Categories
Fashion Featured

Simon Ardem’s New Stella Bridal Collection

[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Love is still in the air. The latest collection from Simon Ardem–the Stella Bridal Collection–is an homage to the co-founder’s wedding in Venice nineteen years ago, drawing inspiration from the architectural wonders of the city. This husband and wife team, Ardem and Cynthia Aslanian have been running Simon Ardem for thirty years. They both have extensive backgrounds in fine arts and in diamond jewelry and collaborate on every piece in order to create quality rings with tasteful designs, ultimately creating exceptional jewelry for your every need.
Ardem and Cynthia Aslanian Founders
The collection features engagement rings and wedding bands made from platinum and rose gold as well as a variety of different diamond cuts, everything from emerald to princess.  The Bovolo engagement ring. The Bovolo engagement ring is a square, Asscher cut platinum ring. Inspired by the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo in Venice, Ardem Aslanian describes it as “an architectural jewel translated into a wedding jewel.” Several of the pieces in the collection find their designs inspired by the architecture of Venice. Of this, Ardem says, “Venice stands out as one of the most unique places in Italy, not just for the canals it’s famous for, but for its rich history in the arts. The craftsmanship of its city and architecture has stood the test of time. Our inspiration for the Stella Bridal collection pays homage to this beautiful Italian city.” The Dandolo engagement ring–named after Venetian Doge Enrico Dandolo–is made from 18k rose gold. It is set with a round, brilliant diamond on a band of pink diamonds. The Loredan ring takes its name from the House of Loredan, a Venetian political dynasty that can trace its origins back hundreds of years. It features an oval-cut diamond set in platinum prongs on a delicate 18k rose gold band. The Galleon wedding band. In addition to four unique engagement rings, this new collection also features several wedding bands. The Galleon, one such eternity band, can be purchased with either emerald or oval cut diamonds set in platinum. Of the choice to use rose gold and platinum as the main colors that make up this collection, co-founder Cynthia Aslanian says, “The warm pink tone of rose gold is a perfect complement to pure platinum, adding a unique twist to this timeless collection.” To purchase items from this collection and to see more of the beautiful work created by Simon Ardem, visit their website or follow them on Instagram![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
Categories
Beauty Culture Fashion

American vs French Weddings

By Léna Andrè

If there is one thing that French people can’t be beaten at, it’s their effortlessly chic style. Comfortability is their mood for everyday life, but it is especially relevant in French weddings. Everyone is relaxed and wants to have a wonderful time. Americans do things a bit differently, which also leads to beautiful weddings. I’ll make a short list with all the most important things to do if you’d like to change it up and go for a French and effortlessly chic wedding theme.

Number 1: Theme, culture, and traditions

America and France are two different countries; that makes them two different worlds with different cultures and traditions. French weddings are representative of an effortlessly chic theme. America has a different culture and is more represented by a huge ceremony a with big, sexy dress, very elaborate hairstyles and lots of beautiful makeup. On the contrary, France is known for their simple and chic weddings. There are a few iconic French weddings, which you can take some inspiration from to have a better idea of what the French wedding style truly is.

Photo by Arkady Borisenko

Number 2: Not showing too much

Fashion is constantly changing, but a simple style is always a safe bet. Maybe the biggest difference between these two lands is that France is more into not showing everything that’s under a woman’s wedding dress. Americans’ flashy dresses that show off too much are the opposite of what the French have tried to achieve. French girls would rather wear a long-sleeve dress and show off their back than show off everything. The perfect French wedding dress has to represent the delicacy of chicness and refinement thanks to what a fabulous, seductive look will come out in a beautiful subtlety.

Number 3: Veil and/or Crown

Whether or not you are wearing a veil is something you have to decide for yourself. Veils will always bring some mystery and an expression of renewal once it is pulled up, revealing a new woman, with whom your future half will build a new life after the sacred ceremony. A flower wreath is also a well-known addition, making the look more of a bohemia, winsome and charming style. You can get some from the French company Coded. This brand is making amazingly beautiful wreaths with natural flowers preserved biologically, called Les Couronnes de Victoire. Americans aren’t particularly the biggest fans of veils but Les Couronnes de Victoire is a for-sure crowd pleaser.

