Social trends are moving towards sustainability, therefore directly impacting the way we think about the environment around us. These trends have become more apparent as we are consciously making decisions about what we put in our bodies, as well as where we buy our clothes. This growing awareness has changed the way we see waste and pushed us into being more aware of recycling, repurposing, biodegradable elements and ethically sourced products.
Subsequently, the idea of sustainability has trickled down into weddings. Thanks to the popularity of conscious fashion, there has been a burst of innovations, fashion brands and accessibility. As a result, brides are offered a variety of options in the hunt for the perfect wedding dress. Many well-known designers now offer women a sustainable collection or range, and we believe that it’s only the beginning.
Below are a few stand-out designers and why we love them:
Stella McCartney
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Stella is known for her work in sustainability and being at the forefront of a conscious movement. The designer has launched a vegan-friendly, eco-friendly bridal collection, with designs that are effortless and beautiful, while still keeping with the iconic ‘Stella’ aesthetic. Stella’s first bridal collection ranges from lace, chiffon to couture fabrics.
Reformation
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A California based clothing brand that pioneers the ethos of sustainability. Reformation creates beautiful silhouettes for every size, complemented with eco-friendly fabrics. The brand uses deadstock fabrics and repurposed vintage clothing that allows for a truly unique design.
Lunar Life
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The South African based fashion and lifestyle brand is headed by two powerhouse ladies and has a design aesthetic that is inspired by nature, while their use of materials is a mindful expression of the core brand values. For the bride that seeks a touch of uniqueness on her wedding day, Lunar Life might be your winner.
Minna
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At Minna, also known as Indiebride London, dresses are made to order, which means the fit and shape of the dress is completely perfected to suit your body. Indiebride’s aesthetics are simple and classic – they play on the theme of bohemian chic. The brand offers in-house handcrafted dresses which promote artisans and encourages brides to work hand-in-hand with the artisan creating their dress. Materials are seen as precious and little to no waste is made, so off-cuts are often donated to students or organizations.
Deborah Lindquist
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Deborah Lindquist gowns are for style-savvy, but eco-conscious brides. Garments are created from a mixture of vintage/upcycled, organic fabrics and each creation is unique and limited. Deborah has designed gowns for celebrities such as Sharon Stone, Pink, Jessica Alba and Rihanna. Will you be next?
By Mia Smith
Feature image: Instagram / Reformation
Have you always dreamed of having your wedding out in the farmlands? If so, you should consider looking into using a barn as your wedding venue. Barn weddings…
Many brides throughout the ages have adorned themselves with hair pieces. You can sport a hair piece whether you wear a veil or not. From tiaras to hats to flowers, the world is your oyster. These days, though, many brides opt for delicate accessories. Here are some options to consider.
Thin head band
Head bands have been in style for years, but now, dainty is the new extra. Go with feminine, delicate pieces for a softer look.
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Tiara
All women wear crowns. On your wedding day, you get to make yours visible to the world! Gold is very in right now, and we love this Shakespearian feel.
Pearl hair clips
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but pearls are for a lady. We absolutely fawn over this ethereal piece.
Floral
Flowers are perfect for a spring or summer wedding. This garland is the epitome of class and also adds a splash of colour.
Full head piece
If you’re really into head accessories, maybe go all out with a full head piece. It can be delicate and subtle, instead of the heavy laden, jewel-encrusted pieces of the past.
Picture: Pexels
If you thought planning your own wedding was tough, imagine throwing a royal one! The British royal family is all about tradition and their weddings are no different.…
We all know how expensive weddings and honeymoons can be. As amazing as your big day might have been, your bank account will probably not love you for it. There’s no pressure to go away and have an expensive honeymoon. Whatever decision is right for your budget, will be the right one for your future, no matter what others say. You can always have that grand trip later.
In the meantime, there’s no reason you can’t still celebrate your new life together right where you are in a budget-friendly way. Take a day or a weekend off to spend some time together. Here are some great ideas. Choose your fave or combine them all!
Feast on love
Picnics are super fun and a great way to get creative, since you can plan exactly what you want to pack. Grab a comfy blanket and set it up anywhere you like. A pretty park, botanical garden, a riverside and the beach are all great options. It might be nice to choose a theme, for example Greek food. Alternatively, just pack your favourite snacks and drinks!
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Spa day
After all that wedding stress, you both deserve some relaxation. Spa’s are excellent for some spoiling and usually have couple’s activities you can do together. Couple’s massages, facials or saunas good options. If that’s a stretch on your budget, the easiest thing on earth is to have a spa day at home! Get some lovely pamper products and give each other massages, followed by a steamy bubblebath…
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Camp in the backyard
Now, we know what you think: This is just for kids. No, it absolutely is not! Depending on your backyard, you can have a whole weekend getaway all outdoors. Pitch that tent, roll out the sleeping bags and roast marshmallows around the campfire. If you don’t have a backyard, there’s bound to be some camping spots near you, and they’re usually quite affordable.
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Hike
There’s nothing like watching the sun rise with a spectacular view. If you’re an active couple, check out some nice hiking routes and lace up to get a fresh perspective!
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Wine tasting
If your tastebuds tickle at the sound of wine tasting, this one’s for you. Most wine farms have beautiful surroundings that are perfect contributions to a romantic atmosphere. Of course, you can swop it out for beer tasting, gin tasting or anything else you prefer.
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Candle-lit dinner and stargazing
Ah, the magic of candles. For some reason, candle-lit dinners just never go out of style. For this one, you could either go to a cosy restaurant or consider cooking together and setting up a nice dinner table at home. After dinner, spread a blanket and gaze at the stars if the night is clear. Cuddle up close and dream about your future together.
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Image: Pexels
A kiss on the hand may be quite continental, but diamonds are a girl’s best friend. This saying still rings true today. Diamonds will never go out of…
The Rugby World Cup fever overtook us all these past few weeks. One South African in particular was feeling the spirit, and made a big promise. A single Facebook post gripped the nation for days to find out how this fairytale would end.
Last week, Brian Royalson Mdunge took to Facebook and posted on the group #ImStaying to announce that he would propose if the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
As we know by now, the Boks won the sports competition, bringing pride to the South African nation. This also meant that Brian had to hold up his end of the bargain.
Following the win, many waited in anticipation to hear the happy news of another engaged couple. However, no news came. For days, we were left with no updates, leading to the trending of #FindBrian.
“BRIAN!!!!!!!!! HALLOOOOO!!!!!! THE NATION IS WAITING IN ANTICIPATION!!!!! You had 24 hours to man up,” one comment read.
Brian has just broken his silence, although unfortunately it was not with good news.
“Hello Mzansi sorry to keep you waiting so long, but the lady rejected my proposal in front of my friends she said she’s not ready. I’m too embarrassed,” Brian wrote in his post.
Group members have rallied to support Brian through this tough time, sending him many words of encouragement.
“I’m so sad to read this news, ” reads one comment. “But she did not altogether say No. So hang in there, should your spirit tell you she’s worth waiting for. Amen. You stay blessed. Mwaj”
“Sorry Brian … She’s not ready now, if her unreadiness has to do with you, work on that… If not, give her time… She rejected the proposal, Not you! All the best bro..” another advised.
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