Tips for Short Wedding Hair

A great inspirational video from The Knot TV featuring many fabulous looks for brides with bobs, pixie-cuts, or any other shorter hair style. Accessories featured in the video can be found at The Left Bank Jewelry & Bridal Finery. Feel free to browse our headpieces online or come into our Chicago wedding boutique location for a more personalized experience; meet one of our stylists and actually try on the different accessory looks to find your perfect match!

How to Accessorize a Swiss Dot Bridal Dress

The Swiss Dot is making a come back!   This lovely fabric, also sometimes called "point d'esprit lace" are a super sweet way to accessorize your wedding.  Designers like Modern Trousseau, Anne Barge, Christos, and Fancy New York (shown above, the Emily Dress) are all designed in delicious dots for brides' wedding gowns.  In a recent issue of BridesMagazine, they declared that they were loving gowns with "lots of dots" as they lookladylike and fresh.  I couldn't agree more!  

But the dotted look can be hard to accessorize, so don't fear if you've fallen in love with that swiss dot dress, here are some of out top picks for creating the perfect statement when your dress is made with "lots of dots."

Veil designers have been loving dots this season too.  While you can wear a traditional veil with a dotted wedding dress, if the bodice of your gown is created with a different fabric like the Fancy New York Emily Dress (pictured at top), a veil created with the same material will look especially chic.  I'm in love with this super soft veil designed by Lauren Jayne Bridal.

Shown with the Sorrell Necklace, $269

If you're not crazy about a traditional veil, Erica Koesler has designed the Dot Face Veil.  Adorned with soft feathers and a faux flower, the veil can go from ceremony to reception with a simple tuck of the tulle.  This shorter version of the dotted veil would be pretty with a simple silk dress as well.  Available in natural only, $220. Shown with the Trio Pearl Strand Necklace, $169.

When it comes to jewelry, let the soft and delicate dots be the statement.  Big bling, chunky stones, and lots of crystals feels too hard for this soft look.  Select small, round shapes and pretty pearls for the best look.  

My favorite selections, clockwise from top left:

Venice Stud Earrings, $132

Three strand Fairy Tale Bracelet designed Haute Bride, $189

Bubble Necklace, $149 (matching bracelet also available.

CZ Pearl Hairpins, $98 set of 3

Hera Pearl Earrings, $62, designed by Ianneci Bridal

Shop these fabulous designs, including that gorgeous Fancy New York dress at The Left Bank Bridal Finery in Chicago!  Love the look?  Let us know.  Have you seen any brides walking down the aisle in pretty point d'esprit lace?

Brooches for Wedding Dresses

Vintage Inspired Brooch, $89 shown on the Linda Dress by Fancy

Brooches have become a popular way to adorn your bridal look.  These little sparkling pins have grown from a practical and necessary way to keep clothing together to a stunning, classic way to accent a multitude of wedding day accessories.  Pin them in your hair, adorn your bridal bouquet, or as a meaningful gift your bridesmaids.  One of the most popular ways to wear a brooch on your wedding day continues to be as an accent to a simple wedding dress.  We love this look!  

Here are our top five tips to pick out the perfect brooch to accent your bridal gown.

1.  Size Matters.  Make sure the brooch size matches the area you're planning to put it.  Looking to pin one in the center of a bow or sash?  The brooch should just reach the edges or completely cover them.

2.  Shape it up.  The shape of your brooch is as important as the size.  Look to the rest of the dress for hints.  If the whole dress is structured and geometric, an asymmetrical leaf brooch may look out of place. Aiming to pin something in the center of a bow?  Make sure the brooch is round.  Sashes usually also need a structured shape like a square, rectangle, or round.

3.  Look at the details.  Keep all the other dress details in mind when shopping for a brooch.  If your dress has all crystal details and no pearls, a completely pearl brooch might look out of place.

4.  Consider Customization.  A hairpiece can easily be sewn onto a sash or pearls can be wired into that all crystal brooch.  Found vintage earrings you love?  Add them into an existing brooch or connect them.  Two petite brooches can also be a stunning look.  Think outside the box for a completely unique look.

