Bridal Runway Shows: 4/11 Recap

Here, get a quick look at today’s most buzzed-about gowns.

Oleg Cassini for Gudeer Bridal

We’re charmed by this gown:

A sweet tea-length dress: Pure glamour:

Oscar de la Renta

Sublime sparkle:

A ballgown beauty:

So chic:

Marchesa

This gown is pure poetry:

Light and whimsical:A perfect fit:

Christos Costarellos

We love this ultra-sexy gown:

We’re obsessed with the bell sleeves on this stunner:

We love the way this gown moves:

Inbal Dror

With its 3D blooms on the illusion sleeves, this gown is a true floral fantasy:

Now that’s how you do sexy sleeves!

How fab are the sheer panels on this showstopping gown?

Carolina Herrera

Sparkle plenty in this ultra-glam showstopper:

Classic elegance:

Illusion beauty:

Isabelle Armstrong

Fabulous fit-and-flare:

French lace trumpet gown:

Ruched organza and lace showstopping mermaid:

Monique Lhuillier

Beautiful bow waist:

Breathtaking ballgown:

Love the lace detailing:

Rivini by Rita Vinieris

Curves ahead:

Gorgeous gown:

Sparkle plenty:

Jenny Packham

An ethereal beauty:

You’ll Never Believe How Much It Costs to Be in a Bridal Party

According to a new survey by coupon site Dressmebridal.co.uk, it costs $734 to perform the honor of being a bridesmaid or groomsman — and that figure doesn’t even include the cost of gifts! Even worse: 17% of respondents went into debt in order to pay for it all.

There were 2,948 participants in total, all of whom are 18 or older and have participated in a wedding during the past year. They were asked to take into account the costs of attending the bachelor/bachelorette party, getting an outfit and accessories, hair/beauty/grooming, hotel and travel costs, and paying for drinks on the big day (no, that’s not a typo).

In certain cases, the costs associated with being a bridesmaid or groomsmen took a toll on their friendships: 34% of survey-takers confirmed that they resented the amount of money they were required to spend and 21% admitted this caused conflicts within the bridal party. Therefore, it’s not surprising that 54% said they’d have to consider the costs before being a bridesmaid or groomsman ever again and 15% regretted ever having said “I do” to the duty in the first place.

“It’s important for brides and grooms to remember what matters, which is celebrating their commitment with all their friends and family and everyone having a good time. It may be difficult to speak up, but so long as you speak truthfully and tactfully, the happy couple will thank you for it,” says Matthew Wood of Dressmebridal.co.uk.

BG brides, here are some dos and don’ts for ensuring a budget-friendly bridal party experience:

1. Do select a dress style at a reasonable price point.
Let’s face it: The odds that your ‘maids will wear that $300 floor-length, sequined number you found on Pinterest again after the wedding is slim. Consider chipping in for part of the cost as your thank-you gift to them, if that’s within your means. Or select a color and fabric and help them find a style they love at a price they can afford.

1. Do keep in mind that tailoring is part of the outfit equation.
   If everyone’s on a tight budget, then avoid dresses with boning or intricate sleeves that would make the gown difficult to be altered. Bonus: The more simple and streamlined the dress is, the greater the chance that it will look flattering on everyone.

2. Don’t go overboard with the accessories.
   Most of your bridesmaids already probably have a pair of go-to black, metallic, or neutral heels in their closet. Mint? Not so much. Yes, those let’s-all-stand-in-a-circle shoe pics are cute, but what they’ll heart even more is using what they’ve already got.

3. Don’t force everyone to have their hair and makeup professionally done.
   Have a friend who can do a top-knot and apply false lashes in her sleep? Ask if she could help out all the ‘maids as part of her wedding gift to you. Or if your ladies just don’t feel comfortable taking on that DIY YouTube tutorial (understandable!), see if you could arrange to have a discounted group rate at a blow-out bar. If you can swing it, offer to pick up the tab as their thank-you gift.

1. Do manage your expectations when it comes to the bridal shower and bachelorette party.
   Bridal shower: In many instances, the bride’s parents offer to contribute to the costs to help alleviate the financial burden for the bridal party (especially if the shower is held in a restaurant). So, if money is a factor, and your bridal party alone is paying for the shower, they might consider having it in someone’s home to keep expenses down. A brunch, pool party or barbecue creates a fun, informal atmosphere that will be enjoyable, relaxing and appreciated by all.

