Filed under: Bridal Beauty Tips & Tricks
Kirsten Dunst as Betty Warren in 2003's Mona Lisa Smile. (courtesy of blue-ray.com)
So, I must confess I thought about this budding re-trend while flipping through the channels last night after coming across the wedding scene from 2003′s Mona Lisa Smile. Starring Julia Roberts and Kirsten Dunst, the movie itself is mediocre at best, but the wedding scene is undeniably amazeballs.
Kirsten Dunst, who plays Betty Warren — a viciously rotten, wanna-punch-her-in-the-face type character – has an uncanny way of looking incredibly breathtaking while remaining painfully irritating. Even though her character’s a real hoe’s beast, Dunst still looks fiercely fabulous in her bridal best… but how could this be?? How could such a hard personality create such a soft silhouette??
Well, with an illusion neckline, of course!!
Like any good fashion trend, I’m referencing this one as a “re-trend” because it’s already had a killer past… currently has a fantastic present and will undoubtedly continue with an incredible future. Hence why this trendtastic retro rewind has become one of my faves! And there’s no area I love to see a fave trend embraced more than (drum roll, please)… the wedding gown!!! Duh!
Because the illusion neckline creates a sort of subtle drama, it’s perfect for bridal royalty… and I mean that for seriously too! Several Princesses – including but not limited to – Grace Kelly, Princess Consort of Monaco; Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge and Mia Thermopolis (played by Anne Hathaway in Disney’s The Princess Diaries), Princess of Genovia, haha, used this trend impeccably while they dishing out the ‘I do’s'! Even celebrity royalty like Ivanka Trump, Princess of the man with serious hair issues, couldn’t resist a sheer neckline to celebrate her nuptial debut :)
from top, Grace Kelly, Kate Middleton, Ivanka Trump and Anne Hathaway (courtesy of whiteweddingdresses.onsugar.com, 100worldnews.blogspot.com, the-weddingdresses.com and hotflick.net)
All these princesses knew the importance of creating a killer illusion, and it’s no wonder why so many designers are jumping on board this bridal trend. Check out below and see some of my faves from their 2012 Spring and Fall Collections!
courtesy of (top to bottom, left to right) Alita Graham, Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, Alvina Valenta (inset), Elizabeth Fillmore, Priscilla of Boston, Monique Lhuillier (one shoulder), Alvina Valenta (inset), Lela Rose, Reem Acra and Marchesa via brides.com
December 29, 2011
courtesy of w-weddinggowns.com
After co-worker (what it do, Jessi!) forwarded me on an email this morning, I knew I couldn’t pass up posting its brilliant notion to the masses.
Black is BACK, and it’s in your wedding! Not that black was ever was gone, of course, but this season, it’s taking the wedding market by storm… and in new, uber cute ways. Mayhaps the biggest way is through the bridal gown. Sure, anyone can accent their wedding day with the tuxedo colored canvas, but what about doing your whole dress in it???
You heard me.
The bridal gown – perhaps the epitome of a little girl’s wedding day dreams – has always been the epicenter for wedding plans. When that big day rolls around, it legitimately is all about the dress. And with brides taking on all kinds of trends in order to better suit them, it was only a matter of time before the standard ‘little black dress’ became the I-gotta-have-it-can’t-live-without-it bridal gown blowout! Just check out these incredible creations from etsy.com:
photos courtesy of etsy.com from vendors (left to right, top to bottom) LOVEKARLAK, CoralieBeatrix, Chabri (inset), hollystalder, CobarCollection, hollystalder and herlbd
But if tradition still tugs at your heart strings and you can’t bear to wear a dress made entirely of black… why not try accenting it with a fabulous sash and still get your kick of ooh la la!
photos courtesy of etsy.com from vendors (left to right, top to bottom) elitewomen, SammysBridalShop, finkshop, VenustBridal, VenustBridal, BridalShoppe, SomethingIvory, BCGirls and icing101
November 3, 2011
courtesy of alfredangelo.com
And no, I’m not referencing one of my favorite movies ever! I’m talking about princess styled brides – duh! And not only are they back, but they are completely redefined!
