Monthly Archives: March 2011

They’re playing our song

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One of the most memorable parts of any wedding reception is the first dance. As family, friends, photographer, videographer and staff look on, the couple dances as a married couple for the first time. All movement in the room  stops except for the couple on the dance floor, looking into one another’s eyes, moving to the sounds of their song of choice.

Choosing the right song can be tricky, difficult or very easybut make no mistake it is a very personal choice and should express the personality of the couple and their feelings about their relationship and this big moment in their lives. That is a tall order but one that we can help you to better understand by asking yourself three simple questions:

Fast or slow?  Hard to believe but, some couples do not opt for a slow, romantic ballad to express themselves.  For certain couples, the idea of a more upbeat song fits the bill quite nicely and captivates the guests. Perhaps something like the Frank Sinatra classic “It Had To Be You” or  the equally popular remake by Harry Connick Jr. If you dissect the song, it is not really slow. It does require some serious dance moves,  so don’t pick something of this tempo if you can’t handle a foxtrot. Footnote: Frank Sinatra songs have not lost their romantic popularity since his first album but, is it a coincidence that a great deal of his best works are in a foxtrot tempo? I’ll let you think about that for a minute, it’s a good segue to the next topic.

Modern or classic? It is true that the classics never die. Think about this: many modern songs of today will become classics by the time you celebrate your 25th anniversary, so in hindsight it is  moot  to worry about the popularity of a single song. My prom theme was on a classic radio station about three years after I adorned the satin concoction my mother made for me so lets not split hairs. Pick a song that has lyrics that are meaningful or one that was playing when you cemented your commitment, so my advice: Don’t worry about how old it is.

What does the song actually say?Believe it or not, some of the most romantic songs of all times have misleading words. There is a reason that the Dolly Parton/Whitney Houston classic “I Will Always Love You” is not even mentioned on any list of top songs chosen for the first wedding dance. Listen to the lyrics, “If I should stay I would only get in your way….” Seriously? Is this what you want to be playing as you step onto the dance floor? Equally misleading are “Every Breath You Take” by the Police (stalker), “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers (morbid). I was fooled by at least one of these songs and I can tell you I was shocked when I learned what the song really said. Best piece of advice ever- Google the lyrics to your song choice to see what the song actually says. You might be surprised but you will thank me.

Bottom Line: Don’t let anyone tell you what is right or wrong, this is a very personal choice. I would take the advice of the DJ or bandleader only and perhaps enroll in dance lessons if you opt for a Sinatra tune. Happy Hoofing!

Bridal Expo Chicago has music professionals at each and every show that are in tune with your needs. Take a moment to call 847-428-3320 to get tickets to a show in your area.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

What to wear to a wedding – be our guest!

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You finally received the invitation to a wedding you have been looking forward to attending and you realize you have no idea what to wear!  Here are some fairly easy guidelines to help you through this crisis.

Daytime Casual –  does not mean wear jeans and flip-flops. Wedding casual is different from ‘running to the grocery store’ casual. Wedding Casual means you could get by with a floral dress, sweater and skirt set, or even a sundress (weather permitting). For men open necked shirts with no tie are perfectly acceptable, in fact a nicer Hawaiian shirt for a beachfront venue is striking.  Men and women both need to take note of the location of the wedding – if it is beach or grass, make sure you are wearing shoes that can handle nature without aerating the soil or sinking into the sand. For evening casual just kick it up a notch -no need to break out your finest but, perhaps a touch of sparkle wouldn’t hurt, either. Always keep the setting in mind.

Semi- Formal – Dress as if you were headed to the theater. A flirty cocktail dress and heels, or a dressy pantsuit. You want to be comfortable, able to move easily and to dance, of course. Avoid long dresses, it is too formal. For men- your suit  doesn’t have to be  black even though it is always a safe choice. You can also wear a blazer and slacks as long as you have a tie.

Black Tie Optional – this indicates that you can go  formal if you want, but you don’t have to. Women can wear a dress that is long or short, as long as it indicates elegance. Some beads and/or sequins are acceptable. Men can wear a tuxedo or a nice dark suit.

