Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Save the Date - Indie Wed
























Save the Date!  We were lucky enough to be selected to attend the Indie Wed Bridal Show in January 29, 2011.  This great show focuses on the fun, hip, and fashion forward.  Check out their website to purchase tickets.  This is sure to be a great show with a great swag bag did I mention our goodies will be in them...?

Monday, November 29, 2010

Designer Spotlight - Pink Paradox London


Our latest designer spotlight goes to the lovely folks at Pink Paradox London.  This London based company is home to a line of fabulous, fashion forward, affordable footwear for brides, bridesmaids, mothers of the bride, and wedding guests alike.  Pink is the sister line to another fabulous shoe collection we carry, Benjamin Adams.  We love their contemporary style and amazing dye skills.  If you can think of the color, the talented team at Pink can dye it for you!  Check out their fabulous shoes here.  Above, my new favorite from their colletion, the Hot shoe, $98.


Crush and Heaven Pink Shoes dyed a poppy lime green.


Related Posts
My Top 5 Bridemaid Shoes
How to Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Dying Shoes After the Wedding

Where to Buy

Friday, November 26, 2010

Kirsten's Gift List


















Happy Black Friday!  May your official holiday shopping begin!  Here are my five favorite picks for fabulous gifts any lady on your gift list is sure to love.  The Left Bank is brimming with tons of new trinkets, baubles, and gift-able items.  Above, Crystal Pendant Necklaces in assorted crystal colors from La Vie Parisian, made in France from vintage molds from the 1910-1930s, $46 each.


















Metallic Card Cases, $16 each, perfect for business cards or credit cards and cash at that holiday party.






Pave Stud Earrings, in gold, silver, and assorted colors.  Large $24 each, small $22 each.  These sparkly studs can be both dressy and casual.


Need more gift ideas?  Stop by the shop for some personal shopping help! 

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, & Shopping Local


We simply heart the 8th annual "Buy Local Week" and Shop Local Holiday Campaign that kick off on Black Friday Weekend with "Small Business Saturday."  We want to encourage you to join the fun and "eat, drink, and buy" local at fun, independent shops, restaurants, and boutiques...like The Left Bank.

How are we celebrating?  To say thank you for all the great publicity generated by the first-ever "Small Business Saturday," we'll be giving every customer who spends $100 or more a free $15 gift card to use in December!  We'll be celebrating all weekend Friday 11/26/10 through Sunday 11/28/10.   Stop by the shop to see all the new sparkles and gifts we brought in just for this celebration!

So as you're shopping this black Friday, think about staying in the city to help local businesses and the environment!  Learn more at Local First Chicago ,  Yelp.com, and the Small Business Saturday Facebook Page.














Happy Shopping!

Bridal Accessory Q&A

Brides have lots of questions when it comes to choosing the right accessories...jewelry, veils, shoes, it can get overwhelming.  But we're here to help.  Here are some of our most frequently asked accessory questions!
















Do I have to wear a veil?
No.  If the thought of wearing a veil makes you unhappy, don't pressure yourself to wear one.  There are lots of veil alternatives now.  Try a birdcage or simple face veil, cocktail hat, fascinator, or flower instead. Everyone will know you're the bride, even if you're not wearing a veil.  If you want to make mom happy and wear a veil, select a simple and elegant veil for the ceremony and switch to something more sparkly and fun for the reception.

Should I keep my veil on all night?
This one is totally up to you.  Most brides opt to remove their veil as it can tend to get caught and tugged on by all those hugging wedding guests.  We recommend removing the veil immediately after your ceremony and formal portraits or after your first dance.

What hand do I wear my bracelet on?
Wear it one which ever hand you are most comfortable with.  No preference?  Then slide that bangle on the right so your ring can get all the attention on the left.

Do I have to wear a necklace?
No.  A necklace can be a nice compliment to a simple or daring neckline, but is not a necessity.   If you prefer big, showstopping earrings, it's best to leave your neck line bare.

Can I wear open toed shoes in the winter?
Absolutely!  There are no rules anymore for closed toe and open toe shoes. Go ahead and show off those strappy sandals in the ballroom in February.  No one will think anything of it.  Still worried?  Opt for a peep toe or d'Orsay back shoe with an open center.  It's the best of both worlds.

Have more questions we didn't answer?
Leave a comment with your question and we'll be happy to answer!

Related Posts
Birdcage Veils and the First Kiss
Accessory Shopping 101
How to Care for Your Jewelry
Wedding Shoe Buying Tips

Monday, November 22, 2010

New Designer - Introducing Boutique de Viole


We're pleased to announce that we've added a designer to our list of favorites.  We met the lovely New York based ladies of Boutique de Viole at the New York Bridal Market and found some new bridal jewelry we just had to have.  Above, easily the shop favorite, the dramatic DivaA double headband with a huge asymetrical accent.  It takes on almost a facinator like quality, perfect for the glamorous bride.  Available for $299. 