5.  Placement is Key.  Looking for a sophisticated, classic look?  A symmetrical brooch in the center of your gown will do the trick.  Try placing your brooch in a asymmetrical position for a more contemporary feel.

No matter how or where you wear it, a wedding dress brooch is sure to be beautiful.  Shop a small selection online now!  A brooch is also a perfect piece of jewelry to lend another bride as her something borrowed.

Need help tying that sash before you put your brooch on it?  Check out our step by step guide here.

Expert Wedding Accessory Shopping Tips

Expert wedding accessory shopping tips for brides to be.  Our top seven tips to make sure selecting your wedding accessories is an enjoyable as possible!

1.  Never be over influenced by other people.  As nice as it is to get other opinions, make sure that you are happy with your own choice.  Take their advice on board of course, but always go with what YOU feel most comfortable on and what reflects YOUR personal style.

2.  Give yourself plenty of time to chose and order your jewelry, headpiece, veil and shoes.  Don't fall into the trap of panic purchasing.  Also, order and choose in advance.  Do not necessarily go by your wedding date, but when you want everything in your hands or for your fitting!

3.  Wear a white or ivory camisole when wedding accessory shopping to help you visualize your look and always have a photo of your dress with you.

4.  Try to decide on your hairstyle prior to selecting a headpiece.  By coordinating a look your selection process will be made far easier.

5.  Take your headpiece with you when you see your hairstylist.  Please make sure the stylist does not spray with hair products as discoloration may occur.

6.  Keep an open mind when shopping for a veil.  It's the one time in your life you get to wear a veil and having one, whether it's a blusher, flyaway, bird cage, or cathedral will look beautiful on any bride from walking down the aisle to photographs galore.  It's more than just a piece of tulle.  And please don't iron your veil yourself.  Veiling shrivels under a hot iron.  Hang it up in a hot steamy bathroom or blow-dry it with a hair dryer to remove any creases.

7.  Women love shoes, so often finding the perfect wedding shoe can be a task.  Comfort is key.  Choose a shoe you'll feel confident in walking down the aisle and dancing all night in.  You'll need your shoes for your fittings, so plan ahead.  Bringing a comparable size heel to your fitting you "think" you'll wear is not advisable since it may be difficult to find an exact match in a wedding shoe.  Start shoe shopping as soon as you select your dress.

And a note about colored shoes...if you're thinking about wearing colored wedding shoes, keep in mind that colored wedding shoes create a drastic contrast again your gown and will negate that lovely long, elegant line.  It's definitely trendy, so if you're worried about looking back on photos in the years ahead and think you may cringe when you see them, opt for a lovely silk white or ivory wedding shoe indstead.

Most importantly, have fun!  Shopping for bridal accessories should be the most enjoyable part of your  wedding shopping.

What is a Trunk Show?

Our 2010 One of a Kind Meg Jewelry Trunk Show

Welcome to Wedding Trunk Show Season!

So many brides ask us, "What is a trunk show?"  A trunk show is when designers send amazing pieces, literally in trunks, to boutiques that carry the brand.  Designers send anywhere from 50 - 150 special items from their most recent collections that the boutiques do not necessarily always carry, to give brides all over  the city a chance to see, feel, and fall in love with these pieces.

Some perks about trunk shows are that you have a chance to see pieces that will be in Chicago one week and New York the next.  You don't have to spend all that extra money to travel to New York just to find the jewelry and accessories of your dreams.  Also, be on the look out for our designer attended shows.  It's a wonderful opportunity to meet and talk with the actual person designing your wedding accessories.  They have first-hand knowledge of gown designs, colors, styling and can create a piece for you.  Some shows also give you an incentive or discount of you purchase during the trunk show dates.

You must be quick to take advantage of this opportunity, because trunk shows typically last only two to three days.  You may see and try on a headpiece or bracelet you love one weekend and may never see it at our boutique again.  If you don't purchase during the trunk show dates, the discounts from designers are no longer honored.  But on the plus side, you'll be the only bride in Chicago wearing something no one else has!

