Ahh the black tie wedding (not to be mistaken with the evening wedding) – a black tie affair is possibly one of the most difficult of all weddings to dress for as a guest.  While a knee length LBD would do the trick in a pinch, a black tie wedding is the only occasion where a floor length gown is acceptable.  Always during the evening, it’s totally appropriate for opt for a glamorous floor skimming number – break out your grandmother’s cocktail rings, and sparkly chandelier earrings, because black tie means glam all the way!

Old Hollywood Glamour:

Yes, this is Oscar de la Renta, so for the masses this first dress is really just a day-dream, but with this look in mind, head to Bloomindales and seek out a sparkly gold number like this one.  The trick to making gold look expensive is to watch the sparkle and the tone.  A too gold color looks gaudy, and too sparkly conjures images of a Vegas showgirl – look for a muted Champagne gold, and you’ll be good to go.  Since the dress is the statement, stay away from more sparkle in the jewelry – pearls are a classic choice.  Finish the look with red lips and red nails – neutral eye makeup and simple hair will be perfect.

New Hollywood Glamour:

Emerald green has been a HUGE trend in the past several years, with many a-list actresses donning substantial gemstone jewelry for red carpet events.  Jump on the bandwagon because this rich green is flattering on everyone and brings to life a simple black silhouette.  Don’t be fooled by this dress’ demure neckline – the back opens up to show a little skin (tastefully of course).


Midsummer Nights Dream:

Yep, this next look reminds me of the Shakespeare play, because of the romance.  The floaty chiffon is romantic (and flattering), and you’ll stand out from all the other navy and black dresses in this pale pink number.  There is nothing like gold and pale pink to compliment one another, so be sure that your accessories – from strappy heels to dangly earrings are gold toned and sparkly.

I always look forward to the release of the next season’s wedding dresses.  I find the world of bridal couture completely fascinating, but I have to say, I am not loving a lot of the Summer collections.  Some of the trends are WAY too trendy – I fear there will be many brides looking back and saying, what was I thinking?!

The designers I’m drawn to this season are the ones embracing feminine silhouettes, interesting draping, and floaty fabrics.

Watters:
First up… Watters – they were actually one of my favorite designers that my sister tried on when she was shopping for her wedding dress.  The bonus??  These dresses look extremely high-end, but in the realm of wedding dresses, are actually quite affordable (dresses range from $2K – $4K).

Watters Beverly Hills: I love the variation of fabrics, and the draping – it’s unique without being over the top, taking a classic silhouette and making it stand out.  I’d prefer a deeper sweetheart at the bust, but this is so beautiful it’s hard to critique!

Watters Santa Barbara:  This silk taffeta dress fits narrowly through this hips, which is flattering on the waist – a ball gown can be difficult to wear depending on the skirt.  Too many gathers near the waist makes you look bulky, but the flat lay and the flared skirt keep this slimming and streamlined. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t LOVE pockets?!  The belt has got to go… something more delicate and less bulky!

Watters Napa:  Oh the romance – silk organza is so floaty and light, and the way that the skirt has subtle pick-ups creates volume without poof.  I’m not loving the bolero, or the mauve sash, but both are easily removable.  I imagine this dress with a floral belt – possibly in champagne for contrast.  Can we also talk about this bodice?  The intricately embroidered detail and defined sweetheart are both so pretty.  LOVE.

Vera Wang:
In addition to Watters dreamy confections, Vera Wang tops my list for Summer Couture designs.  Cliche? Yes.  Pricy?  OMG, I don’t even want to know.  BUT, her attention to detail, and unique embellishments remain unparalleled by any other bridal designer.

Vera Wang Diana: Holy ruffled skirt… does this look like a huge blossoming flower, or what?!  The raw cut edge keeps the skirt contemporary, while the silhouette is traditional all the way.  Another love??  The bodice is pleated, NOT ruched, minimizing bulk, and accentuating the waist.  Finally, that twisted belt.  So simple, but so pretty.

Vera Wang Gemma:  I am so in love with this dress, I’ve actually posted about it before (original obsession here).  The asymmetrical pleated bodice is SO pretty – looks amazing on this thin model… not so sure it’s for me… but the cut organza hem is so pretty – it looks like a cloud or flowers, or some ethereal combination of both.  Dreamy!