Black Tie – this is when you can bring out your finest and not feel over-dressed. If the invitation says Black Tie – its time to bring out the beads; beaded accessories,shoes,  sparkly earrings and perhaps a long silk wrap you have tucked away in a closet somewhere. Although in the past long dresses were required, it is acceptable to wear tea-length gowns but, avoid  short cocktail gowns. Dress as if you were invited to aPresidential Inaguration Ball or the Academy Awards!  For men it simple: Wear a tuxedo. Wear the tux with studs and bow tie and don’t forget to shine your patent leather shoes since no tuxedo is really a tuxedo without the right shoes.

If the invitation does not specify what type of event it is, look for clues so you aren’t over or (God forbid) under-dressed. The venue, the type of invitation, the time of day will all give you insight into what you should be wearing. If all else fails, call the bride or groom (if you feel comfortable) or a close member of the wedding party.

The most important thing is to feel comfortable in your choice. If you can’t move or sit or eat one bite – you will be miserable not able to enjoy this lovely event!

For more great tips and ideas on weddings, be sure to get tickets to one of our bridal shows in your area. Call 847-428-3320 for complimentary tickets to show in  your area.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Bridesmaids Beware: Tips to being a perfect attendant

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We’ve all heard the horror stories and seen countless clips of brides going berserk on TV. Bridezillas (as they have become known) are a ruthless, tireless breed and will not take (hell) no for an answer.  What you don’t see or hear as often are stories of bridesmaids and attendants who don’t live up to their end of the bargain. They hold up orders, complain about dresses, shoes, and generally complicate things. Whats the key to being a  perfect attendant? I’m glad you asked!

Play or go home. If you have agreed to be a part of a wedding, understand it is going to cost you money. Unless the bride has graciously offered to pay for everything on your behalf you will be paying for at least a gown, alterations, shoes, jewelry, makeup, hair, bachelorette festivities, shower and shower gift, and wedding gift. Don’t forget you will need something to wear for the shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner as well. More shoes, more accessories, and the list goes on. If you know you cannot afford the festivities, be honest with the bride,  “I am honored that you asked me to be your bridesmaid and although I would love to be included in the wedding, I simply cannot afford it. I would be honored to be a guest” Otherwise you might be broke and resentful by the time the cake is cut. Once you have agreed to be an attendant, you are no longer entitled to say anything about your expenses. Keep your lips sealed and smile.

Be available. When you agreed to be a bridesmaid you had to know there would be shopping and fittings and all kinds of other pre-wedding activities. Your job is to make this easier for the bride, not harder. If you cannot attend something, being honest is better than being a no-show. With texting, instant messaging and facebook it is easier to stay in touch than ever. Missing an appointment is a cardinal sin and there  is no reason other than bodily harm that you should not be at a scheduled appointment.

Be honest. If asked your opinion, be honest. When it comes to bridal gowns, headpieces, bridesmaid gowns, cakes, whatever. You can have different opinions and still be friends. Remember that there are ways to deliver unkind words. “You butt looks huge in that gown” is not a good example. You might want to try something softer ” Cindy, you have a great figure but, I dont think this dress is very flattering.” However, if you realize this is the gown (or whatever) that she loves and adores, try to find something positive to say. You have signed on to be a support team, its time to be supportive. If asked for your honest opinion, give it as graciously as possible.

Run intereference. Bridesmaids have a lot less to do than the bride during the months and weeks leading up to the big day. You will be a great friend and a perfect bridesmaid by offering to run some errands, or help the bride simplify tasks somehow. This will be the greatest gift she receives, helping her to  handle any and all wedding tasks so the she remains stress free.

