Bold, Chic and in Love: Vera or Monique?

Recently I was able to assist a stylist for the cover of the September issue of the Knot Magazine. It was a ten look shoot on couture wedding gowns. Needless to say, I was absolutely dying! All the dresses were far more beautiful then I could possibly describe, not to mention that they were being worn by a perfectly stunning model. I also got to play with some of the most beautiful (and expensive) wedding rings I had ever seen!

Naturally, of all the designers that we had there were two that really stood out to me- Vera Wang & Monique Lhuillier. Two of the most well-known wedding gown designers, who design to perfection but are so different in style and technique. Monique creates beautiful, feminine dresses that are heavily textured. Vera is equally stunning, also beautiful yet often pushes the envelope with her designs.  They have that extra bit of sass oftentimes.

While we can admire both designers, there must be one that makes you squeal a little louder! Are you more a Monique or Vera bride?

Here are some of the looks for each designers spring 2012 line.

All photos courtesy of Vera Wang & Monique Lhuillier

While all designer gowns are lovely and do come with a price tag for a designer label, they can at least provide great inspiration for what you look for!  However, they do have some simpler gowns that start at a more moderate number.  For example, Monique Lhuillier's gowns start as low as $2200.  Also Vera's new White Collection at David's Bridal makes a Vera Wang gown affordable for various price points and budgets too.  

I must admit, I'm definitely a Monique girl myself ;), what are you?

If you ever want a stylists opinion on your dress, feel free to email me at jocelyn@sterlingengagements.com.

xO,
Jocelyn

Bold, Chic and in Love: Bridesmaid Dresses for Spring

Last time we discussed the perfect strapless bridesmaid dresses for this spring. Today we are covering the rest of your options. We have some beautiful shades and styles for your ladies to strut down the aisle in!

Here are some colorful, fun spring options for your maids:

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom, Bloomingdales & Kate Spade

1. Rosette One Shoulder by BCBCMAXAZRIA 
The draping in front of this rose dress is extremely flattering on any body type, as it is slightly hugging the right parts of the body to give off a very feminine shape. Love the embellished strap for spring!

2. Audrey by BCBGMAXAZRIA
This dress is beautifully simple. Similar yet so different from option one. This is for the bride who is more clean cut and traditional. I love this dress for the more type-A bride.

3. Sleeveless Pleated Chiffon Dress by Maggy London
This orange is absolutely stunning. The chiffon layers are very playful.  The right belt can make this dress very flattering. I would opt for a gold metallic belt over brown to make it a bit dressier.

4. Dotted Chandler Romper by Kate Spade
Who doesn't love polka dots? This dress is for the fun couple that is doing everything a little different. This spring we are going to see many brides choosing non-traditional dresses for their bridesmaids. It is becoming very popular to let your bridesmaids personalities show through their dress- polka dots versus plain make a very different statement!

5. Lavender Label Organza Dress by Vera Wang
This is bridesmaid chic. I love the color, simplicity and yet fashion-forward style of this dress. It is a daring choice! 

6. One Shoulder Metal Taffeta Dress by BCBGMAXAZRIA
Another dress very similar to option one, yet extremely different. This form fitting, metallic dress with the rose on the shoulder is for the sexy bride. This is very Sex in the City.

7. One Shoulder Ruched Chiffon Dress by Monique Lhuillier 
This option is appropriate for many different ages, yet the blue makes it much more fun! The cinched waist makes it a very flattering option. 

8. Heritage Matte Jersey Dress by Halston 
Although you aren't typically supposed to wear white to a wedding, this color hue is becoming more and more popular. Adding a beautiful, colorful bouquet of flowers will make your alter absolutely pop! This dress is flattering, simple, and chic. Dress it up with a colorful pump or statement necklace!

9. One Shoulder by Cut25
This yellow is so fun! Spring weddings should be bright and beautiful, which makes this dress absolutely perfect! Another dress that is easy to dress up with the right bouquet or statement necklace. The yellow can demand its own attention though, making it a very simple dress.

I am confident that your bridesmaids will look perfectly styled for a beautiful spring or summer wedding! If you have any questions on how to choose the right dress, feel free to email me at jocelyn@sterlingengagements.com

Over on The Fashion One this week...

Jersey
and
Baby Love

xO,

Jocelyn