Summer Wedding Style: Sleeves, Sweat and Sweet Love
A recent New York Times article tackled a summer wedding problem that we’ve all faced, to sleeve or not to sleeve. Author Joyce Wadler talks about a problem that, as she puts it, all “ladies of a certain age” face. “There comes a time in your life, even if your have a personal trainer and are taking your meals in the gym, when the muscles and skin on your inner upper arms give up.”
Regardless of age, I’m sure you can relate – we sure can - summer wardrobe choices amplify these little concerns.
Everyone has body zones they worry about, especially when making a big, and sure-to-be-photographed, purchase like a dress to wear to a wedding. Summer wedding ensembles certainly have additional challenges; with the weather as hot as it is down here in sunny Miami and the humidity as high as it is, we’re always looking to avoid an, ahem, sweat problem.
But let’s not let those little worries take away from the real focus of all this summer style hoopla, the coming together of a new couple in a big, joyous and sunny celebration. Summer weddings, for a bit of extra complications and risk involving weather, are a special type of bright. The season tends to bring out the cheer in everyone, people feel celebratory, everything is green, flowers are in full bloom and there’s no better time for a party.
So sip on some lemonade (spiked or non!), kick back and smell the roses, enjoy the later sunset and feel beautiful in whatever dress you pick for a summer wedding.
Don’t forget, we’re here to help with wedding guest dresses too! Chic Parisien has a lovely (and always chic!) selection of both long and short dresses, sleeved and sleeveless. Come visit us and let us help with your summer wedding dilemmas.
images via bridal guide, refinery29
Bohemian Bride (At Heart) Goes Glam for Downtown Miami Wedding
"I always imagined myself in a flowy, boho-style dress, but as I began my search for the dress, I started to realize that I wanted something more form-fitting and classic," says Real Chic Bride, Chelsea Mandler, who ultimately set her heart on a stunning Marchesa lace gown.
"[While at Chic Parisien], I tried on a couple of dresses, and the Marchesa was actually the last one in the bunch," adds Chelsea. "As soon as I opened the dressing room doors to show my mom, mother-in-law and best friend, the hunt was over. We all hugged, cried and were in immediate agreement that this was it. I guess it's true what they say - save the best for last!"
Chelsea (Birman) Mandler and Nathan Mandler wed on December 21, 2013 on the outdoor terrace of the Epic Hotel in downtown Miami. Surrounded by family and friends, the couple exchanged vows during an evening ceremony. The stunning downtown Miami skyline served as the backdrop.
For the reception, which was held indoors, Chelsea wanted it to evoke a classic and elegant feel, but still reflect her bohemian taste. "I chose all white flowers mixed with manzanita tree branches and moss to give my reception a rustic-chic look."
Describing her favorite moment, Chelsea says, "Aside from saying the words I do to the love of my life, I would have to say my favorite moments would have to be my first look with Nate, hugging my parents right before they handed me off to my husband-to-be, seeing my bridesmaids for the first time in my dress and our wild after poodle-party! Nate's brothers also did an unbelievably hilarious speech followed by a performance that was so special."
Congratulations once again, Cheslea & Nate! We wish you a lifetime of love and happiness!
- The Chic Parisien Team
Wedding Planner: Yadi Rose Events Photographer: Emily Harris Videographer: Senderey Florist: Petal Productions Make-Up: Tatjana Terzic Band: Flavor
A Love Story Written in the Stars: Real Chic Bride, Mariana Rodriguez, Weds in Key West
"I had tried on a few beautiful dresses that day but the moment I saw mine, it took my breath away," recalls Mariana Rodriguez, who visited Chic Parisien in early 2013 in hopes of finding a dream gown for her coastal wedding taking place in October of that year. "It was the perfect dress for me. It even had very small details on the bodice that looked likes stars, which matched perfectly with the whole symbolic theme of the wedding."
The layered tulle ballgown featuring a gorgeous flower applique bodice was the final touch Mariana needed to round out her coastal chic-themed wedding. "While planning the wedding, I found out the symbolic meaning of the starfish and it became an important detail," adds Rodriguez. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Key West, Florida, the intimate wedding, attended by immediate family and friends, was stunning bouquet of turquoise and coral against stark white. The area's sparkling ocean and awe-inspiring sunset added a flair of their own.
