Colorful wedding dresses: Why go the conventional way

You may spend months shopping for that perfect wedding dress for yourself. After all, your wedding dress deserves a special appeal. Although you may not wear it again, the care and precision you put in making the choice is nonparallel. The traditional wedding dress can be a universal favorite, but you would not regret having made a different choice (which would be much liked by your grandmother as well).

With some careful observation and knowledge about the current trend, you could choose (or even design) the dress of your dreams. If white or ivory is not on your mind, there are plenty of other choices. But be patient! Shopping for a colorful gown can be frustrating (or completely frustrating if you are not quite fond of it). There are also many online stores available, and if you can do some ‘hard’ browsing, you could find one which suits your need. There can be dresses ranging from $299 to $599 (and there could be no stopping as far as the spending is considered).

You can find one which is pretty, like the princess look (from the vintage collection), or a cool one with a natural fabric, the cap sleeves or the full sleeves, and many more from the market. Some of the designers offer modest wedding gowns in their bridal salons.

The red

This is a traditional colored dress for the brides in many countries. Although the color may not apparently be high on popularity in the United States, countries like China regard it as a traditional color of good luck and auspiciousness. The Chinese weddings feature red décor, including red wedding gowns. The color is also closely related to love, which is one of the most significant expressions at the wedding. Red can also have variations like, deep burgundy, brick red, etc.

The blue

Usually, you do not find blue as the wedding dress color. But it is gaining popularity off late. This can be a bold depiction of yourself, particularly if this is your favorite color. Here also, you may have variations, like sky blue or deep blue.

The black

This can be quite repelling from the conventional one, though! But it can be audacious. Your wedding dress can have new dimensions with the black color. You can have a combination with black to dilute its affect. The black is especially popular in Scandinavia.

There is an interesting reference to the black wedding dress. While Sarah Jessica Parker chose to wear a black dress on her wedding, she later admitted of having regrets not choosing a traditional one.

It is encouraging to have a special appeal on your wedding day. But ensure that you are not doing it just to go against the convention. Some sentiments are attached to specific colors. It is good to be careful (and discuss with your close ones) before choosing a black dress.

A blend

If you want to enjoy your traditional wedding dress with some color dashes, you could go for a colored hemline or even a colored bow. Such a dress can give the versatility of the traditional feel with a modern appeal. You can easily find such dresses from bridal retailers.

Wedding traditions are diverse. You have many like the Western culture “wedding white” from the Victorian Era or the Japanese wedding kimono. The idea is to be special and unique. You can shop for the traditional one or the modern one. Recently, colored wedding dresses have picked up interest. Several bridal salons offer styles and designs to suit the demand.

 

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About the author: Alia Haley is a frequent blogger on the wedding portal. She has covered many interesting topics related to pre and post wedding scenario like wedding cakes, themed weddings, bridal shower, honeymoon destinations and romantic gateways.

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How to Choose Your Bridesmaids Wedding Shoes

It is natural to feel a little overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the shoes that your bridesmaids will be wearing to your wedding. You will likely want your bridesmaids input into the shoes which they will wear, but at the same time, you will want the shoes to fit in with your overall image of the bridal party. So what do you do?

You Pick the ShoePicking the shoe yourself that each bridesmaid will wear is the best option if you want a uniformed look. Try to be considerate of your bridesmaid’ financial position before picking out the most expensive shoe.

You Pick the ColourYou will likely know what colour shoes you are looking for, so ask your bridesmaids to pick out shoes in that colour. You can also indicate the style if you wish, for example heels or sandals.

You Pick the StyleYou could just pick the style and let the bridesmaids find shoes that fit these criteria. Be aware that you cold end up with shoes with contrasting colours, which is okay if that is the style you are looking to achieve.

You need to make whichever options you choose clear upfront, so that none of the ladies end up spending a fortune on the wrong shoes. Be clear and concise in what you want and more importantly, what you don’t want.

Fancy Colour Diamonds

Ever since you saw Jennifer Lopez’s pink diamond engagement ring you’ve had your heart set on your very own, high end, fancy colored diamond jewelry? Here are a few pros and cons to take into consideration when shopping for fancy color diamond set jewelry:

The Pros
Fancy colour diamonds were once considered to be inferior to colourless diamonds in terms of quality and value. However, these days, gemologists and loose diamond experts have all recognized the immense rarity and value of naturally formed fancy colour diamonds. When shopping for fancy colour diamond set jewellery pieces, one can rely on the fact that fancy colour diamonds are incredibly rare and unique and that fancy colour diamond set jewellery is bound to be truly one of a kind, eye catching and incredible stunning. A customer who is interested in a dazzling, unique jewellery piece is sure to be pleased with a high end, fancy colour diamond engagement rings, wedding bands, bracelets, stud earrings or pendants.

