Make a Statement with a Handmade or Vintage Handbag...

Unique Wedding Handbags

Sherri Weese Designs

After the last two months of frantic work and late nights, I finally have a couple days to relax before the next big cluster of designs are scheduled for production.  And as I am not working with my hands right now I thought I would showcase some other people's labor of love, in the form of the finest handmade wedding handbags I could find.  Of course the first is a gorgeous creation done by couture invitation designer, Sherri Weese.  And she never disappoints.  "This original design features a stunning ivory pleated satin clutch with exquisite beaded trim around the top, 2 generous layers of delicate natural white swan feathers, a 1" band of shimmering sequin trim - wrapped around the entire bag. An elegant ivory silk and velvet rose provides a the perfect finishing touch of romance" (from her new etsy shop).  Gorgeous!

Hilda's Handbags

I am a huge lover of vintage evening bags. My grandma is a collector of all things antique, so when I was a little girl we would all receive vintage handbags and jewelry for christmas.  You couldn't feel more girly with a fab beaded bag and little vintage gloves.  I found this fabulous one-of-a-kind vintage 1940's handbag from Hilda's Handbags.  She has a fabulous collection of beaded, hardcase, and designer clutches and bags at unbelievable prices. 

Mademoiselle White

Another fabulous vintage find is this 1940-1950's satin clutch that has been intricately embroidered with silver thread. At under $50, this bag makes a big statement without a hefty price tag.  Check out the  fabulous collection of vintage purses and handbags at Mademoiselle White's etsy shop. 

Bead Lady Designs

This gorgeous black and white sead bead bag is named "Diamonds are Forever".  What is truly unique is that this is a DIY handbag.  That's right, you order the pattern and construct it yourself.  Talk about an accomplishment.  I am tempted to give it a whirl myself.  Order your patterns from the Bead Lady.

Atlanta Antique Gallery

I am a big fan of clear lucite clutches from the 40's and 50's... they are just so remniscent of Cinderella's glass slippers.  This is a perfect example of mid-century craftsmanship and style. A clamshell clutch embellished with Austrian crystals... simple, yet so romantic. Love! Sift through the one-of-a-kind vintage finds at the Atlanta Vintage Gallery to find your perfect piece of fashionable history.  

~ Happy Weddings ~

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Unique and Couture Flower Girl Dresses

Tiara's Boutique

I went to a wedding last weekend and they had two adorable flower girls who were so cute, and sooo well behaved through the long Episcopalian service - more than I can say about my son who was removed 5 minutes into it.  I digress... 

But that inspired me to seek out some of the most beautiful and unique flower girl dresses on the market.  Often flower girl dresses are an after-thought; most are somewhat expected mini-versions of a bridal gown.  Although that is sort of the idea (I get it), I love something unusual... even if the statement is made by a 4 year old.   The dress above is something I want to buy for myself today, if only to prance around the house pretending to be a fairy princess.  The designs by Tiara's Boutique are extraordinary, and she is happy to customize size (yep... she'd make one for me) and uses up to 300 YARDS of tulle in each one!!  Gorgeous!

Belle Du Jour

Belle Du Jour is another fabulous boutique specializing in unique wedding wear.  I found this adorable Bluebelle flower girl dress there, and what's not to love?  Sparklies, organza, satin ribbon, a hoop skirt for pete's sake... I would have loved this dress until it was threadbare when I was little.  U.K designer Maggie Cook creates these fabulous pieces, as well as jewelry, headpieces, grown-up gowns and more. 

Sweet Plume

Okay, this may be the most couture flower girl dress have ever seen, and I love, Love, LOVE it!  Created by Sweet Plume, this dress has everything: a chocolate brown duponi silk bodice, gold sparkly tulle on bottom, ivory feathered apron, gold sash, and a peony embellishment... and it costs about what you'd pay for a mass-produced flower girl dress at your local bridal shop!  I want to get married again just so I can have a wee one hop down the aisle in this beauty! 

