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Photo courtesy of Theia
The Glam Metal Bride
Silver and Gold
Metals, silver and gold are the new white? Maybe not but certainly they took the spotlight on the last Bridal weeks. Only for a dramatic change of dress before dancing the night away? Are you looking for something that make you sparkle walking down the aisle? Are you powerful, brave and bold and you want to make a statement out of it? Are you looking for a more subtle way to add to your wedding day all the drama of the glamour and the glitz? For sure adding a pinch of metallic light is becoming one of the most sought after trends for the next spring.
Let your imagination guide you, could you see yourself wearing one of these breathtaking wedding gowns?
From Galia Lahav “Queen of Hearts” Bridal Collection Spring 2019, Aden a slinky strapless gown it features a large Swarovski statement bow to add that WOW effect.
Hope you enjoyed it, like I did and keep in the loop with us.
Marcella Lavarini
Why we love Meghan's choices by Ginevra Ansuini
Why We Love Meghan's Jewelry and How to Create That Perfect Look.
Jewelry is all about elegance and attitude, and the Duchess of Sussex has plenty of them. The American actress choices for her wedding dress and jewelry are revealing of a new sober, bon-ton attitude which perfectly matches her new life style.
Let's see how she made it!
Engagement Ring
Getty Images
Meghan's engagement ring is simple and outstanding thanks to its sleek design. All the emphasis is on the beauty of the 3 stones. At the centre, a large, cushion cut diamond is sided by two round diamonds coming from Princess Diana's jewelry collection. The magnificent cushion cut diamond - which looks to be 5 carats - was sourced by Prince Harry in Botswana, where the couple spent a holiday. The two round diamonds could approximately be 0.50 carats.
While the band is yellow gold, the stone's set is white gold or probably platinum, to keep the extra white color of the diamonds untouched. The stones are set with prongs, so to reveal all their sparkling beauty.
An engagement ring is not a ring as any other: it has a special meaning because it is the symbol of the eternal promise of love. It should reveal care and attention to the beloved who will receive it. And Prince Harry showed all his care, making this ring a very special one! The Prince himself deigned the ring, sourced the central diamond and he chooses the two diamonds from a brooch of his mother's collection "to make sure that she's with us on this crazy journey together,' Harry explained to the BBC.
Meghan's wedding band is classic and chic. It's a thin and delicate band that perfectly matches any jewel she will wear from now on. You can either choose it in gold 18 k or platinum, the important thing is it's conceivable presence with the engagement ring you will wear on the same finger.
How to create this look? Have your wedding ring thin and sleek (you don't want it to be too visible). Make sure it's slightly curved like below!
Wedding Band and photo courtesy of Ansuini since 1860
Earrings
Meghan chose to wear a pair of Cartier earrings in white gold and diamonds. The central stone is surrounded by a geometrical pattern embellished by a pavé of diamonds. Her choice is again very simple and elegant: pair of earrings like these is perfect to draw the attention on the bride's face, enlighting it.
To create this look, make sure to choose a pair of round, white earrings of the right size for you. They should sit on your ear-lobe, delicately covering it. The point is getting that extra-light beam just on your face, so it's all up to getting something really shiny and white. You can either go for diamonds, or pearls.
When it comes to diamonds, if you are not a fan of pavé, you can get that perfect lady-look with a pair of studs. Otherwise, you can choose a pair of beautiful pearls simply set in white gold.
If you go for pearls, make sure they are really shiny and choose the colour of white that best suits your complexion (yes, pearls come in many shades of white!). To get that extra light beam, possibly avoid the ivory/cream tone of colors and prefer a cooler shade like white/grey.
Princess Diana Aquamarine Ring
Getty Images
The Duchess of Sussex wore to evening wedding reception a very special ring belonged to Princess Diana. It is a stunning aquamarine cocktail ring, elegant and sober. A real eye-catcher thanks to it's magnificent, large emerald cut aquamarine, of an intense vivid color. The band is sleek and curved and the stone is hold by prongs to reveal it's wonderful beam.
Getty Images
To create this look, choose your cocktail ring starting from the beauty of the stone and the vibrancy of its colour. Aquamarines are great, but you can also look for any gem you feel a special connection with. Keep the design essential and elegant, you will enjoy it for a life-time!
Thank you so much to Ginevera Ansuini who made our day glowing with beauty.
Marcella Lavarini
Getty Images
Meghan Effect
Elegance is an attitude
I must confess, last week I caught the Royal Fever like many of you, I couldn’t wait to see Meghan wedding dress, I was wondering if she would meet somewhere in between the Royal Family dress code and the Hollywood glamour and the glitz.
All the rumors about the wedding designer, I couldn’t be more wrong. When I saw her stepping out of the car wearing a Givenchy completely clean wedding dress with the dramatic veil I was enchanted by her. Being said that my fashion icon is Audrey Hepburn (Givenchy as a natural consequence) and her sense of elegance, less is more and style is an extension of the inner beauty (A.H. quote) I found Meghan simply perfect, the wedding gown epitome of elegance and she was glowing with happiness.
For the next wedding season on the catwalk I’ve seen many incredible simply-chic wedding gowns based on high quality of fabrics, masterpieces of sartorial expertise, that is the only wow factor, in perfect Meghan Style.
Let’s go find some inspirations.
From Justin Alexander Bridal Collection Spring 2019. Style 9905. For the bride-to-be who swoons over the dress Meghan wore to the evening reception of the Royal Wedding.
From Peter Langner Spring Bridal Collection 2019, fitting a princess.
On the left: Francis Style;
On the right: Marion Style.
From Livné White “Eden” Bridal Collection 2019, a collection characterize by clean sophisticated design and precious fabrics.
On the left: Melissa Style Melissa is a slim-fit long-sleeve wedding gown with A-symmetrical high-shine organza details on one sleeve and an oversized bow;
On the right: Nancy Style; a Victorian inspired wrap look ivory wedding dress, with ruffle details along the front, long see through sleeves, a cut out diamond shaped top and an elegant high neck.
On the Left: Ivy wedding dress, crafted in silk georgette this wedding dress is cut on the bias, has a draped front neckline and an asymmetrical open back.
On the Right: Ivy wedding dress detail with Pura veil.
Hope you had some fun like I did, maybe find your inspiration ... if you didn't Keep in the loop and see you next next.
Have a wonderful day.
Marcella Lavarini
Getty Images
Bridal Trend Spring 2019
The Bride rocks the jumpsuit
Jumpsuits have taken the stage this season. These pantsuits perfectly fit a chic wedding civil ceremony, or they are a good option to change into for the after party bridal outfit and dance the night away. I’ve seen many of them on the runways, I should say most of them give me the seventies vibe, feminine and proud to be, back then there was the trendy Studio 54 and the roller disco, actresses and singers which inspired a new style of clothing glam rock high-waisted, flared, shiny but jumpsuit.
On the left: Lauren Hutton in 1972 – photo from the Movie box
On the right: A flared disco jumpsuit of the seventies – Photo from Total Design Book.
The first appearance of a jumpsuit on a catwalk is dated back to the end of 1910s by Coco Chanel, since then it became a fashion icon, a symbol of female freedom.
The beach pajama styles (read jumpsuit) became quite popular in the 1930s; we should give the credit to Coco Chanel and the famous coastal town of Deauville which inspired the designer the timeless style of jumpsuits.
Let’s go back to the Bridal Season Spring 2019 to find blissful inspirations.
From Galia Lahav Bridal Couture Collection Spring 2019 “Queen of Hearts” the stunning Jumpsuit to get the attention of everyone in the room.
From Francesca Miranda Bridal Collection Spring 2019, Alina High-low hand embroidered tulle skirt, over crepé ‘skinny’ pantsuit, with an illusion neckline corset top.
From Nicky Vankets Bridal Collection Spring 2019 “Misty Morning” The Jumpsuit with the signature pink little bow.
Closing with one of my favorite wedding outfit, the caped bridal jumpsuit the singer and actress Solange Knowles wore on her wedding day to Alan Ferguson on November 16 2014 ( one of many wedding dress she wore ). Love the vintage glamour touch she added riding a white bicycle to reach the Holy Trinity Church.
Photo Getty Images
Hope it can help you find a whimsical inspiration or at least you had some fun just like I did.
Marcella
Bridal Trends 2019
The modern princess
We start from the fact that for us all our brides-to-be are princesses, no matter what your style is, no need to say few days to go before the royal wedding it looks like everybody's got the royal fever. In most of the Bridal Collection I saw there was something fitting for a modern princess.
We all wondering what Meghan will wear on her wedding day, the rumor started seeping out about the designer and about the fact she will have two dresses, one for the ceremony and another dress for the evening (personally I am a fan of having two different dresses, one fitting for the ceremony and one more daring for the after party), maybe we know the designer but we don’t know what he’ll tailor-made for Meghan. We all love her fresh and modern style, but still is a Royal wedding at Windsor castle, I am not an expert of the royal family but I did my research on the dress code for a member of the Royal family and it is very formal and there “should be a tiara” according to the protocol, so I am just guessing like anyone else, my personal opinion she will respect the tradition of a Classic bridal gown with long sleeve but she will find also a way to add a her personal touch to it, just details which will showcase her personality; or maybe she is going to surprise us all with her personal style everything but formal.
Let’s go back to swoon over the ball gowns and regal style for the next spring.
From Monique Lhuillier Spring Bridal Collection 2019: Majesty style.
A day in paradise, sneak peek Peter Langner new Bridal Collection spring 2019, and the bride walks in a cloud of beauty and poetry. Perfection meets creativity.
The Imperia gown from the new Couture Bridal Collection of Galia Lahav Queen of Hearts, inspired by the royalties and designed for the brides of today who know what they want and they won’t have anything but the excellence.
Carlo Pignatelli “Story of a dream” the Event Exhibition at Milan Bridal week 50 years of our Made in Italy Fashion history. Hues of white and ivory to enhance the feminine and regal allure of a bride-to-be.
Once Upon a Dream A Disney Inspired Collection by Paolo Sebastian, an homage to the iconic fairytales that have captured the heart and spirit of generations. The pleated ball gown with floral and bluebird embroidery featuring the lyrics of Cinderella’s, ‘A Dream is a Wish’ and the ‘Happily Ever After’ beaded veil.
From the Runway show of Amelia Casablanca Italian Haute Couture where luxury reigns my favorite princess brides.
See you on May 19th 2018, we have a Royal wedding to attend...
Marcella Lavarini
Photos from the movies
Iconic and Ironic Tiaras
We start from the fact that for us all our brides-to-be are princesses, no matter what your style is, few days to go before the royal wedding it looks like everybody's got the royal fever. We all wondering what Meghan will wear on her wedding day, the rumor started seeping out about the designer and about the fact she will have two dresses and there should be a Tiara ...
So if you feeling like a Princess, the one you’ve dreamed about watching the Royal wedding, or why not a Disney Princess, and you wish to wear a Tiara, just go for it, wear it with elegance, class and aloofness and be proud of it. You may use it as stand-alone hairdressing accessories, or as useful and valuable complements to hold the wedding veil in place. Either way, you will experience the thrill of being the most beautiful creature to cross the threshold of a stately manor or an ancient abbey.
The original antique tiaras of Pennisi Jewellery
You can lose track of time shopping in an antique jewellery, I must admit it … I’m addicted to antique jewelry, looking for an original vintage tiara, close your eyes and inspire your dream of being a Fairytale princess in a stunning ball gown wedding dress, wearing a real crown, and now open your eyes and find yourself inside Pennisi jewellery, trying one of the following showpieces:
A silver topped yellow gold and diamond tiara convertible into a necklace. England, late 19th century.
A yellow gold and amethyst parure composed of one necklace, two bracelets, one brooch, a tiara and a pair of earrings. France, around 1820. In original leather box bearing the word “Amethyst”.
Tailor-made tiaras of Ansuini Jewellery
You can also create your own tiara, authentic masterpieces of fine jewelry, like the one designed, by Ansuini High Jewelry, for the marriage of an Italian princess with an English nobleman, celebrated last year, it’s Handmade in white gold 18 K and sterling silver, with old fashioned cut diamonds, baroque australian pearls and citrines, the tiara can be divided into three parts: in the center there is the ornament that can be detached and worn as a necklace or as a simple pendant, on both sides there are two pins.
Or you can simply find one in a bridal boutique, a modern tiara adorned with crystals, pearls, with a traditional or contemporary design.
Now have fun and Inspire your Dream, with movie wedding ideas on how to wear a tiara.
Let’s start with a timeless icon of pure natural elegance, Audrey Hepburn, and her most famous movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s, in this movie she wears a rhinestone ‘diamond’ tiara in the opening scene of the movie, 6 A.M. coming back from a party, she has “breakfast at tiffany’s” with a travelling cappuccino and croissant. Later on in the movie she wears another rhinestone pink “diamond” tiara with natural elegance.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s - Photo from the movie
Photo from the movie - The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement
War and Peace - Photo from the movie
War and Peace - Photo from the book Audrey Hepburn "Museo Salvatore Ferragamo"
Mirror Mirror (2012) - The evil and powerful sorceress (Julia Roberts) and Snow White (Lily Collins) - Photo from the movie
The Glamorous Embassy Ball scene of My Fair Lady is an authentic catwalk of tiaras masterpieces - Photo from the movie
Enchanted - Photo from the movie
In Funny face Audrey Hepburn wears a Cartier Necklace as a Tiara - Photo from the movie
Disney Princess Tiana - Photo from the movie
Roman Holiday - Photo from the movie
Clip from the movie Enchanted that I made from my own copy of DVD
Photo Paolo Berzacola
A Venice surprise pre-wedding shooting
The Gift
This photoshoot was a gift from a groom-to-be for his beloved bride-to-be a ballet dancer. He asked to organize a surprise for his fiancé: A photoshoot of her dancing in a stunning Galia Lahav House of Couture wedding dress around the beautiful streets of Venice, Italy. The best part of the day? Seeing the happiness coming from the bride-to-be!