See our 2011 Trunk Shows here.

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Brooches - History & Tips

The bejeweled brooch was an accessory that arose from a practical need to attach clothing in the same way we now rely on buttons or snaps.  During the Roman Empire they were used to secure tunics and cloaks, and in the Bronze Age they were encrusted with  gemstones.  Scandinavian women often used them to secure their traditional pinafores.  During the Victorian era, women enclosed pieces of human hair and engraved inscriptions  to memorialize a loved one.  Queen Victoria's love of jewelry helped inspire a wealth of designs from wreaths to insects.  During the roaring 1920s, the fashion world had its way with what the French call a "broche." a skewer, or long needle. 

The vintage inspired Stunning Baguette Brooch, $88, and it's new petite version, $48

Fortunately, brooches are still fashionable and wearable.  Here are our top five ways for wearing brooches today.

1. Add a designer touch to a simple shoe by having two petite brooches converted into shoe clips.

2. Wear one as a hair adornment. Ask your hair stylist to pin it in firmly or let us convert it into a hair comb for you.

3. A stunning brooch accenting a waist sash is still strong and a look we love.

4. An heirloom brooch is always special placed on your bouquet as a loving reminder of who it belonged to. If you don't have an heirloom, a butterfly, bee or dragonfly brooch will add a playful and colorful accent.

5. Add a brooch on a simple handbag or clutch. It will add a touch of sparkle for a completely chic look...even if no one notices, you'll know it's there.

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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!

 Photo by Rick Aguilar Studios

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!

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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.

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How to Secure a Bridal Hairpiece.

 Step One - place the hair piece where you would like to wear it.  Experiment with the direction you'd like the tulle to face.  If the piece doesn't feel secure, fasten it to your hair with bobby pins.  Two bobby pins, one on each side of the comb, should do the trick.

Step Two - take one half of the tulle and gently insert a hair pin through the top and bottom layer of tulle (this hairpiece has folded over tulle, so there are two layers).  Tuck the hairpin into your hairstyle, hiding the pin.  This prevents the tulle from flying around and gives you a more polished look. 

If you've done step two correctly, you shouldn't be able to see the hairpin.

Step Three - repeat step two with the other half of the tulle.   Repeat this steps as many times a necessary to achieve the look you want.  Tulle veil accents love to be pinned in place!

Again, the hairpin remains hidden.

Step Four - Gently bend any crystal and beaded pieces to compliment your style.  You can wrap pieces around your hairstyle or twist them to stand out for an edgier look.

With this piece, we wanted a more structured look, so we bent the pearls so they wrapped around the bottom of the hairstyle.

Step Five - Stand back and admire your work.

Voila!  You've successfully pinned in your gorgeous hairpiece.  Still need more help?  Don't panic, just call or visit us at the shop for a personal demonstration. Love the piece pictured?  It's the Bow Fleurette available with French Tulle, $98, or without, $88.


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Custom Bridal Headpiece

Can't find the perfect piece of wedding jewelry to match the ones you already have?  Why not create something completely unique.  Creating custom wedding jewelry is easier than you think!  One of our lovely brides came into the shop with this beautiful bracelet (above, get one for yourself Fleur Cuff, $ 39) and earrings (below).  She couldn't find the perfect gold hair piece to match.  So we used these pieces as inspiration for creating a custom hair comb.  Keep reading to see how we did it!

We happened to have these vintage rosettes in the shop that echoed the roses in her bracelet and earrings.  Then we found a gorgeous gold hair comb that was the right shape for the hair style our bride had in mind. (Below haircomb, $78)

We removed the rosettes from the bobby pins and painted them a soft ivory to match the gold tones and ivory flowers in the rest of her pieces.  Then using jewelers adhesive, we attached the rosettes to the comb!

Voila!  The finished, custom, and completely affordable hair comb!  Having trouble finding the perfect piece to complete your bridal look?  Come stop by the shop and let us design something just for you.

