• Category

    Wedding Gowns

    Category
    In Celebs

    Elie Saab’s son marries in an elaborate ceremony

    No Comments

    Most brides would give their right and left arm to be able to wear an Elie Saab original on their wedding day. To be able to adorn four of his gowns in one wedding is unheard of unless you marry his son of course. The Lebanese fashion designer’s son Elie Saab Jr married Christina Mourad on July 19 in an elaborate weekend-long affair. The three-day celebration took place in Lebanon and his new daughter-in-law had the privilege of wearing four Elie Saab gowns. Two were custom made just for her special day and the other two were part of his Haute Couture collection.

    The pre-party celebrations had Mourad in a Haute Couture themed Fall-winter jumpsuit from the 2019/2020 collection.


    For the wedding ceremony she wore a one-of-a-kind Elie Saab gown. The dress was made from ivory silk and included 500,000 sequins. It featured a high neck bodice along with a 4.5-metre train.

    The special ceremony was held at Bkerké and the aisle was decorated with candles and lots of greenery. Neiman Azzi was the planner-extraordinaire behind the joyous occasion.


    The beautiful bride changed into a second Haute Couture gown for the reception. A heart-shaped corset featuring a full skirt. This train was only 3.5-metres long. It was adorned with 650,000 sequins and 150,000 Swarovski Strass pieces.

    The festivities were held in the mountain resort of Faqra in Lebanon and the guest list included Dita Von Teese, Sara Sampaio, and Lebanon’s Prime Minister Saad Hariri. The venue was transformed into a magical experience – table tops were covered with mirrors and the space included a massive moon sculpture.


    To end off their lavish wedding weekend, Christina wore a beautiful dress from the Haute Couture Spring-Summer 2019 collection. It included a coral-shaped brooch from her father-in-law.

    Their after wedding day party was held at Elie Saab’s home in Lebanon.

    Both dresses took almost 900 hours to make. It also took 200 hours to tailor, 150 hours of draping, 450 hours of embroidery and 80 hours for the embroidery design. They employed a total of six tailors, three pattern makers, twelve embroiders and ten petite mains to get the gowns ready in time.

    Picture: Instagram/Elie Saab Jr.

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Advice

    It’s your wedding, wear black if you want to

    No Comments

    Your wedding is fast-approaching and you love wearing black. Why not opt for an unconventional wedding dress? It’s no secret that wearing black makes you feel confident.


    A survey carried out by Buytshirtsonline found that the colour black might have connotations of death and gloom, but it’s a powerful performer in the eyes of the public, who see it as a serious, reliable and solid player. One thousand people were asked how they felt about specific colours in various situations and black had a higher percentage for most of the ‘good’ traits, for example, intelligence, confidence and sexiness. People associated the dark colour with being reliable, trustworthy and serious.

    Is there some sort of psychology behind wearing the colour black?

    It has been suggested people who wear black may be trying to guard themselves from unwanted feelings. If they have issues with anxiety by choosing one ‘plain’ colour it generates a sense of togetherness and control.

    Benefits of wearing black:

    1. Black is seen as elegant, classy and stylish. It’s an easy go to option for anyone, especially if you’re trying to impress.

    2. The monochromatic colour can make you appear thinner. It gives the illusion of a slender figure, which is why many women choose black.

    3. Time saver. Black pretty much matches anything and everything.

    4. As mentioned above, by wearing black, you may exude confidence.

    5. It works with every skin tone and hair colour.

    For those who enjoy bending the rules a little, a black wedding dress is a powerful statement. It symbolises your refusal to follow the norm and societies traditional standards.

    Did you know?
    Before the Victorian era it was normal for brides to wear various colours. Wedding dresses were expensive and some brides opted to adorn the best dress in their cupboard. On 10 February 1840, Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in a white wedding dress. The affluent followed suit and began wearing white. The pure colour stood for innocence and virginity. After the Royal wedding brides still continued to wear what they could afford.