 

The Cons
Although fancy colour diamonds are incredibly unique, they are also incredibly valuable and expensive. Since fancy colour diamonds are so rare, and since fancy colour diamonds that are high in quality and in carat weight are so uncommon, jewellery set with fancy colour diamonds can get rather costly. In addition, since natural fancy colour diamonds are so uncommon, you may discover that finding your dream fancy colour engagement ring , wedding band, or any other kind of jewellery for that matter, is not an easy task. Subsequently, you may be forced to have your fancy colour diamond set jewellery custom designed and made.

Classic vintage wedding attire makes a perfect bride

You are one of those girls who wish to pose as a perfect bride on your D-Day. But what’s so extra-ordinary about it? For that exceptional look that you are yearning for, you need that transformation into a stunning beauty. But will that happen just day-dreaming about your groom? No way. If you want that picture perfect look you need to go out of your way.

Just looking pretty and sweet on your wedding has become history. Now you need some extra zest, enigma, appeal and of course the true fashion sense to mesmerize everyone. It’s your day so why not hold that aura of a fairy or a damsel? Yes we know that your parlor appointments, beautician, spas all are scheduled but what about your bridal trousseau for that extravaganza?

No time to think and plan, right? Don’t worry, just get-set-go with a vintage-inspired wedding dress. If you are a diva who exudes opulence through your look, then the gorgeous, cost effective and the easy to get vintage pattern is just the right choice for you. But there are other reasons to grab this out-of-the-box apparel as it will take you through a new experience and journey. You can create magic of the Vintage era through your eye-catching couture.

For a different appeal and that ultra-glam look on your special day, vintage dress is a trend. There is hardly any need to dress yourself up with a run-of-the-mill kind. And moreover the fashionistas like you set the trend and not follow them especially when it is the most significant day of your life.

Well, we know girls what apprehensions you are having. You are concerned about your dad’s pocket it seems. Well shoo your worry away. The classic vintage wedding dress is the right choice when it comes to shelling out. Don’t worry babes! These extra-ordinary look will not burn a hole in your pocket. It can be bought in your budget as well. And don’t think that you have to compromise on the best outfit either if you are running low on funds. So chill, the dress is even ideal when it comes to cost.

The best part is that the vintage style is available in all the sizes, shape designs and patterns that can suit your body type. If you are stick-thin or a little bloated type stop sulking. Here you go with the most ideal and sophisticated costume.

Well the classy and urbane look is incomplete without the jewelry. The ornaments are something you just can’t miss on. With the jewelry of a different era you can look matchless and elegant. The right piece of sparkling stones or shining crystals for your attire – be it an earring, a stud, a neckpiece or a bracelet – will affix a royal taste to your entire appearance.

Adorned in pearls and diamonds of the vintage style you are the noticeable princess of the day. If you are trying a big hairdo to adorn your look, don’t forget a tiara. But try to stay away from those bulky large pieces that can distort your complete appearance. Don’t focus on those big and tacky jewelries.

The brides-to-be, now you can make your guests know what marriage was like in 1960’s. The conservative style of that period can alter your look to the modern and chic bride. Now you can flaunt a great style statement on your nuptials and make it the most outstanding day of your life.

About the author: Alia Haley is an avid writer and blogger on wedding and different aspects associated with it. She writes frequently on Wedding Portal and is at present on a look out for new trends related to wedding seasons.

Don’t Forget your Wedding Feet

When planning a wedding, feet usually don’t rank high in wedding preparations, and so they shouldn’t.  However, if you and your bridesmaids are planning on wearing open-toed shoes,  some consideration should be had to avoid any last minute decisions and headaches.

Some Things to Consider When it Comes to your Wedding Feet
-    Will they be wearing nail polish?
-    Will they be getting professional pedicures?
-    Will the colour be unified amongst the bridesmaids?
-    What colour will it be in relation to the shoes (contrasting, matching)?
-    What colour will it be in relation to the gown (contrasting, matching)?

These needn’t be very hard decisions to make and defiantly not decisions that you should become overwhelmed by. They are merely part of the wedding planning puzzle. It is one of the small details that will make up the overall look of the bridesmaids.

Trendy Alternative Diamond Wedding Jewellery

Although it is true that most couples prefer the classic engagement ring/wedding band combo, there are those couples who wish to mark their commitment with wedding jewellery that is in no way conventional, claiming that their wedding jewellery should be as special and unique as their exceptional relationships are. For those couples looking for distinctive wedding jewellery here is a list of alternative wedding jewellery trends for 2011:

You can’t go wrong with diamond stud earrings
Timeless and elegant, diamond stud earrings are known for their incredible appearance, tasteful aesthetics and as great alternatives to more conventional wedding jewellery pieces. Wearing matching diamond studs is the perfect way of marking your everlasting commitment to one another, not to mention that diamond stud earrings can, at times, be significantly less expensive than diamond set engagement rings and wedding bands.


Who doesn’t love diamond heart pendants?