A gorgeous dupioni silk dream fashioned after a popular gown style from couture design house Petite Parfait.  I love this dress style (it wasn't around when I worked in bridal, and I sooo would have loved to skip down the runway at our local fashion shows in this baby... perhaps a larger version, but, whatever).

If you a little girl and she happens to be the kind of girl who swoons over petticoats, Johanna Grace is your one-stop-shop for all things uber-elegant.  She has an enormous collection of couture and custom gowns for little girls and young ladies, like the above silver silk flower girl dresses.  I simply can't say enough... so here's another picture...

Would you not have grinned ear to ear if your mom brought this home for you to wear?  I am all about the fashion sensibilities of the early 60's (Mad Men is my favorite show... because of the fashion)  and this dress oozes it. I want it now!  Located in New York, Johanna Grace is truly an atelier of couture girls clothing.  Love!!!

Wedding Gown Shopping: Tips to Keep You Sane Your first Time Out

You have gone through every issue of Brides, Modern Bride, and Elegant Bride published since you started dating your fiance.  You have clipped out between 2 and 50 pics of gowns you love. You have wrangled your girlfriends together and are on a mission to try on each and every one, possibly twice, before deciding which gown is perfect.  This is the custom.  And this often leads to frustration and sometimes tears.  Here are a couple things to keep in mind when shopping for your wedding gown.

Atelier Aimee

1) You may not find the dress in the picture.  And if you do, it may be shockingly expensive. This may be true especially if you live in a less populated area.  Instead of getting your heart set on a particular dress by a particular designer, try to disect what it is you love about that particular dress. Is it the shape, the bodice, the lace detail? Are you drawn to embroidery, beading, or a particular neckline?  Figuring out the elements you are drawn to will help your consultant find alternatives that may turn out the be "the one".

2) Do not get discouraged if the samples don't fit.  Samples usually come in a size 8 or 10.  The average woman is a size 14.  And wedding gowns run small (if you are a size 8, you may need a size 10 or even 12 wedding gown).  I am convinced it is a cruel industry joke. But even if it doesn't zip up all the way, you can usually get a pretty good idea of what the dress will look like.  You'll get an idea of the neckline and how it frames your face, if the waist is flattering or not, whether or not you like lace, beading, etc.

3) Come in with an open mind.  I know you've been studying gowns.  I know you think you know what you want, and more importantly, what will look the best on you.  Please keep an open mind.  Sometimes we are very, very wrong.  I don't know how many plus size brides were strapless-o-phobic when walking into my shop, insecure about their bodies and thinking the more fabric, the better.  I understand these insecurities.  But once they popped that waist cinching Maggie Sottero on, they were sold. 

4) You may not have the "this is it" moment.  Although we all think we will, it is rare. I'd say only 1-10 brides have the eureka moment the first time they dress shop. Finding the perfect wedding gown is an emotional experience, but it is also a whirlwind. By the time you are done in a shop, you may have tried on 15 different styles (because you walk in thinking you know what you want, but may have been wrong... see #3)  and narrowed it down to the perfect bodice style, neckline, skirt shape, what have you.  Don't feel like you'll never find "the one" just because it doesn't happen the first day.  If you have narrowed it down to the dress shape and style you should look for on the second trip out, you have made tons of progress and will more likely find "the one" on your next excursion because you know what to look for.

5) Do not purchase a gown anticipating to lose weight.  We all want to look our best on our wedding day, and often this means we plan to lose that Christmas ten (or in my case, twenty).  And you go girl!  But don't buy your dress more than a size smaller than what you are when measured.  If you lose more than a size, awesome! Your alterations person can take the dress in.  If you don't, they may not be able to alter it to fit without drastically changing the look of the dress (read a big white panel where beading should be continuous). The number on the dress is a number.  It says nothing about how hot you're going to look (and feel!) in it. When it fits, you're a hottie potatie. When it doesn't, you feel like a sausage.  I speak from experience.

