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

Twilight Bridal by Alfred Angelo

Yes, you read the title right. And if you're a Twilight fanatic, you're already aware of the upcoming fantasy wedding to be featured in the new Twilight movie being released in November. Recently, Alfred Angelo made the announcement that they will be the official licensed manufacturer of Bella Swan's bridal dress from the movie. The dress will be priced under $1000 and available in a multitude of sizes.

While everyone wonders what the gown will look like, unfortunately no information is being released until the movie opens in theaters. Shortly after, Alfred Angelo will release their version of Bella's dress in all Alfred Angelo Signature stores and independent retailers worldwide.

Until then, we are left to wonder and anxiously wait for the release, with fan-made teasers tugging at our patience. Here's the official trailer for the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn- Part 1.


                            

Still can't get enough? Check out this Twilight Wedding inspiration board:

Photos by: Style Me Pretty, Fan Pop, Harmonious Palette

**Were you inspired by Twilight for your wedding? Tell us about how you incorporated this memorable series into your day!

Love,

The Emily Weddings Team

   

When One Dress Just Won't Do: Bridal Reception Dresses

www.affairswithelegance.com

Change is constant. One of the beauties of the wedding industry is the ever changing trends and styles. These changes are giving new brides the freedom of true personalization and a plethora of design options that far exceeds what existed in the previous generations. More and more, brides are finding new ways to make their special day a little more memorable or unique. One new trend we are noticing is that brides are choosing to change out of there wedding gown and into something more chic and fun for the reception.

 We love this idea! Your wedding dress is such a staple on the big day but not all brides want to spend top dollar on an elaborate, unforgettable gown that they'll want out of all night. Choosing to cut back in price on your wedding gown and opting for a more simplistic design gives you the financial freedom to purchase a 2nd flirty, fun gown with the money you've saved! Wedding gowns are more prone to stains and damage during the reception, with all the dancing, food and drink. Most brides consider this and by having a second dress, avoid the chance of staining or ruining their bridal gown. Designers such as Priscilla of Boston actually boast an entire collection of wedding gowns and reception dresses to be paired together for your big day. You'll notice most bridal salons are recognizing this growing trend and will offer a wider variety of flirty, cocktail-styled dresses. Personally, we love the dress pictured! It's the best of both worlds! A convertible bridal gown! Simply remove the bottom half and train of the dress to reveal a flirty, but still classy cocktail dress!

David Tutera for Faviana- Eva

You can find more convertible dress options here too!

It all comes down to preference and priority. If you've always envisioned a killer gown that's sure to turn heads, you may just want to relish every moment in that very dress. But if you'd rather get your dancing shoes on and party all night long, choosing to purchase a 2nd comfortable reception dress or a convertible gown might just be in your best interest. We love all the new cute, flirty designs that are out now. Designers like Jessica McClintock have a wonderful selection of dresses for decent prices with a variety of color palettes as well!

**Are you planning on changing for your reception? What do you think about the convertible gowns? Let us hear all about it!

    Love,
       
        The Emily Weddings Team

History in the Making: The Royal Wedding

www.aol.com

The day has come! Prince William and, now, Princess Kate are man and wife and their wedding day could not have been more perfect! From the start of the ceremony affairs and processional of honorable guests, the anticipation for the arrival of the bride grew with intensity. All were anxious to see the mysterious gown and catch a glimpse of history truly in the making.

There were many aspects of today's royal wedding that stood out for many of us, whether it be Princess Kate's unforgettable ride to Westminster Abbey with her father, or her 4 minute walk down the Abbey's aisle. The whole day just seemed magical and truly was the epitome of elegance. Her dress, designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen was tasteful yet flattering. Her poise and subtleness is that of a future Queen. Her small bouquet, although understated but manageable, was meaningful containing Lily of the Valley, Stephanotis blossoms and a sprig of Myrtle for good luck (a royal tradition). And her tiara, an 18th birthday present of Queen Elizabeth's, was classic and regal.

www.msnbc.com

 Details from the Day:
    1. Rumor has it that Princess Kate wore flats for her 4 minute walk down the aisle. While most brides do this for the reception, Princess Kate made a wise decision for a very long and memorable walk.
    2. "You may not kiss the Bride"? Yes, Prince William and Princess Kate did not share a first kiss as man and wife within the walls of Westminster Abbey as the church is hallowed ground and a kiss is serious business for royalty. A kiss must be done tastefully and at the most appropriate times.
    3. William did not watch his Bride come down the aisle like most grooms do. This tradition fits rather appropriately for the couple as they represent an even and fair marriage. We know Princess Kate did not vow to "obey" William, like Diana, and a good majority of their relationship ideologies were apparent throughout the ceremony. William would not see his Bride until she was at his side, very representative of their outlook on marriage.
     4. Diana was remembered and very much apart of the day's events whether it was through the engagement ring, special hymns performed during the ceremony, it was even noted that just before Princess Kate entered Westminster Abbey a burst of sunlight broke through the overcast skies, as if to signify Diana's presence.

