Fashion: Wedding Belles

At Jordan Fashions, Quality Come First

By Patricia Canole

    Continuing a tradition of excellence, Jordan Fashions remains dedicated to the bride to make her unique wedding dreams come true.

    Led by award-winning designer Bill Pesce, the Jordan Fashions team sets new standards for excellence. With over 70 color choices, they offer an incredible selection of Bridal, Bridesmaids, Mother of the Bride, and Flower Girl options.

ALL TOGETHER NOW

Some savvy tips for the bride and her wedding party:

BRIDE Keep an open mind. Bridal gowns are fashioned differently. A style that you may not have originally chosen can turn out to be the perfect one. JordanFashions prides itself on the many bridal dresses available from their Reflections, Aariana, Jordan Moments and Jordan Separates Collections.

Jordan Moments Collection

BRIDESMAIDS Choose a color palette and general length then let your bridesmaids select their own style. Or, if you want a unified look, select several dresses and vote. Either way, the Jordan and Jordan Couture Collections are noted for many fashionable options. 

Jordan Collection

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE Some brides love that “matched” look and coordinate the MOB dress with the bridal party. There are also countless alternatives. One option is to stay within the color spectrum. If the bridesmaid dresses are turquoise, the mother of the bride might choose navy blue. Always remember mixing and matching can be very chic as well. Jordan's Caterina Collection offers plenty of style and color choices. 

Jordan's Caterina Collection

FLOWER GIRL Perhaps the easiest to shop for, they look adorable in just about anything. First, decide on how many girls will be in the wedding party. Flower girl dresses may be the same shade as your bridesmaids. However, white with a color sash or other trim in the wedding colors is a very common practice. Sweet Beginnings offers a wide range of flower girl styles and coordinating sash accessories to customize the look. 

Jordan's Sweet Beginnings Collection

As one of the nation’s premier bridal manufacturers for close to 50 years, Jordan Fashions’ priority will continue to be top in design and fashion for the bride and her bridal party.

For more designer fashion and wedding trends, visit ForTheBrideMag.com
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Fashion: Veil Call

When It Comes To Headpieces, Bel Aire Bridal Has It All!

By: Patricia Canole 

The history of the wedding veil may date back to ancient Rome, but judging by the current wealth of designs on the runway, this sweeping accent is very much of the moment.

For 30 years, Bel Aire Bridal — one of the foremost headpiece and wedding veil manufacturers — has been creating a full-range of designs from short and sweet to fully formal. The award-winning team strives to fulfill every bride’s dream by offering quality, service and innovative concepts. Capturing the imagination are bridal veils that are ribbon edged, delicately beaded or embroidered masterpieces. Completing the picture are glittering headbands, romantic combs, and sparkling hair sticks. The California-based manufacturer also offers a diverse selection of bridal belts and jewelry.

VIEW FROM THE TOP
Keep these fashion tips in mind….

Common Lengths: Bel Aire Bridal offers wedding veils in every length and style. A face veil is a short single layer, usually of netting, while elbow-length veils are about 2 feet long. A fingertip length, one of the more popular styles, particularly with ball gowns, extends (as the name implies) to your fingers. Longer and more formal options include the chapel veil, approximately 2 ½ yards in length and the 3 ½ yard-long cathedral; both are frequently paired with wedding gowns that have trains. 

Accessorize: Hair accessories can work with long or short hair whether worn up or down. Bel Aire's bridal headbands and bejeweled hairpins are constants along with floral designs that have become just as popular.

Trending: There are no limits to the creativity that goes into designing a bridal veil. Bel Aire Bridal creates veils textured with Swiss dots, crystal embellishments, and even monogrammed. Look for rhinestone floral accents for the hair.


For more designer fashion and wedding trends, visit ForTheBrideMag.com
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Planning: In Bloom

Secrets to a Chic Celebration

By: Patricia Canole

A favorite among the Hollywood set (Britney Spears and Christian Slater are regulars), Iris Lee of Anthony’s Flowers for BloomNation.com, has transformed many galas into memorable events. For The Bride recently met with her for a few of her tried-and-true secrets for wedding flowers.

