When it comes to wedding gown fabrics I think that lace is far underutilized. I mean you always see the Melissa Sweet gown, Hallie, that is beyond overused, but we want something new and fresh. Beware that the wrong silhouette of lace can be super matronly, so just look for modern shapes. So I am here to tell you that lace can be an amazingly sexy, sophisticated, and chic when done right.

The 2 most common types of lace for wedding gowns are Chantilly and Alencon. Chantilly lace is “a form of bobbin lace. It was originally made in the town of Chantilly, France. It was very popular during the 17^th century. It is characterized by fine a net ground and delicate flowers, scrolls and branches. The pattern is commonly outlined with heavy silk thread. Alencon has “a fine net ground and a raised outer edge (cordonnet). The majority of this type of lace is made by machine today.”  Thanks Fabrics.net for those titillating descriptions.  

Here are my favorite lace gowns.

Left to right: First Row, Rivini, Vineyard Collection, Melissa Sweet. Second Row: Vera Wang, Juno by Augusta Jones.

Large Photo: Monique Lhuillier. Clockwise from the top left: Jenny Lee, Priscilla of Boston, Pronovias, Jim Hjelm.

Large Photo: Judd Waddell. Top to bottom: Sunshine by Adele Wechsler, Eden Bridals, Jewel.

So tell me!? Do you dig lace? or could you do without!? why!? Who makes your favorite lace gowns!? Tell me, Tell me.

Lauren

Get the look: dress, Lindsey Thornburg; belt, Banana Republic; shoes, Cole Haan; & bracelet, Banana Republic.

Calling all insanely stylish brides!!! This look screams fashion elite. Kruger’s brilliant Alessandra Rich gown is just insane with the touch of green and orange... out of this world. When I saw this Lindsey Thornburg peachy gown with it’s floaty sleeves and defined waist I thought it perfectly captured the feel of Kruger’s gown. I would pair it with the same unexpected orange pop with the a belt from Banana Republic. A pair of chic nude sandals and a dainty bracelet are all of the accessories that you need. This is on of my favorites! Just do it!!

Don’t be afraid to rock celebrity style on your big day!!!

Lauren

I just moved to San Diego and in my mind I was moving to sunny California, wrong. Dude, Cali is COLD!!! I am absolutely shocked. That got me thinking, what about those SOCAL brides who are freezing their tail’s off in the middle of summer!?!? They need something chic to cover up with just like the winter brides. So here are some great options for both summer and winter cover ups.

Summer. clockwise from the top middle: Alex Bridal on Etsy, Elizabeth and James, Elizabeth and James, Haute Hippie.

When looking for a summer coverup, make sure to pay close attention to the weight of the fabric. You want something lightweight that will keep you warm without overheating you. Look for laces and other breathable fabrics. Be bold and even throw on a metallic blazer!! Why not!?!? It’s your wedding you can do whatever the heck you want to!!! I think the key is actually to get something that it will be possible to re-wear otherwise it’s sorta a waste.

Winter. Clockwise from the top middle: MaryandAngelika on Etsy, Halston Heritage, Alex Bridal on Etsy, Calvin Klein.

Now let's not forget the actual freezing cold winter, you can go crazy with a winter coverup, anything from a thick silk dupioni to a fur shawl. When it’s stupid cold out a gorgeous winter white wool coat will do the job nicely, plus, you can actually wear it again. Just make sure that whatever you choose to cover up with that the shape works for your gown.

Lauren

Since the ceremony took place right outside the reception venue, guests were able to quickly walk over and begin their cocktail hour while they tour the museum. As Scott so eloquently put it, "In a nod to or current home city, we treated our guests to Britain’s favorite summer cocktail – Pimm’s –", as they found their names on the most adorable die-cut flowers, butterflies, birds, and bees. Taking their seats at beautifully decorated table featuring elegant yet modern white vases that allowed the grouped flowers to “pop” against the white walls and tablecloth, the happy couple had their first dance. "As the evening came, the the white walls where washed in hues of fuchsia adding to the drama (and making for killer photos)"says Scott and we couldn't agree more! Scott wanted to surprise his bride with something she wanted the entire planning process but decided to forego it to add other things. Knowing how much she wanted it, he came to me and asked that we plan a candy bar to surprise her on the wedding day. What do you think? LOVEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!        

Scott and Sally, sharing in the planning and your amazing day was truly an honor. I learned a lot about myself and was really able to enjoy the entire process with you both every step of the way. May this be the first of MANY years to come. –Love, Mo Thank you again to Scott Hopkins Photography for the images.