Wedding Wednesday: The Best Of Fall 2017 Gowns

( Via: Town & Country )

Planning a wedding for Fall 2017? I know that bridal gowns are on your mind.  So this picky editor took myself to the runways of Fall 2017 Bridal Week, via the Internet. My mission? Finding swoon worthy gowns. The number one trend seemed to be sheer, or barely there dresses. Unless you walk around wearing see thru clothing every day, why would you want to walk down the aisle that way? Other trends are easier to warm up to, such as statement sleeves, turtlenecks (yes) cold shoulders, tea lengths, long sleeves (thank goodness) and lots and lots of lace. 

HERE: My Top Twelve Gowns

Claire Pettibone Primavera Gown
I begin with my number one pick. Oh the details on this dress! A blush floral bodice, dusty rose colored peonies, garden green leaves trailing and floral appliques on the long sheer sleeves. This dress brings the botanical trend to life in the most romantic way.
Claire Pettibone 

Temperley London Lattice Gown
Metallics are having a moment for bridal gowns. The embellishment on this dress is not overdone, yet adds sparkle. It's sleek, modern, and so sophisticated. One of the most fashionable of the edit.
Moda Operandi 

Vera Wang 

The Fall 2017 collection is inspired by love. There is a whole lot of sheerness going on, too, which seems to be about more lust than love. These two gowns offer sophisticated fabrics and draping. Love those long sleeves!

Vera Wang

Monique Lhuillier Stardust

This was Monique's showstopper, in my view. It's glam and very unique. Who doesn't love sparkle and feathers?

Monique Lhuillier

Viktor & Rolf Flower Cloud Shirt Dress

A little frou frou for the tailored bride. I love the chic contrast between the bodice and skirt.

Viktor & Wolf 

Christos Costarellos 
The right beach wedding gown is hard to pin down. It really isn't the place for beading and sequins. This dreamy dress is such the perfect pick. The flounces give it a free flowing feel.
Wedding Tales 

Oscar De La Renta Look #4
Bows make a statement for next Fall. This one is just how I like them - deconstructed. Lovely.
Oscar De La Renta

Naeem Khan Look #14

Tea length is a definite trend for Fall 2017. I think this look is for a confident bride. The intricate embroidery on this dress is so very fanciful and wonderful!

Vogue  

Percy Fall 2017
Another lace turtleneck which is softened by tiers upon tiers of pleated flounces.
The Impression  

Lela Rose

Not every girl dreams of being a princess bride. I certainly didn't and I am sure that Ms. Shop This doesn't either. We would, however, both love this look. How fabulous for a City Hall wedding!
Lela Rose  

Eve Of Milady
Pretty in pink, this dress is right on trend in color. It has oodles of feminine details. A bit precious for me but gorgeous for the right girl. 
The Impression  

Yolan Chris Tamarindo Dress
Understated with a lace turtleneck, but yet sophisticated. Love this dress for an afternoon wedding. Fabulous for Fall!
Yolan Chris

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Ceremony Chic

Champagne Wishes......

I just love New Years. The ritual of saying "hello" to the new and "goodbye" to the old is so filled with promise. Do you stay up to see the New Year arrive? I do, and always with champagne in hand. In fact, I find myself blogging about 'Bubbly' alot. The best way to move forward is to "look back," and remember where you have been.  Today I send you my best Champagne Wishes for the New Year, while looking back at all things champagne chic on the blog.

HERE: 10 Champagne Wishes

Champagne On Ice

This is a party waiting to happen.  I discovered this beautiful bucket earlier this month, and I am a bit obsessed. See it and other delicious party details at
Happy Hosting: It's All About The Details

Champagne Cocktail Recipes

Anyone can pour a glass of bubbly. Why not try a little something different this year with a special Champagne Cocktail recipe? Here's some great choices from a recipe source I refer to often on the blog
 Food52

The Year's Most Popular Bog Post
Much to my surprise, the most read post of 2016 was Gifts For August Birthday Girls, and what do you know? Champagne was featured in the opening image!

Prosecco Bubble Bath
Another favorite find, and the perfect gift for any girly girl on your list. I posted this last Valentine's Day, and I still love it  almost a year later.  You will find this post Here

Pretty In Pink
I just wanted to dive into Lauren Conrad's pretty pink champagne cocktail the minute I saw it. It really makes a stylish signature cocktail for a wedding. Get the recipe and other perfectly pink picks on my post: 
Wedding Wednesday: A Pretty Pink Palette

Don't We All Need One Of These?
As seen in Veranda, Elle Decor, Glamour magazine & The Montage Beverly Hills Hotel and Suites. I have a version of this, my favorite motto, on a Pinterest Board called Style Speak. You can find and purchase your own framed vintage version at Lisa Go Lightly on Etsy .

Wedding Wednesday: Say Yes To A Dress With Sleeves! 
A bride can often be found drinking champagne, but in this case she is wearing the prettiest Temperley London  gown done in a chic champagne shade.

 Champagne Chic
One of my favorite finds this year was Maison Martin Margiela's Champagne Pail.  It makes a great gift for the fashion forward champagne lover. See it and other uncommon gifts at 
Wedding Wednesday: Uncommon Gifting 

Oysters With Champagne & Caviar
Three of my favorite things. Find the recipe at 
Gifts For Foodies & Recipes They'll Love!

And Lastly......
My personal favorite image of the year, which was just posted this week. Sometimes it is good to save the best for last. If you missed the post, click here: The Life Of The Party. Here's looking at you Kids!