I saved the best advice for last: How to handle bridesmaid gown shopping. If the bride offers to take you and all of the attendants to try on dresses, this can be a lot of fun. It can also be the mother of all disasters. Approach it with kindness and fairness. Whether you are a size 2 or 22, remember its not about you: the bride has vision of what she wants the entire day to look like. Remember the scene in 27 dresses when Katherine Heigl goes through the closet and tries on each gown? Hilarious!!! But each of her friends had a vision and she was the perfect attendant by smiling, wearing the dress and not saying one word.  Help your engaged friend to realize her own unique vision by being as cooperative as possible. The only complaints that should be voiced are of the dress is  ill-fitting,  painful (poorly constructed gowns sometimes have cheaper components which can actually hurt and leave marks) or if there is something about that dress that makes you seriously uncomfortable. For instance, if you are quite busty and the gown has little coverage which leaves you a victim of side-boob exposure. Most brides are not stuck in the ‘same gown for everyone’ mold, anyway. Today’s wedding trend is to find a different gown that looks good on each attendant in the same color or one gown in several colors. There are so many choices… talk to the bride in private and explain your concerns, don’t turn it into a free-for-all or let any resentment build up. She does not want frowns, red marks or nipples in her wedding photos so if approached properly, any problem can be rectified. The same goes with shoes. If they are ugly – wear them and donate them after. If they seriously hurt your feet, explain to the bride why you cannot wear them. Offer to find a similar pair that are more comfortable for you and work it out. Unless she is truly that one in a million BRIDEZILLA,  she will be happy you spoke to her instead of complaining behind her back.

-ps – a great way to show your engaged pal that you are definitely in her corner is to offer to attend a bridal expo with her. Bridal Expo Chicago has 32 shows in 2011 and one of them is near you. With dozens and dozens of vendors and our luxurious runway fashion show you will have the time of your life. Call 847-428-3320 to get four complimentary tickets to a show in your area.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Flowers in Bloom!- Spring is just around the corner.

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As the day draws nearer, more and more talk of Kate Middleton and Prince William’s nuptials seems to hit the airwaves. The Cake, the Gown, the (gasp) Diamond Tiara! I can’t help myself, I am more addicted to this that Charlie Sheen’s twitter account. Today’s discussion was about the 4 ft bouquet which traditionally includes a sprig of Myrtle from the Queen’s garden. FOUR FOOT BOUQUET….Oh MY! On that note, I would like to share some floral ideas from some of our fabulous vendors at Bridal Expo Chicago.

Centerpieces don’t have to be bulky.  Centerpieces can not only ruin a conversation but also obstruct the guests view. When you are selecting centerpieces don’t be afraid of the tall, sleek centerpieces with large flowers. Sometimes large flowers can save you money. Sometimes, not always. Sit down at the table with the centerpiece you are considering and bring it to your level. You will see exactly what your guests will be facing for the duration of dinner.

Bouquets can be glitzy. Many florists are adding touches of crystals and other sparkly elements to the bride’s bouquet. This is especially scintillating if you have an evening event. It doesn’t have to be 4 ft long  to make a statement. Traditional bouquets are all white but many brides opt for their signature color or flower. A Single flower? NO problem! Simple Calla Lillies always make a fashionable statement with ribbon tied at the end.

Bridesmaid’s bouquets do not have to match their gowns. Bridesmaids gowns have their own color, try white or a complimentary color. FYI  – there is no rule that says you can only have one wedding color. Sometimes a pleasant pear looks great sitting next to an elegant eggplant. Alliteration aside, you will do yourself a favor not trying to match flowers to gowns exactly because no matter what you have decided, nature truly will take its course.

Boutonnieres should be worn by all male members of the bridal party, incuding fathers and grandfathers of the bride and groom and members of the immediate family only. The bridal party can have different styles with the same single flower and the groom’s can also stand out. It is perfectly acceptable to bring color into the boutonniere. Realistically you don’t want half a dozen different boutonniere styles but, the groom should definitely stand out and correspond with the bride’s bouquet in some small way. Remember,  “Less is more”.

Always try to use flowers that are in season at the time of your wedding. It will save time and money for you and the florist!

For more ideas from Chicago’s and Houston Medical Center florist, cal 847-428-3320 to get  four complimentary tickets to a show in your area. Our florists bring several examples of  bouquets and centerpieces for you touch, feel and smell to make sure you come out smelling like the flower of your choice on your big day!

Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Bridal Hair-do’s and dont’s – Plan ahead!