No longer are the princess brides of too much tulle and over the top headpieces – yes, I’m talking about you Celine Dion…
courtesy of ivillage.com
& you, crazy inflatable Barbie with too much… everything! I mean, really? Who let you say yes to the mess… I mean dress :)
courtesy of wedinator.com and tackyweddings.com
Now are the days of the redefined princess bride. One that can be found in a more figure flattering, curve hugging gown, statement-worthy headwear and vintage jewels. Think long fishtail-styled trains, tastefully modified tiaras (yes, tiaras!) and cathedral length veils. Consider turning in that old Cinderella ball gown for a body skimming dress bedecked in all things that dazzle.
And while the glass slippers may also have to go, the fairytale *twinkle* can stay! Let the sparkles dance throughout the entire ensemble by adding in sequin and crystal bling to all your big day details. Imagine everything from your dress and bouquet to the centerpieces and cake sprinkled in pixie dust! It’ll be avant garde glitter at its best! As long as the fairy tale wedding is done right – avoiding all things Exhibit A and B ^^ encompass - I’d say you’re well tuned for one of the happiest happily ever afters ever! See below and start wishing…
Arm yourself with frocked in layers and chandelier earrings and see how ooh your la la can be!
courtesy of jlmcouture.com/Lazaro
Modernize the traditional tiara and show how fab regal can be!
courtesy of jlmcouture.com/Alvina-Valenta
Wow ‘em at the wedding with a cathedral length veil and round it up for the reception… it’s a win / win for princesses everywhere!
courtesy of etsy.com and jessikafeltz.com
October 20, 2011
You put the lime in the coconut and drink ‘em both up!!
Okay, so maybe you’re not a fan of limes (or coconuts for that matter), but you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone who won’t go gaga over a wedding inspired by summertime favorites: citrus fruits!!
Bright, fresh and fun, citrus colored weddings can be a photographer’s dream! Everything from sunshine-y yellows and exuberant oranges to lovely limes and tantalizing tangerines create eye-popping images you’ll surely love to look at… over and over again… after putting the lime in the coconut – ahhh! Can’t stop singing it! Check out below and see what I mean :)
Look-at-Me Lemon.
courtesy of labellebride.com
courtesy of bollea.com
courtesy of weddingandcakes.com
courtesy of blog.dcnearlyweds.com
courtesy of breguetpm.com
courtesy of prettychicky.com
Oh my Darlin’ Clementine.
courtesy of elizabethannedesigns.com
courtesy of loveolio.com
courtesy of weddingaces.com
courtesy of contemporarybride.com
courtesy of cameroningalls.com
courtesy of w-weddingflowers.com
In Love with Limes.
courtesy of greenweddingshoes.com
courtesy of handmadebymeda.blogspot.com
courtesy of projectwedding.com
courtesy of peacefulcake.blogspot.com
courtesy of oncewed.com
courtesy of redphotoco.com
Go Gaga for Grapefruits.
courtesy of onlineweddingdresses.net
courtesy of rebekahwestover.com
courtesy of stylemepretty.com
courtesy of alohaislandweddings.com
courtesy of blondeblueblog.com
courtesy of pinkbridesmaiddresses.org
June 2, 2011
photo courtesy of bhldn.com
You heard me right, ladies! Anthropologie – a Bohemian beauty’s fashion dream come true – has recently announced the launch of their antique-chic and highly hipster line of wedding dresses and accessories!
The spin-off shop, BHLDN (pronounced “Beholden”), is linked directly from their main site and has been causing “ooh’s and aww’s” since its launch on Monday, February 14 (aka Valentine’s Day, aka a day for lovers!) But this 24 carat nugget of golden information has left me with paradoxical pangs of bittersweet in my belly.
Why, bittersweet? You may ask…
Well, the sweetness comes in because A) I love love love me some Anthropologie diggs and B) with modern day weddings doing all kinds of rewinds back to vintage valor, no one could possibly dress a bride to impress better than Anthro-to-the-pologie!