Bachelorette party: If you’ve been daydreaming about a weekend jaunt to a hotspot like Las Vegas, Miami or New York but your friends are less-than-psyched about the idea, then get creative and think local. Or better yet, remove yourself from the equation and tell your bridal party that you’d be happy with anything they plan, so they can decide amongst themselves how to celebrate your last “fling before the ring.” We’ve interviewed bridesmaids who have planned everything from a Barbie Dreamhouse bash to a Gatsby-inspired night out to even a cowgirl bachelorette. Of course, it goes without saying that it’s totally acceptable to let them know in advance if there are any deal-breakers (aka phallic-shaped anything).

1. Do consider having a “one gift” policy…
   …If you’re having multiple engagement parties, bridal showers or bachelorette parties thrown in your honor. Your bridesmaids will secretly breathe a sigh of relief that they don’t have to buy your blender, racy lingerie set AND chip in on that work group gift.

Do be considerate of their time (time is money, after all).
Don’t expect them to spend hours helping you mail out invitations, address envelopes, hunt for favors, make escort cards or any other DIY project. If they offer to help that’s one thing but don’t dictate a schedule.

Bottom line: 76% of the survey respondents didn’t expect to spend as much as they did throughout the wedding planning process, so it’s important to let your bridesmaids know what your expectations are upfront. Bridesmaids, if the total is more than you can afford, be open with the bride. Find out what’s most important to her and discuss ways that things can be scaled back. True friends will understand and make it work!

Plus, learn how to handle an uncooperative bridesmaid and other common bridal party dilemmas.

Pantone’s Top Colors for Spring 2015 Are Here!

Pantone has released their top color picks for the spring season — their theme is “En Plein Air” (“in the open air”), and the soft, water hues are oh-so-refreshing! Get ready to see these colors everywhere in a few months.

Aquamarine

Pantone says: “Cool and calming, ethereal Aquamarine is a shade with a wet and watery feel. Open and expansive, this restful blue also acts as a stress reducer.”

Make it work for your wedding: Choose aquamarine for your “something blue,” or pair it with peach and green for a charming look.

Scuba Blue

Pantone says: “Scuba Blue conveys a sense of carefree playfulness. Scuba Blue offers a feeling of escape as it is reminiscent of a tropical ocean. This stirring and energizing shade takes us off to an exotic paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Make it work for your wedding: This vibrant shade is lovely with bright white and radiant orchid at a modern or beach wedding.

Lucite Green

Pantone says: “Generally not thought of as a fashion color, though it does come back from time to time, Lucite Green is a soothing green shade whose time has really come again. Fresh and clarifying, cool and refreshing, Lucite Green has a minty glow. Light in weight and also in tone, Lucite Green seems almost transparent.”

Make it work for your wedding: Get out your jadeite cake stands! This minty color is just made for a vintage-inspired wedding.

Classic Blue

Pantone says: “Reliable and thoughtful, Classic Blue inspires calm, confidence and harmony. Serving as an anchor to the Spring/Summer 2015 palette, Classic Blue is a shade that is strong and reliable. Just as with the sea, because of its waterborne qualities, this Classic Blue is perceived as thoughtful and introspective.

Make it work for your wedding: Some colors are classic for a reason. This versatile blue will work just as well for a traditional wedding as it will for a quirky, modern affair.

Toasted Almond

Pantone says: “Bringing balance to the coolness of the Spring/Summer 2015 color range is Toasted Almond. A sun-tanned neutral, Toasted Almond offers comforting warmth and is indicative of a spontaneous spring, summer feeling. Timeless and versatile, Toasted Almond is an organic shade that speaks to authenticity and all that is natural.”

Make it work for your wedding: Pair it with metallics, creamy shades of white and ivory, and loads of touchable textures for a neutral look that’s anything but boring.

Strawberry Ice

Pantone says: “Strawberry Ice is suggestive of a cooling and refreshing delicacy, yet its warmth as a color is quite appealing. Subtle and charming, Strawberry Ice is an ideal shade for Spring/Summer 2015. Both tasty and tasteful, Strawberry Ice is a confection color that evokes a feeling of being “in the pink,” emitting a flattering and healthy glow.”