But let’s start from the beginning, He wanted to do something to make her fiancée swoon, he wanted to give her beloved a memory that would last a lifetime. A memory to share with the generations to come.
I thought it was all about photography so I asked the wedding photographer Paolo Berzacola to achieve a personal way to express his concept of beauty and lightness, in a very different way, I explained him we had the privilege to make a dream come true for this couple. That is all about our job is, to make a dream come true.
The novella by the German author Thomas Mann and the Luchino Visconti movie inspired the photographer Paolo Berzacola; Brides to expose opposite contrasting sides of our souls, ballet dancers were just perfect to give the feeling of lightness and grace.
Was it enough? The idea we all agree it was great, but I thought we were missing something, what would make a difference? We were setting up this Venice surprise shooting for a ballet dancer, who was also a bride-to-be soon.
I knew it, a magnificent wedding gown, a dream-dress that could frame the flying movement of a dancer.
I asked to Galia Lahav one of the most famous and sought-after bridal and evening couture designer for the dresses. Her courtesy (all her team) went far beyond my expectations, few days later we received the wedding and evening gowns, cascading silk tulle skirts, precious Italian lace.
The bride-to-be was moved to tears when she saw the dress, she could not believe it, she was about to has the photos of her taken dancing in Venice streets wearing a masterpiece.
Around the corner another little surprise was waiting for our bride-to-be, her closest friend accepted to be an “accessory” in this crime "a Venice surprise shooting" for her friend; in a stunnig black velvet, silk and tulle Galia Lahav evening gown she was ready to dance acting like her inner soul in a choreography they both knew very well.
The Mood: In the beginning the two dancers did not meet each other. We started shooting at Palazzo Ducale, few minutes before dawn, in a chilly misty morning with the dancer wearing the black dress in the colonnade, figuratively imprisoned by her own overconfidence.
At dawn, near water, our bride-to-be bride moves in the light and free from restrictions.
They are different, they need to find one other and at the same time they repel each other which it leads fatally to merge and born anew.
We shooted in the most iconic and hidden places of Venice, separately; only at the end of shooting they meet on top of one of the Venice’s bridges.
Our dark side will be acknowledged, exposed, embraced finally finding the right balance.
Thanks to all of you dear friends and visitors, for joining me in the streets of Venice for this swoon-worthy shooting ... I am still touched by all the emotions of the day.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy Chris Harth Photography
Ultra Violet mood
Pantone Color 2018: Ultra Violet
“Ultra Violet lights the way to what is yet to come” and the best is yet to come. Are you going to getting married within the year, it seems to me the new Pantone color 2018 fits the purpose, to bring us into the future, to share a new life full of surprise and possibilities.
Ultra violet is a dramatic shade of purple, a bit unconventional, a definitely mesmerizing color to add to your wedding day, a pinch of ultra violet. Who is in to get into the violet mood?
Close your eyes with me and let yourself be inspired by the powerful beauty of nature.
I've loved this photo from the first time I saw it, this is my inspirational Ultra-violet for my wedding mood board.
“… A Water Hyacinth at night: The cold Fall season brings a close to the flower blooms. This hyacinth, covered in evening frost, was captured, in darkness… “
Purple is your favorite color? If the answer is yes, then go for it .
Are you wondering how can you incorporate this dramatic shade of purple into your wedding day? As you like it; as a strong bold statement of personal expressions of individuality: “Violet symbolizes experimentation and non-conformity, spurring individuals to imagine their unique mark on the world, and push boundaries through creative outlets” ( Pantone quote ).
If purple is your favorite color but Ultra Violet is a bit too much as your wedding color theme, just add a pinch of it to highlight anything you want, use it as the eye-catching element of your wedding design.
My favorite Pantone Ultra Violet color Palettes are “Intrigue”
Invoking a sense of mystery, a palette of nature's blues and greens, combined with the unconventional Ultra Violet and a Silver and Pale Gold metallic, exudes a quiet strength.
(Photo and Pantone quote)
and "Desert Sunset"
Emulating a desert sunset, this is a dramatic palette of brilliantly heightened warm shades that radiate resplendently across the early evening sky. ( Photo and Pantone quote )
Let’s start having some fun trying out some ideas.
Wedding Invitation suite
Original Ultra violet invitation to set the tone for your wedding day or subtle hues of violet?
Bridal style
When it comes to Bridal Style, I think the easiest and fine way to include this particular shade of purple is to dare with the dresses of your bridesmaids, they will look just lovely and you'll definitely stand out.
Now tell me, how cute are these flower fairy girls playing out in their violet princess dresses?
Photo courtesy of Barbie Krushluck
Are you the bride-to-be?
A pinch of ultra violet and Purple shades in your bridal bouquet, simply-chic.
The crown of a modern powerful princess, violet blue hydrangea
Something hidden to be unveiled, a little surprise for your beloved husband’s eyes only, a purple lace garter.
Purple shoes
If you are planning a civil ceremony for your wedding, you can get more creative with what you wear, sense of elegance and you are ready to tie the knot. Who is in for purple shoes? The perfect match to a very feminine short floral dress in hues of purple.
Hope you enjoyed and get into the ultra violet mood with me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Yervant Photography
Black and White Emotions with a glimpse of red.
Another year is coming to its end, we are ready to celebrate the new year to come.
“Love gives up hope, hope for the New Year. That’s New Year’s Eve to me. Hope, and a great party. New Year’s Eve (2011).
This blog is my way to celebrate Love, to wish to all the couple that are going to marry in 2017 a new year full of love, possibilities, great hopes, new paths to explore. It will not always be easy, but it’s always worth it. Are you wondering why I choose black and white? I think it is more like me, always trying to capture the real emotion, or a feeling that is hard to put into words. It is all about contrasts just like life, just like me, I love black and white and bright colors, I’m always smiling, friendly and outgoing and the most timid person on earth at the same time.
I would like to thank all the photographers, who with their shots have made this journey through the emotions possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing shots.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me in this photographic journey.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Yervant photography
Brides around the world
For me, travel, culture and contemplation of the wonders that our planet holds are fundamental components of what I am. I’ve always thought to be a very lucky person, I had the chance to get together with different cultures, totally different worlds and all the people I’ve met enriched me, nourish and reawaken my soul, open up my mind, I feel like being at home a in melting-pot of cultures and I love weddings and everything about it. I love my beautiful brides, I've always wondered if besides different cultures, different wedding traditions and customs, also the feelings and emotions of the brides are so different? I’ve started doing researches, asking for brides portrait from all over the world. I asked to the most influential wedding photographer of our time, the Grand Master wedding photographer Yervant, with my surprise and pleasure I discover so much beauty, and I’m talking about the beauty that come from the kindness and openness, of all his team, his shots speak for themselves and tell us the story behind any emotions he framed.
The same kindness and open-heartedness I’ve found in all the people I’ve met for this wedding blog, world-known photographers, famous photo reporters, common people, it is a photographic journey through the feelings and emotions of brides, spread in every corner of our planet. If I ask to any one of these brides, I’m pretty sure they’ll agree on the fact they’ve experienced a really huge range of emotions, laugh and cry, up and downs, stress and anxiety and everything else in between. I think it is totally normal and make them look even more beautiful.
Shots that tell us about of mixed emotions: getting married means entering into a new life, from now on you are not alone but you have a partner with whom you will be spending the rest of your life, it is something it will change your lives, and a big change can be a bit scary, even if you’ve dreamt about since you’re a kid, take your time, take a moment just for you to enjoy what are you feeling.
A radiant Indian bride wearing a Pink Lehenga is waiting for her true love … ( India )
Brides with different cultures and the only thing I can think of is … they’re so beautiful, no matter who you are, where you are, I see pretty much the same feelings in your eyes and I can say beautiful eyes.
Palke ( Eyelashes ) - Shot of a bride who was wearing beautiful eyelashes.
Writing this wedding blog I made new friends, I learned a lot about different wedding traditions, and I found goodness, patience, candidness in all of them. It was fun and kind of difficult to explain what shot I’ve seen it and need it to a photo reporter who was travelling I don’t know where right in the middle of nowhere, or speak English to someone who speaks Spanish that I don’t understand it … but we made it.
What do you see looking at this bride posing in front of Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet in her traditional wedding dress?
Brides, from all over world, all of them smiling, their eyes are sparkling and full of love. I see the happiness, their joy is contagious, I don’t see any other differences, do you?
She is “Ciku” a beautiful princess from Nairobi. ( Kenya )
A happy Malaysian bride is wearing a yellow songket the traditional Malay attire and she proudly shows her hands after the solemn henna ceremonies. The Yellow also have a meaning: is the official colors of Royal Malaysia. ( Malaysia )
For this bride-to-be the the journey to reach her groom-to-be at the place of the ceremony is so thrilling that she smiles all the way over there. ( Romania )
Chinese glamour, a fairytale photo shoot for this bride in black with a baby grand piano hauled out to a beach front, that evokes old-fashioned European sophistication. ( China )
Ending with beauty and joy of this bride full of confidence, she says look at the me I’m going to live happily ever after, I’m about to begin a new life.
I would like to thank all the photographers, who with their shots have made this journey through the emotions possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and help me understand different wedding etiquettes.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me in this photographic journey.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Paolo Berzacola
Swoon-worthy elopement in the City of Love
A romantic wedding in the city of Love
I’m so lucky to live in a city which is a real open air museum, a city which has been awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO and world-famous as The City of Love, since three of Shakespeare's plays are set in Verona, Romeo and Juliet above all.
Everything happened so fast in July, I had the chance to “meet” via Skype this amazing couple, now newlyweds, from the USA. It was the end of June Shon the groom-to-be had a working travel planned for the month of July in Verona, and the couple thought it was the perfect opportunity for a Destination Wedding just for the two of them.
In the early beginning I was a bit worried, mostly for all the papers and offices we’d have to go through in less than three days and a bit because it was peak season for the Lyric and most of the venues and everything else was fully booked from the previous year.
As soon as I spoke with them, I think I understood what they really wanted, an intimate personal and romantic wedding just for the two of them, to make everything all about the true essence of their love.
Sometimes in the frenzy of all the planning it is easy to forget that being married is all about understanding and loving one other for who and what you are, saying it out loud, relax and enjoy one of most important and life-changing day.
They didn’t want all the hustle and bustle, the pomp of a great wedding, they’d like something very nice and simply-chic, and make a statement out of it, we are truly madly deeply in love, that is it, that is all.
We made it, from the moment they landed in Milan and met, we rushed from the US Embassy to Verona Courthouse, from local Prefecture to Verona Town hall, but we made it. It turned out it was one the destination wedding I love the most, Shon and Neha were amazing despite tiredness and long days they were always kind, always nice, always smiling.
They enjoy all the moments leading up to their Destination wedding in Verona. That is the mood smile and Enjoy, sometimes it is easy to forget.
The wedding venue was Juliet’s House which is now a museum, full of history where love is actually palpable. Inside this venue, most of the common glamourous and glitzy decorations are forbidden, but you don’t really need them.
The reception, a romantic gourmet dinner just for them was host among roman remains, inside an historical palace, a tasting of the best local food and wines.
We planned to get the groom ready inside the Hotel room.
while Neha and I went to fancy beauty parlor, a private room just for us;
She was enchanting, running a bit late, Shon waiting for her, with the witnesses at Juliet’s house.
To reach the Juliet’s house, we choose to walk just few meters, the car can’t get there, long gowns and High heels on a on a Roman road made of San Piterini, that was a fun.
It was quite an experience, all the people, turning their heads toward the alluring bride, applauding her, whishing her a happy life.
You should see the look on Shon’s face when he saw her; it was what you definitely call the “The Look of Love”.
They hold each’s other hands to walk down the aisle, there are no words to describe the emotions, and the shots could frame them.
I was acting as the interpreter, I had my emotional moments too, while sneak-peak and see them holding tight their hands.
A photographic walk to enjoy what the city has to offer.
One of my favorite proposals ever took place about a year ago in Venice. David called me very last minute from New York as he came up with an idea of hiring a professional photographer to capture his girl saying Yes on the Venetian lagoon.
He wanted it all to be perfect as he kept mentioning Dasha deserves all the best. We arranged the surprise marriage proposal photoshoot at 7am in the middle of San Marc's square as capturing the basilica in the background was his dream.
Everything was set up - he new the spot where he was meant to appear at 7am, he knew how to stand and what to pay attention to. The only thing we didn't really plan was the pouring rain!
I got to the spot at 6.30am and was waiting for them to capture the big moment. I was exactly in front of the basilica, as far from it as possible, being ready to capture the couple and the whole architecture in the background - this is where David and Dasha were meant to be too.
All of a sudden, I noticed a guy kneeling down few hundred metres away from me, right by the basilica's wall! This is when I realised David stressed out too much and messed up with the spots! I was running as fast as I could, taking photos at the same time, trying not to die of a heart attack. I managed to take few shots of him still being on his knee but I swear I was shaking so much when I got close, I couldn't even say hi and introduce myself!
David felt already he messed something up but still hoped he would have the Basilica captured in the background. As soon as he asked me if I managed to include the whole architecture, I had to explain that something went wrong. All this time I was praying I had any good photos of the proposal as I knew I was running when taking them, so it was almost impossible to have any decent sharp shots in a gloomy weather when the light conditions were a bit of a challenge for a camera.
Obviously Dasha had no idea we planned it to be a bit different to what it was - as soon as she saw some sneak peeks (which were actually sharp!) she almost cried with excitement and happiness.
This was when I started breathing again and stopped shaking this much. After all, David and I came to a conclusion that the final proposal images came up way better to what we planned and they're not only 100% candid but also unusual as no one else has such images of a proposal in Venice! The rain and all the shiny pavements only added to the final look.
Few months later, seeing their Save the Date card with my image almost made me cry. This is why I do what I love!
