Fashion Forward: Timeless Wedding Day Hats

2011 was filled with many new beginnings for new trends and we're sure 2012 will be just the same. We briefly saw the start of a growing fashion trend for brides that strays away from traditional veils and embraces the beauty of a perfectly placed hat. Chalk it up to the royal wedding if you will, but these chic and stylish hats are making a come back in bridal fashion and we LOVE it! Just this small touch of timeless elegance added to your already fabulous gown will make all the difference! Check out the photos below to see what we mean:

*Would you wear one of these hats for your wedding? We dare you to stray from the norm and don one of these stylish and elegant hats!

Love,

The Emily Weddings Team

Photo Credits:

Aubrey Joy Photography

Simply Bloom

Avery House Photography

Braedon Photography

Stephanie Williams

Fresh in Love Photography

Harwell Photography

Stacy Jacobson

A "Something Blue" Hue

Traditionally, wedding gowns are found in various shades of white, ivory, and creams. It symbolizes purity and brides have long followed this tradition. Some brides, however, have taken a more unique or expressive approach in regards to the color of their gown. Whether it's simply a pop of color on a white dress or the dress itself is a color other than white, brides are taking the leap and straying from the norm to truly make their wedding gowns a statement on the big day.




Alfred Angelo has made the transition from traditional white dresses to more modern, color infused dresses desirable for some brides. With options to color coordinate in style and color between bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, incorporating your wedding's color scheme into the attire has never been easier.
















Even the most simplistic of gowns can be transformed into a gorgeous and elegant eye-catcher with the addition of a colored bow.

Recently, we've seen a new trend in bridal gowns that doesn't just feature a pop of color...the entire dress is a different color! How could we forget celebrity Gwen Stefani in her gorgeous pink gown! She truly set the tone for colored wedding dresses and took tradition by the horns.

 

Now, we're seeing not pink dresses, but blue dresses! What a way to fulfill your something blue! These blue hues are making a statement in the bridal fashion industry.

 

**What do you think of a blue wedding gown? Would you sport the blue hue on your wedding day?

Love,

The Emily Weddings Team

Photo Credits:

1. Alfred Angelo

2. Social Pop
3. Creative Theme Wedding.com
4. Shibawi.com

Something Borrowed & Something Extraordinary!

You've heard the timeless phrase.."Something borrowed, something blue" and for decades brides have followed this age old tradition. Sometimes, however, finding the items to fulfill this tradition are harder to come by than you originally thought. You're in luck! Today, we'd like to introduce you to a site that actually lets brides borrow or rent designer bridal accessories for a fraction of the retail price! Featured designers include Justine M. Couture, Enchanted Atelier, and Stephanie Browne.

For the classy and sophisticated bride who just wants to wear exquisite pieces on her wedding day, but would never dream of actually purchasing these pieces or wearing them ever again, Something Borrowed NY is your saving grace. While their collection isn't extremely extensive, the items featured are gorgeous!! Accessories from veils, jewelry, and headpieces/adornments  are all available for your borrowing pleasure. Not only will you look fabulous on your special day, but you can fulfill the "something borrowed'" tradition and keep your wallet happy.

**Are you planning on borrowing an item for your wedding day? What items do you think are most sentimental for a bride to borrow?

Love,

The Emily Weddings Team

Photo Credits:
Something Borrowed NY

Bridal Fashion: TOMS!

We've all seen them around. The newest fashion craze for comfortable shoes...Toms! And these incredibly comfortable shoes are making a splash in the bridal fashion industry. With styles including wedged heels, men's styles, as well as a chic, glittery style, these shoes are sure to keep your feet happy all night long.

 

Looking for your something blue?? Check these out!

 

But it gets better...... 

TOMS is responsible for the amazing "One for One" Movement, which will match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of shoes for a child in need.

           

We love these cute and comfortable shoes! We love even more that by purchasing a pair, you're contributing to a wonderful cause. Are you a TOMS lover already?  Do you have your eye on a pair of TOMS for your wedding?

Love,

The Emily Weddings Team

Color/Theme Inspiration: Peacock Feathers!

Looking for rich, jewel tones with a touch of sophistication for your wedding? Well, look no further! we absolutely adore these peacock inspired wedding details that's sure to add the splash of color and creativity to your wedding day!

Peacock feathers are very popular right now in the wedding world. Even better, peacock feathers are considered to be good luck in some cultures. What a wonderful symbol to include in your special day.

Check out some of these gorgeous photos, inspired by the ever glamorous peacock feather and it's rich tones.

**Are you inspired by these gorgeous photos? Tell us about it!

                                                                  Love,
     
                                                                         The Emily Weddings Team


Photos Courtesy of: Blissful Event Design, Chillipot, and named Photographers.

