Design Inspiration - Swinging 60s

The 60s are making a huge comeback this season in fashion. As retro lovers, we are obviously excited and are looking forward to seeing our couples bringing in some of these elements into their attire. We've searched the interwebs for some of our favorite wedding attire+accessories channeling the 60s and our favorites are below:

Nothing says 60s like this pillowbox hat with a veil from BeChic Hair Accessories and how adorable is this scalloped lace dress from JCrew?        

       

                                                                                   

A French Twist with some cat eyeliner bring the 60s back in a such a hip way:

This Rosa Clara gown has a structured top, textured fabric, and a big 60s signature bow - love:

Wedding Wednesday - Wedding Day Attire Timeline

This Wedding Wednesday we’re talking timelines.  Not just any timeline, but wedding attire timeline.  When should you start shopping for your wedding gown?  How far in advance should the groomsmen order their tuxedos?  We’ve got answers to these questions and more below!

Wedding Gown

Start shopping for your wedding gown 9-10 months prior to your wedding (if your getting married in 6 months, go right now!).   Choosing a wedding dress is the part of the wedding planning process that brides are often most excited about, but don’t start shopping too soon!  Styles change, as may your taste.  Also, don’t visit the bridal shops until you are ready to purchase a dress.  It’s quite disheartening to try on that perfect gown and fall head over heels in love, but walk out with nothing.

Once you’ve chosen your dress, you should pay for and order it by 8 months prior to your wedding date.  Wedding gowns, on average, take 4-5 months from payment to delivery.  Of course, all shops and designers are different.  Allow yourself ample time for delivery and alterations.  Schedule your first fitting for 3 months out, 2^nd fitting for 6 weeks out, and the final fitting should be 2-3 weeks before your wedding date.

Bridesmaids' Dresses

Aim to have your attendants’ dresses picked out with 8 months to go, and have your girls order their dresses within the 4-6 month window.  This will allow 2-3 months for delivery and 4-6 weeks for alterations (allotting time for a 2^nd fitting, if needed).  Again, all shops are different.  Some dresses may come in right away, while some of the smaller boutiques may require more time.  Check with your specific location, once you have narrowed down that perfect bridesmaid dress.

Veil, Shoes, Accessories

About 5 months before the big day is when you should start shopping for your veil, shoes, undergarments, and accessories.  You’ll need your shoes and undergarments by your first fitting.  Consider bringing a couple different types of undergarments with you.  Different cut bras, shape-wear, petticoats, etc. can drastically change the look of your gown.  You’ll want to make sure everything fits perfectly and isn’t visible with your dress on.

Groom and Groomsmen Tuxedos/Suits

The style of the groom’s and groomsmen suits should be chosen by 4 months prior to the big day, and ordered about 2-3 months out.  Check with the store where the suits are being rented.  Many of the bigger chains have larger inventory and the suits can be ordered a little bit later. 

Man Mondays: Spring Trends

It is time to put away the pea coats and sweaters; and time to bring out the pastels and neutrals. Spring is my favorite time of year! Things are fresh, new, and rich with life. Incorporating your outfit with the season will set you a cut above the rest, especially at those special occasions.

While there are many great trends this season, my favorites include the "in" color blue as well as the tailored look. Not only are both easy to incorporate but also, most likely, you already have these in your closet. For this season's outdoor events (e.g. engagement parties) a light grey pair of tailored trousers, a light blue shirt, a tailored neutral blazer, and a pair of "wow" shoes are all you need to show off your swagger.

An easy swap for this outfit includes a pair of blue pants and a white shirt - same concept, different look (a 2 for 1 if you will).

Boutons de Manchette - aka Cuff Links

Since the 1500s, the fashion world has enjoyed cuff links thanks to Louis XIV. The types and styles have changed with the fashion eras but one thing remains the same, they are a sign of style and class. They can be worn with single or double-length French cuffs and can be assembled in barrel or, the more popular, kissing style.

Regardless of your industry, there are usually some occasions you could sport a nice set. Professionally, I generally reserve my cuff links for those days when I know I’m having an important meeting. Double win if it is an introductory meeting. Personally, I’ll jazz up an outfit for date night with a pair from Links of London or my grandfather’s monogrammed set from the 1940s (yes, they are in great shape and timelessly fashionable).

Although you can spend an arm and a leg on cuff links, you can also outfit your wardrobe with some staple sets starting around $20.00. I recommend acquiring both timeless and trendy sets to suit your personality. You can get everything from USB drive cuff links (for the techies) to a butterfly knife set (for the ninjas). They also make fantastic groomsmen gifts.