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Wedding Wednesday: Fabulous Fashion For The Mother Of The Bride

Ahhh, to be the Mother Of The Bride! I have never been one, but I know I would just be darling at it. (wink). Two rules to follow: Do not wear the same color as the bride, and make sure the color you choose compliments the overall wedding party color palette. This edit is not your "run of the mill" look that one might find at a bridal shop. Not my style.  I say, sure it's your daughters day, but you can have a "fashion moment," too. So enjoy this modern mix that offers a youthful spirit for all types of Moms and wedding venues. 

 Notte by Marchesa Faille Hi-Lo Gown

This is a gorgeous gown that is both regal and fun. A close up view shows the fabulous illusion neckline and back with just the right amount of sparkle. See it on the runway at
Saks Fifth Avenue

Kay Unger New York 
Sequined-Lace Jacket and Cocktail Dress
Be a shining star at your child's wedding! This look is conservative but still chic, and very on trend in metallic.
Neiman Marcus

Temperley London Josette Gown
This is one WOW dress! I couldn't love a gown any better. Pale pink silk with a beaded grey overlay equals drama and sophistication. Crazy expensive but worth it.
Avenue 32 and Temperley London

Resort 2015 Collection Look 24
The perfect cocktail suit. The detail on the skirt is really gorgeous, and i love the mix of textures.
Donna Karan

Ralph Lauren Estella Dress
What a chic choice for an afternoon wedding. The perforated suede bodice is softened with a flowing silk skirt. Very sophisticated!
Ralph Lauren

Teri Jon Jacquard Trumpet Gown
This dress is rather dramatic in the softest of ways. Go ahead, be the golden girl!
Saks Off 5th

Embroidered Lace And Tulle Illusion Dress
Loving this beautiful black and white dress with all of its' amazing details. Unless you are a very edgy Mom, I think I would trade out the booties for a pretty pump. Now on sale!
Oscar De La Renta

 Alexander McQueen Kimono-Sleeve Midi Dress
Colorblock chic. This is a sensation in silk and perfect for the fashion forward Mom. Change out the gladiator shoes for pumps and you have a more conservative look.
Bergdorf Goodman

Donna Karan Cape Gown
My own Mother wore brown to my wedding. It was the perfect compliment to the all ivory color palette.
This look is draped to perfection, and just may cover what needs to be covered. Now on sale at
Neiman Marcus

 St. John Collection Feather and Beaded Dress and Jacket
For the Mom that wants to be chic AND fun. St. John usually leans conservatively, but this suit is also whimsical. It's actually a lovely look for a church wedding. The sleeveless dress and jacket are sold individually.
Nordstrom

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Wedding Wednesday: Down The Aisle With Alternative Style

(Via Inslee Designs)

Do you enjoy shows like "Say Yes To the Dress?"  I enjoy watching the process of gown shopping. I have to say, however, I have yet to see a dress that I would have worn or can see my daughter wearing.  Of course, the traditional wedding gown can be gorgeous for some. But if you don't dream about looking like a princess, can't imagine wearing a veil, prefer couture to bridal style, or are having a small private affair, there are alternatives.  Wear what makes you feel the best version of yourself on your special day. 

Here's How To Get Down The Aisle In Alternative Style

Vera Wang
Even Vera realizes that brides come in all sizes and types. These are for a girl with an edge. From her Spring 2014 Collection.
Vera Wang

Claire Pettibone

Casablanca

Floral lace mini with flowing chiffon panels and re-embroidered lace appliqués. From one of my favorite wedding gown designers. Modern, sexy and ethereal.

Claire Pettibone

Merrie's White Victorian

I wore a hat for my own wedding. It is so much fun to be different. I love the unexpected, such as this dramatic back. Sold only at
Free People

Theia - Spring 2015
Haven Sleeveless Silver Floral Jacquard and Tulle Crop Top Ball Gown. For the very trendy bride!
Theia 

Elie Saab
This white haute jumpsuit proves that you can wear Chantilly lace and not be dressed traditionally.  
Neiman Marcus

Debbie's Limited Edition Dress

You'll be the "something blue" in this chic crochet and lace dress. Perfect for a Las Vegas wedding!

Free People

Claire Pettibone Robyn

Toile cotton pencil skirt with lace bodice and tulle overlay with satin sash. One of the best short gowns I have seen.

Claire Pettibone

Oscar de la Renta 
Bow Gown
Every bit as dressy as a traditional gown, sans a veil. I would add gold shoes and a touch of gold in my hair. Gorgeous!
Oscar de la Renta

Temperley London
Avalia Dress
Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn with this sophisticated sheath. Don't you love the gloves with it?
Temperley London

Claire Pettibone Raven
I was the brave soul that wore a black floral dress to the Senior Prom. So why wouldn't I walk down the aisle in this beauty? Black tulle embroidered with pink and red roses over silver sequins and pearl silk with long train. And for the less adventurous bride, it comes in ivory.
Claire Pettibone

Lanvin Embellished
Duchesse-Satin Dress
Fluffy with frou frou, this fab frock is perfect for the girl who just wants to have some fun!
Net-a-Porter

Temperley London Catroux Dress
Perhaps my favorite of this edit.  I love the sculptured twists and turns of this strikingly sheer dress.
Shop Bop

ML MONIQUE LHUILLIER
Right On Key Gown
With a look this fabulous, "alternative" is awesome! This is a great pick if you are getting married in a hurry. It is a rental! Once you see the details of the rented and the original price, you just might be sold on the idea.
Rent The Runway

Monique Lhuillier Paige Skirt

Now this is unique! If you just don't wear dresses, this is your answer for your special day.

Shop Bop

Miguelina Lilly Dress
Cotton lace creates a sophisticated dress with a vintage vibe.  So perfect for a morning or afternoon wedding. 
BHLDN

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