• Category

    Fashion

    Category

    Long-sleeved wedding dresses are no longer considered conservative but are a fashionable addition to any wedding dress. Brides are able to incorporate different fabrics and styles within the sleeves and will also be kept somewhat warm if they are having a winter wedding.

    Here are some of the latest long-sleeved wedding dresses that are available locally:

    Timeless Bridal Couture

    A detailed lace bodice that extends to the sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and elegant long sleeve dress with button detail.

    Cindy Bam

    A long-sleeved lace bodice paired with a simple skirt for a simple and classic look.

    Chanelle Cindy Bridal

    An embellished long-sleeved bodice for that wow-factor.

    Veil Bridal Couture

    A body-hugging simple full length sleeved dress with lace detail.

    Bo and Luca

    Hand-embroidered and featuring balloon sleeves.

    Vonvé Bridal Couture

    An off-the-shoulder long sleeve with an intricate lace design.

    Olivelli

    A simple dress with lace sleeves for a classic and feminine look.

    Feature Image: Visual Poetry Photography

    All eyes don’t have to be on the bride only – the groom can turn a few heads too! But how do you bring that same ‘wow’ factor with something as simple as a suit and tie? Here’s how to ensure that you and your mates are looking dapper on the big day.

    Classic

    A classic black suit and tie paired with a crisp white shirt is a definite crowd-pleaser.

    Grey

    Grey is a great option as it’s available in many variations. Try and pick a shade of grey that will suit your venue and colour scheme. For example, if it’s a beach or rustic wedding you’d usually opt for a light shade of grey.

    Blue

    It’s a great colour that suits all skin tones. It’s simple enough to be timeless, but a bit more daring than the classic black and white.

    View this post on Instagram

     

    What a dashing group of gentlemen ? #groomsmen #herecomesthegroom #groomsmenstyle #dashing

    A post shared by Magdachapel Photography (@magdachapel4488) on

    Tailor it!

    No matter which colour or option you choose, tailoring will be your best friend. A tailored suit is already a statement, no matter the colour scheme. It looks put together, well-fitted and smart.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    2 years today. Peter and his groomsmen dressed head to toe in #AdrianJules ? #HappyAnniversary❤️

    A post shared by Adrian Jules Custom Clothier (@ajcustomsuits) on

    Casual

    Again, this depends on your venue and the vibe of your big day, but deciding on a causal outfit has never looked this good. An added bonus is the reusable factor – you can dress it up or down as much as you’d like, for any occasion.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We’re totally here for this jean jacket groomsmen style! And we have plenty of men’s fashion inspo where this came from! Stop on by the blog today for 17 easy-to-recreate groomsmen outfit ideas for every wedding style from ultra-classy ? to cool and casual ? Link in bio ? // ? @indiaearl ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ •⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #groom #groomsmen #mensfashion #jeanjackets #weddingfashion #weddinginspo #weddingideas #weddingplanning #weddingtips #junebugweddings #groomsmenstyle #groomstyle #floraltie #casualwedding #bohowedding

    A post shared by Junebug Weddings (@junebugweddings) on

    Statement ties

    Opt for a plain suit and a bold tie for that unexpected bit of detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    The groomsmen looking good at @hotelsancristobal featured today on @greenweddingshoes suit by @paulsmithdesign swipe ??

    A post shared by Wedding Photographer (@byamylynn) on

    A bit of matching

    Who doesn’t love a good match? While uniformity is great among you and your groomsmen, you (and your partner) are the star of the show. You don’t have to all wear the same outfit in order to have a bit of matching.

    Image: Unsplash

    After binging the wedding movie watch list there are a few wedding dresses we just simply can’t forget. Even though none of the marriages are real, we can’t help but fall in love with these nuptial gowns. The list is endless, but have a look at a few of our favourites:

    Funny Face (1957)

    Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire star in this musical romantic comedy. Audrey wore a Givenchy dropped-waist gown. It consisted of a tight bodice and full skirt.

    The Sound of Music (1965)

    This classic film followed a postulant that eventually becomes a governess for a family of seven children and a widowed naval captain. Julie Andrews wore a beautiful A-line dress consisting of a V-neck and button-up bodice.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Wedding ?

    A post shared by The Sound of Music (@thesoundofmusicfans) on

    Ever After (1998)

    This movie was inspired by the Cinderella fairytale. Drew Barrymore wears a Renaissance inspired wedding dress. It featured a pair of wings, beaded bodice, detailed sleeves and is often referred to as the ‘breathe gown’.


    Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)

    Natalie Portman starred as Padmé Amidala in the Star Wars prequels. When she wed Anakin Skywalker she wore a dress made by film costumer designer Trisha Biggar. The gown was very intricate and featured a lot of beads, pearls and lace detail.


    Sex and the City (2008)

    Set after the series that took place from 1998-2004, the movie sees Sarah Jessica Parker finally marrying Mr Big. Unfortunately, the wedding didn’t happen, but Carrie still looked as fashionable as always in her Vivienne Westwood dress.

    The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)

    After three movies and the constant frustration of the famous Twilight love triangle, Bella finally chose Edward. Kristen Stewart looked beautiful in her simple and elegant Carolina Herrera gown. The back of the dress consisted of intricate lace and an open back cut.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    #thetwilightsagabreakingdaw #twilightwedding#bellasweddingdress #foreveralways

    A post shared by R26 (@robertpattinson26) on

    Image: Pexels

    After the joy of getting engaged comes the wedding planning. It’s time to start figuring out your budget. Weddings can be quite costly and dresses are not cheap. Especially when you’ve had your eye on something elaborate. As lovely as it may be to have something custom made or ‘fresh out the box’ have you considered buying or renting a second-hand wedding dress?

    Google is everyones best friend but if you’re looking for places to find a second hand wedding gown, have a look at some of these options.

    1. Dejavu Dresses

    This online service offers pre-loved wedding dresses. You are able to select your province and city. There are various styles and prices.

    2. The Wedding Boutique

    Not just your average wedding shop. This store offers the option to buy or hire a wedding dress.

    3. House of silk bridal studio

    Offering a massive collection of gowns to hire. This store ensures that previously owned wedding dresses are still in great condition.

    4. Innovine

    Have a look at all their previously loved wedding dresses. Offering various styles and sizes.

    5. Vintage Lace

    This online wedding dress directory helps brides to be find their perfect gown. Have a look at all the second-hand dresses.

    6. Sell My Wedding Dress

    Purchase your dream dress for a fraction of the price. Find second-hand wedding dresses on this online wedding directory.

    Image: Pexels

    Your wedding is over and you’re about to come back from your honeymoon. There’s one question that may cross your mind, “what do I do with my wedding dress?”

    It’s important to keep in mind that you probably spent a lot of time, effort and money on your wedding gown. Some people like to keep their dress as a reminder of the happy day, for sentimental value or to pass down to their daughter.

    If that doesn’t appeal to you and you have no interest in selling it, how about giving ‘trash the dress’ a go.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    This was probably one of the most peaceful minutes of my life. ..till a huge wave hit me! ? . . Ever think of doing a “Trash the Dress session”? You could do it years later, right away or perhaps you just want to make room in the closet and want some good photos out of it! Maybe your marriage didn’t end up happily ever after and you literally want to trash your dress…make light of it and let us get creative behind the camera! . . This was me the day after our Wedding Day! I did it for fun as we were in such a beautiful spot down in Bahamas! Surprisingly, I didn’t end up ruining my dress at the end of it! . . It was fun and spontaneous and have wicked pictures to show for it! . . Interested in the idea? Messsge me or comment below! . . #trashyourdress #trashthedress #trashtheweddingdress #weddingdress #creative #creativephotography #photography #fun #spontaneous #bahamas #greatexumabahamas #sandalsbahamas #weddingday #offcenterphotography #weddingphotography #weddingphotographers #cambridgephotographer #cambridgeweddingphotography #love #oceanpictures #peaceful #husbandandwifeteam #beautiful #bride #bahamasbride #trashdress #weddingdress

    A post shared by Off Center Photography (@offcenterphotography) on

    Trash the dress is a photography activity in which the bride wears her wedding dress and ‘trashes’ it. It usually comes as a juxtaposition of the beautiful, elegant and dainty wedding gown with the backdrop of a garbage dump, forest or messing up the dress.

    The location can be anything from a beach to an eerie abandoned building.

    If you’re not jumping in the ocean, a popular option is colour bombs or powder. Throwing it on the dress or having the colour bombs set off around you makes for a great picture.