6) Do not bring more than 2 trusted confidants.  The old adage, "the more, the merrier" is simply a load of crap when dress shopping. Be sure to bring people who will be honest with you, and who will be impartial about what you look like in a dress. Think twice about bringing your friend who is also getting married, unless you are sure she won't unintentionally make it about her "when I was dress shopping..." "I found the perfect headpiece (for me)"... you get the idea.

7) Don't be pressured into buying immediately. Sales people do work on commission, so they want you to put your money where your mouth is as soon as you have that "this is it!" moment. If you are sure, (read: you know from trial and error that this dress is perfect, and this is not just an emotional moment) by all means, make a deposit. I always recommend at least two shopping trips. It gives you time to be rational about an emotionally charged purchase. It might seem cool to have an American Flag gown for a July 4 wedding when you're all wrapped in the moment.  But you should sleep on it. Trust me.

8) Bring your own strapless, waist cincher, etc. These undergarments really do help give a good foundation, which in turn makes the dresses look their best when you try them on.  Often you can borrow one from the shop, but would you borrow gym shorts at the gym?  Gross.

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How to Choose the Right Tuxedo

photo by Redken tux by Marc Jacobs

I worked as a bridal consultant for several years during college, and one of the most fun places I worked in was the tux shop.  Guys (usually) have a totally different outlook of the wedding, especially the day or two before.  They are together with all their best buds, golfing, paint-balling, going out for steaks and cigars.  They are TOTALLY relaxed compared to the frantic bride who often feels like the entire event is resting on her ability to stay organized. 

They pop in the Thursday before the wedding to get a final tux fitting, and this pit stop is just one of many fun dude-things they plan to do before they tie the knot.  Although the tuxes are often picked in conjunction with the bride (read: she picks it out for fear of having a baby-blue polyester nightmare waiting for her at the alter), sometimes she is brave enough to let the guy do his thing.  I have a few tips for guys and their brave brides who let their guys go fashion crazy.

FIT YOUR BODY: Keep in mind if you are renting a tux the alterations will most likely be minimal (sleeves up, hem pants, most come with adjustable waist). Most tux rental shops will not alter dart lines, so the jacket you get will need to fit your body.  If you have very wide shoulders but a slender build, find a jacket that has a naturally slender fit in the waist -- usually a one or two button jacket.  The jacket should fit your shoulders well, and should not be baggy in the waist when buttoned.  A baggy jacket is usually not something a rental shop can fix.

IF YOU'RE SHORT: Stay away from double-breasted jackets, and four or five button jackets. The longer the jacket, the shorter the distance from the tail to your feet, which only makes your legs look shorter (read: you don't want to look like Dr. Evil).  Two button jackets are good alternatives to the traditional single button, as they still have an elongating effect due to the openness of the collar.

two button notch by Calvin Klein

Double breasted jackets are hard to fit, and often make anyone except a tall slender supermodel look heavier than they are, or frumpy (shoulders too big in comparision to the belly area).  Short and stocky guys should  opt for a single button jacket, which elongates your upper body.  I find just about anyone looks great in a two button jacket so this may be a good option too.

IF YOU'RE TALL: Tall, heftier guys should stay away from the long jackets (no more than three buttons). These jackets tend to be boxy, and depending on your body, you may have baggage in the back of the jacket, while the front may fit well.  Run away from long jackets with mandarin collars. These jackets create bulk in the upper body.  You may also consider sticking to a traditional notch jacket.  Some of the slimmer lapels can tend to draw the eye to a contrast between your width and your height, making you seem wider. 

Geoffrey Beene Single button Notch Tux

Tall slim guys can get away with just about anything (just like with the ladies... it sucks, but it is true). The sleek four and five button jackets were made for you. You can get away with a mandarin collar, however if you are very thin it may make you look more like a night kitchen chef.