WHAT’S A BIG WEDDING TREND YOU’RE SEEING?

Weddings are becoming ever more enchanting. This year is notably one of true romance—celebrations are softer, sweeter, lusher and more heartfelt. Lately, I’ve been choosing wedding flowers that are larger and more sculptured, such as calla lilies, cymbidium and Phalaenopsis orchids, so the look is unfussy and clean. Another trend I’m seeing is more themed receptions. One bride and groom wanted a beachy feel at a city hotel. We used coral-colored mansanita branches and shells and panels of water with floating flowers.

WHAT ARE THE HOT PARTY COLORS RIGHT NOW?

Orchid is big coupled with accents of white, cream, Champagne. I’m also seeing many shades of pale pinks to lavenders and purple.

ANY DRAMATIC DETAILS YOU SUGGEST FOR WEDDING RECEPTIONS?

I love a reception entrance that shouts “Something fabulous will happen here.”  For one wedding, this meant tall gates covered with manzanita. Or, sometimes it’s a simple drapery tied back with floral blooms. Metallics are also a popular accent. Linens with a subtle gold thread or the luxury of pale gold lampshades will brighten a gathering. A candlelit exit is a wonderful way to end the night for your guests.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR CREATING A LUXE LOOK FOR LESS?

You can do this by using tall centerpieces such as candelabras with long ivory tapers. It’s not only better for your wedding budget but also for sight-lines of your guests. You might want to hang a simple garland from the tapers or add wedding flowers to a small vessels on the tables. Not only does this very elegant and dramatic, but it’s easy to pull off with a limited budget.

DO YOU HAVE ANY LAST MINUTE ADVICE FOR BRIDES AND GROOMS?Keep it simple. Many brides I’ve seen combine too many colors. My advice: Use no more than three shades. It’s also very important to enjoy the process of planning. Don’t forget this is a huge milestone in your life. It can be fun to develop the ideas and see them all unfold. Remember to get the best people, then let go of it. 

Time to relax and enjoy!

For more wedding flowers and decor ideas, visit ForTheBrideMag.com
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Planning: 5 Tips for an Unforgettable Outdoor Wedding

5 Outdoor Wedding Tips

By: Amy Darwish

Planning a summer wedding? Outdoor events are all the rage this season! Brides are looking for a way to host an outdoor affair where the guests are enchanted by the details and not turned off by the bugs or weather. Whether you are having a beach wedding, a wedding in a garden setting, or even a fall fete, we've got the tips you need to make your outdoor wedding memorable for the best possible reasons! Be sure to:

via Instagram

1. Remember The Weather: Check the weather reports leading up to your wedding. If it's been a rainy season and you suspect your big day will be a wet one, there are ways to save your wedding from being drowned out. You can consider renting a party tent. Tents come in a range of styles, sizes, and colors and can even be completely transparent to maintain the outdoor feel you desire. Another option is to order umbrellas for your guests. These favors can double as gifts for your guests and they will surely make for some fun wedding photos!

2. Help Guests Dress For The Day: Keep your guests informed about the best ways for them to enjoy your wedding day. If your wedding will take place in a grassy garden, you may want to let your ladies know to leave their stilettos at home. You can post updates via your wedding website, or have close friends and family spread the word! As well, you can provide flip flops for your guests in case they need alternative footwear. You can also provide shawls or scarves for guests if you expect there to be an evening breeze.

     

Tabletop Citronella Torch via Lowes.com

3. Beware of Bugs: Having your outdoor wedding in the summertime? If so, chances are you may encounter some uninvited guests. A great way to keep bugs at bay is to put citronella torches all around the property. Not only do they help repel bugs, but the torches can add decor & ambiance to your celebration. In addition to torches that get planted into the ground, there are tabletop torches which can be incorporated into centerpieces help keep bugs away from your guests during dinner. You can also provide cans of bug spay for your guests. Either put the cans in the bathrooms or on a designated table outside along with some allergy medication.