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You’ve gotten the perfect groom, the perfect dress and the perfect headpiece. All you need to complete your look is  a smashing hairstyle. After seeing 30 years of weddings and witnessing first-hand their successes and disasters, I can tell you it is very easy to overlook this one tiny thing and regret it later.

The biggest mistake brides can make regarding their hair on their wedding day is  “failing to plan ahead”. Your face will be photographed more times in this one day than you can imagine and you will want your hair to compliment the gown, the headpiece and your face. Keep these tips in mind when you begin to think about hairstyles so you don’t wind up with pictures you can’t bear to look at because you didn’t like your hair.

DO:

Schedule your first appointment a couple of months before your wedding. Be very clear about what the appointment will entail. Is this a consultation or an actual trial run?

Pick a Hairdresser you trust. This is not the time to try out a new stylist – make sure you have someone who’s work you like.

Take tons of photos with you. You cannot imagine how hard it is for me to describe a haircut. Take a ton of pictures with you so you can describe in great detail what you like and don’t like.

Keep the headpiece and the gown in mind. Don’t overpower a simple gown with a beehive or confuse an already busy gown with too much going on.

Get a deep conditioning treatment a month or so before so your locks will be luscious.

DON’T:

Don’t make  drastic changes. One month (or God Forbid, one day )before your wedding is not the time to decide you want to go blond or cut all your hair off. You will be scrambling for a solution. There are solutions to everything but, they can be costly.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with a hairstyle you like but think won’t work. There are extensions, hairpieces, lifts, all kinds of things to make your hair thicker and fuller looking.

Don’t forget to take your headpiece to your hair appointment. It is vital to the overall look.

Don’t  be afraid to ask questions. You will never be sorry.

Don’t try to look like someone else. You will, and you won’t like it.

Don’t look like you were stuck in a  time warp. The big bangs and over-permed hair looked great in the 80’s. I know, I had it. Today’s brides have a more natural and sophisticated look. Stay current!

Call 847-428-3320 to get tickets to a Bridal Expo in your area. We will beat Ashyana Banquets in Downers Grove this Sunday March 13th. Stay for our luxurious Couture  fashion show at 2 pm to get even more ideas on hairstyles, veils, gowns and more!

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Bridesmaids: Hot Looks for Spring 2011

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 Long gone are the days that bridesmaid gowns are  frothy, tacky or downright drab. It used to be impossible to find anything fashionable and that whole “You can  wear it again” was unimaginable. The worst part was that  trying to find something that looked good on everyone, almost assured  that it looked good on not one of them!

The designers and trendsetters heard the cries of the collective masses and as a result, attendants today have many choices. Wait until you see what they have in store for Spring 2011. Lets take a look at whats hot in bridesmaid attire!

Halter  Necklines – A Halter top is defined by a single strap that goes around the neck and offers support. Some Halter styles can be worn with a bra so you have added comfort. When fitting halter top, the strap should be just snug enough to hold the gown top properly in place but not so tight as to leave a mark on the skin. They can tie, hook or be one solid piece of fabric, it doesn’t matter. There are a lot of different halter necklines – pick the one you are the most comfortable with.

Tea Length Dresses – This style took over in the late 1980’s when bridesmaid gowns began to be more fashionable and wearable. The key word is began, it took well into the 90’s to perfect the tea length look. Tea length is defined as any hemline below the knee and above the ankle. Preferably lower calf,  10-14″ from the floor. This is the perfect look for an afternoon wedding.  

One  Shoulder – A very dramatic effect that looked so great on Princes Diana  she wore this style often. Most notably wearing Versace on the cover of Vanity Fair in 1997. Draped, tied or embellished with a brooch or flower, a one-shouldered gown is sure to turn heads. This style will look good on more figure types than any other neckline style and in floor length is an excellent choice for a formal wedding.