Make it work for your wedding: This pretty pink is perfect for a spring bouquet.

Lavender Herb

Pantone says: “Lavender Herb is a shade rich in nostalgia. Lavender Herb is also a creative shade; one that will add a distinctive color pop whether worn on its own or combined with the other top Spring/Summer 2015 colors.”

Make it work for your wedding: Incorporate lavender florals into your rustic wedding, or opt for vintage details in this beautiful color.

Photo Credit: Amy Lashelle on Glamour & Grace via Lover.ly

Tangerine

Pantone says: “Spontaneous and gregarious, Tangerine is a juicy orange shade that is energizing, yet not jarring to the eye. Good natured and friendly, but with a tangy edge, this fun-loving color invites a smile.”

Make it work for your wedding: We love this fresh and perky color for spring bridal showers.

Custard

Pantone says: “Custard is a delicious and delectable yellow. Sweet and sunny, Custard is a cheering tone that brings thoughts of pleasant relaxation and comfort food.”

Make it work for your wedding: We love the look of this quirky yellow hue with white and green accents at a brunch wedding.

Marsala

Pantone says: “Sensual and bold, delicious Marsala is a daringly inviting tone that nurtures; exuding confidence and stability while feeding the body, mind and soul. Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this robust shade incorporates the warmth and richness of a tastefully fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots point to a sophisticated, natural earthiness.”

Make it work for your wedding: Pair this stylish shade with loads of pink and gray for an oh-so-romantic look.

Glacier Gray 

Pantone says: “More dominant for men than women in Spring/Summer 2015, Glacier Gray is an unobtrusive gray that contrasts and enhances; bouncing off other shades without taking away from them as it slips into the background to allow other colors to take center stage.”

Make it work for your wedding: We expect to see a lot of groomsmen in Glacier Gray in 2015!

Dusk Blue

Pantone says: “Reminiscent of the blue sky above, Dusk Blue is ultimately dependable and faithful. In a world that has become increasingly chaotic, the nostalgic Dusk Blue enables us to retreat into a safe place of quiet blue calm.”

Make it work for your wedding: Since this color works well for ladies and gents, it’s a great option for your bridal party.

Treetop

Pantone says: “Speaking to restoration and new beginnings, Treetop is a natural and fertile green. Ideal when used as a background to other shades, Treetop is a healthy harmonious green from nature which offers a reassuring presence.”

Make it work for your wedding: Pair lush green florals with organic touches for a sophisticated and modern look.

Woodbine

Pantone says: “Woodbine, is a tropical green that could best be described as nature’s neutral. A classic yellow-green that could be used with anything and everything, Woodbine is a hue of foliage, grass, and growing plants.”

Make it work for your wedding: Ask your florist to incorporate hints of Woodbine into your arrangements.

Sandstone

Pantone says: “Rugged and woodsy, Sandstone is a complex neutral that has a warming presence. Earthy and real, Sandstone provides us with a return to nature and what is beautiful, simple and memorable.”

Make it work for your wedding: Incorporate this color into a 70s-inspired desert wedding for loads of boho flair.

Titanium

Pantone says: “Strong, masculine, and solid, Titanium is a gray shade that speaks to timelessness. Classic and tasteful, there is an implied quality attached to anything so long lasting. Durable and practical, this basic gray shade has classic appeal.”

Make it work for your wedding: This color may feel masculine, but you can easily add a feminine touch by pairing it with soft shades of pink and lavender.

First Look: Stunning New Gowns From White by Vera Wang

Iconic bridal gown designer Vera Wang unveiled her Fall 2015 White collection this week exclusively for Gudeer Bride and the dresses are absolutely stunning! The collection features eight budget-friendly gowns all priced under $2,000.

With a color palette that includes ivory, blush, and champagne in a variety of styles and silhouettes, there is something to fit every bride’s personality. When discussing the inspiration behind her new line, Wang said that “My collection was inspired by elegance and glamour, a style that every bride deserves on her special day.”

Take a look at the beautiful gowns:

Style 351219
Laser-cut floral organza topped with a sweet bow makes for an ultra-feminine look.

(Gudeer.com)

Style 351221
Glittering sequins pop underneath layers of organza on this A-line gown. 