Ada Haircomb, $109
Measures 3.25" long

Betty Headband, $269

Endora Haircomb, $109
Measures 2.75" long by 2" tall

Heirloom Barette, $98
Also available as a haircomb
Measures 2.5" long

My personal favorite, a show stopping headband...Hermia, $349.
Measures 1.5 wide

Mini Betty Haircomb, $149
Measures 2.75" long
Matches the Betty Headband

Orpha Headband, $269




Related Posts
Wedding Accessory Shopping 101
Vintage Bridal Hair Jewelry 
How to Find Your Bridal Style


Friday, November 19, 2010

A Special Visit


















Meg Lammers, one of our favorite jewelry designers, popped into our shop with her family on a weekend visit to Chicago.  We always love seeing Meg, who was in the city to celebrate her birthday, one of her daughter's birthday, AND her wedding anniversary with her husband, Rod.  A celebration weekend indeed.  She even came bearing sparkly gifts!  A special treat for us!  Thank you to Meg and her family for stopping by!

See our Designer Spotlight on Meg Wedding Jewelry

Asymmetrical Bridal Headbands

Add some sparkle and spunk to your bridal updo with an asymmetrical headband.  These over sized details keep you looking grown up and refined.  They're a perfect touch for the bride wanting to make a glamorous statement or as a compliment to a simple gown.  Above, Rosalinde, $16.

 Babette $149

Clarice $149


Related Posts

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

One Day Sale ~ 20% Off Personalized Gifts


















One day only, save 20% off all personalized items!  The perfect time to shop for friends and family. All monogrammed sterling silver and embroidery items are on sale...bracelets, necklaces, tote bags, cufflinks, jewelry boxes, scarves, frames and more! Free personalization and embroidery included, one day only!

Shop at The Left Bank Thursday, November 18th from 12 - 7pm or over the phone by calling 773.929.7422


Happy Shopping!

Matching Bride & Bridesmaid Brooches


















This gorgeous vintage inspired brooch has just added a "mini" to its collection!  We love the Stunning Baguette Brooch, $88, and it's new small version, $48.  How fabulous would it be to gift your bridesmaids with matching brooches for their bouquets or dress sashes?  The bride wears the larger version and the bridesmaids wear the smaller version.

Large brooch measures 2.5" long by 1.5" wide
Small brooch measures 2" long by 1.25" wide

Where to Buy


Related Posts
The History of the Brooch
Unique Ways to Wear a Brooch
Big Brooches

Monday, November 15, 2010

Purple Jewelry























One of favorite colors has become a bridal favorite!  We're seeing purple on wedding guests, bridesmaids, and even brides.  And what better color for brides than one that is often associated with royalty?

Pretty Purple Pieces (Clockwise from top left)
Gail Earrings by Meg Wedding Jewelry, $36
Rectangle Drop Earrings by La Vie Parisian, $48
Crystal Glam Bracelet, $42
Peacock Pearl 3 Strand Bracelet, $48
Feather Fascinator, $68 (limited quantity available)
Lily Brooch, $46
Pave Fleurette Brooch, Large $56 (shown), Small $48.

Love them?  Where to Buy.

Related Posts
Wedding Colors - Purple
Grey, Peacock, & Purple Pearls
Greige Jewelry

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Celebrities in Haute Bride

























Check out Kristin Chenoweth on the red carpet in one of our favorite designer's pieces.  She's wearing the glamorous Pearl Brooch Necklace designed by Haute Bride in vintage rose and powdered almond.  Proof that gorgeous jewelry CAN be worn after the wedding.  Contact us for more info on this fabulous piece.   


Photo Courtesy of Haute Bride



Friday, November 12, 2010

Crystal Wedding Flip Flops


After months of searching, we've finally found the coveted wedge flip flops for brides.  These wedge flip flops are perfect to change into for the after party or as a just in case "back up" shoe if those gorgeous wedding shoes get uncomfortable.  Our favorite part?  The 3" wedge platform will make sure your designer dress isn't dragging on the floor.  Available for $44 in sizes 6, 7, 8, and 9.  Order a pair today!



Related Posts
Wedding Shoe Buying Tips
How to Break In Your Wedding Shoes
Wedding Shoe Selection Video

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Simple Bridal Hair Flowers


Brand new bridal hair flowers arrived in our shop with a nod to the simple and elegant.  All these beautiful silk and satin flowers are available in white and ivory.  Above, Dove, $48 approximately 4" in diameter.

 Ettie, $68 
3.5" in diameter

Allie, $64
4.5" in diameter

Gabbi, $98 
3.5" in diameter

Can't wait to slide one into your bridal hair style?  Here's Where to Buy.


Related Posts

Monday, November 8, 2010

Bridal Cocktail Hats & Fascinators


We love the trend we've been seeing on runways and bride's heads this past year of cocktail hats and fascinators.  (What is a fascinator?  Click here)  This chic veil alternatives are a great way to show off your European chic or add a touch of vintage glamour to your bridal look.  Many brides opt for a cocktail hat instead of a traditional veil to compliment a retro dress or even as a replacement for their veil after the ceremony.  Here are some of our newest cocktail hats and fascinators for brides.  Don't see one you love, don't worry, we can always have one of our fabulous designers create one for you!  Above, Parisian Fascinator with peacock feather sprays, $29 (available in a limited quantity).