Fabric that moves, that flows and almost has its own personality. Fabric can make or break the style of a gown, using the wrong fabric can be a cardinal sin. Fabric, when chosen carefully, is it’s own distinct style element. This year’s biggest, hottest trend is beautifully draped or flowing chiffon, smooth charmeuse as soft as butter, anything that moves or flows. The most figure flattering fabrics, there is a reason why they are so popular right now. Short or long; any time of day or night –  a flowing chiffon, jersey or charmeuse gown will be flattering to most figures a pleasure for the bridesmaid’s to wear.

Click on the link below to see our couture runway fashion show where we feature the hottest styles in bridal and bridesmaids gowns. Then, call 847-428-3320 to get tickets to a show in your area so  you can experience the fashion firsthand.

https://www.bridalshowexpo.com/fos_video_bride.html?PHPSESSID=839398b20e94b837f10134e3b6e71bd9

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Bridal Headpieces – Trend Alert

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No conversation about bridal headpieces would be complete without first discussing you hair. Decide if you want your hair up or down or somewhere in between. Will this be a casual or formal look? Make all hair decisions first since your headpiece choice is based not only on your gown but, also on the style of your coiffure.

Headpieces are such a seemingly small wedding detail it often gets overlooked and overpowered by the gown choice. Historically headpieces consisted of a simple piece of  cloth to cover the brides face until she is unveiled to the groom. The headpiece was merely to hold the veil in place. Today they can stand alone and many brides opt for no veil at all.

I have put together a list of the latest trends in bridal headpieces to make things simple for you.

#1 Headband. Hands down, this simple look is taking brides across the continent by storm. You see it everywhere, and it loks great on just about everyone. It can be incorporated into an up-do and it looks smashing when added to flowing locks. You can’t go wrong with a headband. This is not your typical headband, though. These are swarovski-crystal encrusted, silk-ribbon tied masterpieces.

#2- Cage veil. A cage veil is named such because its shape resembles a birdcage.  However, some cage veils don’t even touch the face, they merely skim around the edge of the forehead, which accents the face beautifully in photos.  The cage veil is always made of English or French netting – the kind of netting that has large openings and sometimes little dots at the intersections. No cage veil would be complete without decoration of some kind; dramatic flowers, tufts of ostrich feathers, crystals and (hold your breath) COLOR!

#3 – Scattered Hairpins – Adorned with porcelain flowers, sparkling crystals or a simple pearls, these  brilliant accents are the is the perfect way to adorn a loose up-do. Definitely a more casual look but, there is always the option of adding a longer veil in the back to dress it up for the ceremony.  This is my personal favorite for a destination or outdoor venue. 

#4 – Embellished barrettes, combs, clips or ties.  If you decide to do a long ponytail to one side, if you decide to have your hair swept up on one side ala Veronica Lake (I’ll wait while you google that one), or if you decide on a side part with your long bangs gently pulled to one side; jeweled combs and barrettes are right up your alley. The sparklier, the better.

Whatever your style is, you can find all of the latest trends for your headpiece and veil choice at Bridal Expo. We host dozens of bridal and accessory salons and showcase them every Sunday at our couture runway fashion show. Please call 847-428-3320 to get tickets to a show in your area.

We look forward to seeing you in Wisconsin at the Brookfield Sheraton this Sunday March 6, 2011. Doors open at 10:30, fashion show begins at 2:00 pm.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Whats Hot in Bridal Gowns – 2011 Trends Sneak Peek

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With Spring just around the corner and designers about to reveal their new  fall  lines, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for brides who are not sure they want to go strapless.

Did you notice it at the Oscars? A little sleeve here and there. Not long, puffy leg-o-mutton sleeves like the 1980’s (God forbid) or severe turtleneck dresses like the 1970’s. Just a little something  to comfort the bride who is not sure she is ready to bare her shoulders completely.

For years, the strapless bridal gown has dominated the runways and magazine pages as the ‘style choice’  for nearly every major designer for over a decade, couture and otherwise. This spring, that could all change.

Although strapless gowns are still the majority shareholders of our attention and account for most bridal gown silhouettes, I counted 10 of the top 50 Knot Picks for favorite wedding dresses as having  some sort of strap or sleeve. If you’re counting at home, that is about 10 more than this time last year.