4. Keep Your Guests Hydrated: Provide cold water for your guests throughout the celebration. You can add a special touch to the water by adding blueberries, orange slices, or cucumber for a refreshing look & taste!  You can either have glasses of water passed out by waiters or you can have a flavored water station, so your guests can grab drinks for themselves. If your wedding is an informal affair, you can even decorate coolers and have bottled water available.


5. Light The Way: When scouting your outdoor wedding location, remember to consider lighting. If there are no outlets in the area, you have a few other options. You can rent a generator to provide electricity for the event and put up string lighting or place lamps around the area. You can also use torches and candles for a more romantic feel. No matter what you choose, make sure your guests aren't left in the dark!


For more wedding planning tips and trends, visit ForTheBrideMag.com
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Fashion: Naeem Khan's Spring 2015 Bridal Collection

By: Amy Darwish

Naeem Khan's Spring 2015 presentation was a remarkable affair. A backdrop of terrific tree trunks added a touch of fantasy, while the wedding dresses were as romantic as any fairytale ever told. His collection was filled with inspired embellishments, from elaborate beading and ostrich feathers suited for royalty, to mystical capes for unique brides.

Here are some of our favorite trends and wedding dresses from the show:

Metallic Moments: Silver beading decorated these modern bridal gowns. Both of these Naeem Khan wedding dresses feature illusion necklines, which added a delicate touch.

     
                         Milan                                                   Bellagio

Breathtaking Tulle: The models seemed to float in these frothy tulle creations, as would any bride walking down the aisle. Trumpet style skirts created dramatic silhouettes and the sweetheart necklines added to the femininity of these whimsical wedding gowns.

                      Cornelia                                                   Madison

Intricate Embroidery: These strapless wedding dresses were fit for Hollywood royalty with intricate embroidery. Khan's 'Bel Aire' bridal gown features beaded floral appliques throughout the gown and the refined design of the 'Beverly Hills' is simply stunning.

                     Bel Aire                                                  Beverly Hills

Cool Capes: Featuring delicate floral embroidery, the 'St. Moritz' hooded cape is a dream accessory for a modern fairytale wedding. The ornately beaded 'Rome' cape is lined with pure white ostrich feathers, adding to it's allure.

                      St. Moritz                                                    Rome

Naeem Khan always delivers romantic fashion statements and this collection was no different. We look forward to seeing these captivating creations at real weddings!


For more designer fashion and wedding trends, visit ForTheBrideMag.com

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Fashion: 5 Reasons To Consider Wearing a Short Wedding Dress

Trend Alert: Short Wedding Dresses
By: Stacy Shiffner

If you have not found 'the one' when it comes to your wedding dress, what do you envision yourself in? Traditional bridal looks are full length wedding dresses with all the bells and whistles, but if you are a bride who dares to be different, try picturing yourself in a short dress.

        
          Angel Sanchez                       Jenny Packham                                Demetrios

Here are 5 reasons to stop thinking long and start shopping for short:

Comfort & Flexibility

You will be moving and shaking all day long in your wedding dress so comfort is very much important. Between getting in and out of the car to dancing to using the restroom, a short dress makes maneuvering the days tasks easier and quicker. Plus, shedding layers of fabric will make your dress weigh less, making it more comfortable when you are getting around or even sitting down.

You Can Wear It Again

While bridesmaids often say they want a gown they can wear again, it isn't something that most brides can even consider. With a short wedding dress style it is possible. A cute cocktail dress can be worn again to parties or events. You could even have it dyed and wear it as guest attire to someone else's wedding.

Show Off Your Legs

It's your day and all eyes will be on you. While some brides will wear their hair up to accentuate their cheekbones or wear a sleeveless gown to show off their arms, you can show off your legs if they are your best attribute. 

It's Less Expensive

Less fabric often equals less cost. When you choose to wear a short dress the price can be significantly less than that of a traditional dress and you can use that savings for other wedding essentials. Get a dazzling pair of shoes or upgrade your accessories with the money you'll save on your wedding dress.

It's Trendy

Short wedding dresses are trending right now as we've seen first hand on designer runways. From Jenny Packham to Demetrios, designers are taking note that brides are looking for short dresses to wear on their special day. 

For more wedding dresses and fashion tips, visit forthebridemag.com 

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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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