Matching diamond heart pendants imbued with sentimentality and deeper meaning would make great alternative wedding jewellery. A split heart diamond pendant is especially favoured by couples who are looking for a way to indicate the love they share for one another.



Who could say no to diamond journey necklaces?

Featuring three consecutively set diamonds on a long chain, diamond journey necklaces are meant to represent the past, present and future stages in a couple’s relationship and the journey they embark on together once they have made their commitment. Diamond journey necklaces are especially popular with the younger demographic who aren’t afraid of a little bling.

Top 3 Most Popular Wedding Ring Styles for 2011

2011 was marked with an increase in shoppers’ demand for stylish, chic and unique wedding rings. Consequently, this year’s jewellery market is flooded with wedding rings in an abundance of styles and designs, from the ever-popular, classic solitaire diamond wedding band to more contemporary, precious gemstone encrusted cluster set wedding rings. Here are the top 3 most popular wedding band styles for 2011:

Plain banded wedding rings
Simple, unadorned wedding rings are an all time favorite. Adored for their simple aesthetics, their clean lines, their graceful contours, plain banded wedding rings are perfect for couples who want understated, elegant looking wedding rings. Not to mention that this style of wedding band is usually the most affordable when it comes to various wedding ring styles due to the simplicity of its design and the lack of diamond or precious gemstone embellishments.

Tension set wedding rings
The tension setting is a relatively new setting style, favored for its tasteful, yet unique appearance. A tension setting will commonly feature a solitaire diamond, set flush to the band’s surface, held securely in place by two tiny metal prongs attached to the band’s metal edges. Tension set wedding rings are perfect for couples who are looking for a truly one of a kind, sophisticated wedding band.

Eternity wedding rings
Eternity wedding rings are just about the same as eternity engagement rings. Pave set diamonds encircle the entire spans of the ring’s band, creating a glitzy effect. The eternity wedding band was made popular by its eye-catching, glittery allure and is in high demand with those couples who are interested in a wedding band that is sure to awe and astound. Eternity wedding rings can at times be more costly than the plain banded wedding ring and the tension set wedding band mentioned above due to the amount of diamonds incorporated in this particular wedding ring style, however, the eternity wedding bandmakes up for its costliness with its glamorous appearance.

Help! I Was Invited to a Wedding and Don’t Know What to Wear!

One of the daunting aspects for many wedding guests, especially if you have not been to that many weddings before, is deciding what to wear to a wedding. In many cases the wedding invitation will specify the level of formality dress code required.  If not, there are usually other clues which will help you to determine what level of dress code is expected of you.

Things to Consider
The Venue

The venue will be the single biggest indicator of the dress code. For example, what you wear to an outdoor wedding will differ to what you would wear to an indoor wedding. An outdoor wedding will require you to accommodate your attire to the weather and environmental conditions. That means no heels at the beach wedding!  Another specific example are church weddings which have certain restrictions on what you can and can’t wear inside the church.

Is it a Daytime or Evening Wedding?

Generally speaking, an evening wedding usually requires more of a formal look which can be achieved with a cocktail dress and heels. Alternatively, a day time wedding would allow for a more subtle level of formality.

What Not To Wear to a Wedding

Common sense is the best indicator of what not to wear to a wedding. Avoid wearing clothes that look like you are out clubbing for the night and anything that can be perceived as too skimpy.

Stay away from wearing white dresses as it is considered poor etiquette to wear white to a wedding, as that colour should be reserved for the bride’s gown only. There is still some debate as to whether it is okay to wear black to a wedding. I tend to avoid it, as traditionally black is the colour worn to funerals to signify mourning.

Just Ask

If you find yourself struggling to work out the wedding dress code consider asking the bride herself the next time you see her. You could also ask the bridesmaids or maid of honour for advice or call mutual friends who have are also attending the wedding.

Do I Have to Wear a Traditional Wedding Gown?

A bride was moaning to me the other day about the high cost of buying a wedding dress and how she wished that she didn’t ‘have’ to buy a traditional wedding dress. I questioned her as to why she ‘had’ to buy a wedding dress, because you ‘have’ to wear a wedding dress was her reply. I disagree. I don’t think that a bride needs to buy the traditional wedding gown. In fact, I think that a great deal of money can be saved by purchasing a gown from a non-wedding store.

I think these days when it comes to weddings, the norm is, do whatever makes you happy. Once you accept the fact that it’s your wedding and you are free to make choices that make you and your partner happy, you will have a huge weight lifted from your shoulders and will be able to actually enjoy the wedding planning process.

Trial Your Wedding Nails BEFORE Your Wedding Day

If you are planning on having your nails professional done for your wedding, make sure to have a trial run BEFORE the wedding, especially if you have never had your nails professionally done before as they can take some time getting used to and you may very well end up deciding that it is not for you.

You may also want plenty of time to experiment between gel and acrylic nails as each have their own pros and cons and people tend to have different preference to which they prefer. Talk to an experienced nail technician about your options.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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