What does this mean to the bride-to-be?  The sky’s the limit and the choice is once again, yours. The designers have heard your voices, asking  for “something on top” and they have responded by giving you exactly what you want. Maybe its a modesty issue, maybe its a matter of taste, perhaps you have a figure concern and feel strapless is not the right choice for you. We get it – and now we know that designers all over the world (from haute couture to the most affordable) will be showing you what you have begged for… a little coverage.

That’s not to say strapless has gone by the wayside – quite the contrary. The strapless gowns that we see today seem to magically camouflage some of the most common figure flaws. Built- in bras, petticoats, corsets, these things take away the guesswork and the end result is a gown that makes you look and feel like a million bucks on your wedding day. 

Each week at Bridal Expo you can see the hottest looks in bridal and attendant gowns straight from the designer’s runways to ours. If you or someone you love is getting married, please take a moment to watch our couture runway video and call 847-428-3320 to get four complimentary tickets to a show in your area.

– Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Tuxedo Junction – Oscar’s Leading Men

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No re-cap of a star-studded night of beautifully dressed A-listers would be complete if we didn’t discuss menswear.  For years my male friends have told me that they are stuck wearing the same boring suit while women can freely express themselves with a kaleidoscope of gowns at these affairs. I have always secretly thought they were right but, I always assure them that they, too, can express themselves with subtle choices. I was wrong.

Sunday night’s festivites were as much about the men as the women, some nailed it, some slid by and some really caught our attention. Most importantly, the men looked to me as if they all simultaneously stepped out of a Vintage Hollywood movie set. Lets get to it:

Here are my personal ‘Best and Worst’ tuxedo highlights from the 83rd Academy Awards:

BEST:

Jude Law  – Tasteful, handsome, talented. who could ask for anything more? In this Dior tuxedo with white tie and shirt, he looked every bit the gentleman on the red carpet and while presenting. Seriously – I loved this look. My absolute favorite look of the night, my favorite tuxedo,  a real tuxedo with a shawl collar and the thin stripe down the side of the pant leg. Bravo!

Justin Timberlake  – Thumbs up for your excellent taste in menswear. You truly have a sense of style that is timeless and flawless. This notched -collar Tom Ford tuxedo had all the right elements. JT’s  taste has really evolved over the years. Plus he brought his mother as his date – awwwwww.

James Franco – Wearing a wing collar is not easy and wearing it right (with the points tucked in) darn near impossible. He rocked several different custom-fitted Gucci tuxedos  and the fit was perfect for the job… except maybe that of co-host.

Colin Firth – Not only wore Tom Ford (formerly of Gucci) but thanked him in his speech. He didn’t take any risks and didn’t need to. Glamorous and sophisticated, he didn’t try or need to try to be edgy, he is all class.  Interestingly enough, Firth’s suit was made with “ethical materials” — meaning from managed, renewable resources — in line with the ecological beliefs of his wife, Livia.

Robert Downey Jr – Special thanks to RDJ for mixing it up with his white on white (on Blue) Prada  ensemble on the red carpet. It is hard to look bad when you look this good.  I could go on.

Hugh Jackman -Ferragamo designed this double-breasted tux just for him. Not really. But, if anyone can pull off  double-breasted, it is  Hugh Jackman. This is not for the faint of heart, this says you mean business and you won’t take NO for an answer. It is hard-core and you have to have the (whats the word?) to pull it off.

Josh Brolin – Looked fantastic in his Ermenegildo Zegna Tuxedo – or was it a suit? I guess the vest threw me off a bit at first and I wasn’t sure he was able to carry off this suit-tux. He followed up with the white tie and dinner jacket while presenting and I was sold. The man has style.

Special Thanks to Valentino and Kirk Douglas for showing us all how to look good no matter our age.

WORST:
Russell Brand – Russell Brand has nothing to prove, so why does he wear this? He is a good actor, a good singer and quite funny. Dear Russel, don’t ever wear a plaid shirt to a black-tie event, ever again, no matter how expensive it is. Period.