So how could there possibly be a bitter? You might continue…
That’s easy. Because unlike all my bride-to-be beauties out there right now, I’m already hitched and can’t capitalize on this gem! Haha!
For cereal, their stuff is increds! Their gowns range in price from $600 to $4000, and it would be best if you didn’t even get me started on the accessories! If you’re a lady in waiting looking to be the ultimate vintage vixen, you needn’t look any further than their line of shut-up-these-SHOES-are-increds, jazztastic jewelry, couture cover-ups, ooh la la lingerie or adorably unique hair adornments!
Don’t believe me? Go their yourself or simply check out the sampling below:
Pleated Fantasy Gown $3600, Floral Artwork Dress $1800, Eyelet Medley Sheathe $1000 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
Floating Peony Headband $60, Botanical Garden Headband $460, Velvet Cocktail Hat $495 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
Agave Peep-Toes $350, Bow-Topped Slingbacks $310, Beaded Brocade Slingbacks $310 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
Portraiture Bolero $150, Feather Bolero $350, Bow-Topped Bolero $120 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
Neo Triple Strand $350, Pave Marvel Earrings $188, Namesake Beaded Bracelets $180.00 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
Vanity Table Peignoir $250, Joie de Vivre Netted Chiffon Bra $82, Knotted Gamine Thong $38 (courtesy of bhldn.com)
February 17, 2011
According to theknot.com, there are several wedding dress trends brides should be on the lookout for in 2011, and Marilyn’s Keepsakes is proud to put our stamp of approval on some of our faves!
Trend #1: Dainty Dots
From the sweet and sophisticated to the modern and modish, dotting your bridal gown with this girly trend is the perfect way to accent your look without taking away from your overall appeal.
Designer: Christos (photos courtesy of christosbridal.com)
Trend #2: Billowy Skirts
Frothy layers of sex appeal come to life when you modernize the ball gown with oversized layers of soft chiffon and tulle fabrics.
Designer: David Fielden (photos courtesy of kleinfeldbridal.com)
Trend #3: Spirals
Razzle Dazzle ‘em with oodles of ra-ra-ruffles when you walk down the aisle in these diva details complete with stylish pleats and flair-worthy levels.
Designer: Marchesa (photo courtesy of theknot.com)
Trend #4: Keyhole Necklines
Creating a vintage inspired, peek-a-boo treat that brides will love, keyhole necklines are a unique blend of modern trend and retro-chic.
Designer: Monique Lhuillier (photos courtesy of moniquelhuillier.com)
Trend #5: Tiny Tiers
Complementary to all body types, this type of soft rouching does a fabulous job for creating form flattering lines and soft silhouettes.
Designer: Alvina Valenta (photos courtesy of jlmcouture.com)
Trend #6: Full Blooms
Love will be in full bloom when you blossom down the runway, err, I mean aisle in a gown raptured by Springtime magic. Whether highlighting one centerpiece blossom or creating a frock of full of florals, you’ll surely make friends and family “ooh and ahh” with this trendy treat.
Designer: Allure Couture & Bridals (photos courtesy of allurebridals.com)
Trend #7: Sheer Coverage
Sexiness personified. Revel in the revealing appeal of sheer coverage when you dance your wedding night away in one of couture’s most current and up-to-date looks.
Designer: Pnina Tornai (photos courtesy of kleinfeldbridal.com)
Trend #8: Separates
Who needs a full on wardrobe change when you can simply swap out elements. When you dress to impress with exchangeable pieces, you’ll easily create a look that can go from fun and flirty to dramatic and girly.
Designer: Melissa Sweet (photo courtesy of theknot.com)
Trend #9: Modified Mermaid Silhouettes
Want the uber sexiness or mermaid styles without cutting your movement ni half? Then, look no further that with these softer, fit ‘n’ flare styles that start to expand out just above the knee.
Designer: Vera Wang (photos courtesy of verawang.com)
Trend #10: Embellished Belts
Define your waist with class when you decorate it with a beautiful belt, embellished crystals, pearls, beads and bobbles.