In the beginning there was Phoebe, I’m talking about Friends. How can forget her winter wedding, a blizzard hit New York city, instead of postponing it, following Rachel suggestions, they decided to do service in the street right outside Central Perk… “you couldn’t ask for a more romantic setting” … I love Phoebe, she was so kind, smart, funny, adorably weird and her wedding couldn’t be any different. Phoebe refused to wear a coat even though it was freezing and snowing outside … “I’ll be my something blue” … That was Phoebe.
Clip from the tv show Friends
Winter wedding & the city, a snow mantle is covering the streets, don’t miss out the opportunity for amazing outdoor wedding shots, they really worth a little discomforts, but I’m pretty sure you will only feel love all around you, not the cold or anything else. If you’re worried about the weather on your wedding day, just remember that snow weather produce amazing photos, always look at the bright side.
For the outdoor winter wedding shooting a 1800's c.1825 Swansdown Swan Feather Palatine Stole Museum Piece Rare Antique on the left, on the right Incredible 1930s Aquamarine Silk and Ombre Ostrich Feather Cape Shawl.
You are not planning a snowy wedding but it just happened to be it, then keep calm, have fun and make the most out of it, everything will be fine.
clip from the movie Father of the Bride
Now inspire your dream: how about exchanging your promises of eternal love enveloped in the magical atmosphere of a snowy winter wedding, maybe in a log cabin in the mountains?
A cozy bridal knit sweater for the bride to be wrapped up in …could be the perfect fitting and adds a perfect sophisticated bohemian glamour to each bridal gown.
If you think there's no setting more romantic than a blanket of snow, then consider planning a winter wedding, using snow and ice to create romantic background for your wedding shooting …
Snow and fog on your wedding day? How beautiful is this bride? She looks like a princess from a fairytale, bad weather turns out to be just perfect to have the most dramatic shots.
Maybe you are so lucky, that not only snow is the perfect winter setting for your wedding day, but you are going to getting married under the magic light of the aurora, go beyond the boundaries of your imagination and start dreaming about this stunning natural setting.
A change of shoes, to enjoy everything the outdoor has to offer you, with “all terrain” rubber boots, hidden under your dream dress it will be the bride’s little secret, classic white or your “something blu” if you like.
I fall in love with this couple, who choose to have their wedding ceremony outside in the snow, a sunny day on the lake shore, the natural setting takes your breath away, look at light, the sky, the panoramic views danced before their eyes, and it was like looking out onto a picture postcard, everything was just perfect.
From bridal collection 2017 of Katya Katya Shehurina, on the left Magnolia, French floral lace and silk taffeta skirt, on the right Bay, Ladder French lace runs down, elongating the length of the bride’s body teamed with the floral circle lace bordering the sides of the figure.
For the outdoor snow wedding shooting, keep yourselves warm with a 1950s Winter White Silk Faille Asymmetrical Wrap and Jewel Trim on the left or a Tom Ford for Gucci White Marabou Bolero on the right.
You’re a brave and confident bride so these amazing wrap ups are made for you to warm up your big day and make a great entrance. On the left a VALENTINO Circa 1980's Dramatic Red Mohair Coat with Draped Collar, on the right Rare Vintage 1986 Zandra Rhodes Limited Reversible Hand Painted Fur Cape.
Maybe you planned for snow on your wedding day, mountains and snow are even better than sun and sand on the beach for you, so make some time to play in the snow.
Brighten up your outdoor snow wedding shooting, in contrast to the whiteness all around you with stunning wraps. Givenchy Pink Marabou Bolero with Rhinestone Jewel Applique on the left, not enough bold for you than try something hot … Gucci by Tom Ford hot pink marabou bolero.
For such an unconventional stunning dress, you should need a warm and lightweight jacket, the ultimate cold-weather essential to enjoy your time playing in the snow.
Maybe you didn’t planned it, you just live in the cold mountain valleys of Kyrgyzstan, where the temperatures usually fall to −22° degree , if it happens just roll with it and celebrate your big day in happiness.
I would like to thank all Bridal designers and the photographers, who have made this wedding journey in the snow possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and willingness to cooperate and share their work.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me in this white wedding journey.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Monica Helsby
The glittering bride
Paint that dress.
Last week I was looking for stunning shots for my “Photo of the day” section when I saw the portrait of a glowing bride having fun. She was trashing her wedding dress with paint and glitter, I was impressed by the colors and the genuine smile on bride’s face.
I am used to the “Trash the dress” shoot in which the bride effectively ruin her bridal gown by getting it wet, dirty, in extreme circumstances. It is often a style of wedding photography based on contrasts, more elegant the wedding dress, more dramatic the place to achieve the perfect shot and get the feeling of being out of place. This portrait was so different to me, I got the feeling of a bride truly in her element. I asked the photographer Monica Helsby to tell me all about the behind the scene of the shooting, here's what she told me: “This bride’s wish was to trash her wedding dress in a unique way. Art and creativity are important to her.
As a photographer, I tend to lean toward action and capturing images that are interesting and fun. We knew that color paint would be a good choice for her. We needed enough space to get messy during the process. We used a large backdrop that could be easily thrown away afterwards. She squeezed the bottles all over the dress, as well as in her hair, and then continued by throwing glitter up in the air.
Suddenly she became a living art project and she had become the paint artist. She laughed often and continued to use different colors of paint and glitter to become a human canvas. I photographed the entire process and we were both pleased with the final outcome. The experience and the beautiful images were worth the clean-up and pre-planning. We were both in our element that day and I will always remember this photoshoot as one of my favorites”.
Halloween the scariest night of the year is coming, it has always been a holiday filled with mystery, magic and superstition. On Halloween, when it was believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world, people thought to avoid being recognized by these ghosts they could wear masks when they left their homes after dark so that the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits. Today Halloween evolved into community-based event characterized by child-friendly activities such as trick-or-treating, and cool night parties in costumes.
Halloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. The Celts, who lived in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became faint. On the night of October 31 they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth…
First it is just a shadow in the night, than it looked like a ghost looking out the window, of an old Chocolate factory … brides from the past.
To commemorate the event, Druids built sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, in attempt to blending with the spirits coming from the dead-world.
Over the years up today, Halloween celebration, spread in the world, first with Holy Roman Empire that conquered many of the Celtic territory, and combined Roman and Celtic customs and traditions, then with American colonies…
It is a night, in which everything could scare you up, your girlfriend getting ready for you under the shower …
I started from history, to imaging something different than a cool night party. I prefer to imagine a loving couple, spending Halloween night together, a spooky romantic night, sharing intimacy, maybe cuddling on the couch, watching horror movies with a wedding theme naturally … few suggestions …
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Clip from the movie Sweeney Todd of Tim Burton
Corpse Bride.
Clip from the movie “ Corpse Bride” of Tim burton and Mike Johnson
Bride of Chucky.
Clip from the movie Bride of Chucky of Ronny Yu
Are you scared? No? Than try to look at your beloved cat and doll … Do they look any different on this night? It is only your imagination …
And my favorite.. ( maybe I shouldn’t say because I’m a wedding planner? ) It is not a movie but a tv show, Dexter Morgan, a forensics expert, a loyal husband, brother, and friend. That's what he seems to be, but that's not what he really is. Dexter Morgan is a sociopath Serial Killer with a code … he kills only the the bad guys.
Clip form the tv show Dexter
The evening is not coming to end, and Halloween it is all about spirits and ghosts, and you can tell each other stories of ghosts, brides ghosts back from the past, maybe they have something left unsaid or undone.
Halloween is near ... and maybe there'll be a lot of ghosts wating for you …
Our Inner E-Motions … Sometimes we are angry but we put on a smiling face. We are sad but the anger shows in our eyes, this night we are coming back to show the mix of emotions in our inner life, that we didn’t have time to explain …
Haven’t you pop the big question yet? Maybe this is the right time … the heart beating faster, the chills run down your spine, yes the time is right to fall down on your knees and say the magic words … Will you marry me?
And for a such special scary night, you should need a terrific engagement ring … with a soul. Few ideas that I love?
The black rock … 5.33 Carat Radiant Cut Fancy Black Diamond Engagment Ring.
Are you in the mood for a dramatic orange Wow effect?
On the left, Aral The most classic diamond band shines with a mandarin garnet in it’s centre, handmade in white gold 18 K. On the right Ormond, A ring with a great visual impact and a modern design. The central stone is expertly cut and it is accompanied by a double row of diamonds.
I would like to thank all the photographers and jewellers, who have made this wedding journey in the dark side possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and willingness to cooperate and share their work.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me in this Brides ghost stories journey, I hope you had fun like I did it.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Þóra Hrönn Njálsdóttir
Trendy Friday
Northern lights inspirations
Traveler is what really defines who I am and what I do, northern lights is one of the wonder of nature that I like the most and always inspire me. Dancing lights in the sky, hues of green, blue and purple slowly swirl and twist into each other, spreading across the heavens to ultimately create the greatest light show on earth.
This natural Phenomenon has inspired fantastical stories about gateways to other worlds and many others different cultural beliefs.
I prefer the myths and legends that come along with this breathtaking sight more than the scientific explanations.
The “Polar Spirits” one of the most common folk beliefs, the northern lights are spirits from another world who try to get back in touch with humans. When the dancing light in sky make their appearance in the rare and spectacular form of glowing red, we should be very careful of what we are thinking about … the spirits can talk directly to our souls. I love this aura of awe and mystery and today I feel inspired for a Trendy Friday.
Last dance.
The photographer Þóra Hrönn Njálsdóttir, is not new to the Aurora show, but she admitted she was stunned, the lights were dancing like it was their last dance.
I would like to thank all the photographers designers, who have made this journey through the northern lights inspirations possible.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Randi Rahm
The Bride goes Shorty
Summertime
It is Friday, Trendy Friday and it is summer, longing for lightness, the barefoot paradise beach wedding, boho outdoor and garden weddings, partying by the pool let yourselves be inspired by these bewitching wedding gowns for the next season.
Jenny Packham
On the left: Happiness is the mood and Happy is the style.
On the right: Red as love, red as passion, red and bold. Clara Style.
I would like to thank all the designers, who have made this journey through new bridal trends possible.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Wedding gowns Paolo Sebastian Ph. Simon Cecere
La Vie en Rose
Infinite shades of Pink
It is time for our trendy Friday.
I investigated the next bridal season catwalks to find the bridal fashion trends you need to know about.
I can’t help but falling in love with the enchanting infinite shades of pink which are an ode to a new romance.
From blush to pink and everything in between, a colour as a statement of your own personal way to see life … to go for it, always positive about what life has in store for you, every day a little surprise, a new possibility …
Jenny Packham
Freedom is the mood, Freedom is the style. An enchanting, glowing bride in sparkling barley shades.
A romantic, feminine, and bohemian look new for the new bridal Collection; But there is much more than that, ecological aware and fair trade eco couture. As a Destination wedding planner, one of my fields of expertise is Africa and I share with Leila the same vision, of taking care of the people. In Africa you can have both luxury, iconic destination, and doing some good.
3D hot pink flowers and blush hues, now close your eyes and imagine these wedding gowns on you blowing in the wind.
Paolo Sebastian
Start dreaming about the beautiful magical allureof the new Reverie Couture Collection.
On the left: Chantilly lace gown with frayed panel detailing;
On the right: Layered tulle ball gown with three-dimensional floral and vine embroidery.
I quote the stylist Randi Rahm “Rosé all day” with the epic RJ Floral gown. Are you planning to party all night long? Skirt off to dance the night away by the pool, on beach …
Harper Style: Less is more, as the elegant Italian lace detailing is centered on the shoulders, chest and trim of this enchanting gown. Soft tulle gives a weightless demeanor to its aesthetic. The pink sash belt is the signature.
I would like to thank all the designers, who have made this journey through new bridal trends possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
The Bride wears pants.
Trendy Friday.
It is Friday; let’s make it our trendy Friday.
The bridal fashion weeks are over and it is time for me to share with you the trends that I’ve seen for the next season.
Not only I’ve seen the most beautiful dresses on the runway shows, I was lucky to talk about the new collection with many bridal designers.
Last week I Talked about "The Sparkling Bride," this week I’m gonna share with you another major trend that I’ve seen. Brides are going far and away wearing pants for the next season.
The Designers came up with glorious pantsuit and jumpsuit which are an ode to elegance and feminine sensuality.
Peter Langner
Emily Style: The enchanting timeless elegance, pure and simple.
Theia Couture
Off-the-shoulder, sweetheart neck, stretch crepe jumpsuit with criss-cross draped bodice.
On the left: From Erfia Collection, Corina a "cadi" silk crepe, with handmade pearls and Swarovski applications. The trouser is also made in the same fabric.
On the right: From Erfia Collection, Libertad Chantilly lace, and silk applications in nude and gold.
I would like to thank all the designers, who have made this journey through new bridal trends spring 2018 possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photos courtesy of Jordi Dalmau Novias
Bridal trends on Fairytaleweds
The Sparkling bride
The bridal fashion weeks are over and it is time for me to share with you the trends that I’ve seen for the next season.
Not only I’ve seen the most beautiful dresses on the runway shows, I was lucky to talk about the new collection with many bridal designers, to all of them I asked to give me one keyword for their new bridal collection, the recurring word was definitely: “Sparkle”.
I’ll start from here to show what I liked, in the same order I’ve seen it.
Galia Lahav
The Victorian Affinity: Liliya a glittering ballgown made of real silver twilight sparkly net.
Lydia style. Soft scalloping around the neckline the silk skirt creates a natural movement accompanied by a graceful train and a pretty pink sash with hand stitched Swarovski embellished belt.
The new collection is inspired by the Icelandic northern light, precious fabrics, italian silks and French lace and the finest crystals to capture and reflect the light.
Hanko Style, a sparkling mermaid wedding gown with very deep feminine necklines.
