Monday, May 30, 2011

Pearl Stud Wedding Earrings


All brides should have something on their ear when they are getting married, but what about the brides walking down the aisle in an ornate wedding gown or wearing a fashionable, statement necklace?  Enter the stud earring.  Tim Gunn delcares them the most versatile and universally flattering and we agree.  Stud earrings can be the perfect accent to your bridal look.  Here are some of our favorite pearl and crystal stud earrings for brides, or even just a classy night out!  We even have some brand new to us designs to show off too.  If you see what you love, give The Left Bank Bridal Finery a call at 773.972.9474 and order a pair for yourself today!  Above, the Cheri, $62.

Anais designed by Ti Adore, $98

Coin Pearl Studs by Haute Bride, $98.
Available with a crystal accent in clear, champagne, or vintage rose.


Another beautiful pair by Ti Adoro Bridal, Collette, $98.

Betz, $49, by Ti Adoro

Marie Claire Studs, $78.
Not quite pearl, but I couldn't resist this fun pair.


Prefer crystals over pearls?  Check out some of these pretty stud earrings from our previous post here.  Are you wearing stud earrings on your wedding day?  Would you consider wearing any of these beauties every day?  Or find a pair you're in love with?


Where to Buy

Friday, May 27, 2011

Fashion Fridays - Short & Chic

In honor of the addition of dresses to The Left Bank Jewelry's Line, I give you "Fashion Fridays."  Each Friday this month will feature a different dress from the Fancy NY line and the perfect accessories to go with it.  Each dress in the Fancy line was created by a design team of two brothers with a passion for the "Sunday Best" concept.  Their vintage inspired dresses come short or long, are made to measure and available in a variety of sizes.


Meet our last Fashion Friday dress...Pam!  A sophisticated, sleeveless shift dress, with cowl collar effect in silk/cotton Mikado. Ultimately modern and just begging for a hint of sparkle with the right accessories.


Start your perfect bridal look from the top down with a gorgeous face veil.  This new veil by Laura Jayne Bridal perfect mixes contemporary with vintage.  The Therese Veil & Exeter Hair Vine, $309, pair together perfectly.  A French tulle birdcage veil peeks out from behind traditional tulle.


The structure in this earrings blends perfectly with the structure of the cowl neck of the Pam dress, but isn't too matchy-matchy.  Fleur Deco Chandelier Earrings, $149.  Another pretty piece by Laura Jayne Bridal.



Make a statement with this big art deco inspired bracelet.  Deco Glam Cuff, $98.


A simple, modern shoe finished the look perfectly.
Yasmin, $220, by Benjamin Adams


Did we nail it?  What do you think about the Fancy Dresses?  Do you love the look of a vintage inspired dress?   Leave a comment and let us know.  Or, Contact The Left Bank today to schedule your personal dress fitting or to order any of these pretty pieces.  Where to Buy.



Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Peacock Bridal Hair Pieces


Peacock colors have been a chic, popular choice for brides for the past few years and it shows no signs of stopping.  The gorgeous teals, greens, and blues are a gorgeous combination that match a variety of colors.  Are you using peacock feathers to adorn your wedding day or as an accent in your bouquet?  Take those feathers and slide them into your hair.  Peacock is a brilliant accent for hairpieces.  Who says your table should have all the fun?!  Here are some of our favorite pieces.  Above, the stunning Roya by Sara Gabriel, $185.  This large piece is perfect for the bride wanting to make a statement as it measures 9"x7".


Anita Fascinator by Jillian Marie Designs, $240

A smaller peacock accent and sister piece to Roya (above).
Izzy Hairpin by Sara Gabriel, $165.

Meg Wedding Jewelry Peacock Haircomb, $129.

No matter how you incorporate peacock into your wedding day, it is sure to impress your guests.  Just watch out for guests that might want to pluck these pretty feathers from your centerpieces.  Are you planning to incorporate peacock into your bridal look?

Want to buy?  Click here for details.