    Your wedding dress should be a reflection of your personality. If you prefer black, white, pink or green, the choice is yours. This is your big day, you should do what makes you happiest.

    Picture: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Advice

    Wedding dress silhouettes to flatter your body shape

    No Comments

    It’s your big day! All eyes are on you, and that dress! The wedding gown may be one of the most important elements of this occasion of love. Well, to the bride at least. It’s something that every girl imagines herself in and it’s absolutely vital to many a bride-to-be that the dress leaves jaws dropped and heads turned.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    HOW TO PICK A WEDDING DRESS FOR YOUR BODY TYPE. ——— When it comes to wedding dresses there are million and one styles and designs to chose from. From silhouettes, to necklines and fabric the options are endless. But the fact is not every wedding dress you love is suited for your body type. The female body type has been grouped into 5; 1. The Hourglass or Figure 8 ⏳ 2. The Pear ? 3. The Rectangle ◼️ 4. The Apple ?& 5. The Inverted Triangle ?. Which wedding dress fits each body type? – If you have an hour glass figure you can wear all types of wedding dresses from Ball gowns to Mermaid styles. – For rectangle shaped ladies all types of wedding dress styles look good on them except the Mermaid style. – Pear ?? shaped ladies will pull off Mermaid dresses ? perfectly ? – Apple shaped ladies would look great in A-Line and empire wedding dress styles. – While, ladies with an inverted triangle shape can rock all dress styles minus the Mermaid and Sheath style. Got any questions? Please share them in the comments section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #weddingdresstypes #weddingdressideas #weddingdressstyles #weddingdressshop #weddingdressdesign #weddingdressng #sellyourweddingdress #usedweddingdresses #onlinebridalboutique #mermaidweddingdress #ballgownweddingdress #sheathweddingdress #empireweddingdress #nigeriantopweddings #weddingsonpoint #preownedweddingdressesinlagos #brideonabudget #brideonabudgetnigeria #africansweetheartweddings #africanluxuryweddings #weddingdressinspo #weddingdressgoals #weddingdressideas #next2newbridal #lagosbridalstore

    A post shared by Sell Your Wedding Dress Here (@next2newbridal) on

    We’ve gathered a few of the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for your body shape.

    1. A’s for days! For all the gorgeous ladies with beautiful curves, the A-line silhouette may appeal to you. It’s usually fitted at the top to emphasise the waist and then flares out at the skirt. It’s a very flattering shape not just for curvaceous brides but all body shapes.

    2. Wanting to highlight your curves a bit more? The trumpet silhouette is what you’re looking for. It hugs your curves, and flares out from the knee down. As body-hugging as it is, it still allows for a lot of movement.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    We posted a picture of the back and train on this dress about 2 weeks ago and it was one of our most liked photos! We totally get why because the fit on this dress is beyond good! Gabi and Alex love a pretty ballgown and they both put this dress on and raved about how good they felt in it! They said they felt held in yet sexy but not too over the top, a perfect combination for a wedding dress!⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ #onefinedayfittedweddingdress #onefinedaymermaids #essenseofaustralia #D2770 #essenseofaustraliaD2770 #fittedweddingdress #mermaidweddingdress #mermaidbridalgown #mermaidbride #trumpetweddingdress⠀ #sexybride #sexyweddingdress #sexyweddingdressideas #sexybridalgown #sexyweddingdressinspiration #sexyweddingdressinspo #sexybridallook #sexybridalfashion

    A post shared by One Fine Day Bridal (@onefinedaybridal) on

    3. The sheath shape. If you’re petite or slender, this is very flattering. It’s tight-fitting and elongates the body.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Floral lace is combined with glitter tulle. All start in a halter neckline, end in a flattering sheath silhouette | Our gorgeous #florence from #venus2019collection is what you’re looking for . . . #sheathweddingdress #laceweddingdress #sparkleweddingdress #weddingdressinspo #koreanbride #singaporebrides #vancouverbridal #hamiltonbride #torontobridalshop #vancouverbridalboutique #kansascitybridalboutique #coloradobridalstore #virginiabrides #floridabridal #weddingdressinspo #weddingdressshopping #kentuckybridalshop #louisianabride #wyomingbride #sacramentobride #austinbride #texasbridestobe #londonbridal #manchesterbride #liverpoolbride #newcastlebridal #georgiabride