Alon Livné White
Crystal Style. A long-sleeved column gown with a high-neck featuring sequin and glass bead netting with a swan-inspired beaded overlay.
I would like to thank all the designers, who have made this journey through new bridal trends spring 2018 possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photos courtesy of 4lovepolkadots
Wedding Invitation spring 2018
Sparkle is the keyword.
The wedding invitation set the tone of your wedding, it sets also the expectations and curiosities about the wedding itself. When it comes to think about the design of your wedding invitation, keep in mind the wedding etiquette but try to create something highly customized. Let your guests know they will go to attend the wedding of the year.
Floral inspirations for a spring garden party:
Line drawings, pen & ink, watercolor, oil or acrylic painting, mixed-media, hand-painting.
Timing: The invitation should be send or delivered at least 2/3 months in advance; if it is a destination wedding abroad, a wedding Save the Date six/eighth months before the wedding, it should be in order and a courtesy for a three-days wedding celebration. In the busy and hectic life we lead nowadays, sending a save-the-date will increase guest’s chances of attending your celebration.
For the modern style, I let myself be inspired by bridal trends spring 2018 as seen on the bridal fashion weeks; and the keyword seems to be: Sparkle. I exploit all the possibilities of digital printing, which provides unlimited opportunities in the choice of fonts and kinds of papers, as well as the possibility to customize your wedding invitations.
Something Black.
Just a Detail.
Downing Street:
Classic, yet modern. This suite is perfectly punctuated – the envelope flaps are piped in black, and mini-messages of angled type subtly reside in the corner of each card.
Handmade, modern design, beautiful lace makes it stand out. The dangling crystal embellishment makes the invitation so unique. The invitation is handcrafted of fine silk.
Lovely lettering is fluid throughout the suite. The couple’s names are accentuated by a metallic foil drop cap that becomes a monogram. The L-O-V-E envelope liner is an unexpected detail.
Bold and gold! This invitation has two sides and there’s a hint of animal print. Bring in the mirror paper envelope liner to add even more glam to this set.
Traditional wedding etiquette invitation by size and weight with the original pocket invitation. Handwriting by a calligrapher in gold or bronze plus extra fine print.
I would like to thank all the designers, who have made this journey through new wedding invitation trends possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
A conversation with Randy Fenoli
A kind person beyond the celebrity
The greatest revelation of past few days spent in Milan at the Bridal Market was definitely Randy Fenoli, as many of you, I knew Randy Fenoli as the great professional in the world of Bridal, as the celebrity, the public figure. For this reason I thought it was difficult to talk with him about his new bridal collection, always surrounded by a thousand people. I couldn't be more wrong, he greeted me friendly with a compliment, which caught me completely by surprise, He made me feel totally welcome and at ease.
On the left: a portrait of Randy Fenoli;
On the right: The Great Gatsby style and a Strapless corseted Mermaid Style.
We started talking about his beginning, born and raised in a big family, at a very early age he developed a passion for fashion, which lead him to study at the Fashion Institute of Technology. It was the nineties when he first designs his first’s bridal collections. The more we talk, the more I felt the magic, the passion in his words, a rare talent that only a few people have. I was impressed and I asked if it was true that he consults on average 15.000 brides a year and it is.
He strongly believes every bride is beautiful no matter what, and she should feel this way.
Working many years in the Bridal industries, as fashion director at Kleinfeld Bridal, in many tv-shows such as “Say Yes to the Dress”, “Randy Knows best” “Randy to the Rescue” he has to deal with every kind of bride, from the more affluent brides to those less fortunate, brides with a great personality and others more insecure.
This is mainly the reason that led him to design his Bridal Collections after many years; every bride deserves to feel enchanting in a Couturier wedding gown wearing a dream dress that fully reflects her personality.
Before starting uncover the new bridal collection, I asked Randy if it happens that a bride “doesn’t say yes to the dress” and yes that happens also to him, he explained that when he has in front of him a bride trying on 4/5 dresses and not finding the right one, in most of the cases, he is facing a bride insecure, insecure of her own body, insecure of her femininity, or worse insecure about the fact if is she doing the right thing getting married.
Now follow me, and find out a bit more about Randy Fenoli’s new Bridal Collection.
Cinderella: The Strapless Princess Ball gown
In this clip, Randy Fenoli is showing me the different styles of his wedding gowns that suit the personality of every beautiful bride-to-be. Wearing a Randy Fenoli dress that suit your personality will ensure that you are always confident in how you appear.
Thank you so much to Randy Fenoli for being so kind and sharing with us his glamorous bridal collection.
Marcella Lavarini
... Keep following us. More columns are coming up. Don't miss them ...
Photo from the movie box
Married today May 13th 1922
Wedding of interest
"Latin Lover" and silent actor Rudolph Valentino married Natacha Rambova (Winifred Kimball Shaughnessy) costume and set designer in Mexicali, Mexico.
In 1919 just before the rise of his career Valentino rashly married the actress Jean Acker, who was already involved in a loving affair with actresses Grace Darmond and Alla Nazimova, the three of them were also known by the name the “Sewing circle” in Hollywood's inner circle.
We are talking about the twenties and facade marriages were common among actors. In the contracts concluded by the Hollywood studios were included morals clause, in order to prohibits certain behavior in an actor's private life.
Homosexuality was a taboo and it was hidden by the actors with facade weddings, this was mainly the reason why Acker accepted Valentino marriage proposal, to remove her from the lesbian love triangle, just as quickly she regretted the marriage, and locked Valentino out of their room on their wedding night. The couple separated soon after, and the marriage was never consummated. The couple remained legally married until 1921, when Acker sued Valentino for divorce. The divorce was granted only with Acker receiving alimony.
Valentino first met Winifred Shaughnessy, known by her stage name, Natacha Rambova an American costume and set designer, art director, and protégée of Nazimova on the set of Uncharted Seas in 1921. The two worked together and they started spending much time together, it won’t take long before the two became intimate and moved in together.
Rudolph obtained the divorce decree from Acker on March 4th 1922, according to the Californian law of the period; it required a year to pass before remarriage. Valentino ignoring the law and the advice of his attorney … married Natacha on May 13, 1922, in Mexicali, Mexico, which resulted in Valentino's arrest for bigamy, since he had not been divorced for a full year, as required by California law at the time. He was bailed out by his friends. They remarried on March 14, 1923.
Valentino and Natacha finally happy at home
I hope you enjoied the new column "Married Today" with the first tribute to one of the first Hollywood movie star, Rudolph Valentino.
Stay in the loop to see what is coming next.
Marcella Lavarini
Photos courtesy of Slava Grebenkin
Under water love stories
The underwater love magic of Slava Grebenkin
Only few weeks ago I was looking for “sirens of Hollywood” when I When I came across an enchanting siren of Slava Grebenkin, that wasn´t the first time I ever saw an underwater shot, but it was the very first time that something different strikes me, maybe it was the light or the stillness, sure thing is I was impressed. Curious as I am by nature, I started looking for the photographer who had made that shot. When I found him felt like Alice in Wonderland, facing an underwater world of love stories.
Are you looking for engagement or post wedding shooting inspirations? Something really out of the ordinary? An engagement shooting about which people will talk for generation to come? Hold your breath and plunge with me in an underwater world of love magic.
When I finally got the chance to talk with Slava Grebenkin, I overwhelmed him with all my questions and curiosities, lucky me that I always met kind and nice persons willing to share their time and shots with me.
For Slava, the water environment is an amazing world in which you can create truly unique shots. He told me “This is a completely different experience than on land. I started taking pictures under the water from 2012. Initially, they were shooting in the pool and at sea.
Since 2016, in Moscow we have equipped a special photo studio; it looks like a large aquarium. In which I take my pictures. Thanks to the studio lights, you can create many cool photos.
On average in 1 hour I shoot about 200-300 frames. I work with natural light, cinema light and pulse, each light source gives its own picture. The cinema light gives a dramatic picture. Pulsed light to get a glossy picture.
As you can see, basically I work with long tissues under water. Thanks to water, the fabric looks amazing.
For underwater photography people come to us from different countries. In addition to photography, I also teach how to work with a model underwater, and also how to work with light”
Thank you so much to Slava Grebenkin for sharing with us, for showing us the beauty of the underwater world.
Marcella Lavarini
... Keep following us. More columns are coming up. Don't miss them ...
Photos courtesy of CodedPR
Hollywood sirens
Mermaids and Hollywood glamour
If you’re looking to make a big Hollywood Golden Age (Which is the flamboyance era stretching from the '30s to the late '50s, when the televisions started spreading in all the family’s houses) style inspired wedding, then consider the mermaid style hem gown. An iconic silhouette, mermaid style gowns can make any woman feel like a glamourous movie star. A bride is definitely like an “actress” always on the stage, the eyes of every guests will be turned toward her all the time. She should consider her wedding dress like a part of her, she should feel it on her body, but most importantly, she should feel herself always perfectly at ease wearing it, like Madeleine Vionnet used to say “when a woman smiles, then her dress should smile too”
Keep in mind that the dress you choose for the big day serves only to highlight who you really are and your inner beauty. Been said so far, dear brides, don’t forget to smile and enjoy your big day.
Now you feel that mermaid style and Hollywood glam it works for you, let's dive into it without too much thoughts. Be inspired by the fashion icons of the period.
It was in the ‘30s that returns to be attractive the feminine curves and so the need to celebrate them with stunning dresses that enhance the beauty of the wearers, stars like Mae West, Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard Joan Crawford, were the fashion icons famous for highlight their silhouettes.
Mae West portrait – Photo from the book The Movie box.
Full-length crêpe satin envers slip dress with a sensual mermaid silhouette and a slight tail at the back. The femininity is accentuated by the V-neck and straps which cross over on the back.
The mermaid gown has a figure flattering, body hugging to the knee or above, with a dramatic flare hem below. This is a very feminine style that can show off the curves you have, or even create the illusion that you do, even if you don’t.
From Peter Langner: ALEGRA: Strapless mermaid gown in Mikado with embroidered bodice and asymmetric motif on front.
It was a style very popular with movie stars from the 1930s to the 1950s. This style never went completely out of fashion, It made his sensational return from 2010s onwards, with more and more brides looking for a gown that hugging their curves. Today we can say it is a timeless look that will make you stand out with a great statement of personality.
Ready to have fun with the “ style me up like ….”
1930s
Mae West style inspired wedding gowns.
Mae West style inspired wedding dresses: Tony Ward Bridal Collection 2017
On the left: Mae, Sweetheart mermaid dress embellished with curved beadings.
On the right: Rosmerta, Off White mermaid-cut Tulle dress with Silk embroidery and a boat neckline.
On the left: Mae West portrait from the book the Movie box.
On the right: Mae West style inspired wedding dress: RIME ARODAKY Mystical Love Collection: Meara, Knit dress with Chantilly lace with details on skirt and cleavage, mermaid hemline. Photos via CodedPR
On the left Carole Lombard. Photo from the book the movie box.
On the right: Carole Lombard style inspired wedding dress: Jenny Packham Bridal Collection: Eclipse.Photo courtesy of Jenny Packham.
On the left: Joan Crawford – Photo from the book The Movie box.
On the right: From Galia Lahav Le Secrete Royal Collection: Penélope, Body hugging mermaid dress with sheer peek-a-boo accents. Sheer trumpet sleeves and dreamy silk tulle overlay. It has a low open back, vintage embroidery with crystal accents.Photo courtesy of Galia Lahav.
The 1940s
Rita Hayworth style.
Rita Hayworth style inspired wedding dress: From Rime Arodaky Mystical Love Collection 2017: Pearl, Tight dress in transparent sequin embroidered tulle and thin straps, mermaid hemline.
I definitely fall in love with this Rita Ora's Vivienne Westwood Gold Label Fishtail Mermaid Gown that remainds me the fishtail dress worn by Hayworth in Pal Joy, anyone else?Photo courtesy of 1stdibs
Lena Horne style
Lena was a rare talents on stage and in movies, she was more than a Hollywood star, she always outspoken on the subject of civil rights. Her alluring stage presence, and enchanting sense of style and stunning beauty were pure Old Hollywood perfection. Let's take a look back at the impeccable style of our siren, for a wedding ready style inspiration.
Lena Horne style inspired wedding dress: From Alon Livné Bridal Collection 2017: Gisele.
On the left: Lena Horne portrait. Photo from the book Miss Lena Horne.
On the right: Lena Horne style inspired wedding dress:Theia Bridal Couture 2017: Lenni, Sleeveless cutaway jewel neck crunchy sequin gown with illusion cutout back, mermaid hemline. Photo courtesy of Theia Couture.
1950s
Marylin Monroe Style.
Let's start with the Orange pink chiffon dress worn by Marilyn in the movie “Gentlemen prefer blondes”. In the movie Marilyn wore this dress when she and Jane Russel enter the ship’s ballroom for dinner.
Photos from the Book "The Timeless Dresses of William Travilla Designed for a Hollywood Star"
Clip that I made from my own copy of DVD
On the left: The sketch for the orange and pink dress for the dress worn by Marilyn in “Gentlemen prefer Blondes”. In this Sketch all that is missing is the beading of the final version.
On the right: A personal gown of Marilyn designed by William Travilla, over the years he designed many of Marilyn’s personal dresses and the more dramatic gown were made as part of the movie process to wear them on events such as premieres or award.
Photos from the Book "The Timeless Dresses of William Travilla Designed for a Hollywood Star"
In the quintessential 50s Rock film “The Girl Can't Help it”, Abbey Lincoln, performed the song “Spread the Word” wearing the same famous dress that Marilyn Monroe had previously worn in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
For a change of dress before to rock the night away, let be inspired by Galia Lahav the Black Pearl Collection, the new evening collection inspired by stories of Pirates and Mermaids: Laira.
On the left: A rare candid shot of Marilyn on set of the movie ‘There’s no Business like Show Business (1954)
On the right: Travilla’s sketch of the blue dress worn by Marilyn in the closing scene of the movie ‘There’s no Business like Show Business (1954).
