often means you already have dishes, a blender, a bedding set, etc. With that said, we've put together our own list of registry must-haves for couples who already have the basic home essentials.

Take a look below for what you should really be asking for.

Renew towels that have lost their plush

1. Items to Upgrade
Certainly you could take a look around your home and find a thing  or two that are in need of repair or upgrade. If you've been living together for more than a year, you might consider registering for a new set of sheets, towels, and even cutting boards. These items should be replaced every couple of years, so it's good to have a second set coming your way. Also look at your favorite appliances, if you use your toaster oven daily, see if there is a new model available. You'll want to upgrade items you use all the time to get the most life out of them in the future.

Register for fun items like bikes

2. Sporting or Hobby Equipment
Living with your fiance you are bound to have developed new activities that you enjoy doing together. Whether it be camping, biking, or game night, ask your guests to give you gifts that you will both spend time using.  Register for items like sleeping bags, sporting goods, or even popcorn bowls to keep the fun going. Your guests will be thrilled to get you something you both can bond over.

Pricey items can make good group gifts

3. The Things You Couldn't Afford When You Moved In
Buying a home is expensive and if you put most of your savings into your home purchase, you probably did not splurge for things like fine china when you first moved in. Add items to your registry that you want or need, but couldn't afford. Good gift ideas would be a KitchenAid mixer for baking, an Espresso machine, or even a patio set. These costly items are good for groups of friends who want to pitch in on buying a gift together.

Gift cards can give you flexibility without asking for cash

4. Gift Cards
While it is not in good form to ask for cash on your registry, asking for gift cards is certainly acceptable.  Cards to home improvement stores, favorite restaurants or retail shops can help you get by in your first year as you adjust to being married. Register for cards you see yourself needing immediately or put some on your list that you can save for a rainy day. 

5. Not-So-Exciting Stuff 

Add some not-so-exciting essentials

Registries should be fun, but when it comes to maintaining a household that isn't always the case.  Add some items that will make upkeep of your home easier such as a fireproof safe (you'll want to put your marriage certificate in there), a paper shredder for getting rid of unwanted mail, and doormats to keep dirt out of your home.



Now that you are ready to get started on your modern day wedding registry, grab your fiance and get let the fun begin! For more registry ideas visit our website at forthebridemag.com.

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Bridal Fashion Week: Alyne By Rita Vinieris

Alyne By Rita Vinieris' Spring 2015 Bridal Collection

Many designers at Bridal Fashion Week wowed our editors with stunning wedding dresses and the Alyne By Rita Vinieris Spring 2015 collection was certainly one of our favorites. Alyne's chic collection made it hard to choose a top style, so here we bring you four trends and six picks
 for walking down the aisle in style.

The Bateau:
A neckline seen on several Alyne dresses, these two styles are for brides who want to look
elegant and sophisticated.

Trumpet Skirt:
This style of skirt is not only figure flattering, but makes dancing a breeze.
Brides who want added charm can choose a style with a beautiful bow or a touch of lace.

Boho Chic:

For brides who wants a simple, yet stylish look without too much fuss.

This style exudes an ethereal look, perfect for a garden style or destination wedding.

Ball Gown:
For the bride who wants to look and feel like a princess on her wedding day. The traditional ball gown takes on a new twist in this style with tulle tiers and a high-low overlay. 

We love Alyne by Rita Vinieris' Collection and we hope you do too!

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Bridal Fashion Week: Ivy & Aster

Dreamy Wedding Dresses by Ivy & Aster

By: Amy Darwish

As we made our rounds during Bridal Fashion Week, Ivy & Aster's designs caught our eyes. The unique styles in their Spring 2015 collection proved that their wedding dresses are fashion-forward and our readers simply must know about them! 

Here are some highlights from Ivy & Aster's collection: 

The plush fabric of Ivy & Aster's "I'll Be There" Angora sweater gown makes this our favorite pick. If comfort is key for you, then this soft dress should be a top choice.

Ivy & Aster's "Color My World" blush wedding gown is a wonderful choice 

for the ethereal bride who is also looking to add a hint of color to her look.

Brides who want to turn heads will adore Ivy & Aster's "Rose Garden" wedding dress. Its sexy open back and Chantilly lace bodice are feminine and breathtaking. 

We love Ivy & Aster and look forward to seeing brides wear their
dresses down the aisle! 

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Bridal Fashion Week: 5 Fashion Trends for Spring 2015

Spring 2015 Fashion Trends Straight from the Runways!
By: Stacy Shiffner

Every bride wants a wedding dress that has a unique look, just for her. The Spring 2015 runway shows were filled with interesting ideas and non-traditional trends. This season, it will be easy for any bride-to-be to find a signature style all her own. Brides searching for the perfect dress can look to the Spring 2015 runways for that wow-factor. From capes and wraps to sexy backs, Bridal Fashion Week was all about brides who want a little something special for their big day.