Christian Bale – This all black look is simply awful. Is he Batman or a hitman? I can’t tell. I know the beard is disconcerting but, he is a consummate actor so you have to assume he is getting ready for another role. I’ll give him that. (It looked terrible, though)

Mark Ruffalo – Attention: Everyone who knows what a pocket square is, stand up. Mark …. sit down. Your hair is gorgeous. You are handsome, talented and witty. Why did you leave a post-it in your breast pocket?

Mark Wahlberg – I said it before, its hard to look bad when you look this good. But, ( for me) Mark did it. Somehow he managed to have a bow tie that seemed too big, crooked, his studs were grey-ish ( I couldn’t tell) and overall he looked like he would rather be back in the gym. Photos, please.

83rd Acadamy Awards was a high point for men as most of them arrived in clean shave and sharp suits. Men and their smart looks took over the red carpet by storm. If you want a clean, good shave, I would advise you to visit the Instash website and check out their choices of top safety razor that they recommend.

What did you think? To check out all the latest trends in tuxedos, log on to www.bridalshowexpo.com to register to get tickets to a show in your area. Our men wear specialist will help make you look and feel like an A-lister.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Oscars 2011 – Worst Dressed

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Sometimes you’re just feeling bold and you want to mix it up and take chances. I can assure you there are two times in your life that this is not the time to take a serious fashion risk. One is your wedding day and the other is if you have the honor to attend the Academy Awards. These are the times to let your individuality shine but, use good sense and listen to those around you. On that note, lets go over my picks for the WORST Oscar Fashions from the 2011 awards show.

Cate Blanchett – I don’t even know where to begin. Cate took a bold fashion risk, I’ll give her that.  But, this apron-fronted Givenchy gown had just about everything wrong with it. The fit was flawless but the rest of it should have been left on the proverbial ‘cutting room floor’. By far the most confused look  of the night.

Nicole Kidman – Many years from now, Nicole is going to look back on this gown and ask herself  “What was I thinking?” I am already asking. In her Dior Haute Couture beaded peplum gown, she reminded me of a futuristic meter maid.

Penelope Cruz –  The L’Wren Scott gown accented her  figure beautifully, her hair, make-up and accessories were all beautiful. Unfortunately there was no real style to the gown and I felt like I could have seen the same thing in the Miss Universe pageant.

Helena Bonham Carter – A great actress really immerses herself in her character. However, after the film is released to DVD you can stop dressing like the the Mad Hatter, or whatever she had in mind when she picked out this  Colleen Atwood disaster. On a bright note,  at least she had time to stop in Chinatown and pick up a little plastic fan in case she broke out in a sweat.

Scarlett Johansson – We get it …you have a rockin’ bod and gorgeous hair. This Dolce & Gabanna gown, however, was too heavy looking and did not have any elements that fit your tiny frame. I also don’t think the Oscars is a good  time to have “bed head”.

Amy Adams – I have never been a huge fan of turtleneck sleeveless gowns. This navy blue, beaded, L’Wren Scott gown is no exception. Paired with the fact that the hair is too casual for this look and the necklace was too matronly, this entire look fell short for me.

Michelle Williams – When you have a gorgeous face and adorable figure, it is easy to look great in anything. Michelle’s ivory, pearl encrusted, Chanel gown is the exception. This  silhouette is designed for a very small busted, less curvy woman. It was too heavy looking and the lack of color made  this petite pixie beauty look like a faded photo of herself.

Marisa Tomei – She opted for a vintage gown circa 1950’s by Charles James,  which is a difficult choice – obviously. The truth is that women today are not built the same way the were 60 years ago. If you decide to wear vintage you have to fill out the dress completely and have it fitted to your frame. This means you have to bring your ‘A’ game and your ‘C’ cup. The  beauty of the gown was lost while we sat and tried to figure out where her boobs were.

Agree or disagree? Let me know! In the meantime, you can see the hottest couture bridal designer fashions by clicking below:

https://www.bridalshowexpo.com/fos_video_bride.html?PHPSESSID=823d669ebc3c999e7ad29cad873bbc56

Tomorrow we tackle the Tuxes in our ‘Menswear Review’!

– Penny for Bridal Expo Chicago