There is no doubt that today's event will forever be remembered in history. And many that watched this wedding, young and old, will reminisce for years to come.

Of all of today's memorable events, we want to hear your favorite! Likes, dislike, tell us about it! Be detailed as your comments will help create an inspiration board reflecting the royal wedding that future brides might use to create their dream day! = )

           Love,
              The Emily Weddings Team

Fashion Fit for Royalty

One of the biggest stories circling the royal nuptials is the mystery behind Kate Middleton's dress. Her designer as well as the dress itself has been kept a secret throughout the entire planning process and many of us are anxiously waiting to see what it will look like!

Brides.com Editor in Chief Julie Raimondi offered her expectations for the mystery gown this morning on "The Early Show". This morning's show featured a mini fashion show of designer gowns modeled after what many think will mirror Kate's gown. Designers are already putting together new designs and trends into their 2012 lines to market to the many upcoming brides looking for a gown truly fit for royalty. 

"Kate's dress will be an important dress and one that will be talked about forever, but her wedding is already changing the bridal market," says Raimondi. So what styles are catching this newly found royal fever?

[CBS News]

TREND #1: CINDERELLA BALLGOWN (aka -- the formal ball gown)

alfredangelo.com

This classic grand tulle ball gown, which we saw all over the runway and is clearly a result of royal fever. This one is by Alfred Angelo and features a crystal beaded top with layers and layers of tulle at the bottom. The top features enough embellishments to match the grandness of the bottom.

www.shibawi.com

TREND #2: WEDDING HATS
Probably the most exciting, and fun, trend we're seeing is the explosion of the wedding fascinator. When the focus is on a signature accessory, it's important to keep the gown simple and sleek. A simple mermaid gown paired with sleek lines and a modern edge showcases the playfulness of a hat. We predict hats won't solely be worn by the wedding guests, but by brides, as an interesting and intricate alternative to veils.

TREND # 3: EMBELLISHMENTS (formal gowns with intricate adornments)
A royal wedding inspires a return to the formal. This is a gown by Lazaro, and represents the trend of over-the-top embellishments. In recent years, wedding gowns have really paired down, so this is something very different -- it's all about beading and lace and sparkle, along with a formal silhouette, so the effect is very "more-is-more," and it's something we saw a whole lot of in the 2012 collections.
When Princess Diana came out in the voluminous princess ball gown with puffy sleeves and layers of tulle, it became the new "standard." The David and Elizabeth Emmanuel gown was made of 275 yards of pearl-studded silk taffeta, tulle, and netting. It was a lot -- even for the '80s! Thankfully, today's princess ball gowns are toned down, but will always epitomize royal weddings, since gowns must be big and grand to suit a cathedral setting. 

TREND #4: SLEEVES

http://newcric.com/2010/08/13/lace-wedding-gown-long-sleeves/

This is a huge departure from what wedding gowns have looked like for the past 10 years, and it's all about the sleeve. Getting married in Westminster Abbey, Kate's gown will likely have sleeves, and that has inspired sleeved gowns to pop up in almost every line. The body of the gown is simple and flattering, and all the styling is around the arms and neck, making this a very formal look, and surprisingly sexy.
This is also reminiscent of another royal wedding when, in 1956, Grace Kelly went from Hollywood star to real-life princess in a fairy-tale gown by MGM costume designer Helen Rose. The dress was made from 125-year-old Valenciennes rose point lace, 25 yards of silk taffeta, and 98 yards of tulle, and the veil was covered with lace appliquïe lovebirds and thousands of pearls. It was very ornate, without being too much.  

TREND #5 - GRAND TRAINS (aka "the return of the train!")

http://www.weddingdresspicture.net/wedding-dress/wedding-dress-train-3/

 Douglas Hannant designed a gown that features a 12-foot tulle train. Princess Diana's train was 25 feet, so you can imagine what a spectacle that was. We don't expect Kate to go that distance, but she will have a grand train which, like the ball gown, is almost crucial to fill up the space of Westminster Abbey. This kind of statement gown would do just that. Although it's much too daring on top for a royal wedding, it epitomizes the grand, fabulous, over-the-top and super-sexy gowns from the 2012 lines that scream princess fantasy!

Is your dress featured in this list of "Royal Fever" styles? Tell us about it! And if you've already married, share your photos! After all...you wouldn't want to ruin the surprise! = )

       Love,
          The Emily Weddings Team