Spring and Summer Wedding Styles

Today is the first day of summer, and what better topic to present then one about seasonal styles for your wedding guests. When hosting a summer wedding, especially outdoors, it's important to consider your guests and ways to make them comfortable. Choosing the attire for your wedding, such as formal, semi-formal, casual, (and possibly mentioning it in the invitation) will allow your guests to gauge what's most appropriate to wear for your wedding festivities.


Today we're featuring an article that discusses the current spring and summer styles that are not only weather appropriate for your guests, but also a great source for chic bridesmaids dresses as well.


Written By: Shannon McCarthy via MSN.com


These warmer months are the most popular time of the year to tie the knot, and with an average of 7,000 couples marrying each day in this country, odds are you're going to be invited to a wedding. We'll help you navigate those nuptials in style.

Photos by:

Alvina Valenta, Jim Hjelm Occasions, Kathy Ireland Weddings by 2be, Liz Fields, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Formal: Glam Gatherings

A formal wedding is by definition a swanky affair, so bring out all the glam you can. The only rule? Don't wear white as that's solely the bride's domain. Consider long, streamlined sheath dresses in matte metallics, or a universally flattering jewel hue like ruby or sapphire blue. Soft column gowns in gossamer silk, especially those with a bit of ruching at the bodice or a jewel-trimmed neckline, look especially divine by candlelight at the reception. Hem length is best worn long, just floating above the floor. If you prefer it higher (perhaps a hem that hits mid-calf) be sure the outfit is extra luxe, like a glowing taffeta skirt and fancy jacket combo or an all-over lace fit-and-flare dress. 

Deck yourself out in a few sparkling baubles. Bold jewelry happens to be very in right now, so there's lots of super-sized cocktail rings, breathtaking pendants and chunky, large-stone necklaces to choose from. A red-carpet-worthy minaudiere is the perfect purse choice, but an oversize envelope clutch in metallic leather or gleaming satin works beautifully, too. Footwear should follow form and bedazzle. Closed-toe pumps and slingbacks can sport either skinny stilettos or easy-dancing mid-height heels and be perfectly proper. Only wear flats? Make sure they're saturated with faux-gemstone embellishment to continue your luxurious line. 

Photos by:

Ashley Dru Wedding & Portrait Photography, Belle Meade Plantation, Bridesmaid Trade.com, Kathy Ireland Weddings by 2be, Siri Bridesmaids, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Semi-Formal: Perfect Parties

Semi-formal weddings hit the sweet spot between fancy and relaxed, so there's lots of gorgeous and really wearable outfit choices to choose from. Aim for a pretty and put-together look, but save darker colors for cooler-weather nuptials. Of-the-moment floral prints and lighter, brighter colors are seasonably fresh—just avoid cartoony designs or loud neon hues. Go higher on the hemline with knee-length fit-and-flare or sheath dresses in refined and substantial fabrics like silk charmeuse, metallic brocade or heavier-weight rayon blends. Or try the ease of a body-skimming maxi dress, but steer clear of too-casual cotton and go for sophisticated silk in a solid color

Glitz is still welcomed at semi-formal ceremonies, but it's better to express that through accessories instead of too-glam gowns. Long fringe earrings and lengthy draped necklaces are both gorgeous and trend-right, while chain-handle mini bags are portable yet pack a lot of style. Satin scarves cover bare shoulders and décolleté if need be, say, during a church service. High slender heels are flattering, but consider a pair of reptile-embossed or bejeweled flats for those hours of celebratory booty shaking on the dance floor. Still like a lift? Dressy platform and wedge sandals provide height without fright.

Photos by:

Jenny Yoo Collection-Los Angeles, Jim Hjelm Occasions, Siri Bridesmaids, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Outdoor and Destination: Sunny Ceremonies

Bare and beautiful are the major style points to hit when attending a vow-taking outdoors. For those invites that mention a garden, backyard or beach, consider a cool halter-strap maxi dress or knee-length frock in a breathable fabric like cotton sateen, crisp linen or our favorite warm-weather pick; a linen-silk blend. Now's the time to indulge in all the big, bright prints and colors so popular this season—sleeveless and strapless sheaths and shifts look extra modern when they sport slightly retro floral fields. Comfy sundresses can even be wedding-appropriate if they're made of silk-cotton blends, cotton broadcloth or other materials more refined than, say, lightweight jersey or velour.

Add an extra hit of embellishment to your more casual dresses with the right accessories. Take your jewelry inspiration from the natural surroundings and sport turquoise-rich cuff bracelets or wood bangles, rough-hewn necklaces and pearl-happy earrings. Straw clutches are hot this year, so carry one of these little natural wonders. Your shoes should take into account what's underfoot. High spiky heels may not be ideal—consider shell- or floral-bedecked flats or demi-wedges for easier walking. If you need a height boost, strap into a totally trendy espadrille wedge sandal. 

**We love all these summer styles, from the patterns to the fashionable details. Are you going to be a bridesmaid or guests at a summer wedding? How will you sport these summer fashions?


                           Love,
                              The Emily Weddings Team