Style 351231
This champagne-hued gown featuring a jeweled vine belt and inverted pleat train exudes style and sophistication.

Style 351233
Float down the aisle in this pretty blush ball gown with delicate pearl detail at the shoulders and waist.

Style 351236
With its intricate criss-cross beaded bodice and lush tulle skirt, this gown is utterly princess-worthy. 

Style 351233
This asymmetical, ruched sheath is perfect for a bohemian bride. 

Style 351126
Searching for a reception dress? Look no further than this flirty strapless mini with layered chiffon and floral detail.

Style 351237
We love the touch of metallic on this elegant ball gown!

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Wedding-Worthy Hairstyles from New York Fashion Week

We heart the reverse “undone” braid that lead hairstylist Kevin Ryan created for the Baja East show using UNITE Beach Day Texturizing Spray. It’s perfect for the Coachella bride — just add a daisy and you’re all set!

Relaxed updos are trending (a look we LOVE for bridal). At the Zang Toi show, renowned hairstylist Eiji Yamane of Eiji Salon styled low chignons that were loose yet refined, with a few tendrils framing the face. In order to create this effortlessly elegant look, Eiji used René Furterer Styling Wax to smooth hair and add shine.

For the ladies who lunch, this chignon by Odile Gilbert for Kérastase Paris is a true stunner. It perfectly complemented Altuzarra’s polished collection. Odile used a classic hairnet to keep ever

ything in place.

A pin-straight hairstyle with a strong center part imbues any wedding-day look with class and elegance. At the Monique Lhuillier show, Recine for Moroccanoil kept the hair smooth and flawless with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium. 

This summer, bohemian braids were everywhere. At the Tadashi Shoji show, we found the perfect braid for fall and winter’s formal weddings, thanks to lead hairstylist Rodney Cutler for ULTA Beauty. This sleek, braided chignon would look incredible paired with a lavish wedding gown. Cutler told us he was inspired by the Venetian-inspired lace in the collection.

Photo Credit: Cutler Salon

This simple, organic top-knot that we spotted at Philip Limis a great choice for unconventional brides. TRESemmé lead stylist Paul Hanlon said it was influenced by “the romanticism of the Pre-Raphaelites, but with a punk edge.”

Tip: You’ll need dry shampoo in order to achieve a matte texture for this look. We recommend TRESemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo.

At the Suno show, Kérastase lead hairstylist Odile Gilbert crafted a cage herringbone braid that screams bohemian, cutting-edge bride. This hairstyle would be ideal at a rustic barn wedding or a vineyard. Add flowers or pins for a more romantic feel.

Brides who love Old Hollywood glamour can channel Marilyn Monroe in this vintage-inspired hairdo from the Jenny Packhamshow. How beautiful would this be paired with a slinky wedding gown? To modernize this style, Antonio Corral Calero for Moroccanoil kept the look a bit more disheveled and used Moroccanoil Root Boost to maximize volume.

This sixties-esque hairstyle from the Rachel Zoecollection would look so pretty with a vintage lace wedding gown. “The low pony with a center part is polished and mod. But staying true to my love of bohemia, I also wanted to incorporate a braid element,” the designer explained. L’Oreal Professionnel artist Pepper Pastor pulled this look together with L’Oreal Professionnel Densité.

Planning a destination wedding? Take a style cue from Kaelen‘s show. Head stylist Amy Farid for Oribe Hair Care created a fresh hairstyle accented with orchids that is begging to be worn down a sandy beach aisle. The trick to this ‘do was prepping the hair with Oribe’s Foundation Mist and using the legendary Mason Pearson brush for a super-shiny, healthy look.

For a modern take on Swan Lake, wear this sculptural knotted bun with a lace ballgown. At the Novis show, Aveda hair artist Frank Rizzieri revealed that “This is the bun of that cool girl. It has natural pieces poking out so it’s not too perfect. It’s graphic and different but simple.”

Just add a veil to this sexy, clean look and you are good to go! For the Narciso Rodriguez show, Paul Hanlon from TRESemmé created effortless waves by spraying TRESemmé Climate Protection Mousse onto freshly washed hair, dividing it into a few loose braids and then drying it with a diffuser. After undoing the braids, he flat-ironed pieces around the hairline to achieve a flattering sense of movement.