    A post shared by WEDDING DRESS MANUFACTURER (@selfa.bridal) on

    4. Looking to make an even bigger statement? Have a look at the mermaid style. It’s similar to the Trumpet shape mentioned earlier but a bit more dramatic. It’s also a bit more constricting, however.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Wedding gowns & bridesmaid dresses, we do it all! ✨?? @morileeofficial style no. 8177

    A post shared by Bravura Fashion Bridal (@bravurafashionbridal) on

    5. Off to the ball! The classic ball gown silhouette emphasises your waist. The fullness of the skirt means this dress compliments various body types. If you have a ‘plank’ shape, it creates the illusion of bigger curves. For women who are a bit more busty, this dress can create a nice balance.

    6. Dropped waist. This gorgeous silhouette flares out a little bit below the waistline. It compliments taller brides, as it can elongate the torso area.

    At the end of the day though, it’s about the dress you feel the most beautiful and confident in and your opinion matters most. There are no actual rules – just go for it.

    Picture: Pixabay

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Fashion

    When two cultures become one

    No Comments

    Diversity unites us. We are no longer confined to people from our own creed, culture or nationality. Perhaps once upon a time, it was frowned upon to marry across cultures, and couples would have to convert or choose one culture or the other. But in this day and age, it’s not unusual for people from different backgrounds to tie the knot.

    Anjuli Nanda and her husband Charlie Diamond are the picture-perfect example of two cultures merging. They had two weddings: a traditional Indian wedding, and a traditional British one, both which took place over one weekend.

    Two separate weddings obviously means two different dresses! On the Friday wedding, which was a traditional Indian ceremony, the beautiful bride wore a striking red lehenga, a type of full-length skirt that is embroidered and pleated, designed by Nepalese-American fashion designer, Prabal Gurung. Anjuli chose the lehenga not only because it is traditional wedding attire, but to pay tribute to her late mother.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    My reign begins #AD⚡️CD

    A post shared by Anjuli Nanda Diamond (@anjulinanda) on

    The colour red is highly symbolic in Indian weddings, representing life, love, passion, prosperity and fertility. The bold colour also compliments various complexions, and the bride is always guaranteed to stand out. Anjuli’s lehenga was filled with detail and meaning. The skirt consisted of eight panels, each with patterns that represented meaningful moments in the couple’s relationship.

    Anjuli was also bedecked with jewellery for the wedding. Her wrists were stacked with red bangles, along with a few of her mother’s gold ones, and her necklaces and one set of earrings were designed by Anita Dongre. The glowing bride also donned a pair of Marlo Laz earrings designed by her friend and bridesmaid, Jesse Lazowski.

    The big day consisted of various traditional Indian wedding customs, including the Baraat – the groom’s procession to the ceremony on horseback. Arriving on a decorated horse, the groom is then welcomed by the bride’s family and garlands are exchanged. Anjuli and Charlie’s ceremony was also conducted by a Hindu priest and performed under a traditional mandap. After the ceremony, the couple and guests indulged in cocktails along with an Indian buffet.

    For the British wedding on the Saturday the next day, the bride wore a white Westwood Couture gown from Vivienne Westwood with a perfectly-fitted corset. In keeping with English tradition, Anjuli had Something old, new, borrowed and blue – her great-grandmother’s gold wedding band (“something old”), Marlo Laz tanzanite and diamond ring (“something new”), her mother-in-law’s earrings, bracelets, and trinity ring (“something borrowed”), and her mother’s sapphire and diamond pinky ring (“something blue”).