Monday, May 23, 2011

Strappy Summer Sandals for Brides



Summer is right around the corner!  Summer brides and destination wedding ladies rejoice.  It is almost time for those stunning outdoor wedding photos and walking down the aisle next to fountains, beaches, and lovely outdoor candlelight.  Of course summer weddings mean strappy sandals and bridal shoes that let your gorgeous something blue pedicure show off.  Still searching for that perfect summer sandal?  Look no further, here are our favorite bridal sandals!  Above, Tatiana by Grazia, $195, is perfect for a short dress with its crystal detail at the back of the shoe.

Perfect for walking in the sand, Heaven, by Pink Paradox London, $88.
Made of dyeable satin, Heaven is great for bridesmaids too.

Crystal by Grace Wedding Shoes, $130.
The closed back and ankle strap gives your perfect support for all that dancing!

Nadia, another classic by Grace, $130.
Simple and chic and will match any wedding dress.

Selena by Salon Shoes, $88
A contemporary bow is anything but stuffy.
Also available in gold or silver metallic.

Vanessa by Grazia, $195
Created with sparkling Swarovski Crystals and are easy
for slipping off to run in the sand.
And of course, don't forget your army of "shoe helpers" to keep your shoes looking and feeling great.  We love Solemates, Foot Petals Tip Toes, and little crystal "I Do" shoe stickers to add to the fun.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Fashion Fridays - Tea Length Wedding Dress

In honor of the addition of dresses to The Left Bank Jewelry's Line, I give you "Fashion Fridays."  Each Friday this month will feature a different dress from the Fancy NY line and the perfect accessories to go with it.  Each dress in the Fancy line was created by a design team of two brothers with a passion for the "Sunday Best" concept.  Their vintage inspired dresses come short or long, are made to measure and available in a variety of sizes.


Our most popular dress style, Linda features a princess line full skirted silk taffeta dress with empire waist detail at bodice.  Wear it with or without a crinoline underskirt for two different looks.  A popular dress that looks great on everyone!  We love it with a petite belt or sophisticated sash at the waistline.


A face veil is the perfect choice for this 50s inspired bridal dress.  We love the look of traditional French Tulle, or try a petite cocktail hat like this beauty designed by Sara Gabriel.  The Daisy Hat, $168, features French tulle wrapped around a horsehair ribbon hat accented with a pressed bamboo flower on top.


Let the dress, belt, veil, and gloves do the talking and accent with simple studs or petite earrings with a touch of sparkle. Petite Pearl Pamela Earrings, $54.


A tea length dress puts shoes in the spotlight and makes the finding the right shoes extra important!  Opt for a sleek, hidden platform shoe to give you the extra height a tea length dress needs.  My pick?  Jewel, $140, by Grace Footwear or it's sister shoe, Valentine, $195, if you prefer an all crystal accent.


What do you think about the Fancy Dresses?  Do you love the look of a vintage inspired dress?   Contact The Left Bank today to schedule your personal dress fitting or to order any of these pretty pieces.  Where to Buy.



Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Something Blue Vintage Wedding Jewelry


Looking for something unique for your something blue?  We love these vintage inspired and vintage element pieces created with a hint of blue by a local Chicago designer..  These perfect pieces for double dipping your "something old" and "something blue."  Above, my favorite of the mix, a delicate and beautiful haircomb featuring a petite hair comb, a mix of soft feathers, and shinning blue crystals.  Chloe Haircomb, $78.

Blanche Earrings, $158

Belle Aire Double Brooch Pearl Necklace, $264

Tiffany Oleander Triple Strand Pearl Necklace, $250

Malena Double Strand Pearl Bracelet, $168

See one you love?  Contact us today!  All these gorgeous gems are one of a kind.  Once one lucky bride snaps them up, your something blue search will have to continue.  Call The Left Bank Jewelry at 773.929.7422 or via email here for availability.