Photo by Noelle Franzen

Number 4: “No-makeup” makeup look

Makeup is extremely important because this is the one day of the year or even a lifetime where you have to be the most beautiful. That’s why a no-makeup makeup look is a perfect match for a really simple but beautiful wedding. I think it will make you look your best and bring out your innermost beauty. The American look is more of a full face comprised of super sophisticated makeup, which costs a bunch of money. Both are beautiful, of course; it is up to you to choose which one you feel the most comfortable with.

Number 5: Hairstyle

Just as the rest of the list, the hairstyle is incredibly important. In fact, a simple hairstyle is the best option if you are looking for a French wedding style. Just not doing too much! Try to avoid tight, rigid hair buns or full hairspray because it makes your hair look hard and unnatural.

Categories
Fashion

The Most Fashionable & Gorgeous Bridal Dresses of 2019

One of the most important days in a woman’s life is when she walks down the aisle and finally says, “I do.” It is only fitting that everyone woman looks and feels her best as she says her everlasting vows.

Most wedding dresses follow the trends set by British royal princesses, from Princess Diana all the way back to Queen Victoria–who, by the way, was the original trendsetter for the white wedding dress.

Now, 2019 has brought all new fashion thanks to the dueling styles of sisters- and princesses-in-law Kate and Meghan. Today’s dresses might not mirror our favorite Disney classics like they used to, but there are still some voguing styles which will, I’m pretty convinced, make you want your own bridal dress.

Dreams about weddings usually symbolize a transition or a new beginning. That’s why, I think, the most important day of your life should be spent in an amazing, gorgeous, unique dress that represents the beginning of your unique royal adventure.

By Léna Andrè, Summer Intern

Categories
Culture Fashion Featured

Meghan Markle’s Royal Influence: Wedding Style 2018

The Royal Family truly has some heavy influence in the fashion world. Whatever Kate Middleton wears sells out almost instantly, and it looks like Meghan Markle has already inherited that same caliber of influence in fashion. Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot on May 19th, 2018, Markle’s bridal fashion has already inspired several fashion designers, and brides-to-be, to try and achieve Meghan’s look. If you are one of these brides-to-be looking for a little Markle-inspired bridal fashion, or perhaps if you are a maid of honor or bridesmaid, look no further – we’ve gathered some of our favorite Markle-inspired pieces for you to rock this wedding season!

 

MARKLE’S CATHEDRAL STYLE

 

https://people.com/royals/music-meghan-markle-royal-wedding/
Photo Credit: People Magazine

https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a13978425/meghan-markle-wedding-dress/
Photo Credit: Town and Country Magazine

 

Markle’s bridal style can be described as elegant and classy. Her Givenchy dress paired perfectly with her long, gorgeous lace train. Meghan kept her hair and makeup fresh and simple, paired with subtle jewelry and a beautiful bouquet (Harry picked the arrangement himself; the man’s got good taste!). Meghan’s bridal style is so sophisticated and timeless. Meghan truly looked like royalty on her special day; it’s no wonder why so many future brides cannot get enough of this style!

GET THE LOOK

https://floravere.com/collections/start-your-bride-box-shop-designer-wedding-dresses/products/m-markle

FLORAVERE M. MARKLE GOWN

Bridal company Floravere has created its own replica of Markle’s gown. This gown features Markle’s ever-so-flattering boatneck, slight off-the-shoulder style, while it also has its own unique features such as shorter sleeves and buttons down the back. This made-to-order gown will make you feel as royal as Meghan Markle, and as unique and beautiful as you already are; royal or not!