The couple wed at The Basilica of Saint Mary Star of The Sea in Key West, Florida on October 5, 2013. Female guests wore either turquoise or coral, while men wore white Guayaberas. "The idea was that everyone that was there was so important to us that they were all part of the wedding party," explains Rodriguez. "For that reason, all guests were color coordinated."
When it came to the reception, which was held at The Westin Key West Resort and Marina, Rodriguez added, "We enjoyed every second. I had heard stories about brides and grooms that don't get the opportunity to eat or enjoy the details of their wedding, but I made sure that didn't happen. I spoke to all of my guests. I took the time to enjoy the food and dance to almost every song."
Recalling her favorite memory, Rodriguez says, "Traveling with all of our guests in trolleys around the Key West landmarks taking photos. There is a photo of all of us in front of the 90 miles to Cuba landmark that my husband and I love."
On behalf of the entire Chic Parisien team, it was our distinct pleasure to have played a role in helping Mariana find her dream gown. It's as though it was written in the stars!
We wish Mariana and Manny a lifetime of wedded bliss!
Bridal Market Wrap-Up! Plus, This Weekend's Romona Keveza Trunk Show
Few things could top a weekend trip to New York City in the spring, unless of course you're there to attend Bridal Market. It was a whirlwind trip, but we certainly made the most of the three-day event to bring you, our Chic brides, the latest bridal styles from top designers from around the world, including Jenny Packham, Mira Zwillinger, Anne Barge, Ines Di Santo, Romona Keveza, Naeem Khan, Marchesa, Monique Lhuillier and Lazaro.
Our action-packed schedule was a dazzling display of crystals, pearls, tulle, and lace. The runways were nearly as gorgeous as the gowns themselves, as many featured creative themes including Enchanted Forest (Naeem Khan) and Once Upon a Dream (Jenny Packham). There were many jaw-dropping moments, and we can't wait to bring the very best of these Spring 2015 designs to Chic Parisien.
For more behind-the-scenes moments from year's Bridal Market, check out our Instagram account, and watch this space for more information on the in-store arrival of the Spring 2015 collections. Speaking of special events, this weekend Chic Parisien is hosting a Romona Keveza trunk show, featuring the designer's famed Legends Collection. This collection is ultra feminine and draws inspiration from many time periods. This diverse collection will have something for every bride, no matter your body type or wedding venue. We look forward to seeing you!
Romona Keveza Trunk Show @ Chic Parisien
Legends Collection
April 25 - 26, 2014
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Real Chic Bride Weds at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens & Stuns in Monique Lhuillier Gown
When we first met our Real Chic bride, Katie, there was no denying that she has an impeccable sense of style. As she described the couple's plans for their big day, from the flowers (a country-inspired bouquet brimming with pastels) to the venue (Vizcaya Museum and Gardens), we knew that it would be an event no one would soon forget. Therefore, from the moment she walked into our store, we were on a mission to find her a gown that was equally, if not more, breathtaking.
On January 25, 2014, surrounded by family and friends, Kate said "I do" wearing a gorgeous Monique Lhuillier gown, featuring a strapless sweetheart pleated bodice and rose embroidered A-line skirt. Katie absolutely stunned in a gown that seemed as though it was designed and tailored exclusively for her.
Several months later, we weren't the least bit surprised to learn that Weddings Unveiled Magazine featured her wedding in a stunning four-page spread for its Spring 2014 issue. It was truly a picture perfect celebration, and we are thrilled to have been a part of it.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds, Katie & Rob!
Venue: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Event Design & Planning: JCG Events
Florals: Ines Naftali Floral & Event Design
Photography: KT Merry
A Halloween Treat
We're also proud to soon feature the brand new bridal line by Naeem Khan, arriving in early 2014! If you like these looks, you're in good company...Naeem Khan's gowns are beloved by many celebrities including Beyonce, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift and First Lady Michelle Obama (just to name-drop a few!)
Jenny Packham Exquisite Real Brides!
Today our Jenny Packham bridal trunk show begins, and we couldn’t be more excited! Her gowns are absolutely exquisite! They can make any bride look glamorous, unique, sometimes a little bit Gatsby and always, absolutely stunning. To honor our weekend event, here are some of our favorite Jenny Packham real brides! These ladies are absolutely gorgeous! For trunk show appointments go here, but hurry there are only a few spots left!