Designer: Romona Keveza (photos courtesy of legendsbyromonakeveza.com)
January 31, 2011
Audrey Hepburn did it in Funny Face…
photo courtesy of lilpaisley.typepad.com
Jackie “O” wore ‘em when she made her way down the aisle to JFK…
photo courtesy of life.com
Even the eptiome of princess standards, Cinderella, kept it classy in her over the elbow accessories…
photo courtesy of bangthemisfit.blogspot.com
No matter who you are, what your personal preference or style is, there is simply something undeniable about the classic nature wedding gloves bring to a bridal look. Whether their long, luxurious and crisply polished with satin buttons or short, lacey and decorated with delicate details, bridal gloves can be a chic way to dress up your big day.
They can be kept true to form in white or ivory, inspired by Old Hollywood glamour and vintage velour or even taken to the next level and modernized with color, fingerless shape or Avant Garde appearance. As always, the decision is left to the bridal beauty rockin’ ‘em, but one this is for certain… bridal gloves have got classic style and vintage glam covered! Take a gander below and see what I mean :)
photos courtesy of i-weddingdresses.com, shoponline2011.com, wedding-dress-gown.com, bridalshoesuk.co.uk, atfirstswoon.com and brides.com
November 8, 2010
Thanks, mom and dad, for all your continued, loyal support!... wait. what? (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Like any good blog stalker, this pretty little lady has her FAVES saved for go-to good reads. It truly is one of my life’s truest joys to not only read what people are writing about but also, to see how and even why they’re writing about them. While I have a tendency to lean (almost too) generously towards wedding blogs the world over, I can’t help but stray from time to time when a true gem rears its fabulous face onto my screen.
One such gem, you may wonder?? Well, that would be AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com.
While it’s generally one of my most golden rules not to bully (aka. put others down to bring myself up), I can’t help but point out the majority of treats being posted on this site (and now BLASTED on ours) have been and continue to be submitted by the “stars” themselves. So, they really only have themselves – and the photographic genius behind the lens – to blame.
So, without further adieu, may I present to you SEVERAL rules you should consider, and photographic evidence of why it’s so important :)
Rule #1. Firstly, make sure you pick a wedding photographer who’s got the goods – shout out to Jessika & Jimmy Feltz who have the BEST goods ever! – otherwise, you run the risk of what this bride calls her uncle’s (yes uncle!) lack of “professionalism.” Poor, potty mouth bride!
Just what every bride wants... a pic with a Port-O-John! (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Rule #2. Don’t give me no lies, and (tell them to!) keep their hands to themselves! Nothing ruins a good photo quite like uncomfortable groping from the peanut gallery. I mean, photo op #1 is awkward enough with the painful parent poking, but photo op #2?? Somebody needs to tell sister friend in the corner to ease off… he’s taken for sobbin’ out loud!
Mom, PLEASE! (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Some bridesmaids simply have no boundaries (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Rule #3. If you doubt it, don’t show it. And if you show it, perhaps it’s best to not do it. It appears that no one, and I truly mean NO ONE, is comfortable with these marriages becoming offish… brides, grooms, family members, even officiants. Mayhaps, things should’ve been thought through more thoroughly before the big plunge.
Can't you tell everyone agrees that it's a "nice day for a... white wedding!" (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Wow. You know it's a good ceremony when even the priest objects. (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Rule #4. BEWARE OF BEWILDERING BACKGROUNDS. Some of these I honestly have no other words for other than… whhhhyyyy?