Photos from the Book "The Timeless Dresses of William Travilla Designed for a Hollywood Star"
Clip that I made from my own copy of DVD
On the left: Marilyn is dancing in the movie “The Prince and the Showgirl” (1957)
On the right: 1950's Nina Ricci Paris Couture Ivory-White Rhinestone Lace & Silk Mermaid Gown. Photo courtesy of 1stdibs
Clip that I made from my own copy of DVD
From Antonio Riva Flying Away Bridal Collection: Serena, Strapless mermaid with a fitted mikado bodice and the frilled organza from the knee down to the hemline. Mikado belt tied up in the front with a bow.
American actress and singer Dorothy Dandridge performs on stage in 1954 and in a portrait where she wears a dress designed for her by William Travilla.
Photos from the Book "The Timeless Dresses of William Travilla Designed for a Hollywood Star"
Dorothy Dandrige style inspired wedding dress: Peter Langner Bridal Collection 2017: Scarlett, mermaid gown in silk magnolia with a twist at the neckline.
On the left: Dorothy Dandridge performance on stage. Photo from the book Movie stars in the Golden Age.
On the right: Stunning Mermaid Wedding Dress Featuring Allover Embroidery on Net with Horsehair Edged, Flounced Organza Skirt. Morilee wedding gown. Photos via CodedPR
Jayne Mansfield wears the white dress with the diamond shaped illusion in “The girl can’t help it” 1956.
I would like to thank all the bridal designers, who have made this journey through "The Hollywood’s sirens” possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Chrisman Studios
Wedding en pois
I’m always looking for amazing shots, breathtaking bridal gowns, decorations and accessories. I can find beauty and inspiration for my wedding blog in the most unexpected places and moments.
It was circa one month ago, while doing my researches for a different blog, I was struck from many of these outstanding shots, by the magic they produced in a play of lights and colors, rains and stars. What did they have in common? Somehow all them make me think about teeny-tiny dots, polka dots, circle shaped objects. Could it be Polka dot the leitmotif of a wedding.
I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.
The lights are dimmed and create a romantic, magical atmosphere, For the newlyweds this is their first dance as husband and wife, they have eyes only for each other, in front of them a new life together begins, full of possibilities and surprises.
"There is nothing more beautiful and delicate than the dew of a spring morning" That’s how Angel defines his first approach to this new Bridal proposal. His motive was to translate that freshness into every detail, from the selection of materials, veiled embroidery and even a palette where it is not limited to whites, but appear very soft blue as bathed in the early fog” .
Independently from the fragility of nature, Angel Sanchez also looks a bit past to find his muse.... "This collection is very Audrey Hepburn with all the grace and femininity of the 50's Fashion" where the skirts are bulky, the waist narrow and much lace to create a very romantic and ethereal effect.
From the Flying Away bridal collection of one the most eminent ambassadors of the made in italy in the world:
Playfully romantic, "Gilda" is the perfect choice for a bride in search of the words sexy, cute and classic all mixed together. The transparent skirt shows the silhouette and allows you to have a 2 in 1 bridal gown! The fabrics are polka dotted tulle with horizontal stripes and a sateen underskirt.
On the left: Avena, a sparkly mermaid gown with a sheer low back and has an embroidered silk detail along the dress. The embroidery is designed with clear glass beads exuding an illusion of depth through the details.
On the right: The Lidya dress is a mermaid styled dress that has a sheer corset and a very tight tulip skirt made of net fabric which is fully embroidered with flowers and dotted details.
On the left: Two-piece dress with a boxy short-sleeve top in double duchesse and silk blend, and a long romantic organza skirt, decorated with milk-white polka-dot embroidery.
On the right: Mini dress in cloqué jacquard with ivory polka dots on a milk-white background. Slightly flared style finished with a gros-grain couture bow at the waist.
From Katya Katya Shehurina Bridal Collection: Hazel, Bold, fun and elegant all rolled into one. The polka dot sleeves contrasting but also complimenting the floral French lace. A boat neck lays across the collar bones and fits close to the bust and waist, clinched in by our specially hand embroidered belts using the finest of Swarovski Elements.
On the left: 1970s fashion Audrey Hepburn wears Valentino.
On the right: Spring Summer 1969 a high-waisted dress in empire style, white tulle ebridered with beads to create a point d’esprit effect. Collar with two flounces of volant. The sleeves terminate in ruche cuffs. The dress was worn by Audrey Hepburn to the Proust Ball. Label Valentino.
Photo from the book Audrey Hepburn Museo Salvatore Ferragamo
1970s wedding style.
Cotton plumetis wedding gown, short ballon-sleeves, V-shaped lace flounces on the bodice.
I would like to thank all the photographers, bridal designers, jewellery designer, cake designer, who have made this journey through "La Vie en pois" possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photo courtesy of Green Tea Photography
Flower Dreams
This wedding journey begins with the intoxicating scent of flowers, can you sense it?
Love, dreams, hopes are in the air, two weeks ago, I was wandering among the stalls of an antiques fair, when my attention was caught by some fashion and costumes magazines of the twenties.
I started imaging their story, everything begins and ends with flowers. A bouquet of flowers given to make the brief separation more bearable. A dreaming girl on the train is probably impatiently wondering when her man is going to pop the big question? In the meantime He is looking for the perfect ring, with which to kneel and ask for her hand.
I have few ideas, what do you think about these amazing diamond rings.
On the left: .37 Carat GIA Cert Fancy Intense Deep Pink Diamond Ring.
On the right: 5-Petal Fancy Yellow and Pink Sunflower Diamond Ring.
Hands up, who among you brides-to-be have never dreamed about getting married or about her wedding gown. I do not see any hands raised. Let’s start having some fun, the hunting season for the dream dress is officially open. Flowers will be everywhere.
From Dany Atrache Bridal.
On the left: Lazer cut satin dress covered by white Swarovski crystal flowers handmade organza.
On the right: White silk tafta and tulle dress covered by tulle, with a big flowers on the skirt.
Close your eyes and try to imagine the big entrance, The lights are dimmed and create a romantic, magical atmosphere; the anticipation grows, the excitement of everyone in the room is almost palpable, the eyes of every guest are turned toward the bride-to-be walking down the aisle, flower girls precedes her spreading roses’s petals.
They are now being pronounced husband and wife. A moving hug melts all the tension. The cloudy sky and the scent of flowers make this solemn moment even more heart-warming.
Final hairdo check in the mirror for this blissful flower girl, she has to be perfect, the queen bride is about to comes. I know what is thinking this cute flower girl “ One day I’ll wear the dress of my dream and I will get married like her”
From Le Secet Royal Bridal Collection of Galia Lahav, The Arabella dress. Arabella is a romantic voluminous dress that is made of layered silk tulle fabrics that come in delicate pink and ivory. It is entirely embellished with three dimensional silk flowers, crystals, beads and scattered silk petals that adorn the neckline.
From Le Secret Royal Bridal Collection of Galia Lahav.The Maddie dress. Tailored and short high-low dress with a very voluminous skirt, made of light Orange blossom sheer brocade with touches of gold and a circular hem. So delightful and so rock. Who is in?
From the Bohème Rock by david Purves Collection 2017. Serge dress: Crepe-satin dress, thin straps in chiffon, low back with buttons. Catherine Bolero Calais lace with high collar.
On the left: The Noel model. Heavy duchesse satin overskirt reproducing organ pipes, from which starts a long tulle train. Heart neckline and floral colorful embroidery for the bodice.
On the right. Ash pink and ethereal mood for The Nicky model. Magnificent front and back necklines framed by precious floral embroidery.
From Francesca Miranda bridal Collection Fall 2017.
Fiona: Italian silk organza; A-line silhouette with blue printed flowers that has a detachable tail. The bodice has a strapless neckline and is covered in hand embroidered and hand dyed flower appliqués.
The bride, wearing her beautiful dream dress is ready, few minutes away from her new life.
From Utopia Collection: Tulle and Plumetil Wedding gown, floral lace application for the collar and pleated jabot. Satin and organza flowers’s wreath. Sardinian Filigree jewelry by Il Fiorino Gioielli.
For sure you will like, from the collection Couture 2017 this enchanting wedding dress. Heart neckline, veiled shoulders with side lace motives. Drop waist, voluminous drape and skirt. Cascades of tulle frills and light lace on the asymmetrical skirt.
A smile, before the ceremony. A bride adjusting the hairdo of her bridesmaid. The perfume of flowers can be felt it through the screen. Can you feel the fragrance?
On the left: Cotton macrame, trapeze line wedding dress. Cap Sleeve. Blush pink handpainted organza flowers applications with an antique dragon-fly jewel.
On the right. Silk shantung. Handmade embroideries made with colored ribbons for the bodice. 'Soleil' pleated skirt.
For such a self-confident bride, the engagement ring should be chosen carefully, it should a statement a personality for the bride-to-be. I have few ideas and an advice, don’t wear it during the ceremony, wait for the wedding party.
Light in the garden ring. A colorful ring. It is very elegant with its shiny central diamond which gives light to the ring.
On the right: The matching earrings. The earrings give light to the entire face. As the ring they are studied to look always in movement with their branches set with diamonds.
Dear friends, the cutting of the wedding cake is one of the most important and show-stopping moments of all fairytale weddings: candles are lit, the lights are dimmed until they fade out completely, soft background music creates a romantic, magical atmosphere; anticipation grows, the excitement of everyone in the room is almost palpable, the eyes of every guest are turned toward the newlyweds as they wait for the triumphant entrance of the wedding cake. This is a symbolically significant moment that should amaze and enchant everyone present. Which One of the most amazing wedding cake seen on the big screen? Five-tiered round cake with cascading flower blossoms? I try to take a wild guess.
Clip that I made from my own copy of DVD
Let’s see what we can do to make you dream about it. I asked to Renato Ardovino, one of the most famous italian cake designer, pure Made in Italy fantasy, each cake is a unique and unrepeatable masterpiece, all the decorations are hand-made. And the taste of the cakes? In a word “Mouth-watering” only the best ingredients to guarantee an unforgettable taste.
I would like to thank all the photographers, bridal designers, jewellery designer, cake designer, who have made this journey through the flower’s emotions possible.
I would like to thank them all for their kindness and openness, always willing to cooperate and share their amazing works.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me.
Marcella Lavarini
Photos from the movies
Brides: The Way we were
It was Queen Victoria with her wedding in 1840, who clears the way for the modern white wedding dress. Prior to 1840, white had been reserved for those of the wealthier class. Fabric was expensive and white stained easily so it was not reusable. Queen Victoria strengthen the notion that a wedding dress should be worn once and she has been credited with starting the tradition of white weddings gowns, in fact for her wedding with Prince Albert she wore a white heavy silk satin dress.
On the left: 1836 Moritz Daniel Oppenheim - Marriage Portrait of Charlotte von Rothschild.
On the right: 1859 Henrik Olrik - The Bride is Embellished by her girl friend.
To recreate the atmosphere of the late nineteenth century in a modern key, wedding dresses straight out of a painting of the time. From Cailand’s London Collection.
Obviously, poor, peasants and working-class people in Europe and America often found it difficult, if not impossible, to buy special clothes for their wedding, so they simply wear their best dress.
Edwardian Era
Wedding dress of the period Edwardian era, which is in the United Kingdom the period of British history that covers the brief reign of King Edward VII, from 1901 to 1910. In the early 1900s white was still the color of choice for monied brides, other brides opted for pastel colours. Frills on the bodice, puffy sleeves, high waists, high collars, long trains were in fashion for the period. The 1910s introduced a more flowing silhouette for wedding gowns.
On the left: Pristine Edwardian Hand Made Lace & Silk Wedding Dress. On the right: Edwardian Battenburg Lace Dress.
Post- Edwardian wedding gowns inspirations? Be inspired by Downton Abbey the British-American drama television series. Downton Abbey's 1920s style has definitely become a trend in the wedding world.
Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley wedding.
Lady Mary wedding gown: a long sleeved cream dress covered with pearls and crystals, to hold the veil a floral diamond tiara.
On the left: Lady Rose wedding gown, a beaded silk tulle gown. Photo from Tv show Downtown Abbey.
On the right: A creation of Callot Soeurs, shown at Metropolitan Museum of Art. Photo from the book Total Design.
The 1920s
Were the golden age in the American history and “The great Gatsby” style as we call it today were in fashion, silky sheaths, sparkling embellishments, and pearls, string of pearls everywhere used also as décor, final touch headbands and a glimpse of gold. Jazz music to dance the night away.
Tiffany is in Point d’esprit tulle layered over silk tulle and ornated with an antique embroidered mesh. The dress is entirely hand embroidered with sequins, tiny pearls and antique studded crystal chains.
Lana is a blush colored and half sheer dress. The top of the gown is entirely embroidered in ivory crochet with sandstone pearls and sequins. The back of the gown has a very deep low cut and has a nude illusion with an embroidered drape sash. The skirt is a melange of ivory and dusted rose tulle trimmed with a wide cirn dentelle.
Pearl is an exquisite dress with a raised collar and soft-shaped bottom, giving the style a regal and classic appearance, with pearls draping the feminine silhouette for that extra touch of elegance. A “Watteau” train with pearl details is a majestic option to add to the already royal-esque Pearl.
Spreading from the U.S. the thirties was considered the Depression-era, for this reason many brides choose a dress that could be tinged after the wedding and worn again. Hats were the headpiece for many brides, rather than traditional veils. One of the most iconic wedding dress of all the time is the one worn by Wallis Simpson in the occasion of her wedding to Edward, Duke of Windsor on 1937. For her wedding dress a signature color were made the "Wallis blue" to match her eyes.
Photo from the book of Total Design
Original 1930s Cream satin wedding dress, Cathedral train.