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What Goes in Your Wedding Purse?

Wondering if you need a purse for your wedding day?  What would you put in it?  Here's our top ten list of items to stash in your bridal clutch.

1. A Hanky to blot those happy tears.
2. Mints - more discrete than gum.
3. Compact Mirror
4. Blotting Papers for that unwanted facial shine.
5. Lipstick for after dinner touch ups and pictures.

6.  Aspirin
7.  Powder Compact
8.  Bobbi pins to fix a falling hair do
9.  Safety pins, just in case.
10. The key to your bridal suite.

Now that you know, pick out a fabulous handbag to put it all in.  Some of our favorites from top to bottom.  Chantilly Wristlet Clutch, $120, Ruched Pleated, $109, Monique Clutch, $125. 
Love them?  Here's Where to buy.

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How to Break in Your Wedding Shoes

 Crush dyeable wedding shoe, $88, by PINK Paradox London

Gorgeous wedding shoes still should be broken in to avoid those "ouch" moments shoes can give you.  Here are my top three favorite ways to break in shoes.

1. Shoes on the snug side?  Wear socks and walk around your house!  Grab a pair of thick athletic socks and wear them with your shoes at home or while you watch TV.  Still too tight?  Take them to a shoe cobbler to get them stretched out a little bit.

2.  Shoes a little too stiff?  Hold them in your hands and massage any parts that feel extra stiff,  Think straps on the toe or that cupped d'Orsay back.  Massaging the fabric will help break down the material so they fit better.  If your shoes are white or Ivory, rock out a pair of clean, cloth gloves or make sure your hands are super clean to avoid any smudges.  If you still have problem areas, pop in a pair of Strappy Strips or a little bit of moleskin to cushion any areas that might rub.

3.  Shoes slippery?  Get the bottoms rubberized.  If you're worried about slipping on the dance floor like Chandler in Friends, have a cobbler rubberize the bottom of your shoe's soles.  This is a trick dancers and actors use on stage all the time.  Avoid using those little stick on grips though, the edges can peel back and create a tripping hazard.

Happy feet make for a happy bride!

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How to Care for Your Jewelry

 Photo by Melissa Diep

We often get asked by brides and jewelry lovers alike, how to take care of the jewelry they are purchasing.  The good news, is with a few simple steps, your jewelry can last a long time!  Here are our top 5 tips to keep it looking as good as the day it was purchased.

1) Don't wear it in the shower!  Moisture can tarnish the surface of some costume jewelry, so always take it off when you're in the shower or bath.  Ditto for the pool and when washing dishes.

2) Store it properly.  When you're not wearing your pieces, keep them stored in Ziploc bags or in the boxes they came in.  This will limit the jewelry's exposure to oxidation, which can break down metal over time.  Proper storage will also help keep everything free of scratches and tangles too.

3) Put it on last.  Hairspray, lotions, and perfumes are not your jewelry's friend.  Keep everything free of sticky residue by making sure jewelry is the last thing you put on in the morning.

4) Make it shine.  If you notice your silver colored jewelry looking less than fabulous, take a soft buff cloth to it to buff away tarnish.  Or, dip it in a costume jewelry compatible cleaner.

5) Take it to the doctor.  If you notice loose stones, clasps, or prongs, take your jewelry to a jeweler to be repaired.  Having that stone reset now will prevent you from having to get it replaced later.


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Bridal Hairpieces by Bride's Head Revisited

One of the more perplexing wedding accessories to select is the hair jewelry.  Be it a headpiece, clip, comb, or bandeau, lots of options can leave you feeling overwhelmed.  We're here to help.  Hop on over to our post on Bridal Headpieces - Defined! to get familiar with the options.

Now that you know the names of all your options and what they look like, here are our top five tips for selecting the perfect headpiece for you.