Top 5 Trends for Spring 2015:

CAPES & WRAPS
Whether you need your shoulders covered for the ceremony or you just want to accessorize your gown, capes and wraps are making bridal as stylish as ever.

Anne Bowen

SEXY BACKS
Show a little skin in a sophisticated way as you walk down the aisle!

Ian Stuart

OFF THE SHOULDER NECKLINES
Strapless becomes a thing of the past as off-the-shoulder gowns make a come back to the runway.

Anne Barge

SHORT DRESSES
Not just for eloping or city hall weddings anymore, the short dress is making an appearance on brides from runways to receptions everywhere.

Jenny Packham

HAUTE HUES
Pinks, blues, and greens are some cool colors for non-traditional brides. Add a surprise pop of color to your bridal look and you'll have a style that is all your own.

Rafael Cennamo

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Bachelorette Party: Top 10 Songs For Your Playlist

Best Songs for Your Big Night! 

By: Amy Darwish

The best part of your bachelorette party is creating memories with your girlfriends. From Madonna to Miley Cyrus, our top 10 favorite songs will have you all dancing the night away. These party anthems will pump up your crew and make sure everyone has a blast on your big night!

Credit: Getty Images

1. "Crazy in Love," Beyoncé, Jay Z
2. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," Cyndi Lauper
3. "Glamorous," Fergie, Ludacris
4. "I'm So Excited," The Pointer Sisters
5. "Just Dance," Lady Gaga, Colby O'Donis
6. "Like a Virgin," Madonna
7. "We Found Love," Rihanna, Calvin Harris
8. "SexyBack," Justin Timberlake, Timbaland
9. "We Can't Stop," Miley Cyrus
10. "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)," Beyoncé
    
    
    For more bachelorette party ideas, visit us at ForTheBrideMag.com
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Bridal Fashion Week: What We're Loving

NEW YORK BRIDAL MARKET WEEK By Patricia Canole

We are reporting from Bridal Fashion Week and Bridal Market in New York City! We've viewed the latest collections from the top bridal designers: Maggie Sottero, Jean-Ralph Thurin, Anne Barge, Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, and Ivy & Aster, to name a few.  It was truly wonderful to see new and refreshing ideas presented across the board. Classic and modern seems to be the vibe with most designers with a touch of silk satin, rich faille, chiffon, and as always lace was everywhere. Here are some trends to look for…

• Romance ruled the runways!

  

  Ines Di Santo

• The sexy back is bound to turn heads.

  

  Luxe by Ines Di Santo

• Bedazzled bodices are back in style.
  

  

  Maggie Sottero

• Bride are embracing color for their wedding day. We saw shades of blue, beige, & pink!

L → R: Ivy & Aster, Ines Di Santo, Ralph Cennamo

Stay Tuned for More Wedding Trends & Pictures from Bridal Fashion Week! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for up-to-the-minute updates.

Honeymoon: Town & Country

SAVOR THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS DOWN SOUTH

by Patricia Canole

Who doesn’t love nightlife, shopping and gourmet cuisine? Yet, you may also want to get back to nature to explore and unwind. Why not have both on your honeymoon? If you have only a week, spend a night or two in town before roaming off to the bucolic countryside for some great adventures.

TENNESSEE

Nashville, Tennessee

TOWN Whether you're a little bit country or more rock ‘n’ roll, you'll find plenty to do in Nashville. This country music center boasts great nightlife and amazing dining. Located in the heart of Tennessee's rolling hills, the city also offers a wealth of fun that you can enjoy with or without cowboy boots. Be sure to see a show at the Grand Ole Opry and for historians, spend a few hours and see a Nashville of yesteryear at Belle Meade Plantation. Nearby you’ll thrill at seeing the historic Ryman Auditorium. 
Where to stay: The1910 Beaux Arts-style Hermitage Hotel  (thehermitagehotel.com) is an architectural masterpiece, with Italian marble columns, intricate moldings and walnut wall panels. The staff will draw you a bath and sprinkle the floor with rose petals, it's enough to convince you that Southern hospitality is alive and well.

Blackberry Farm, Tennessee

COUNTRY About four hours east, you’ll find 850 miles of hiking trails, rushing waterfalls—and guaranteed wildlife sightings. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Southern Appalachians beckons year-round, but is at its best during autumn, where the mountains resemble a patchwork quilt of gold, green, red and yellow. 
Where to stay: The best way to take in the mist-shrouded panorama might be from a rocking chair on the terrace of Blackberry Farm (blackberryfarm.com), a 4,200-acre estate located in the town of Walland. This hotel evokes an English manor house, with guest rooms divided among a colony of cottages.Explore the countryside: You’ll find plenty of riding stables, hiking trails and later soothe those muscles at the spa.