You've heard of "Four Weddings & a Funeral" but what about having YOUR wedding and a funeral? (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
The sentiment is there - sure - but we can't get passed the poor guy gettin' butt grabbed from a distance. (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
I blame the bride mostly for her bridesmaids blending into the decor. For the record, there is such a thing as TOO matchy / matchy. (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
Rule #5. Finally, don’t fall victim to vicious photo editing! As stanted in Rule #1, choose your photographers wisely or you may end up with these tripped out treats. Granted, the photos are dated several years, but the rule remains as modern day as ever…
Why's the groom snarling at me? Better yet, why are they both floating above the entire ceremony? Wizard wedding? (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
'Cause you were always on my miiiiiiiiiind! This trippy photo is CREEPED to the max! (photo courtesy of awkwardfamilyphotos.com)
October 8, 2010
Part 2: Letters N – Z
photo courtesy of owltastic.tumblr.com
For your viewing pleasure, the conclusion to Wednesday’s post, inspired by Women’s Health…
N = Numbers
This is my most dreaded letter… just ask the nurse practitioner who had to battle it out with my index finger for the scale knob to move to the appropriate weight. That’s right. I’m talking about your weight, people! Research shows that people who weigh themselves at least once a day or more likely to not only lose but also to maintain their weight loss more so than people who don’t. Sigh, looks like the scales wins… again!
O = Omelet
When it comes to protein, omelets are egg-selent! Haha! Yesss! Protein helps build muscle, which in turn fries more calories per pound than fat According to Jonny Bowden, author of The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, informs you’ll burn 25% of the eggs’ calories simply by digesting them! Nuts!
P = Peanuts
It’s all about the “p’s” in this study, which was conducted by Purdue University. In this study, researchers found high-protein, high-fiber nuts are extremely filling and can boost the resting metabolic rates significantly… making the nut an ideal snack food for curbing your appetite!
Q = Quinoa
Quinoa is the queen of whole grains! Higher in protein and fiber with less carbs, this white rice substitute is an ideal source for dietary deliciousness!
R = Replacements
In its most simplest of forms: Eat this, not that. Try substituting liquid meals or healthier snacks and sides for some of your less savory choices.
S = Success
Stress causes no success. In a study conducted by Georgetown scientists, it was discovered that mice under stress or duress gained twice as much as their de-stressed counterparts. Reason being?? Stress can cause us to hold on to extra fat cells; hence, the term stress eating. So next time you’re stressed, try having a “wooo-saaaa” moment instead of a doughnut.
T = Tea
Green tea brings the catechins – a metabolism boosting antioxidant, and the catechins bring the weight loss! Not to mention, green tea is a MUCH healthier substiture than a half and half cup of coffee filled with sugar! Duh!
U = User-friendly
In a recent study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association, it was discovered that the success rate of one diet plan to the next is not determined by the diet itself, but the compliance each dieter has with it. Sooo, find a diet you can live with, and then, (more importantly) actually live with it :)
V = Vinegar
Just a spoon full of vinegar helps the weight loss stay off… weight loss stay off! (I know. Sweet remix to Mary Poppins, huh?) Published by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, it was discovered that swallowing 60 grams or 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a high-glycemic index caused people to eat 200-275 less calories a day… of course this doesn’t surprise me, due to the fact that stomaching a spoonful of vinegar makes me nauseous in thought alone!
W = Weights
I’m here to PUMP (pause for effect) you up! While many women fear lifting weights will cause them to look like the incredible hulk, they couldn’t be further from the truth. Pumping iron not only causes you to burn more calories after an average cardio workout, but researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham also discovered that women who lifted 3 times a week for 25 minutes lost an average of 4 pounds of bady fat! SWEET!
X = Xenical
Given the green light by the FDA last year, this prescription fat blocker can be found in the over the counter supplement, Alli. However, this does come with a price… loose stools. So, if the side effects are too much for you to handle, I totally suggest going at it the old fashion way :)
Y = Yoga
Self explanatory… grab a mat and get moving! Downward dog, anyone?
Z = ZZZZ’s
While dieting, you may want to scrimp on certain foods, but you should never scrimp on your zzzz’s! By not getting enough sleep, your body is tricked into thinking it’s low on fuel, causing your belly to growl and more than likely you to eat! So rest up… you need it :)
September 3, 2010
Part 1: Letters A – M
photo courtesy of promotehealth.info
Often times, I will receive emails looking for advice, and while I’ll easily admit my awesome level is off the charts, my expertise level – especially on certain subjects – can be almost non-existent. And there’s no area less exercised (pun intended) by my expertise than weight loss. Ugh.