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    An unpublished favorite ?

    A post shared by Anjuli Nanda Diamond (@anjulinanda) on

    This time, the ceremony was conducted by the dashing groom’s friend, and Charlie’s sister and Anjuli’s maid of honour each did a reading. The happy couple wrote their own vows. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed famously British pastimes such as badminton and croquet set up on the lawn, followed by the wedding reception.

    So what’s better than one wedding? Two, of course! For Anjuli Nanda and Charlie Diamond, this was a dream come true.

    Picture: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Celebs

    About Sophie Turner’s custom Louis Vuitton gown

    No Comments

    The long-awaited wedding of Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner and musician Joe Jonas finally took place in June and we couldn’t help swoon over the stunning Louis Vuitton by Nicolas Ghesquière wedding dress she wore.

    Rumour has it the intricately detailed work of art took over 10 embroiders working for 1 050 hours on 14 metres of fabric to finally complete the immaculate creation.

    Each panel of the dress was decorated with 5 400 crystal beads complimented by 50 400 white beads with a veil to match – which also took 48 hours to hand embroider.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Absolute beauty @sophiet

    A post shared by ? (@nicolasghesquiere) on

    The dress has a classic design with long sheer fitted sleeves, a thick waistband and plunging V-neckline to accentuate Sophie’s figure.

    The beautiful bride paired her dress with a cascading white bouquet and a natural make up look with loose hair.

    Ghesquière designed the custom wedding dress for Sophie, complete with flower-embroidered tulle and silk gazar.

    A cut out back was included in the one-of-a-kind design as well as a lace-trimmed veil with minute decorative ornamental needlework.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    Mr and Mrs Jonas Photo by @corbingurkin

    A post shared by Sophie Turner (@sophiet) on

    The gorgeous couple were wed in a French chateau and a general theme of French flair was certainly present throughout the affair.

    It goes without saying that Sophie’s stylish assumable was the envy of brides-to-be everywhere as she happily made her way down the isle. We can’t all afford Louis Vuitton wedding gowns but we can most certainly dream, drool and pin it on our Pinterest boards.

     

    Pictures: Instagram

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Fashion

    5 autumnal bridal looks we can’t get enough of

    No Comments

    With golden leaves and a slight chill in the air, autumn is here and so are the fall bridal make-up trends of 2019! This year there’s a fun mix of colour bold designs, while some looks are heading to back to simple glamour. Find your perfect autumn look with our top five picks.

    1. VAMPIRE GLAM

    A dark lip is a perfect look for all skin tones. Keeping the eyes light and naturally creates a gorgeous contrast effect that will leave you glowing. Go for a dark cherry or blackberry shade for a rich shade of red.

    2. ALL BLACK

    This isn’t your average smoky eye. The all-black eye look really embraces the cool and darker tones associated with the coming of winter and lets your eyes stand out. Pair this with a light and natural lip to balance out the boldness of the make-up.

    3. METAL MAGIC

    Will we ever stop loving metallic shades? Not when these shimmery looks keep coming back as top contenders in all aspects of the wedding day. Dazzle your eyes with rich shades of shimmering orange and gold to mimic the fallen leaves of autumn for your bridal make-up.

    4. BOLD EYES AND DEWY LIPS

    Graphic designs have added an artistic touch to bridal glam, with fine line work, extended cat eyes and pops of colour. Match this look with some dewy lips to perfectly complement the light and minimal feel.

    5. ALL THAT SPARKLES

    Imagine the glitter on your eyes as little snowflakes falling on your face and you have a stunning magical wintery look. But don’t just stop at your eyes, bring the glitter down along your cheekbone for some added highlight and a more whimsical style.

    Images: Pinterest

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Advice

    How to choose the perfect wedding dress for your body type

    No Comments

    We’ve all imagined what our ‘perfect dress’ would look like and have idolised certain styles that would suit our body type, but sometimes what we want doesn’t always match up to the real thing.