Monday, May 16, 2011

Bridal Caplets, Cocktail Hatlets & Wedding Fascinators


The new Duchess of Cambridge certainly wasn't the first person to don a fascinator, but she has thrust them into the spotlight like never before.  We love that the cocktail hat and fascinator trend has crossed the pond.  But why should the wedding guests have all the fun?  Here are some of our favorite new bridal caplets, cocktail hatlets, and wedding fascinators.  They're the perfect, fun accessory to pop on in place of a traditional veil or to change your look for the wedding reception.  Above, a new designer Jillian Marie Designs, creates gorgeous vintage inspired hats full of old school glamour.  My favorite?  Aptly named, Diana, $300, a silk hat with gentle pleats rosettes and a traditional tulle accent.

Toni, $160
This gentle piece features tradition tulle accented with a feather and soft fabric pouf.  Each of these pretty Jullian Marie pieces are made in the USA and come complete with fabric finished backs and two small combs for easy securing to your hairdo.


Diana sans tulle and petite pearl accents, $300
Shelly,  $240
A gorgeous petite fascinator with a vintage inspired crystal accent and gorgeous feather.  Wear these pretty pieces back and to the side of your head.

Lily, $150
This traditional style is edged with hand sewn crystal details and accented with Russian tulle.

Are you considering wearing a fascinator or cocktail hat to your wedding instead of a traditional veil?  How are you wearing these pretty pieces?  We'd love to know.


Friday, May 13, 2011

Fashion Fridays - Long and Flowing Wedding Gown

In honor of the addition of dresses to The Left Bank Jewelry's Line, I give you "Fashion Fridays."  Each Friday this month will feature a different dress from the Fancy NY line and the perfect accessories to go with it.  Each dress in the Fancy line was created by a design team of two brothers with a passion for the "Sunday Best" concept.  Their vintage inspired dresses come short or long, are made to measure and available in a variety of sizes.  Check out week one, "Short and Sassy" here.


For our second Fashion Friday, we meet Dora.  Elegant. Demure. Feminine. This soft draped full circle skirt gown with flounce at front and back neckline offers a bit of Deco Glamour.  Dora begs for classic accessories with a vintage twist.  The dress makes a beautiful statement by itself, so there's no need to stress about adding accessories, just a few beautiful, simple pieces and you'll be looking gorgeous.  Here are some of my favorite options.


This gorgeous headpiece by Sara Gabriel is the perfect piece for the bride that wants to skip the veil entirely. Or, swap out your veil and wear this for the reception.  Sakura Fleur Haircomb, $173.  See other pretty veil alternatives by Sara Gabriel here.


Since the neckline speaks for itself, opt for larger earrings mixed with pearls and crystals.  Vintage inspired Rena Earrings, $169 by Regina B.


A feminine, pearl bracelet is the perfect finishing touch and a great "wear it again" piece.  Alicia Bracelet, $178 by Meg Wedding Jewelry.

A simple, classic shoe is the perfect finishing touch. 
Sienna by Grace, $130.


What do you think?  Did we make the right choice?  What accessories do you love or hate with this dress?

Love the look?  Contact The Left Bank today to schedule your personal dress fitting or to order any of these pretty pieces.  Where to Buy.


Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Laura Jayne Bridal Wedding Veil Trunk Show


You're Invited...
Priscilla Veil

...to our Laura Jayne Bridal Trunk Show

Come shop for your perfect wedding accessories designed by one of our favorite designers Laura Jayne.  Originated in 1992 by designer Laura Patterson while managing a couture bridal salon, Laura designs and creates chic, customizable accessories for style savvy women.  Their jewelry and veils are designed and hand-finished in Canada and the U.S.  Taking inspiration from intricate fusions of media and varied techniques to the archi-textural allows them to create pieces that are at once bold and soft, strong and feminine, dramatic and under-stated.  Here's a sneak peak of some of our favorite new pieces from the 2011 collection.

Love what you see?  Stop by the Trunk Show to create your very own custom veil, earrings, bracelet, and headpiece.  