 

RECEPTION STYLE

http://time.com/5245124/meghan-markle-reception-dress/
Photo Credit: TIME Magazine

Just when you thought Meghan’s wedding style couldn’t get any better, she did it again with dress #2! How stunning is this Stella McCartney high-neck gown? Markle looked gorgeous as she maintained her sophisticated, elegant bridal style. This gown is perfect the perfect reception dress; it’s elegant while it still shows some skin, it’s modern, and it’s comfortable. This gown is perfect for a bride, and would look amazing in any shade for a maid of honor or a bridesmaid.

http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_brides_high-neck-wedding-dresses_white-by-vera-wang-high-neck-halter-wedding-dress-vw351263

WHITE BY VERA WANG HIGH NECK HALTER WEDDING DRESS

  If you’re on the hunt to copy Meghan’s reception look, this gown is almost identical. You will look stunning in this Vera Wang classic!

BRIDESMAID INSPO

   https://www.watters.com/wtoo/products/303 

WTOO BY WATTERS 303 BRIDESMAID DRESS

If you are looking for the perfect bridesmaid gown, this piece from Watters is gorgeous and comes in so many colors. Your bridesmaids will look STUNNING in this Markle-inspired piece.

 

 

Categories
Fashion Featured

The Ultimate Bridal Checklist

WeddingFeature1

From the dress down to the shoes, no detail is too small on your wedding day. Luckily, DOWNTOWN has compiled a guide of everything a bride could ever need (with the exception of the husband). Whether it be hair accessories or something blue for good luck, we’ve got you covered!

The Dress

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD. Look 6. Price Upon Request.
MONIQUE LHUILLIER. Price Upon Request.
LANVIN. Price Upon Request.
ELIE SAAB Cignus. Price Upon Request.
OSCAR DE LA RENTA Brooke. Price Upon Request.

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Footwear

STUART WEITZMAN Sinful Celeb Metallic Sandals. $250.74. Get it here.
SERGIO ROSSI Flora Swarovski Crystal & Satin Slingback Pumps. $2,185. Get it here.
JIMMY CHOO Evelyn. $575. Get it here.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Python Pigalle Pump. $1,345. Get it here.
CHELSEA PARIS Snakeskin Sosa Sandal. $635. Get it here.

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The Ring

TIFFANY & CO Stacking Band Ring. $1,325. Get it here.
TACORI Vault. $44,920. Get it here.
CARTIER Cartier D’Amour Wedding Band. $720. Get it here.
ARTCARVED 33-V13C4R65. $601 – $1,500. Get it here.

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Something Blue

OSCAR DE LA RENTA Something Blue Eau De Parfum. $85 – $115. Get it here.
DAVID YURMAN Cable Wrap Drop Earrings With Blue Topaz And Diamonds. $1950. Get it here.
THE WEDDING GARTER Joi Silk Wedding Garter/Blue. $168.10. Get it here.

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For the Bridesmaids

SOPHIA KOKOSALAKI Draped Wrap-Effect Crepe-Jersey Gown. $1,765. Get it here.
PREEN BY THORNTON BREGAZZI Everly Strech-Crepe Dress. $1,365. Get it here.
NILI LOTAN Ribbon-Tie Halter Maxi Dress. $495. Get it here.
ML MONIQUE LHUILLIER BRIDESMAIDS Crisscross Chiffon Gown. $298. Get it here.
AMSALE Chiffon G780C. Price Upon Request. Get it here.

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Hair Accessories

OSCAR DE LA RENTA Gold Feather Tiara Headband. $446. Get it here.
LOUIS VUITTON Over The Rainbow Peach Tiara. Price Upon Request. Get it here.
LANVIN Blanche Headband. $1,485. Get it here.
DOLCE & GABBANA Natale Strass Hairband. $725. Get it here.
JENNIFER BEHR Delicate Vine Swarovski crystal-embellished headband. $500. Get it here.

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Wedding Gifts

LENOX Westchester. Price Upon Request. Get it here.
LALIQUE Fantasia Vase. $995. Get it here.
JURA Giga 5 One-Touch Automatic Coffee Center. $7,500. Get it here.

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-Laetitia Remadna, Yuna Jeong & Elizabeth Sutherland