Bridal Expo

Whether it is  Shabby Chic, Vintage, Rustic or Victorian, one of the most popular wedding themes for 2012 is pastel. Blending pale colors or shades of the same color has made ‘pale’ the new black and brides are scooping it up in droves. Although pastel colors may seem ‘washed out’ to some, they can be as eye-popping as neon if put together properly with table decor, flowers and other elements of the wedding. Don’t fooled by words, there is nothing shabby about these ideas!

Flowers – Combining pastel flowers in various sizes, shapes and degrees of (pale) color will give your theme an understated elegant feel.

Bridesmaids  - Look for soft, flowing chiffon, delicate silks, and lace overlays  in one or several shades of delicate color.

Bridal Gown - Whether you are looking for a simple sheath, layers of ruffles or something in between, pastel bridal gowns are everywhere.

The important thing to remember is that although you have chosen a pastel palette, your wedding shouldn’t look like a bowl of after dinner mints. Adding the right touches  in moderation will allow your guests to absorb the calming effect of the subtle shades of color. Consider choosing  shades that compliment one another such as rose and champagne, lilac and cornflower, peach and grey or cream and sage.

 -Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Yesterday I caught a glimpse of Reese Witherspoon’s bridal gown on the cover of  People magazine. I was in a hurry so I didn’t pick up the magazine to get a closer look but, it was pink…. and if it is anything like the other gowns by Monique Lhullier, it is sure to be a stunner! It was her second wedding so she wanted to do something less traditional and pink was a great choice. She was able to have a beautiful gown and ceremony without  the whole white “virgin’ bride stigma. It also channeled her innocence and really emphasized her beauty.

In fact, color has made a huge impact over the last few seasons, whether it’s a kick of color in a sash, a bow or embroidery, or all-over color, the latest, greatest trend in bridal gowns is COLOR! Subtle pinks, blues, peach, silver and even lavender are making their way to the runway and directly to bridal salons near you.

Color was first shown in bridal in the 1980′s. I remember the first pink bridal gown that arrived at our salon. The UPS box came and we all stood back in awe. We couldn’t wait for someone to try it on and when the first bride purchased that gorgeous pink creation -we all smiled, knowing the world would be more beautiful for at least a day.

Since then, designers (and brides) everywhere have broken free from the strangle-hold of white. Of course, white is still the color of choice by a huge margin but, now designers off so many other options and ways to express your individuality and style!

Consider this:

The color blue signifies purity, love and  fidelity. If you select a blue bridal gown, you can also mark one more thing off of your “something’ list.  Something Blue will be the bridal gown.

Pink, particularly in pale shades, is a sign of romance. Remember that pink is a combination of red (passion) and white (calm). A pink bridal gown will definitely make you feel like a princess for the day.

Lavender signifies mystery, magic and royalty. A lavender bridal gown will conjur up the illusion that you are somehow in complete control of everything around you. This might be exactly what you need.

Silver or Grey show that you have impeccable taste and style. Don’t forget to check the lighting in your venue since the lighter shades of grey and silver will probably show up as white without the proper lighting.

If you decide to go with color, use other color sparingly in your bridal outfit. A muted bouquet and accessories will bring out the beauty of the color of your choice instead of fighting with other colors in pictures.

If you are interested in a pastel bridal gown call 847-428-3320 for complimentary tickets to a show in your area. We have color!!!

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago