It’s wedding-planning season! In honor of all the brides out there, and to offer some tips for the big weekend, Mark has assembled some classy looks. A bride has so much to focus on during the wedding weekend, and her wardrobe shouldn’t have to be among them. But at the same time, she’ll want to dress to impress as she meets soon-to-be family and friends! From brunches to family introductions, these elegant yet easy looks would make a beautiful impression. As most brides opt for family or heirloom jewelry for occasions such as these, the jewelry is the same for each look this week: lots of pearls. And what’s more classic for weddings than pearls, lace, organza, and flowers? Each of these dresses was selected to evoke textures and concepts of the Big Day with updated flair. Featuring simple shapes with understated details, these dresses create flattering lines and just get more interesting on closer inspection.
All dresses feature feminine spring colors, and these all happen to be from Sarah Campbell. The jewelry Mark has selected is a set of triple-strand pearls by CP and a pair of Tonobi baroque pearl bracelets with rhinestone spacers. Let’s take a look!
Look One:
This stunning pink dress features so many great details, but somehow manages to feel simple and understated. Embroidered organza at hem and sleeves add an airy touch. The dropped waist and deeply pleated skirt are flattering on many body types, and is a cut that works for any age. So much texture- it really gives the piece weight and a feeling of richness. The fabric is a daisy jacquard, and is fully-lined.
In regards to lining, Mark notes that choosing undergarments is very important. Care must be taken to select undergarments that will work with the dress and not against it. We aren’t just talking about bra-straps here! For this dress with a slick lining, choose undergarments made of fabric that is equally so- like satin or a synthetic. This will ensure that they slide against each other instead of creating friction or cling. For special occasions, always try on a dress with the undergarments you intend to wear to give everything a full test-run.
While chevron prints tend to feel contemporary, the treatment of such a pattern on this dress doesn’t feel too modern. The lace-like fabric features fine metallic threads and a very delicate color. The peach and gold tones work beautifully with gold and pearl accessories, and enhances the natural warm tones in them, as well as most skin tones. The scoop neck and simple sheath-like cut keep the dress from feeling too fussy despite the fabulously frilly sleeve cuffs. This dress is a perfect example of classic meeting modern, a look that a bride can wear with ease and no anxiety! A similar effect might be achieved with broad stripes on a dress with a more vintage cut, or a newer silhouette that features a simpler or more feminine print.
This gorgeous butter yellow just screams spring, doesn’t it? And this fabric is best appreciated in person- delicate frills and petals make up a rosette organza texture overlaid on a geometric background that is like three-dimensional gingham. It’s reminiscent of a basket of flowers. The cap sleeves are flattering on nearly every body and give the dress a great shape. Again- perfect with pearls! This is the kind of dress that a bride can select for it’s uniqueness, without wondering if she looks like she’s trying too hard to impress. This dress is just effortlessly pretty.
As for shoes, Mark suggests anything in jacquard for all of the dresses. Having them dyed to match would be even better. Heels are a must! For occasions like parent meetings and bridesmaid luncheons, heels give a bit more formality and extra elegance.