Joseph + Feiss five button peak collar tux

MUST KNOW TIPS:
1) Wear your pants at your natural waist.  This is a major challenge for most guys.  However, if you don't, the crotch WILL look like you could stuff a holiday ham in it and still have room.  Not a good look.
2) Don't do a cummerbund unless you are wearing tails or a cutaway jacket.  This day and age, it has become a very formal accessory, and will simply look weird with a modern jacket style.
3) Only wear a cutaway jacket at a very formal daytime (pre-2pm) wedding.
4) Do a standard tie.  Although bowties look good with a vest, a long tie looks better. Euro ties give a bit more of a formal look than standard Windsor knot ties, ascots are suitable for cutaway jackets (read: daytie only).
5) A traditional wing collar looks great with bowties or long ties, a spread collar should only be worn with a standard windsor knot tie.
6) BRING SOCKS!  They are not included with your tux , however shirt jewelry for buttons and cuffs are.
7) The more contemporary wider tow shoes are WAY more comfortable than the standard penguin suit shoes.  They are worth the additional cost.
8) DO NOT make rude innuendos or comments to women who work in the shop.  They are not interested in checking your in-seam.  They do not believe the crotch of your pants is too tight.  They will not under any circumstances help you put your pants on.  Underwear is not optional.  Behave.

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Shoes Make The Girl, Make The Dress.

I absolutely love the unexpected little details that make each wedding so personal and unique.  One of the many ways I have seen brides make their personal mark is through fashion.  Of course you have a "the perfect dress" which should be a reflection of your personal style.  But there are accessories which really tell the story.  Shoes for example.  Gone are the plain white satin pumps that were the mainstay for brides.  Now, take a peek under the hem and you'll often find an unexpected surprise.

These uber-chic Kate Spade pink peep toes were worn by a bride who's invitations we did last summer.  Her colors were pink and gold, and she truly had one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever seen.  You can find these beauties on http://www.zappos.com/

I love black and white weddings, and if you don't quite have the moxie to have a black and white dress, you can easily bring a little sexy back to a white gown with these gorgeous Christian Louboutin pumps.

I love the chiffon rouching and how it adds a delicate yet naughty look.  These would be perfect with a short wedding gown (which are becoming all the rage accorsing to fashionistas).  I am drooling over these puppies.

You can find them at http://www.net-a-porter.com/  

What about those of us who will never really grow-up?  I wanted a pair of ruby slippers so badly when i was little.  And if I could do it again, I would definitely put these on the must wear list on my wedding day.

Click your heels and go home with the man of your dreams!  You can find these cuties on http://www.buycostumes.com/

Spring wedding?  How about adding a little whimsy with these Roberto Cavalli mesh floral print pumps?  So unexpected, yet still sweet and romantic.

 Find these at http://www.net-a-porter.com/

What about your something blue?  The perfect place to add the special touch is on your feet with these super cute, Madison Harding patent leather pumps wrapped with a blue satin bow. 

   

You can find them at http://www.shop.nordstrom.com/ (although I think they're back-ordered until mid December).

Worlds Most Expensive Diamonds

It's been a rainy grey day, and that made me what to find some sparkle.  The insurance on these blingy's would cost as much as a house. Every year. I don't know if that is true, since, unfortunately I am not the one insuring them.  Above is a picture of the world's most expensive diamond ring ever sold-- an internally flawless light blue cushion cut diamond--priced at a mere 9.49 million dollars and weighing 7.03 carats.

How would you like to set this rock on your finger?  You'd need a sling to hold your arm up.  108 carats and a hefty $16 million price tag... Man I wish I owned Sotheby's.  In fact, what a fun place to waste time day dreaming http://www.sothebys.com/  You can browse through the masterpieces and rarities up for auction.

This is by far my favorite diamond ring ever.  A totally flawless white diamond set above a gorgeous pink diamond.  Who would have thought... no, one giant perfect diamond is simply not enough.  Let's do two! A little over 10 carats and only a little over 1 million bucks, this baby could be yours!  Check http://www.debeers.com/ to claim your prize.