The well-off brides could be inspired by the iconic fashion of the Hollywoodian divas of the period, Greta Garbo, Katharine Hepburn, Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow, Mae West just to name a few.
1930s Hollywoodian divas style … “Vionnet bias-cut”, mermaid line, low back, silk satin, evening wedding gown style. Madeleine Vionnet became popular as “the queen of the bias cut” one of her quotes says, “when a woman smiles, then her dress should smile too”. The bias cut is a design technique where cloth is cut diagonal, enabling the dress to adhere to the body during movement. The bias cut seemed to be created for the ‘30s Hollywood fashion icon Jean Harlow.
On the left: Jean Harlow in the movie Saratoga (1937).
It was the war time, due to limited funds common brides used fabrics to make their own wedding dresses. Wedding gowns make a virtue of simplicity, stark and elegance, focusing on shoulders, corseted waist and lay emphasis on the hips.
On the left: Charles James 1948 wedding gown shown at Metropolitan Museum of Art. Photo from the book Total Design.
From Katya Katya Shehurina Bridal Collection 2017.
Liliac: A wedding gown that gives the illusion of a two piece gown joint together perfectly. The high boat neckline is embellished by using the Swarovski elements. A high neckline flows from the high neck to an open v-neckline at the back joint with the style of an opened illusion back to produce movement to the top of the gown. Joint with the beauty of the French lace top the skirt flows gracefully with soft and light in weight tulle.
Movies and movies star started setting trends also in Bridal fashion, there was a real mutual exchange between fashion and cinema, more than ever before. First it was Elizabeth Taylor in the movie “Father of the bride” of Vincente Minelli (1950), bridal style sweetheart neckline, corseted waist.
Few years later in 1957, Hubert de Givenchy did the costumes for “Funny face”, he brought up such an innovation in Bridal style, setting the trend for tea length wedding dresses, for the movie he designed a ballerina-inspired wedding gown, up today one of my favorite. Along with the new trend, short gloves and shorter veils.
In the mood for a contemporary rock 1950s Ballerina inspired wedding gown? Jupe Mojito from the collection Bohème Rock by David Purves, is definetly what you’re looking for. Short tulle full skirt with a cotton shirt.
In the 1950s we found some of the most iconic Wedding dress of all the time.
The one Jacqueline Bouvier worn in 1953 when she got married to John F. Kennedy. A bouffant wedding gown designed by Anne Lowe. It was made of ivory silk.
The one Grace Kelly’s worn for her marriage with Prince Rainier in 1956. It was designed by Helen Rose of MGM. It was a high-necked, long-sleeved gown with a Juliet cap. Medium Silk needle lace (rose point), silk faille, silk tulle, and seed pearls.
On the left: Sketch of Grace Kelly's Wedding Dress As a gift of the artist Helen Rose – Accession Number 1963-221-1
On the right: Grace Kelly's Wedding Dress and Accessories as a gift of Her Serene Highness, the Princesse Grace de Monaco, 1956 - Accession Number 1956-51-1a--d--4b
To feel like a Queen from Galia Lahav Le Secret Royal Collection:
Corina is a princess ball gown with a tiny sweetheart corset and a full skirt. It is made of silk satin tulle, french chantilly lace and delicate appliques that adorn the train of the full voluminous skirt. The gown is entirely decorated with clear crystals and has long sleeves.
In the aftermath of the conservative 1950s came the '60s: The civil right in the U.S. where rights of black citizens had been violated, but also Europe face the civil rights movement in different ways: Northern Ireland with its Roman Catholic minority's, many communist countries had their uprisings. The sexual revolution spread throughout the Western world starting from the 1960s, along with the women's liberation movement. While marriage held the greatest importance in the '50s, the role of women and wives began to change in the following decade and so do the brides, they wore everything from Gowns with high-waisted empire lines, to mini wedding dress, also short veil became very popular. It was the space age and wedding dresses incorporated metallic embellishments. Daisies were everywhere, on bridal bouquets, as embellishments on wedding dresses and wedding decorations. Brides often wore brides wore pillbox hats with bouffant veils flowing from the hat. By the end of the sixties did their appearance sheath wedding dresses.
In the mood for the sixties? From Katya Katya Shehurina Bridal collection 2017.
Sonnet: Bordered round the neck French Lace join with soft in colour silk taffeta flowers. Hugging the silhouette, this gown hugs the sensual figure of the bride, skimming off the body with complete ease with the lower skirt flaring from the skirt away from the hips. Fitted along the bodice, sleeves are long in length resting on top of the hand for a romantic look.
For a wonderful mini, sixties inspired, wedding, from the collection Bohème Rock by David Purves Odyssée: Silk Taffeta mini wedding gown, worn with a veil or a cape to change the your style.
Are you in the mood to dressed-up in a classic wedding dress from the sixties, like Frances in the movie Legend? From Max Mara Bridal collection: Stelo: Silk satin long sheat wedding gown, Kimono style.
It was a period of transition, mixing up fashion, ranging from hippies to the fairytale ball gown, from a revival of the glamorous ‘20s to the bohemian vibe. We can say that most popular trends were square necklines, batwing sleeves , empire waists, double knit wedding gowns. The pantsuit were also in fashion for the period.
C. 1970 Crystal Goddess. Bergdorf Goodman strapless Grecian silk chiffon wedding dress with a variety of crystals Throughout.
In 1975 Elizabeth Taylor re-married Richard Burton in Botswana, one year later from their divorce in 1974. Her wedding dress was striking and it was a perfect reflection of the 1970s spirit of freedom and peace. Gina Fratini designed the dress with a colorful patchwork silk bodice and floating pastel chiffon ombré sleeves and skirts. Long, beaded, feather trimmed silk streamers hanging from the shoulders and under the bust.
Original 1975 Gina Fratini wedding Dress, same design as Elizabeth Taylor Documented.
Easy to say that the most iconic wedding dress of the 1980s was worn by Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1981. The wedding gown worn by Princess Diana set style for the years to come: Ivory silk taffeta and antique lace, large puffed sleeves, a full skirt and a dramatic train.
1980s Cream and metallic Oscar De La Renta wedding ensamble.
During the 1990s movies and tv-shows set the trend and it was minimalistic respect the previous decade. How can forget “Four Weddings and a Funeral”, a beautiful Julia Roberts running away from Richard Gere in the “Runaway Bride” , the tv-shows “Friends”, “Sex & The City” who hasn’t dreamed about the stunning wedding dresses seen both on movies and tv-shows.
In 1990s destination wedding on beach paradise (mostly) started becoming trendy, which means that brides wanted wedding gowns easy to package without damages and lighter fabrics suitable for warmer climate, perfect to wear on a barefoot paradise.
On the left: Important Pino Lancetti Hand Embroidered Duchess Satin Wedding Gown. On the right: Valentino 1996 Haute Couture Wedding Gown worn by Angie Everhart who had been a Valentino model in 1990s.
I would like to thank everyone, who have made this Bride’s journey through “The way we were” possible.
I would like to thank you all for your kindness and willingness to cooperate and share their work.
Thanks to all of you visitors, that you've joined me in this Bride’s style journey, I hope you had fun like I did it.
See you in the next century …
Marcella Lavarini
photo courtesy of Monique Lhuillier
Like a dancer impressions
Few days ago I was laughing with my “husband” recalling one of our first and worst week-end spent together, heading to a big Impressionist art exhibition in Treviso fifteen years ago. What could possibly go wrong …went wrong, wrong turns, car broken, but finally we made it. It was there that I fell in love with Degas’s ballet dancers, Degas’s paintings of ballet dancers capture the essence of what makes a dancer special, the elegance and beauty, the balance and the grace, poise and precision of movement, vulnerability and self-confidence, always on center of the stage. It just hits me, they were like beautiful brides and I would love to make a wedding blog out of it. What makes the Impressionist painting so special for me it’s their vivid colours and the light.
I’m not an art expert, just a person who likes art and beauty, so for this blog I got involved a dear friend of mine, a painter and art teacher, Laura Rossi. We both started searching for impressionist dancer or ballet paintings besides Degas to match stunning wedding gowns “masterpieces of art and beauty” them too . The idea was simple, find in the matching wedding gowns, the same beauty, colors,light and bring back to mind the same atmosphere, invoke the same emotions watching both the painting and the wonderful dream dress toning it. It was so fun, something like between us: “ Look at this Renoir or this Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, or this … you have to find the matching dresses, just find them”.
Pierre Auguste Renoir - Dancing girl with castanets (1909)
It was a challenge, we go beyond France and even beyond the “pure impressionist movement” like we did with the artist Julius Leblanc Stewart who created a style of his own in the same period (1860 – early 1900s), but I loved his “The ball” painting and I added it. We did an incursion into Romanticism with Mihály Zichy for his “Ball in the Concert Hall of the Winter Palace during the Official Visit of Nasir al-Din Shah in May 1873”.
Mihaly Zichy
Ball in the Concert Hall of the Winter Palace during the Official Visit of Nasir al-Din Shah in May
What about the “Masqurade ball”, “Court balls” and “Elegant soirees” of the late 1800s, could I leave them out of my blog? Of course not … so Laura made me deviate also from impressionism to Realism … always having our noses in art books and my eyes only for stunning bridal collections …
I love everything about weddings, it is like living in a world of magic and nothing is more rewarding for me than the awareness that I have been given a dream – your dream – to fulfill. But there is more than that, every wedding story begins with a surprise marriage proposal, which is one my favorite kind of event planning, both in Verona the city “The city of Love” were I was born and live and Africa, where I feel at home a in melting-pot of cultures and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty and purity of nature.
Creativity and location are the keys when planning a surprise proposal and both in Verona and Africa I know everything about “my” places and I’ll find a perfectly quiet and romantic location with a stunning view or setting for you two. Like in a spy movie I’ll be your accessory in planning a moment to be shared for many generations to come.
With one of you I’ll share a secret plan, of which I will take care of every details and I will make sure that everything run smoothly ( timing, light … location) there will be a professional photographer hiding and waiting for you, ready to capture the ‘yes’ and the following moments of happiness and blur of emotions when the world around you just disappear. Planning a destination wedding proposal is fun and exciting but it always gives me the chills … it is the waiting …
Feel free to contact me and ask me everything about a destination wedding surprise proposal, it will be my pleasure to help you …
Now have fun , enjoy an why not let yourselves be inspired by these movie wedding proposal as they’ve came up to my mind, some of them so romantic, other a little bit lighter and fun, intimate or in front of an audience …
Legend (2015)
The true story of one of the most notorious London’s gangsters , the Kray brothers, identical twins who terrorised London during the 1950s and 1960s. It’s the mid sixties when Reggie proposes to Frances climbing all the way up through a drainpipe to her window with a bouquet in one hand to deliver the engagement ring and the marriage proposal …
Dexter – Tv series
I must admit it, I’m a wedding planner and a Dexter fan. Yes he is a serial killer, but when he proposed to Rita and her kids Cody and Astor it was so romantic.. making small things like pizza’s night something worthy to share for the rest of his life.
Sex & the City (2008)
Finally Mr. Big made it and he proposed to Carrie in a closet, a precious blue Manolo Blahnik shoe instead of the engagement ring, it sounds just perfect to me.
Sex & the City – Tv series
Miranda come out of the blue and she proposed to Steve in bar, while talking about good intentions for the future. It was totally unexpected and it could sound weird but that’s Miranda way of dealing with feelings.
The theory of everything (2014)
The movie is based on the true story of the Theoretical physics Stephen Hawking and the drama of his motor neurone diseas. Early sixties at Cambridge University Stephen Hawking begins a relationship Jane Wilde, a literature student, when he learns that he has motor neurone disease and only two years to live. No matter what Jane proposes to him, to share what is left of his life. This is a propose that really melt my heart.
Walk the line (2005)
The movie is based on the life and career of Johnny Cash, a country music artist, and his romance with the American singer, songwriter and actress June Carter. Due to the fact that June would only speak to him on stage ( sick and tired of his addiction for drugs ) Johnny invites June to a duet and he stops in the middle of it, for a “public” proposal, with a bit of embarrassment finally June accepts.
The Wolf of wall street (2013)
The story is based on the successful and decadent lifestyle of Jordan Belfort, and his career as a stockbroker in New York City up to his downfall for corruption and fraud on Wall Street. For his second time around the marriage proposal to Naomi was quite simple … just a big canary diamond.
Monster in law (2005)
What could possibly go wrong when you propose in front of your mother who hates your fiancée? Find it out as Kevin proposes to Charlie in a nice afternoon in front of her mother causing her a shock.
Far from the madding crowd (2015)
Struggling with feelings? What to do If the man you love and once you’ve refused is emigrating to America? You chase after him on horseback and beg him to come back, telling him that you need him. That is what Bathsheba did to spend the rest of her life with Gabriel.
Braveheart (1995)
The movie is based on the life of the Scottish warrior William Wallace, who led the first war for Scottish independence against king Edward of England in the 13th century. William secretly proposes and marry his friend Murron to avoid the right of the lord to have sex with brides on their wedding nights.
Cold Mountain (2003)
The movie is the story of Inman a deserter from the Confederate army close to the end of the American Civil War, who is on his way to return to the love of his life, Ada. Inman finally reaches Ada at Cold Mountain and before they spend the night together, Inman asks Ada to let him marry her. There is no much time left and they exchange their wedding vows by repeating three times “I marry you”.
The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Being the film the adaptation of one of the most famous musical of Andrew Lloyd Webber, the wedding proposal is the beautiful song “All I ask of you”. Christine reveals to Raoul that she has seen the Phantom’s face and she fears him, Raoul tells Christine she has nothing to worry about because he loves her and he will protect her forevermore.
Natural born Killers (1994)
This is the first movie wedding proposal and wedding scene that hits me, because it was one of the most controversial films I’ve ever seen, provocative, violent but also brilliant I was not sure if I had to include this clip. Mickey and Mallory are cold-blooded killers that media made look like superstars. They were also so deeply in love with one other and their wedding vows were something to remember so I decided to share this clip
I hope you enjoyed and had fun with my personal compilation of movie and tv shows marriage proposals, and why not you could be inspired by some of them for your surprise fairy tale wedding proposal.