Luckily for you, however, I can pinpoint the experts and share their knowledge with the masses! And when it comes to losing weight and feeling great, who could possibly be better than a magazine dubbed entirely for the subject matter at hand? No one, duh! So, when I saw this article published in Women’s Health I couldn’t resist sharing their “skinny” on weight loss vocab… and let’s face it, my own 2 cents as well! Haha! Check it out!
A = Alcohol
While binge drinking is a huge (and considerably unattractive) no no, having a glass of wine a day is proven to be good for the body and the soul. Because alcohol has the potential to increase leptin – a hormone known for its power to battle the sweet tooth, a nice glass of sauvignon blanc might be just what the doctor ordered :)
B = Buddy System
“Hmmm, gonna try with a little help from my friends!” It’s like the Beatles knew… Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have proven you’re nearly 3 times more likely to lose weight faster and keep it off longer “with a little help from (your) friends.” And if you just so happen to be friends with all skinny minis: 1) How sad! Chubby people are the best people! (High fives self) and 2) Hit up weightlossbuddy.com for a long list of fat-reforming friends!
C = Cortisol
This adrenal hormone secretes stress, and we all know what stress can do to a body. So, if wedding planning, work or personal woes have you out of whack, try spending a date night fund on a couple’s massage instead!
D = Density
Studies produced by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition discovered women who eat water-rich foods, high in nutrients and low in calories are more likely to lose weight than women on a strictly low fat diet. So, go ahead, my dear ladies-in-waiting, grab that celery stalk and go for a walk!
E = Estimation
Next stop, Estimation Station… all aboard! Women’s Health encourages us all to commit the following estimates to memory:
- 3 ounces of meat = a standard deck of 52 cards
- ½ cup fruit, vegetables or grains = half a baseball
- 1.5 ounces of cheese = 3 dominoes
F = Fructose
Fructose isn’t free. In fact, it could cost you a waistline. So, put down those artificially sweetened beverages and pick up the peaches… or oranges or any other fruit of your choosing! Because this is where fructose is at its best!
G = Grapefruit
And speaking of fruit, why not try this ruby red delight! In a 2006 study published by the Journal of Medicinal Food discovered that people who ate half a grapefruit before each meal lost more weight than those who didn’t. (3.5 pounds, as opposed to one)
H = Hydration
The key to duration (and a slimmer, trimmer you) is hydration! Research has shown that sipping an extra 6 ounces of water a day may be just the ticket to curbing your appetite and caloric intake. So, pick up a glass near you and cheers to H2O goodness!
I = Insulin
This natural, sugar regulating hormone could be what dictates your diet. Low carb diets generally work best for people with high levels of insulin secretions. Don’t know if you’re a high insulin secretor? Well, peep yourself out in the closest mirror, if you store fat in your belly and have a more round or apple shape, you’re more than likely on the list and should focus on cutting carbs – more so than low fat.
J = Journal
That’s right. Take it back to the Junior High days; except this time around, instead of gushing over your latest crush or ranting about your hellish seventh period science teacher, write down everything you eat… yep, I said it… Chances are if you see it, you can cut it. Food journaling – according to the National Weight Control Registry – increases your chance for losing weight and keeping it off.
K = Ketosis
Ketosis is key for jump starting a diet or boosting one that’s plateau’ed, because it’s the result in which your body runs low on carbs and is forced to burn off excess fat instead. So, be sure to vary your diet and workout routines in order to keep your body guessing and your weight dropping!
L = Leptin
Let your leptin find a balance. Leptin is a hormone that tells your brain when it’s full. Often times, women will think eating less or even fasting is the way to lose weight fast; however, this can sometimes cause a decrease in your leptin levels, which may cause over-eating… a completely adverse effect of what you’re going for. Bottom line, don’t starve yourself or your body might get angry!
M = Milk
It truly does a body good :) A study done in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that drinking two cups of skim milk after a weight-lifting workout built more muscle and burned twice as much fat as its sport’s juice enthused counterparts… making cow juice aahhh-moo-zing! Haha, yes, I took it there.
And look for Part 2: Letters N – Z on Friday :)
September 1, 2010
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