    When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, there are a couple of things to consider (see how to find your perfect wedding dress according to experts), but a good way to start is figuring out your body type and what styles will suit you best.

    THE BODY TYPES

    1. Apple – Full bust with rounded torso and hips
    2. Athletic – Tall, slim and a straight waistline
    3. Curvy/hourglass – Defined waist, full bust and rounded hips
    4. Pear – Wide hips and slim shoulders with a small waist
    5. Petite – Slim and small frame
    6. Tall – Over 1.75 m with a varying frame
    7. Triangle – Broad shoulders and slim hips with a straight waist

    THE DRESS TYPES

    Mermaid

    This style is perfect for an hourglass shape as it will accentuate your curves.

    Sleek

    Those with a tall and slim frame will suit this look beautifully and elegantly.

    Tea-length

    Tea-length dresses are perfect for those with an apple shape. They accentuate the frame and provide the look of having a longer torso and legs.

    Ballgown

    This stunning princess-inspired look will let athletic and pear frames shine by balancing the proportions of bust to hips.

    V-neck

    This particular neckline flatters larger busts, complementing an hourglass shape.

    Halter neck

    Having the focal point be your neck, halter necks give the allusion of narrow shoulders, suiting tall and athletic builds.

    Strapless

    Elegant and sweet, strapless dresses allow petite shapes to appear taller, while also flattering a smaller bust.

    A-line

    This style suits triangle shapes by balancing out the hips-to-bust ratio and giving a more defined waist.

    Sweetheart

    The sweetheart gives the allusion of smaller shoulders, suiting those with broad shoulders and fuller busts.

    Picture: Unsplash

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Fashion

    Afrique: A new collection by Black Betty Design for the modern African bride 

    No Comments

    Afrique is a new collection that is bold, raw, connected to earth and proudly South African. Each jewel tells a story and evokes captivating mystique and elegance, which is perfect for a bride who wishes to honour and remember her culture or heritage on her wedding day.

    If you’re a bride who prides herself on her culture and heritage and you’re looking for an outstanding element along those lines to complement your wedding day, keep reading.

    Black Betty Jewellery and Design has been around since 2012. Created by designer Kristin Weixelbaumer; the concept stems from her constant enthrallment with the relationship between natural elements and the human experience.

    The key component in their creative process is handcraftsmanship and they truly value the essence of humanity inherent in imperfection. All their jewellery is designed by pen and paper and is brought to life by the handiwork of artisans in South Africa, India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

    Due to its core value, every piece of jewellery is unique and each has their own story to tell, with its own personality. They have a wide range of jewellery; from earrings, necklaces, pendants, rings and bracelets which is perfect for any age, occasion and mood.

    Their new collection, Afrique, is bold, raw, connected to earth and proudly South African. Each jewel tells a story and evokes captivating mystique and elegance, which is perfect for a bride who wishes to honour and remember her culture or heritage on her wedding day.

    Although some jewellery pieces may look familiar they have taken a new approach and have added a variety of new materials such as sterling silver and gold vermeil in order to keep their jewels both fashionable and chic.

    The Afrique jewellery is elegant enough to make the simplest wedding dress breath-taking and beautiful. To all the brides finding it hard to choose jewellery for the big day, have a look at Black Betty’s new Afrique collection, it’s definitely one to be considered.

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Advice

    How to find the perfect wedding dress, according to the experts

    No Comments

    So, you’ve found the love of your life. Now it’s time to find the other one – your wedding dress. Read our top tips from local experts before you head to the boutiques or meet a designer.

    COLLECTION, COUTURE, HIRE OR PREVIOUSLY LOVED?

    Each option has its own pros and cons. So it basically comes down to personal preference and budget. Buying or hiring a new or worn dress means that you can try on the dress before you buy it. But Natasha Holmes, owner and designer of Lou & Co, cautions: ‘Boutiques often only stock sample sizes, which isn’t the size of an average woman. If they don’t stock your size, don’t waste your time, as you simply cannot commit to a dress if you can’t try on the right size.’