Laura Jayne Bridal Trunk Show
Saturday, May 14, 2011 ~ 11am until 5pm
Sunday, May 15, 2011 ~ Noon until 5pm
Appointments Reccommended
RSVP to theleftbank{at}sbcglobal.net or 773.929.7422


Therese Veil & Exeter Hair Vine, $309
Georgia Flower
Lena Hair Band & Amelia Veil

Monday, May 9, 2011

Unique Bridal Clutches & Purses


 Tired of the traditional bridal purses?  These unique clutches are not your usual boring bridal bags!  We love the contemporary, chic embellishments, playful pearls, glittering crystals, and ruffles galore.  Make a statement at the head table with any of these awesome bags.  Best yet?  Most of them would look stunning attending a cocktail party after the wedding.

Our favorite new clutches, from the left...

First Row: Raquel Clutch, $82, Beaded Peal Clutch, $169, Metallic Silver Glitter Clutch, $46
Second Row: Clemintine Clutch, $129, Chantilly Lace Wristlet, $120, Jewel double sectioned clutch, $129
Third Row: Crystal Minaudiere Clutch, $219, Monique Clutch, $125, Clementine Clutch, $129
Background: Ruched Pleated Clutch, $109

Not sure you want to carry a clutch?  Check out our previous posts on the reasons you may or may not need one and just what goes in that bridal bag.  Then let us know what you think.  Are you planning on carrying a purse?  Will you opt for one in traditional white, ivory, pearls, or crystals?  Or just picking up one in a coordinating wedding color?  Share your story!

Where to Buy


Friday, May 6, 2011

A Mini Makeover for Our Blog

Don't worry, we're still here.  It's the same Everything But The Dress Blog you've come to love for your wedding accessories, tips, tricks, and trends.  We've added a few more makeup colors and tweaks to bring you an even prettier blog!  We hope you like it!  Please let us know.

Fashion Fridays - Short & Sassy Wedding Dress


In honor of the addition of dresses to The Left Bank Jewelry's Line, I give you "Fashion Fridays."  Each Friday this month will feature a different dress from the Fancy New York line and the perfect accessories to go with it.  Each dress in the Fancy line was created by a design team of the fashionable Nato brothers with a passion for dressing your "Sunday Best".  Their vintage inspired dresses come short or long, are made to measure and available in a variety of colors.

Our first Fashion Friday Dress, Meet April. This strapless dress with bubble skirt, in silk Mikado, is a modern take on a 60's favorite. The origami bow and bubble shape skirt create a slimming effect.  This is the perfect dress for accessorizing.  Add a chunky statement necklace and bracelet, or opt for large deco inspired earrings and a stunning brooch!  


Some pieces we like...



Add a gorgeous statement necklace that mixes pearls and crystals for a retro meets modern twist.  This plain dress can use a little pop from a great piece like this Haute Bride Five Medallion Necklace, price available upon request.  Check out some other fabulous bib necklaces here and other gorgeous statement necklaces here.

Add an oversized round brooch to the center of April's origami inspired bow for an extra dose of sparkle.  Vintage Inspired Brooch, $68.



The perfect bracelet?  Something chunky and edgy keeps you from feeling too "girly."  Or mix it up with a cluster of bangles or glam bracelets.  Check out more of our favorite chunky crystal bracelets here.  Shown above, Carrie Bracelet, $129.


A short dress definitely needs a short veil.  Try a French or Russian Tulle birdcage or opt for something made of traditional tulle, either way, a petite veil that just covers the eyes is perfectly chic.  We love the Leila Bridcage Veil by Brideshead Revisited, $300.  Comes complete with extra soft tulle and a gorgeous flower.




Finish off the dress by pairing shoes with a platform heel for an extra long leg line.  We love that these ballroom dance inspired shoes come with an ankle strap or optional ribbon laces.  Each pair features over 1000 hand applied Swarovski crystals on the heel.  Angela Nuran Starletta Glitz, $675.


Love the look?  Contact The Left Bank today to schedule your personal dress fitting or to order any of these pretty pieces.  Where to Buy.