    Trash the dress can be a lot of fun and that really shines through the pictures. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to go overboard. If you don’t want to completely destroy the dress there are options for less permanent trash the dress shoots. You don’t have to physically trash the dress in order for it to pass as the odd-seeming photo shoot. An out of place setting is enough to pass.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Our behind the scenes footage of the Trash The Wedding Dress has been viewed over 600 times since being uploaded in the October of last year. If you haven’t watched it yet, head over to our YouTube Channel, JackRabbits Paintball and Airsoft. It was such a great experience. We have some ideas and themes currently floating around in our brain boxes of what we would like to do next, so if you fancy getting involved, get in touch. Don’t forget to like our pages ?? Instagram: @jackrabbitspa Facebook: www.facebook.com/jackrabbitspa/ People to follow ?? @keithfusco @fuscomedia @rara140280 @victoriageldard32 @autumnwiccan @misssparklegem @creaturesofxix @mummababydoll @cjlock_ @francescaharding @mr__kn1ght @andrews.tales @z8_photography @miss_cnancy @mrs666suicide @lola_lucious @taskforcem4 @grs_uk #jackrabbitspa #paintball #airsoft #pyrotechnics #photography #photoideas #photoop #photoopportunity #weddingdress #weddingphotography #trashtheweddingdress #filming #filmmaking #modelling #modellife #creativity #youtube #youtubechannel

    A post shared by JackRabbits PA (@jackrabbitspa) on

    The trendy photo shoots has been credited to wedding photographer John Michael Cooper from Las Vegas. It has been said that he became bored with the traditional wedding shoots and decided to mix it up.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    #throwbackthursday When I was flying on the @todayshow This memory popped in my feed and made me so happy. @johnmichaelcooper the INCREDIBLE photographer and artist of @altfphotography called me up and was like hey.. you can jump in the air and get your #melissasweet future wedding dress dirty right? Haha I was like umm YES So we drove to the dry lake bed and shot these pictures of me jumping in the air after my hubby drove by to kick the dust up. So many people thought this was photoshopped…ummm no…my ankle and John could attest to that haha We later appeared on an episode of The Today Show such an incredible experience! I wonder if I can find the episode. Thank you John for making this experience a possibility! You are an incredible artist! #altf #johnmichaelcooper #thetodayshow #trashthedressepisode #shanaemily #iam1stphorm #Jump #SayYes #vegas #nextlevelshit #neversettle #photography

    A post shared by Ⓢhana Ⓔmily (@shanaemily_) on

    Picture: Pixabay

    Lace is a beautiful and delicate fabric and it also brings a sense of romance to a wedding dress, so it’s easy to see why it is incorporated into many wedding gowns.

    Here are some of the latest gorgeous dresses with lace detail from the top wedding dress designers.

    Vera Wang

    An enchanting gown that incorporates lace from head to toe.

    Reem Acra

    A plunging neckline paired with lace makes for a subtly-sexy bride.

    Rosa Clara

    A stunning take on the mermaid style dress with beaded lace.

    Zuhair Murad

    A show-stopping gown covered in lace with a tulle sleeve detail.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Combining contemporary and classic into the most romantic of forms – #ZuhairMuradRTW Bridal Fall 2019 #ZMbride #ZMrealm

    A post shared by Zuhair Murad Official (@zuhairmuradofficial) on

    Marchesa

    A delicate lace for a breathtaking look.

    Naeem Khan

    An elegant dress with laced sleeves.

    Elbeth Gillis

    A simple and classic gown with a laced sleeve detail.

    Janita Toerien

    Beautiful laced bodice paired with a soft skirt for a sultry, yet sophisticated, look.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Our NINA dress, a soft fitted bodice with a crochet like lace, exposed boning casings and a flowing chiffon skirt. Part of our COUTURE 2019 Collection and available to purchase. Email for booking information and custom made options. ————————————————— Photo @debbielourens_photographer | MUH @marnelmakeup | Model @chanelirene_ ————————————————— #janitatoerien #janitatoerien2019 #weddingdress #weddingdressideas #weddingdressinspo #weddingdressinspiration #bride #bridalinspo #bridalinspiration #southafricandesigner #capetowndesigner #stellenboschdesigner #bohoweddingdress #modernweddingdress #laceweddingdress #flowyweddingdress

    A post shared by Janita Toerien (@janitatoerien) on

    Feature image: Unsplash

    By Keenan Martin

    Traditionally, wearing white to someone else’s wedding would be a definite no-no, but as weddings become more contemporary, modern brides will often not even always wear white themselves, and wearing white if you’re not the bride seems to be less of a taboo, too. With that said, it’s always a good idea to ask the bride for permission, but we know how stressful weddings can be and those daring enough to bother the bride days before her wedding are braver than the marines. So we’ve put together four ways to wear white to someone else’s wedding, tastefully.