1.  Decide if you'll be wearing a veil. - The size of your headpiece is dictated by whether or not you'll be wearing it with a veil or not.  Here are some questions to think about...am I wearing a veil?  Will I be taking off my veil for the reception?  Do I want a piece to wear with my veil?  Do I want a piece to replace my veil when I take it off?  If you're not wearing a veil, or replacing your  veil with a headpiece for the reception, you can opt for a larger, more showy piece like a fascinator or extra large feather and flower combination.  If you're wearing your veil all night, opt for something a bit more structured that will sit under the veil nicely.

2.  Where is your wedding?  If you're having an outdoor ceremony on cliff that is really windy, you might want to avoid pieces with lots of flyaway feathers and tulle.  Where as a tuft of feathers on a small comb would be perfect for small, vineyard wedding.  Keep your location, and the weather, in mind when you're considering what style to choose.

3.  How are you wearing your hair?  While sets of scattered hairpins are gorgeous in a swept back bun, they don't really work if you're wearing your hair down.  If you have your heart set on a specific piece, make sure you take it to your hair trial with an open mind, so your stylist can make it work.

4.  Think about the other jewelry you're wearing.  When putting accessories for an outfit together, it's all about the whole look.  Make sure you have one focal piece and fit the rest around it.  If you want to wear a very large crystal headpiece choose that first and then find earrings, necklace, and a bracelet to compliment.  If you already found drop dead gorgeous earrings, opt for a more subtle headpiece that will compliment and not over shadow.

5.  Know what makes you comfortable.  You want to feel like a beautiful version of yourself on your wedding day.  So if you're not comfortable in a headband in "real life," don't force yourself to wear one with your wedding dress.  Stay true to your style and vision as a bride by selecting a piece that you love.

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Bridal Headpieces - Defined!

Shopping for hair jewelry can be overwhelming, so many styles, terms, and names.  We're here to make it easier.  When shopping for hair pieces, here are the five most common styles you'll find.

1. Tiara - Sits on the top of the head, princess style.  A showcase piece, usually with lots of sparkle.  It is similar to a crown, but doesn't circle around your whole head.  A half crown sits like a tiara but without the height.  One of our most popular tiaras is the Les Beaux tiara (above, $229).

2. Headband - Sits flat across the head and extends down to the ears.  Some headbands stop above the ears while others extend behind them.  The ends of the headband are usually hidden with hair.  Above, Callie Headband by Avant Bride NYC, $220

3.  Haircomb - A small jeweled piece usually one to four inches in length, attached to a comb.  Haircombs are very versatile and can be worn in front, back, or on the side of just about any hairstyle. Above, Emma Comb, $98

4.  Hairpins - Tiny gems attached to an open hairpin.  Usually sold in sets or three, five, or six.  Hairpins are worn by sliding them unto a bun or updo.  Learn how to wear hairpins here.  Above, Hollywood Glam Pins, $149 for a set of three.

5. Fascinator - A delicate headpiece made of fabric, feathers, or flowers.  Usually sits on top of the head and is worn in place of a traditional veil.  Learn more about fascinators here.  Tessa above, $150 by Avant Bride NYC.

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Still confused?  Need Help?  Try our our Wedding Accessory Styling Service

Wedding Accessory Shopping 101

Ready to shop for your wedding accessories?  Seven things to know before you go.

1.  Bring pictures of your dress...don't even think about trying to buy a veil or jewelry before you've found your dress.

2.  Wear a white top to help you visualize.  Bonus points for wearing a neckline that matches the neckline of your dress.

3.  Bring one trusted person, whether it's mom or a friend, you'll want a second opinion.  But don't bring a whole gaggle of girls, too many opinions can be overwhelming.

4.  Bring any jewelry you already have.  It's easier to match Grandma's pearls if you have them with you.  And leave the watch and other personal jewelry home.  You don't want to risk losing anything at the store.

5.  Have a vision.  Do you want to feel like a knock out glamorous bride?  Do you like the look of vintage jewelry?  Having an idea of what you're looking for will help keep you focused.

6.  Style your hair.  It's hard to try on hair accessories for an updo when you have your hair down and curly.  Consider coming to shop for accessories after your hair trial to get the best idea of what you'll look like.