Black Parisian Fascinator with spotted tulle, $29
Limited quantity available.

 Ivory Cocktail Hat with French netting and black headband, $88
Limited quantity available.

Black Cocktail Hat with French netting and headband, $88
Limited quantity available.

Lulu Chapeau, $98
Available in White, Ivory, or Brown

Love them?  Here's Where to Buy.

Related Posts

Friday, November 5, 2010

New Wedding Shoe Styles for 2011

Brand new wedding shoes styles have just arrived!  Fresh from the designer's 2011 catalog, we've added these fabulous four shoes to our collection.  Above, my favorite of the newest designs, Hot by Pink Paradox London, $98.

Salma by Benjamin Adams, $199

Barbie by Pink Paradox London, $88

 Yasmin by Benjamin Adams, $220


Where to Buy

Related Posts
Dying Shoes After the Wedding
All Crystal Shoes
New Wedding Shoes




Thursday, November 4, 2010

Wedding Jewelry Sample Sale This Weekend



Don't forget to stop by our Annual Sample Sale!  Our boutique will be brimming with gorgeous jewelry, hairpieces, veils and more all up to 80% off.  Practically everything in the store is on sale!  We'll be selling brand new pieces, over stock, and designer samples.  You won't want to miss this once a year event!  What's on sale?
 
All Wedding Accessories 10%-50% Off
(Including Clutches, purses, ring pillows, unity candles, guest books, hankies, & garters) 
Hair Gems & Headpieces 20%-50% Off
Monogramming Special 20% off
All Store wide Gifts & Jewelry 10-50% Off
Custom Veils 10% Off
Sample Veils on Sale $25-$45

Shop all weekend...

Thursday, November 4th ~ 12pm - 7pm
Friday, November 5th ~ 12pm - 7pm
Saturday, November 6th ~ 11am - 5 pm
Sunday, November 7th ~ 12pm - 5pm

Check out our website for a peek at what's in store, directions, and more!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Sparkly Bridal Accessories - All That Glitters



It's no secret that we love sparkle!  And a wedding is the perfect occasion to add extra drama with lots of sparkle!  We love the idea of glittering, shimmering, over  the top sparkle for brides.  Check out some of our favorite sparkly accessories.  All high on glamour and perfect as a statement piece or worn all together!  Above, the new for 2011 ultra swanky Gaga shoe by London based Benjamin Adams, made with thousands of Swarovski crystals, $375.


The perfect glittery handbag, Glitter, $49 by Pink Paradox London.  Available in silver or gold.


The perfect solution to your "wedding shoes meet outdoors" problem.  Solemates are now available with silver and gold sparkles baked in.  $10.95 per pair.



Complete your glittering look with these giant stones dripping from your ears.  Glam Cushion Cut Earrings designed by Haute Bride.  Please call for price.

Where to Buy

Monday, November 1, 2010

Bunion Friendly Wedding Shoes


So no one likes to talk about icky bunions, but they can be such a pain when you're looking for fashionable shoes.  Don't fret about your wedding day shoes!  As someone with an annoying bunion, I feel your pain.

The trick with finding a shoe that won't make your bunion too angry is to look for a shoe with a spacious toe box area (Which unfortunately means no no to pointy toed shoes!).   Here are my top five picks for wedding shoes that won't hurt you feet!

From Left to Right
1.  Gaga by Benjamin Adams.  Shoes designed by European designers tend to be more roomy, which gives you plenty of room for your toe spacer, and is perfect for inserting a foot petal.  $375.

2.  Summer by Pink Paradox London, another European company, features a spacious toe box area with delicate cut outs that are large enough to cover the side of your toe.  $79.

3.  Robin by Saugus.  The delicate silk fabric on this shoe gently cradles your foot.  Fabric wraps, but won't push against your foot, so it almost feels like you're not wearing anything. $98.

4.  Erica by Dyeables.  Extra cushion around the toe provides comfort, gentle stretching will help.  $79.

5.  Liza by Benjamin Adams.  Another European cut shoe with lots of room for toe spacers and extra cushion.  $175


If you do find a shoe you love and it's a little too tight, try having your cobbler stretch them with a professional shoe stretcher.  If that doesn't work, try an old dancer's trick.  Have your cobbler lightly score the inside fabric of the shoe in an "x" where your bunion presses against the side to relieve some of the pressure.   This has to be done very carefully to avoid damaging the shoe. Never fear though, even with a bunion you can have beautiful wedding or special event shoes.  Stop in the shop for a personalized shoe fitting anytime.

Where to Buy

Related Posts
How to Wear Wedge Wedding Shoes
How to Dress For a Wedding
My Top 5 Bridesmaid Shoes