Marcella Lavarini
Photos courtesy of Marina Mansanta
Dress of Dreams under African sky
Dress of Dreams ... Where nature meets luxury
Since I began my profession as a destination wedding specialist, I have set as its goal to arrange weddings or exchange of vows under the African sky, immersed in some of the most iconic, pristine, beautiful scenery in the world. Today in partnership with andBeyond family, I achieve my dream.
Now dear brides-to-be, close your eyes with me, and go beyond the limit of your imagination, Inspire your dream of a fairytale wedding where nature meets luxury, wearing an unconventional haute couture wedding dress, one of the magnificent creation of the Italian fashion designer Marina Mansanta. Her Maison offer to the customers unique creations, the processing is entirely manual, the definition of every little detail, the preciousness of the materials are and remain the intrinsic characteristics of each Mansanta’s Haute Couture bridal collection.
Let’s start with a classic, a beach-chic wedding, but in a real award-winning barefoot beach paradise, a romantic, private hideaway, where beachside bandas overlook the Mnemba atoll. Have fun imagine yourselves try-on these outstanding wedding gown, and be unable to choose between them. The smooth flowing lines of mermaid dresses along the lines large and bulky. Wedding dresses that “come to life” following the movements of your body and the light breeze of the ocean.
Alimede wedding dress - Nymphs Collection
Talia and Etra wedding dresses - Nymphs Collection
My very first glimpse of Africa, It was many years ago, I’ve never been to Africa before, and Lake Manyara was the first stop-over of our trip to Tanzania. Our passion for wildlife photography brought us ( me and my husband) there, together with the famous Lake Manyara climbing lions. After more than 10 hours flight, and 1 hour of game drive ahead of us before reaching the lodge I felt so tired, a feeling that lasted only few seconds, the time to realize there was a pic-nic table all set-up for us few steps away, what I didn’t get it immediately, we were on the edge of a hill overlooking the lake. A breathtaking panorama, which takes on the many shades of pink of a flamingo’s wings, large herds of buffalo, giraffe, zebra and impala roaming free the lake shore right below us. Remote and romantic the Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, treehouse suites blend intimacy and romance in leafy surrounds of an ancient mahogany forest.
Now dear friends and readers, let your imagination soar, start dreaming of a ceremony on the banks of a lake wearing one of the magnificent creation of the haute couture fashion designer Marina Mansanta. Shades of pink for a wedding dress that call to mind the pink wings of flamingos, a white alluring mermaid wedding dress, that fits close to the body and charms you, shades of gold like the last rays of sun, for a princess wedding dress with a skirt that has numerous layers giving it grandness but still making it seem airy and fluid for movement.
Now dear friends and readers, let your imagination space over endless horizons, dramatic desertscapes in one of the oldest and most pristine areas on earth, the Namib desert. Inspire your dream of breathtaking beauty with a ceremony in the absolute silence of the desert, where a light breeze constantly shifts the shapes of the dunes. A sea of dunes arrayed in striking hues of red, orange, sienna, gold and buttermilk. The same hues of the wonderful haute couture wedding dresses of the Italian fashion designer Marina Mansanta. Got you, you’re already trying them on, ready to choose the “One” that it feels is you.
Flottanti Oro wedding dress – Etnica collection
Agave and Melite wedding dresses- Nymphs Collection
A ankle-deeep in rose petals a crater-chic wedding
Now dear friends and readers, close again your eyes and find yourselves ankle-deep in rose petals, exchangin your vows on the Ngorongoro Crater rim, or on Ngorongoro Ground floor, the largest caldera in the world, heaven and shelters for one of the most impressive permanent population of animals of all Africa. Staying in place where Maasai meets Versailles, at the end of the world, you’ll find easy to believe that you’ve entered in a realm just out of your fantasy, lapped in luxury and romance. For such greatness, precious wedding dress of italian haute couture, that combine innovation of style with the tradition of the techniques used. Precious fabrics, lace that are totally reworked, style strongly "unconventional" and careful handwork of every detail of the wedding dress, that is Marina Mansanta.
Now dear friends and readers, go beyond the limit of your imagination, with a “Out of Africa” wedding in the open bushveld, there are no words to describe the beauty of a ceremony at sunset, when the setting rays of the sun turn the endless savannah a deep red. Life is unplugged and reawaken everyone’s soul. Let me take you in a place that is called “Seven worlds of Wonder” because it comprises seven distinct habitat and each one of them home of an impressive number of animals in the wild. Let a cheetah to welcome you at the airstrip, no kidding, I couldn’t believe it the first time a saw it. Now the time is right to start trying the wedding dresses, could you imagine haute couture wedding dresses other than Marina Mansanta’s for your luxury wedding into the wild? I don’t.
For the last time, dear friends and readers, I ask you to close your eyes and go beyond the limit of your imagination, follow me, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, lulled by the sound of the slow but endlessly moving river waters, up to where the Zambesi creates one of the world’s greatest wonders, the spectacular Victoria falls, “The Smoke that thunders” and know I ask you, where do you prefer to exchange your vows of Eternal love? On the banks of the river or cruising it, at sunset? Or maybe you prefer to find yourselves right on the edge of the falls for your ceremony? For the last time you have the chance to try on the beautiful wedding dresses of Marina Mansanta haute couture, that seem designed to be in perfect harmony with a ceremony under the African sky and its infinite nuances.
All these ceremonies are fairytales, but we will turn them into reality without you even noticing the difference. Dear friends, all you need to do is rub Aladdin’s lamp and whisper us what is your dream … letting your imagination soar … because everything is possible and lies within your reach. Be our precious guests.
Thanks to all of you.
Photo courtesy of andBeyond
A Romantic beach chic wedding
Which one of you have ever harbored the secret wish of finding yourself the sole inhabitant of a beautiful tropical island? enveloped by the beauty and purity of nature, lulled only by the gentle sound of ocean waves breaking on the beach. What about imagine yourself in a secret romantic, private hideaway, a real barefoot paradise spoiled and pampered, just relaxing in the exclusivity of your own stretch of beachfront. If you wish to make your dream come true, Fairytale Weddings and Matrimoni da Favola and &Beyond, will write a fairytale for each one of you, and then, as if by magic, making it become wonderful reality. For your fairytale beach-chic island wedding, we’ll focus on the infinite shades of the ocean and sunset, every detail will have to merge with it and be in perfect harmony.
Now … Inspire your dream and fall in love with this romantic swoonworthy beach-chic wedding of Jennifer, 29 working in sales and her Husband Ben, Manager of a real estate group, who decided to treat themselves with once in a lifetime dream, a fairytale wedding just for two. Their dream has started from the first moment they set foot on this award-winning barefoot beach paradise, allowing themselves a few days of Relax and unwind before coming at the so thrilling moment , the fateful " “yes".
Surprise in Surprise, our young bride-to-be and groom-to-be, arrived on the island in the period in which you can see the turtle eggs hatching ( a secret that will share with everyone wish to celebrate a very special occasion in this paradise ) the new-born turtles like by magic head instinctively towards the ocean, to start their new life, just like a life together is about to begin for Jennifer and Ben.
The long awaited moment finally arrived, the bride excited on the beach, spend some time to relax, having fun, downloading tension, before reaching her future husband, ready to welcome her at the ceremony location, so thoughtful, caring not to make her dress wet. Soon they will be Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs.
Meanwhile in different corners of the island, little surprises have being prepared for the newlyweds, table setup for dinner, the wedding cake and bubbles for the toast...
And the next day, the magic continues ...
A bed made up on the beach to see the sun rise for the first time as husband and wife...
Strawberry and bubbles breakfast, as good wish of eternal love.
a romantic tour to explore the island and its inhabitants …
A dip in the crystal clear waters hand in hand …
The meetings with the Islanders continue …
As well as small surprises for our newlyweds, a romantic dinner specially made and set up for them
Credits:
Venue: &Beyond Menmba Island lodge
Photo: &Beyond
Love Song Inspirations For aFairytale Wedding First Dance
My first love since I was a little girl it was dancing, ballet, jazz, modern and Contemporary dance, as a natural result every moment of my life has been influenced by music. I listen to any kind of music from classical to jazz, from pop to rock, via tango, rumba and salsa. In spite of my job as Destination Wedding Specialist that requires keeping an elegant and law profile, unseen behind the scenes, but always in control of what is happening, when I hear a song that I like, I struggle to keep myself from go wild in the dances.
I love the moment when the newlyweds, hesitant, excited, hand in hand, officially open the dance with their first dance as husband and wife. I started to think and create my own “Unconventional” love songs playlist, as they came to my mind, fitting for a wedding dance opening.
The lights are dimmed and create a romantic, magical atmosphere; anticipation grows, the excitement of everyone in the room is almost palpable, the eyes of every guest are turned toward the newlyweds as they wait their song to be played, they have eyes only for each other, in front of them a new life together begins, full of possibilities and surprises.
The first song ever that came to my mind, is an unplugged version of Can't Help Falling In Love of Elvis Elvis Presley and sung by Bono, at the end of live concert, It was 1993 and for the first time U2 were playing in Italy, the very first date in Italy. In that magical night, when I heard that song, my first thought was to dance in close embrace with the man with whom I would share the rest of my life… and I had not yet met.
Inspiring Lyrics: “Like a river flows, Surely to the sea, Darling so it goes, Some things are meant to be, Take my hand, Take my whole life too, For I can't help falling in love with you…”
The second song, another of U2’s, is a rock ballad, One, while I am writing it, I begin to smile thinking at the Edge and Bono in many interviews saying “People play this song at their weddings, but are they listening to words? But if I had to choose only one song as the best song and share it with the man I love, that song would be One.
Inspiring Lyrics “Love is a temple, Love a higher law” “One love, One blood, One life”
Music video by U2 performing One (C) 2006 Universal-Island Records Limited
The next three songs are a tribute in honor to three great voices that have left us:
Be My wife, a rock song, a prayer addressed to the woman he loved, sung by David Bowie.
Inspiring Lyrics “Please be mine, Share my life, Stay with me, Be my wife” .
Which woman, which bride-to-be wouldn’t want to hear those sweet words.
Our Day WillCome, from the unique and unmistakable voice of Amy Winehouse, a moving song as a reminder of her incredible talent.
Inspiring Lyrics ““Our day will come, And we'll have everything, We'll share the joy, Falling in love can bring”
Music video by Amy Winehouse performing Our Day Will Come: Amy Winehouse Tribute. (C) 2011 Lioness Records Ltd, under exclusive licence to Universal-Island Records Ltd.
And finally, how can we forget the powerful voice of Whitney Houston, and the romantic, legendary I Will Always Love You, from the movie The Bodyguard, reinterpretation of an original song by Dolly Parton.
Inspiring lyrics “I'll think of you every step of the way, And I... will always love you”.
Whitney Houston's official music video on youtube
For newlyweds who prefer to open the dances with rhythms and more sensual movements, Tango, Rumba, Salsa, slow Latin rhythms:
Easy Virtue Tango by Sophie Solomon, wonderfully danced by Colin Firth and Jessica Biel, enveloped in the evocative rarefied atmospheres of parties that were held by the high society in the fabulous' 20s, perfect as inspiration for a wedding theme.
Youtube video uploaded by aSortOfHumanKind
A slow, sensuous, romantic rumba, in its original version, sung by Gloria Estefan, I’m not giving you up.
Inspiring lyrics “We'll find a way to be together However long it takes, wherever”.
And finally a passionate love song, authentic fusion of sensuality and sweetness, the story of the unconditional love that a woman has for her boyfriend, Underneath Your Clothes by the talented Colombian songwriter Shakira.
Inspiring lyrics “Underneath Your Clothes, There's an endless story, There's the man I chose”
Shakira's official music video for 'Underneath Your Clothes on youtube
The next song is one of my favorite, Hard to Concentrate by Red Hot Chili Peppers, a real wedding song about finding that only person with whom sharing the rest of your life. I hope to remember well from some interview to the band, this song was written by Anthony Kiedis for his friend Flea as a sort of wedding proposal or wedding gift.
Inspiring lyrics “All I want is for you to be happy and, Take this woman and make you my family and, Finally you have found someone perfect and, Finally you have found... yourself”.
Youtube video uploaded by lasterixI
The names that have made the history of rock and pop:
Crazy Little Thing Called Love, by Queen and written by Freddie Mercury, how we can forget his peculiar four-octave vocal range and his striking presence on stage?
Inspiring lyrics “I kinda like it, Crazy little thing called love, She drives me crazy, She gives me hot and cold fever, Then she leaves me in a cool cool sweat, this thing called love I must get round to it”.
The English rock band Oasis, with one of their most famous epitome song, Wonderwall, written by Noel Gallagher.
Inspiring lyrics “I don't believe that anybody, Feels the way I do About you now, I said maybe You're gonna be the one that saves me, And after all, You're my wonderwall”.
Music video by Oasis performing Wonderwall. (C) 1995 Big Brother Recordings Limited
The English musician Elton John, with one first big hits, maybe his most famous song, is a wonderful ballad, naturally I’m talking about Your song, a very romantic love song able to envelop the newlyweds ( and all the couples of course) in a wonderful loving torpor dancing as the first time as husband and wife.
Inspiring lyrics: “And you can tell everybody this is your song, It may be quite simple but now that it's done, I hope you don't mind, I hope you don't mind that I put down in words, How wonderful life is while you're in the world”.