TEXAS

San Antonio, Texas

TOWN It's no wonder San Antonio is the most-visited city in Texas: It offers visitors culture, history and entertainment. See the largest collection of Latin American folk art at one museum. For history lovers, there's the Mission Trail, including both the Alamo and hauntingly beautiful Mission Concepcion. After a day of exploring, relax at one of  the Riverwalk’s fine eateries. 
Where to stay: The Omni La Mansión del Rio (omnihotels.com), sits on the Riverwalk, and offers a taste of Spanish colonial style. Its intricate archways and tile work, Mexican and Spanish antiques and wrought iron fixtures.

Rose Hill Manor, Texas

COUNTRY Just an hour's drive from San Antonio, is Texas’ Hill Country, one of the Lone Star State's most picturesque secrets. Fields of wildflowers stretch for miles, and antiques shops and wineries dot the landscape—which seems to stretch forever beneath the warm Texas sun. 
Where to stay: After a day of exploring, the 40-acre Rose Hill Manor (rose-hill.com), just outside of Fredericksburg, is the ideal spot to unwind. Sip iced tea in a rocking chair on the country-style porch, or curl up with a book in the library with a glass of local wine.

Find More Honeymoon Destinations at For The Bride Magazine

Celebrity News: Ginnifer Goodwin & Josh Dallas Got Married!

A Fairytale Wedding: Ginnifer Goodwin & Josh Dallas! 

Photo Credit: Jason LaVeris / FilmMagic

Ginnifer Goodwin and Josh Dallas, her costar on ABC's Once Upon A Time, are officially married! The couple tied the knot on Saturday, April 12. They began dating in March 2012.  Goodwin is pregnant with the couple's first child and we couldn't be happier for them! The wedding was an intimate affair with only their closest family and friends in attendance. Ginnifer wore a custom Monique Lhuillier wedding dress for her big day. Congratulations, Ginnifer & Josh!

Wedding Registry: The Newest Trend in Creating Your Wish List

By Stacy Shiffner

Are you still searching for the perfect registry? For newly engaged couples looking for a unique and innovative approach to creating your bridal wish-list consider Blueprint Registry, an exciting new site that allows you to choose items for your home based on the rooms in your house and your personal style (traditional, modern, eclectic, etc.). We recently sat down with Lizzy Ellingson, Co-Founder/Chief Creative Officer of Blueprint Registry to get the scoop on the newest site for brides-to-be.

For The Bride: How did the concept of Blueprint Registry come to be?

Lizzy Ellingson: I got married last summer and did not find the wedding registry process fun or easy. My then future husband and I had to register at three different places to have 95% of what we wanted or needed for our registry. Even though we dumped everything into myregistry.com, we still had to adhere to three different return policies. Crate and Barrel only has a 30 days return time frame, which makes it hard when you factor in 14 days of honeymooning and trying to get settled into married life, it just doesn't leave a lot of time to return wedding gifts.

FTB: How long did it take from concept to implementation?

LE: I had the idea last spring and we launched in February 2014, so about 9-10 months.

FTB: Please walk us through how Blueprint works!

LE: A couple would go to www.blueprintregistry.com and register for free! After providing some simple vital information, they can start clicking away at the items they want for their renewed "space" together. I say renewed because some couples live together before getting married so it's really not a new home, but a renewed home. And they do this by clicking on each room at a time. For example, most engaged couples start with the living room and then move onto the master bedroom.

image via blueprintregistry.com

FTB: How is this website different than say than other online registries?
LE: To start, Blueprint has ONE return policy for ALL of our vendors. Our products have been hand picked by myself and my merchandising team. They are products that have been tested and proven to be the best out there. And once you've registered for a few items, curated pieces that match your aesthetics will start popping up as suggestions for you. For example, we have William Sonoma, they carry numerous wine openers but we will only feature the best one, the one that has been tested and received a 4 or 5 star rating. This way, as a user you can rest assured that you are registering for the best products out there!

FTB: Is Blueprint registry user-friendly for the bride’s guests too?

LE: Blueprint doesn't just help the registered couple, but the gifters as well. Sometimes it's very difficult to shop for a friend, you don't know what they REALLY want. Blueprint allows the registered party to tag their favorites. And registered parties can let multiple guests contribute to a big ticket item, for example, four gifters can "pitch in" and purchase a couch for a couple. And since the amount is set by the engaged couple, the gifter doesn't have to do too much thinking. Through market research, we found that users really liked the set amount idea, it takes a lot of guessing out of the equation. Lastly, because gifters have full visibility to completed gifts by room, they can easily complete a living room or bathroom for you by purchasing the last item on that room's list.

FTB: What kind of vision do you have for Blueprint in 2019?

LE: I see us being the #1 online registry company!

To get started on your Blueprint Registry visit their site at www.blueprintregistry.com.