    Layering

    If white is going to be your main colour for your ensemble, try and break it up with some colour-blocked layering. Opt for coloured jackets, coats or shoes so you have something that will draw attention away from the fact that you’re wearing white.

    Prints

    If a solid-white garment seems too inappropriate, why not opt for a white-based print instead. Bold prints with vivid colours help make the overall whiteness of your ensemble less apparent.

    Silhouettes

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    @jillianrose_m #parisfashionweek #hautecouture #parishautecoutureweek #ss20 #streetfashion

    A post shared by The Style Stalker (@thestylestalkercom) on

    It’s slightly easier to get away with wearing white at someone else’s wedding if the silhouettes and fabric of your outfit steer clear of those of traditional dresses, or whatever the bride and bridesmaids might be wearing.

    Accessories

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    ?: @thestylestalkercom PFW spring/summer 2020

    A post shared by StreeTrends (@streetrends) on

    Pile on the bold and colourful accessories – and watch your outfit transform as you make your white ensemble the canvas for the main attractions.

    Image: Unsplash

    We’ve rounded up some of the coolest hair accessories under the sun, fit for the modern bride looking for something a little different.
    Headbands
    They’re back! Big and bold, or slim and subtle, which ever you prefer. Headbands have the power to uplift your entire look with an added touch of elegance. What’s more, they’re reusable long after the wedding, and if you grow tired of them on the day, you can simply slip it off without compromising your perfectly crafted ‘do.

    Dramatic veils
    Although some brides are opting to forgo the tradition altogether, the veil still adds a romantic element that few other accessories can compare with. Instead of going the traditional route, set your sights on something more dramatic – think embellishments, opulent details or interesting fabrics to take you from basic to breathtaking.
    3-D Florals
    Forget flower crowns. Floral appliqués offer a fresh take on the otherwise bohemian alternative. Incorporate them into your hair in any way you deem fit. Clip it into your updo or ponytail along your hairline, or scattered throughout loose strands to look as though confetti has landed perfectly on your hair.
    Barrettes
    This quirky look has come a long way since the 90s. From  glitter and crystals, to pearls and diamonds, bridal barrettes are the perfect addition to your hairstyle for an updated take on traditional bobby pins that are mostly hidden away. Keep it subtle, or stack them on – either way you’ll win.
    Hats
    There’s absolutely no reason why you can’t wear a beautiful hat on your wedding day. It can take you from relaxed boho bride to ultra sophisticated, and you always have the option of taking it off when you feel it’s done it’s job (of making you look cool, that is).
    Image: Unsplash

    Who doesn’t love a great suit and who doesn’t look good in one too? That’s exactly why more and more women are opting to ditch the dress – along with patriarchal gender norms – for a bridal suit.

    We love how modern brides are breaking barriers and defying tradition, we love power moves and a bride wearing a classic blazer-pants combo to her wedding is exactly that, whether you prefer smart tailoring, relaxed and fluid shapes or modern and flourished designs. Here are a few things to know if you’re unfamiliar with the sartorial world of suits.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Love is love ♡ Would you wear a pant suit on your wedding day? Let us know below ?⁠⠀ —————————⁠⠀ Photography: @5ive15ifteen⁠⠀ Concept Creators, Producers, and Creative Directors: @ellie_lauraandcoevents, @baye_lauraandcoevents, @thyra_lauraandcoevents, @lauraandcoevents⁠⠀ Floral and Decor Design: @jodileighdesigns⁠⠀ Luxe Location: @gracevenue⁠⠀ Gowns and Pantsuit: @valencienneto⁠⠀ Earrings and Hair Pins: @tarafavajewellery⁠⠀ Hair and Makeup: @fancyfaceinc⁠⠀ Aisle Runner: @reznickeventcarpets⁠⠀ Veil: @blairnadeaubridal⁠⠀ Arch: @guelphtents⁣⁣⁣⁠⠀ ————————— ⁠⠀ #loveislove #equality #woodland #greige #grey #earthtones #pampasgrass #bridaljumpsuit #pantsuit #bridalfashion #bridalstyle #bohobride #weddinginspo #weddinginspiration #weddingtrends #bohoweddingdress #bohostyle #lgbtq #luxury #luxurywedding #wedluxetoronto #truelove #trueluxury

    A post shared by WedLuxe Toronto (@wedluxetoronto) on

    Know the difference

    Bespoke suits are traditionally cut from a pattern drafted from scratch for the customer, and so it differs from Ready-to-Wear, which is factory made in finished condition and standardised sizes, and from Made-to-Measure. Made-to-Measure typically refers to custom suits that are cut and sewn using a standard size based pattern. A Made-to-Measure suit will be more expensive than a Ready-to-Wear suit but will be cheaper than a Bespoke suit.