Music video by Elton John performing Your Song. (C) 2007 Mercury Records Limited
Find out much more, even what is missing, following us on Spotify
Photos from the movies
Movie fairytale weddings
As a great movies fan, I enjoyed preparing a gallery of weddings and brides that most impressed me on the big screen, what more than a film can give you unique and moving experience, make you smile, and cry, just like in one of the most important days in the life of each of us. Some dresses are truly wonderful, timeless icons. My favorite, definitely, the one designed by Givenchy and worn by Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. A super-modern tea length wedding dress, it’s one of the earliest short wedding dresses, a real innovation for the ’50s, it reminds the Tutu of a ballet dancer. Today, as then simply, minimal, elegant and glamorous. Others unlikely, excessive make me smile or remind me as we were.
Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy – Funny Face (1957)- photo from the movie
For all the brides-to-be who want to feel like a Disney princess, they can dream the one worn by Lily James for her fairytale wedding to the Prince, in the movie Cinderella (2015), beige colored, long-sleeve, silk organza gown with a floral print, long train. A stunning dress that well represents the candor of the bride-to-be.
Lily James – Cinderella (2015) – costume designer Sandy Powell – photo from the movie
For all the brides-to-be who wish a Green trending wedding, with the awareness that, our behavior, even the small details of your Fairytale wedding can make the difference, on limiting the environmental degradation, let be inspired by the movie Ricky and the Flash (2015). Plantable wedding invitations and so nice the bride’s bouquet with Lavender Grevillea and natural ears of wheat.
photo from the movie Ricki and the Flash (2015)
Now tell me, Who has not dreamed, looking at the breathtaking wedding dress, of the most famous fashion designers, worn by Carrie ( Sarah Jessica Parker) in the Vogue shooting. Sex & the City (2008).
Sarah Jessica Parker in Vivienne Westwood – photo from the movie
Sarah Jessica Parker in Vera Wang – photo from the movie
Sarah Jessica Parker in Lanvin – photo from the movie
Sarah Jessica Parker in Dior – photo from the movie
Sarah Jessica Parker in Oscar De and in a vintage dress – photo from the movie
For all the brides-to-be who dream of getting married bare feet on a secluded beach, or an island like in the movie Mamma Mia (2008), let be inspired by the silk-chiffon, multi-tiered gown worn by Amanda Seyfried in the movie, perfect for a boho-chic bride.
Mamma Mia (2008) – Costume designer Ann Roth – photo from the movie
An inspiration, for a vintage wedding style, or an evening glamour reception, which brings us back to the atmosphere of the fabulous ' 20s, let be inspired by the scandalous tango scene, for its time, of the movie Easy Virtue (2008). Colin Firth is just perfect in his black evening tuxedo. Jessica Biel is alluring in a silk sheath dress, which fits close to her body, and enhance her movements during the tango dance.
Colin Firth and Jessica Biel – costume designe Charlotte Walter – photo from the movie
For all the brides-to-be, who dream of wearing one of the amazing creations of Vera Wang, let be inspired by the movie Bride Wars (2009). A Romantic taffeta off-shoulder wedding gown for Anne Anne Hathaway. A classic tulle strapless ball gown with minimal embroidery and a sweetheart neckline for Kate Hudson.
Anne Hathaway in Vera Wang – Bride wars (2009) – photo form the movie
Kate Hudson in Vera Wang - Bride wars (2009) – photo from the movie.
Who has not smiled seeing Nia Vardalos, in her wedding gown, as she sees herself for the first time in the mirror she exclaims, “I’m a snow beast!” Only after the ceremony, she starts ripping bows off her gown, which makes her look a lot better.
Nia Vardalos – My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) – photo from the movie
For all the brides-to-be, who dream of wearing, an unconventional wedding gown, let be inspired by the short vintage, pink wedding dress, worn by Rachel McAdams in the movie The Vow (2012). It’s so rock and charming.
Rachel McAdams - The Vow (2012) – Costume designer Alex Kavanagh – photo from the movie.
For our bride-to-be Star Wars lovers, o for a vintage style idea, let be inspired by Natalie Portman wedding gown in Star Wars, it reminds to the atmosphere of the fabulous ' 20s, it’s off-white color, see-through and beading elegant dress, the headdress and the veil, stunning decorated.
Natalie Portman - Star Wars Episode II – costume designer Trisha Biggar - photo from the movie
What to say of the striking wedding gown worn by Jennifer Lawrence in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, the bodice, a Swarovski-crystal organza corset under a metal cage. The metal pieces rising up as fire and flames. The skirt layers of organza and chiffon ruffles giving it grandness but still making it seem airy and fluid for movement when Katniss does the twirling, wrapping herself up in flames.
Jennifer Lawrence in Tex Saverio – Hunger games Catching fire (2013) – photo from the movie.
For our brides-to-be who followed enthusiastically the love story between Bella and the vampire Edward Cullen, let be inspired by the stunning timeless creation of Carolina Herrera, in crepe satin and French Chantilly lace, which fit close to the body. With an open lace back, that features a sheer panel with scrolled embroidery.
Kristen Stewart in Carolina Herrera - The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - photo form the movie
For our brides-to-be who prefer a wedding gown simply-chic, clean cut in satin, let be inspired by the one worn by Elodie Fontan, in the French movie Serial (Bad) Weddings.
Elodie Fontan – costume designer Eve-Marie Arnault photo from the movie Serial (Bad) Wedding
One of my favorite actresses is Julia Roberts, how can we forget her Southern classic wedding, at the end of the 80s’ in the movie Steel Magnolias, wearing an off-the-shoulder satin ball gown.
Julia Roberts – costume design Julie Weiss – Steel Magnolias (1989)
Few years later, we found her as an insecure bride-to-be in the movie the Runaway Bride. Let be inspired by the wonderful off-the-shoulder lace-embroidered gown, created by Amsale Aberra.
Julia Roberts in Amsale Aberra – Runaway Bride (1999) – photo from the movie
How can we forget the ’80s early ’90s and their excessive and unlikely outfits? Well represented here by Molly Ringwald in her wedding day, romantic, fun and full of unexpected.
Molly Ringwald – Costume design Mary Malin - Betsy's Wedding (1990s) – photo prom the movie
Returning to the present day, simple and elegant, the wedding gown worn by Katherine Heigl, in the movie Jenny's Wedding.
Katherine Heigl – costume designer Karen Young - Jenny's Wedding - photo from the movie
Inspire your dream for a winter wedding immersed in an atmosphere muffled by the whiteness of the snow with the movie Marley & Me (2008). It’s so romantic, the newlyweds frolicking in the snow. Jennifer Aniston wearing a floating satin and lace gown, and a silky cream shawl.
Jennifer Aniston – Marley and me (2008) – costume designer Cindy Evans – photo from the movie
Photo from Audrey Hepburn by Salvatore Ferragamo
Wonderful Mini Wedding
Like many other things, the idea of this “Wonderful Mini Wedding” blog come out naturally after writing the “Iconic and Ironic Tiara” piece, just talking with Ginevra Ansuini, a gemologist and jewelry designer, as well as a gracious and friendly person. We both hold Audrey Hepburn in high esteem for her sense of elegance, the one made of simplicity and harmony, she always looked glamorous and perfect in every occasion, even during her missions in Africa as Unicef Ambassador, when her outfits were practical and comfortable. In the late sixties she lived in Rome with Andrea Dotti, and while living in Rome she became customer of the Ansuini Maison, the most ancient jewellery house in the city. On the occasion of her marriage to the Count Andrea Dotti, Audrey Hebpurn got the jewellery to realize, as a gift for her future mother-in-law (Paola Dotti), a tailored-made keychain, and a handbag made of gold, which is now untraceable.
This anecdote and the bridal fashion of the period were the inspiration for a “Wonderful Mini Wedding” blog.
photo from Audrey Hepburn by Salvatore Ferragamo
We are in the late sixties, Audrey Hepburn got married with the Italian psychiatrist Andrea Dotti on 18th January 1969, this is the era of mini dress and bright colors, from everyday fashion to bridal style, clothes industry fell in love with the legs. Short skirts worn higher above the knee gave legs exposure they hadn’t before. Audrey Hepburn, worn a simple yet stunning, wedding ensemble created for her by Givenchy, a light pink mohair and cashmere jersey mini dress, high collar, tight long sleeves with ruffle cuffs. A coat of pale pink wool twill, double breasted, above-knee length and a matching kerchief in the same color and material.
She managed to look perfect for the period, a mini dress for a civil ceremony and pink instead of white as it was a second marriage.
Today a short wedding dress is as relevant as ever, and it can be reinterpreted adapting it to your own style and your own personality.
For this reason I was inspired by Audrey Hepburn and her late sixties style for my “Wonderful Mini Wedding” blog, with original vintage dresses and jewelry. Now if you really want to get in the mood of the sixties, put on our sixties playlist, and let yourself be inspired by these beautiful mini wedding dress.
1960's Bridal total white two piece, short sleeve empire line mini dress, the bodice is adorned with lace little flowers. It can be worn with or without its long sleeve coat, both lined in silk satin.
photo by Gianluca Serrago and wedding dress
1960’s Lace Vintage Wedding Dress. The mini wedding dress is done in a sheer floral lace. Long sleeve and lined in tulle, hemmed in lace hand-made.
photo by Alessandro Manca and wedding dress
A circa 1970’s Long and transparent sleeve cream toned lace empire line mini wedding dress.
photo by Eleonora Sebastiani and wedding dress
A circa 1970 mini wedding dress. Bodice in lace daisies macrame, adorned with iridescent teardrop crystals. Long chiffon open sleeve hemmed with lace daisies macrame.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
1960's Bridal ivory two piece. The classic cut of the dress combined with the raw silk creates a subtle contrast for a refined look. The dress features long lace sleeves and can either be worn with or without the coat.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
1960’s Wedding Dress. The dress is done in a gorgeous semi-attached butter cream toned silk ribbon soutache, adorned with clear sequins, on netting over a butter cream toned silk sheath and is lined in silk crepe with an additional cotton lining.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
1960’s Bell Lace Vintage Wedding Dress. A boho vintage wedding dress is done in a sheer floral lace. This dress is not lined. The bodice offers a high jeweled lace appliqued neckline, v-cut back and open bell sleeves finished with attached satin ribbon bows at the midpoint of the sleeve.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
1960’s Jeweled Damask Vintage Wedding Dress. The dress is done in a cream toned heavy cotton diamond pattern damask over a peach toned satin acetate lining. The sleeveless bodice features a high, banded jeweled collar, which is encrusted in opalescent and silver beads, clear sequins and white pearls.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
1960’s Metallic Crepe Vintage Wedding Dress. trapeze style vintage wedding dress is done in a metallic white sheer embroidered net over a silk crepe slip dress. The sleeveless bodice features a semi bateau neckline, done in a white silk crepe with 3 pearl buttons and a self flat bow in the front.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
These are the years in which fashion and cinema started celebrating each other, cinema and fashion live through each other through their stars who promoted the most important fashion designer by wearing their creations on and off screen. For the reception mood of my “Wonderful Mini Wedding” I was inspired by the movie Two for the Road ( 1967), and its beautiful Mini Evening dresses, just perfect for a change of dress after the cake cutting and the toast, when the time is right to dance the night away, to the hits of the time.
Unforgettable Audrey Hepburn dancing wildly wearing a futuristic creation by Paco Rabanne, a mini evening dress with metal disks, or wearing a multi-coloured psychedelic print mini-dress by Emilio Pucci, in some of the most famous scenes of the movie.
The Paco Rabanne evening minidress with metal disks
The Emilio Pucci's print mini dress
To recall the atmosphere of the movie, original haute couture vintage dresses and high jewelry:
A circa 1966 Pierre Cardin haute couture cocktail dress in purple, silver and pink ombre lame with beading at the collar and the classic Cardin keyhole opening at the back below the neck.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
high Jewelry - dress matching - photos
Late 1960's Valentino yellow silk chiffon baby doll dress with pale yellow satin trim.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
High Jewelry - dress matching - photos
1968 Pierre Cardin Haute Couture trapeze evening dress embroidered black and gold sequins different size, some of them in rhodium.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
High Jewelry - dress matching - photos
A circa 1967 Pierre Cardin haute couture green sequined silk crêpe cocktail dress that features a keyhole opening at the back. The main draw of this slinky silk cocktail dress are the shades of yellow, green and light violet appliquéd and embroidered opalescent sequins and beads in spiky, curved shapes by Jean-Guy Vermont.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
High Jewelry - dress matching - photos
Mid 1960's Pierre Cardin Haute Couture Chiffon Cocktail Dress Ostrich Feather Trim. Constructed from chocolate brown bias-cut silk chiffon, this simple but supremely elegant cocktail dress features a wrap-around bow at the neck, a body-hugging silhouette and used to spectacular effect - Ostrich feathers at the hem.
Evening mini dress in silk organza printed orange on a blue background.
Dress – photo and caption courtesy of
HighJewelry - dress matching - photos
For the reception set-up and decorations, why not select a few pieces of the period that have made the history of design? We can have fun playing with colors to create a personal style, combining skillfully flowers, decor and contemporary furnishings.
Panton chairs created by the Danish designer Verner Panton in the 1960s, in total white for a refined elegant style of your wedding, in black and white if you’re more into an optical trendy style for your fairytale wedding or colorful as in a painting inspired by the pop art of Andy Wharol.
Photo from Total Design and Andy Wharol by Skira
To create a relaxing cocktail lounge where guests can rest sipping a good drink between one dance and the other, the pop and innovative plastic and fibreglass chairs of Eero Aarnio, immediately recreate the atmosphere of the parties of the 60s, as an alternative, the made in Italy and colorful Sacco armchair by Zanotta, as before just using colors to create environments and styles completely different.
Photo from Total Design
If you want to dance the night away, for a late sixties themed wedding party the perfect choice is a playlist with the best hits of the period. These are the years of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, but not only, R&B and Beach music. As first dance as husband and wife, one of my favorite song Can’t Help Falling of Love of Elvis Presley, and my favorite version of it the one sung by Bono unplugged at the end of U2 concerts in 1993 …
Discover our playlist for a late sixties themed wedding and follow us on spotify:
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