June 27, 2008 at 4:48 PM
Oscar de la Renta isn't considered a trendsetter for nothing. He was one of the first ready-to-wear fashion designers to venture into the world of wedding gowns and the man has no doubt started a trend with no end in sight. There's Carolina Herrera, Badgely Mischka, even the House of Lanvin, which made its segue into bridal market in late 2007 with Collection Blanche.
The newest designer to go bridal? Giambattista Valli. Prompted by requests from his biggest fans and friends, Valli decided it was time to enter the something old, new, borrowed, blue arena.
His gowns (available in November) are an eclectic mix, ranging from the ultimate hippie chic sheath to an elegantly structured silk gown with pronounced hips. The dresses will be available in ivory and a seasonal palette and will retail from $11,000 to $16,000.
"They're classic with a twist. I like to see them both as wedding and party dresses," Valli recently told WWD of the collection.
Click here to browse more gorgeous gowns.
June 25, 2008 at 2:17 PM
So you don't need a toaster? Or a blender? Or even an espresso machine? Then consider ditching the traditional wedding registry for something a little more modern. No, we're not suggesting you start asking your guests for cash, we're talking about MyRegistry.com, this amazing site that lets you register for anything.
You're probably thinking we're exaggerating a bit on the anything part, but it's true. From a boogie board to a trip to Bora Bora, nothing is off limits -- if you can find it, you can register for it.
One of the major highlights of this site is that you're not confined to one store (or, you don't have to manage registries at a bunch of different stores). Add a set of luggage from Macy's, a painting from Z Gallerie, and paint for your new bedroom from The Home Depot, no problem. It's one simple registry of stuff you really need (okay, or want).
Sold? Head over to MyRegistry.com to get more information and start your own.
And be sure to check out this registry tool -- it lets you search other couples' registries for inspiration of what to include on your own.
—Jeanine Edwards, Associate Editor
Photo by Luciana Pampalone
June 20, 2008 at 11:24 AM
The summer issue of In Style Weddings officially hit newsstands last Friday, so if you haven't picked it up, you should. Why? Well, ...
(1) Planners like Preston Bailey and Mindy Weiss show you how to personalize your big day;
(2) Destination wedding pros like JoAnn Gregoli and Michelle Rago answer your all planning questions;
(3) Master baker Ron Ben-Israel shows off his edible takes on tying the knot;
(4) Celebrity stylists teach you how to recreate 19 of the hottest star hairstyles;
(5) Without a Trace star and our cover-girl Roselyn Sanchez takes us along as she starts her search for the perfect wedding gown.
So as you can see, we jam-packed it full of expert tips and tricks, not to mention all the totally steal-able celebrity ideas. Still not convinced? Click here for a closer look inside the issue.
Click here to buy your copy now!
June 17, 2008 at 10:32 AM
One of the fastest growing trends in weddings is how quickly they are shrinking. According to the Wedding Report, couples that were spending an average of $28,732 in 2007 are scaling back their expenses. This year, costs are expected to drop -- for the first time in 10 years! -- to $28,704 in response to our economic slump.
TIME recently published an article on a few brides who, rather than viewing a smaller budget as an obstacle, were finding new opportunities for creativity. One bride bought wholesale flowers online and made her own invitations. Another couple moved their date to a Sunday and saved 33% on the minimum their venue charged for food and drinks.
We have to admit, we're not big fans of skimping on your big day -- it is your wedding, after all. But we can appreciate why, given the looming recession, it may be necessary. Just because it's cheaper, though, doesn't mean it can't still be stylish. Small swaps can often make a huge difference. Like with candles -- choosing votives rather than pillars is usually more cost-effective. And when it comes to drinks, instead of stocking a full bar, pare your selection down to wine and beer. Or better yet, serve a signature drink. Your cocktail hour will be more personal (and less expensive). For more ways to save stylishly, click here.
Photo by Charles Schiller
June 2, 2008 at 11:17 AM
You've spent months meticulously planning every little detail. Coordinating bouquets and boutonnieres? Check. Shoes dyed the perfect shade of blue? Check. Water bottles with a touch of style? Check.
Allow us to introduce you to the new, limited edition water bottle from Evian. Dressed in a chic crystal pattern by fashion designer Christian Lacroix, they're anything but average. And what could be better for your big day? The bottles are pretty enough to put on display, especially for summer nuptials when guests are likely to need something cool and refreshing. And even if you don't feature them front and center, the design is elegant enough not to ruin your wedding pics if they're sitting on your perfectly set tables.
So, because it's your wedding and only the best will do, consider splurging on these high style water bottles. Hey, they're a whole lot less expensive than a Christian Lacroix wedding gown...
Get yours at ShopEvian.com.