    Style lingo

    Regarding stylistic choices, when it comes to choosing your suit you have to consider what you want in terms of lapels,vents, buttons and the lining. There are three types of lapels and vents, each with their own stylistic connotations.

    – The three-button suit is not usually a contemporary style choice, though it was quite a hit in the 90’s. The three-button suit has a high button stance creating a higher “V” on the chest, but because of this it can sometimes look stuffy depending on your height, so it’s a great option for someone over 6’2”.

    – The two-button suit is a much more popular choice in recent times, good for creating the illusion of an elongated chest with longer lapels and a deeper “V”.

    – The one-button suit is a fairly new trend, providing edge and sleekness with an even deeper “V”. This option usually pairs well with slim suits.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    ***The Suit Issue*** Whatever you want to be, The Suit Issue is about you and today, we’re so thrilled to show off the Signature Fall 2019/2020 collection from @justinalexander truly allows you to be whatever you dream of. Jumpsuits, pants, mini dresses, jackets and ballgowns- this is the collective that tailors to you. See it now on the link in our bio.⁠ ⁠ x Ms Polka⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #polkadotgroom #polkadotbride #feelgoodweddings #thesuitissue #weddingtailor #weddingjumpsuit #weddingsuit #weddingjacket #justinalexander #bridaljumpsuit #modernbride #jumpsuit #coolbride #bridalstyle #weddingfashion #bridal #occasionwear #weddingdress #engaged #weddingstyle #instawedding #jumpsuits #receptionjumpsuit #justinalexanderbridal

    A post shared by Polka Dot Bride (@polkadotbride) on

    The lining of a suit is not merely for cosmetic reasons. It adds structure and weight to your suit, so fully-lined suits will generally be warmer and have a more substantial look to them. Cheaper lining suits will often lack durability and breathability, creasing and sticking to your shirt or whatever undergarments you may be wearing under your blazer, so don’t disregard the importance of quality lining.

    By Keenan Martin

    Image: Unsplash

    Weddings come with a hefty price tag but none as much as these handmade, diamond-drapped, gowns fit for royalty. If platinum, emeralds or peacock feathers tickle your fancy – this is how much a wedding gown made exclusively of them would set you back…

    1. The Diamond Wedding Gown

    The gown is valued at $30 million (R427 430 400). Designed by Malaysian designer Faisol Abdullah, the hefty price tag on this gown is because of the expensive materials used to make it. It consists of 751 diamonds and the center of the dress features a 70-carat pear-shaped stone. Not only does the dress feature diamonds but the train is encrusted with them too.

    2. Yumi Katsura White Gold Dress

    The price tag on this dress is whopping $8.5 million (R120 989 000). It was created by Japanese stylist Yumi Katsura and the costly design is made from silk satin and features zari-embroidery handwork. It consists of 1000 pearls, a 5 carat white gold diamond and a green 8.8 carat diamond emblem. There are only two of these dresses in existence.

    3. Peacock Wedding dress

    This feathery dress contains over 2000 peacock feathers and is valued at $1.5 million (R21 330 000). The dress was made in Nanjing in a wedding dress factory. The bodice of the dress is made with suzhou and brocade embroidery.


    4. Danasha Luxury Gown

    Designed by Jad Ghandour and Danasha Luxury – the gown costs a total of $1.5 million (R21 330 000). It includes gold, diamonds and various other precious gems. The aim of this lavish gown was not to be a novelty – it was created to be stylish, elegant and not just covered in expensive jewels – but an extravagant gown.


    5. Kate Middleton’s Wedding Dress

    The Duchess of Cambridge wore an Alexander McQueen wedding gown. The dress featured lace sleeves which took influence from Grace Kelly’s wedding gown. The dress included a train measured at nine feet long (2.74 metres). Kate’s stunning wedding ensemble was topped off with Queen Elizabeth II’s tiara which contains 1000 diamonds. Her wedding dress is valued at $388,088 (R5,523,268).

    Picture: Twitter