This hairstyle from the Bibhu Mohapatra show appeals to the adventurous and worldly bride. L’Oreal professionnel artist Amit Abraham combined tribal braids with a lady-like chignon to create “a modern and strong look.” Trade the patterned scarf for an ivory tulle headwrap and this look is aisle-ready.

Celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger pulled off a hairstyle that is equal parts feminine, sexy and wearable at the Naeem Khan show. This easy-breezy style is the perfect balance to a lavish bridal gown; it keeps the look modern and fresh.

At Jason Wu‘s show, lead hairstylist Odile Gilbert for Kérastase Paris came up with the perfect ponytail for a wedding: it’s polished, bouncy and frizz-free! He described it as “healthy, classic and Americana preppy.”

Didier Malige for René Furterer designed a sleek, side-parted hairstyle inspired by Twiggy to complement the minimalistic, mod vibe ofLisa Perry‘s new collection. “The idea for the hair was to look ’60s but fresh,” she explained. We think this style would be so fun with a short white dress!

At the Tracy Reese show, hairstylist BoK-Hee created ballet-inspired updos that she accessorized with headbands from the latest scünci x Tracy Reese collection (available in Spring 2015). For a big-day look that’s on-point, pair this hairstyle with a tulle ballgown.

Sexy and luxe was the look du jour at Jill Stuart. Celebrity stylist James Pecis for Moroccanoil was inspired by Jerry Hall-like waves, which he brushed out to create a soft texture. We love this glamorous style paired with a simple A-line wedding gown.

Aveda guest artist Frank Rizzieri updated a classic half-up, half-down hairstyle for the Tibi show by using a bungee elastic, which allowed for a cool placement to keep the hair off the face. Imagine this modern style paired with a dreamy silk wedding gown.

The Reem Acra show presented a fresh vision of modern glamour for today’s brides. Hairstylist Didier Malige strived to create a light, airy hairstyle as a counterpoint to the ethereal silk organza gowns that went down the runway.

A Dream Vintage Destination Wedding in The Hills of Tuscany from Nadia Meli Photography

Good morning lovelies, oh do I have just the perfect post for you! It is absolutely guaranteed to brighten any Monday, however wet or miserable, because today’s vintage-inspired destination wedding is quite simply sublime! Beautifully captured by Nadia Meli, Manuela & Klaus’s charming celebration under the Tuscan sun, really is gorgeous. I mean, when the photographer says she wished it was her wedding, you just know you are in for something special…..

Inspired by their love of the simple things in life, like good food and great wine, Manuela and Klaus wanted a rustic Italian wedding infused with the colours and flavours of Tuscany. And when they visited Villa Cinciano with its stunning gardens, views over rolling hills, quaint courtyard and old farmhouse, they knew: this was it. From the elegant natural colour palette and the pretty fresh flowers (pale pink and blue hydrangeas, dahlias and roses) combined beautifully with aromatic Italian herbs to Manuela & Klaus’s chic style this wedding is Perfect (with a capital P)

Of course, such a beautiful day was only befitting the rather romantic start to their relationship“We met in a small bar in Zurich, Switzerland on November 1, 2011. I was out with a friend of mine and Klaus had a after work drink with a colleague. At first I just heard Klaus’ voice without seeing him and his voice just made me turn around. That is how our relationship began…” The couple dated for around a year before they got engaged, but according to Manuela, Klaus knew from the beginning that one day he would ask her to be his wife! (swoon)

Before we take a closer look a few words from Nadia, the lovely lady behind all of these gorgeous photos….. “There is really only one thing I have to say about this wedding: I wish it was mine. No really. This is my dream wedding. In the Tuscan sun, under a big tree, with beloved people and good Italian food. I mean!?

Being Manuela and Klaus’s wedding photographer was a dream. I had total freedom, they trusted us completely and put their faith in our hands. Feeling that kind of freedom and appreciation just brings out the best inside of you!

Everything about this wedding was inspiring. Just being in the italian countryside is enough to get your creativity going! When you add this lovely location and the wonderful people : it was nothing short of perfect. I am sounding like a broken record here. But I mean it. This intimate wedding was pure joy and a pleasure to photograph!”

So, sit back and enjoy every single dream worthy photo of this wedding, as we whisk you away to the Tuscan countryside..…