    If you have a dress made, Stephen of Stephen van Eeden Atelier advises you create a shortlist of potential designers and ‘make sure that their aesthetic and style reflect your personal style’. Having a dress made from scratch requires confidence in your designer, more time and, often, more money, but guarantees something unique.

    MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

    ‘There is a big price difference between an off-the-rail gown and made-to-measure bespoke,’ says Stephen. Designers usually have a price range on their website and it’s worth knowing beforehand. Stephen suggests you look at the quality and finishing of a dress to see if it is fully lined and French seamed, as this determines the true cost.

    If you’re buying or hiring, let the sales consultant know your budget. A good one won’t suggest anything outside of your budget but will find a way to incorporate what you want. Natasha adds: ‘Being honest will allow us to quickly rule out what you can’t afford and find a suitable dress in your price range.’

    EARLY-BIRD BRIDE

    Start shopping at least six months before your big day – even more if you intend on having your dress made. ‘Trends like lace appliqué take time,’ says Natasha. A boutique may have to order in your size or make alterations – and you don’t want to rush that process.

    BYO

    Wear a strapless nude bra and panties, even shapewear if you’ll be wearing it on your big day. ‘It’s easier to judge fit with a smooth silhouette,’ says Natasha, ‘and no one warns you about this, but you should be ready for the designer or consultant to see you in your undies! Wedding gowns are tricky to get in and out of.’

    Remove any jewellery in case it catches. A simple necklace can change the entire neckline of a dress. Make an effort with your hair and make-up to get a sense of what you will look like on the day. Taking a pair of heels along is also recommended, but boutiques often have pairs to try on.

    TRIBE VIBE

    The first fitting can be overwhelming and you will want to be surrounded by your people. When fitting at Lou & Co, Natasha recommends that you bring along only two or three people whose opinions you value most, such as your mom, sister or best friend. ‘Too many opinions make it harder to know what’s right.’

    ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY

    Chances are, you won’t find ‘The One’ at your first try-on session. Don’t be disheartened! There are always more boutiques and other designers to try. And, with every consultation, you will walk away knowing something new about the one you really want.

    by
    Continue Reading
    In Fashion

    How to recycle your wedding dress and decor

    No Comments

    Your wedding day is a joyous occasion, but all your leftover decor items can take up tons of space if left to collect dust in your home. And throwing them away is no good either. Take a look at some of our tips on how to recycle all your beautiful items to ensure they don’t go to waste.

    1. MAKE A SCRAPBOOK

    Keep all your wedding memories together by crafting a scrapbook filled with a copy of each stationery item, pressed flowers and any other decor items you can flatten and add in. Plus all your favourite wedding photos and any other bits and pieces you want to keep close.

    2. THE WEDDING DRESS

    If you aren’t too keen on keeping your dress in the back of your cupboard, you can sell it as a second-hand garment, or donate it to a charity. But rememeber to keep a piece of the fabric to add to your scrapbook!

    3. THE FLOWERS

    If you’re stuck with bunches of flowers from the wedding arrangements, gift them to your loved ones as thank yous, or liven up a hospital or old age home by creating beautiful bunches to donate.

    4. THE STATIONERY

    Leftover stationery items such as coloured paper, ribbon and other decor features can be sent to underprivileged schools and used for arts and craft classes. You can also use them in your scrapbook or hand them over to friends who are avid scrapbookers. If you are going to throw them away, make sure you are recycling them.

    5. THE DECOR

    Any wedding decorations such as fairy lights, ornaments, etc can always be put to good use, whether for special occasions or even just to brighten up your home. Alternatively, if you really don’t want to keep the items, you can always market them on various Facebook groups or local second-hand stores.

    Image credit: Instagram

    by
    Continue Reading