7.  Have fun.  Accessory shopping should be enjoyable.  Try not to get too overwhelmed by the small stuff.

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Photo by 5th Floor Photography

Chances are if you're getting married, your friends are too. It can be tricky to decide what to wear someone else's wedding. Here are our top five no fail tips to looking fabulous as a guest of the bride or groom.

1. Stay away from taboo colors...white, ivory, and whatever color the bridesmaids are wearing.

2. Overdress rather than under dress. If you're unsure of the dress code, err on the side of being too dressy. It's better to show up in a cocktail dress to a BBQ than jeans at a black tie reception.

3. Spend a little extra time on your hair and makeup. The bride will be looking at these photos for years and you'll undoubtedly end up in some, so you'll want to look your best.

4. Keep your shoes on. This should go without saying, but never take off your shoes at a formal event. If you aren't comfortable in heels all night pick a different pair of shoes, wear Foot Petals, or keep a pair of Spare Soles, roll up shoes, in your purse.

5.Accessorize!  Wear an outfit you know you love, something fun and comfortable, bring a wrap in case it gets chilly, and don't forget to accessorize!

Photos courtesy and originally written for 5th Floor Photography

Handling the First Kiss with a Birdcage Veil

 With birdcage veils being more popular than ever, lots of brides ask "how do I handle my first kiss with a birdcage veil?"  One simple solution, and a look we love, is to have your face veil designed and cut so it crosses your face asymmetrically just under your nose.  This keeps you looking chic and leaves your lips free for your "you may now kiss the bride" moment.

Have your heart set on a full face veil?  Not to worry, just have a little practice time with the groom before him.  Give your husband to be a heads up that you'll be wearing a veil over your mouth and that it's okay for him to lift it up for your kiss.  A simple lift of the veil up to your nose will give you enough room for your smooch and then your now husband or maid of honor can smooth it back down for your walk down the aisle. 

Shop some of our veils at our online boutique 24/7!

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Wedding Shoe Buying Tips

As most women, we love shoes, but finding the perfect wedding shoes may take some time and research.  Certain brands and styles will fit everyone a bit differently, so you really need to try them on for the perfect fit.  Here are some of our favorite tips to help you find the best wedding shoes for you...

Photo by Rick Aguilar Studios

*Bring a photo of your dress.  Choose a style that compliments your dress and your personal style. In the very traditional sense, many feel that a closed toe shoe has a more formal look, but if you love dancing an open toe with a closed back is a better option.  Also, keep in mind the time of year of your wedding is, location and the different surfaces you’ll be walking on.  A shoe we love?  The Winslet, above, by Benjamin Adams.  Available for $220.

*Shoes crafted with sueded leather soles will offer you the most comfort and are the best choice.

*When deciding on heel height, choose a heel you can comfortably walk in with confidence and wear the entire day. Switching into flats or flip flops later in the evening changes the way your gown falls and affects your posture.

*If it’s difficult to decide on a style, bring a friend or ask your wedding consultant. However, do not get talked into a style that is not you, be true to your personal tastes and needs.

*Break your shoes in before your wedding and walk around your house in them. Also test them out practicing your first dance. Do wear a thin pair of socks or hose while you’re doing this since you’ll want them fresh and clean for your photographer to shoot!

*Your seamstress will adore you if you bring your shoes to your initial fitting. Definitely do not bring a shoe from your closet since finding the exact same heel height in wedding shoes may be difficult to find a match for in the wedding shoe world.

*Having inserts on hand such as “foot petals” is a safe bet. They are a great invention and we consider them essential.

Shop all our wedding shoes at our online boutique now!
 
Originally written for our friends at Strictly Weddings.
 
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Something Blue Video

Check out our video for fun ideas for your "Something Blue."  From shoe clips to new blue foot petals, we have tons of fun ideas!  Can you think of anything we missed?  Leave a comment and let us know what you're planning for your something blue.

Shop for your something blue at our online boutique now.

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