XOXO
Image Sources:
Amazing 2014 Bridal Market!
We've been in New York City since earlier this week attending Bridal Market Fall 2014! This is where all the designers showcase the new 2014 bridal collections... And oh my God, these designers have really blown us away! The collections that are coming down those runways are stunning and breathtaking! Here are some favorites we've seen so far, and if you want to see more, follow us on our instagram!
XOXO
Anne Barge Gorgeous Real Brides!
Anne Barge bridal gowns are inspired by vintage couture, featuring timeless references translated to modern silhouettes. The attention to embroidery and detail is breathtaking and when you get to see and feel these bridal gowns in person they are absolutely jaw dropping! So in light of this weekend’s Anne Barge Trunk Show we put together a compilation of some favorite Anne Barge real brides! These brides definitely embody everything her collections represent… Elegance, details, beauty and gorgeousness! We're in love with these dresses… Do you have any favorites? Tell us about it, we always love to hear! And for brides-to-be interested in seeing these gowns first hands, make your trunk show appointment here!
XOXO
Image Source:
Real Bride 1: Alina M Photography
Real Bride 2: Vrai Photo
Real Bride 3: Jenna Walker Photographers
Real Bride 4: Gina Leigh Photography
Real Bride 6: Justin Demutiis Photography
Our Favorite: Designer Sample Sale!
It’s Tuesday, and today is not just any, ordinary Tuesday… Today we’re announcing our highly coveted, Multi-Designer Sample Sale! It starts tomorrow, September 11 and goes through Saturday, September 14. We'll be featuring various gorgeous gowns from previous collections of many of our favorite designers like Monique Lhuillier, Romona Keveza, Lazaro, Marchesa, Badgley Mischka, Jenny Packham among others! This is definitely a must-see event for all brides-to-be looking for “The One!” Appointments are already filling up fast, so ladies, don’t miss this opportunity and make your appointment here! In the meantime, are there any particular designers you would like to see featured in this Sample Sale? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
What colors can't you wear to weddings?
We were recently contacted by our friends at eHow to help in providing some wedding fashion tips... We were truly flattered and excited to contribute to such a great community! So today, we're sharing our video on one of the most common questions we get from many wedding fashionista guests... "What color can't I wear to a wedding?" And the bottom line is... Guests should not even closely resemble the stunning bride... You don't want to over shine or overpower her, so fashionistas please stay away from white or ivory... But for the full scoop, watch our video and let us know what you think, do you agree? Tell us about it, we always love hear! XOXO
Gorgeous Berta Bridal's Real Brides
The dresses have arrived, the brides-to-be have been booked for their appointments and the Special Engagement Berta Bridal Trunk Show is about to start! We really couldn’t be more excited for this weekend’s trunk show! Berta’s bridal collection is exquisite, the lace, the fits, the drama… Truly, it is for a bride longing to be striking! So in honor of the special engagement trunk show, we’ve rounded up some real Berta Brides to showcase their stunning beauty… They are magnificent!
The special engagement Berta Bridal trunk show is this weekend and there are only a few appointments left, so brides-to-be if interested, go here for your appointment. And in the meantime, any particular dress that you are loving? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
Berta Bridal 2013 Trunk Show!
Recently, we announced our Special Engagement Berta Bridal Trunk Show and the reaction has been outstanding! So many brides-to-be have inquired about this special trunk show, and really, we couldn’t be more excited with the designs we’re expecting this weekend! These gowns are not for the faint of heart… The Israeli designer truly mixes glamour, with sexiness, tradition and craftsmanship, producing one of the most gorgeous collections we’ve seen in a long time! This Special Engagement Trunk Show is this weekend and we can’t wait! It is by appointment only, so if interested, please go here for yours. Here is a peek at this year’s collection… any favorites? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
Monique Weekend!
Happy Friday! What are you guys up to this weekend? We’re looking forward to our BLISS by Monique Lhuillier trunk show going on today and tomorrow! The collection is divine and we’re loving sharing it with all the brides-to-be! We still have a couple of appointments left, so brides, if you’re interested, don’t miss this opportunity and make your appointment here! Which brings us to the other thing we’re so excited about… This week Monique Lhuillier debuted her newest shoe line, and we’ve fallen in LOVE! In fact, we bet that if Carrie Bradshaw saw these, she would be all over them, and so are we! Which is why we’ve decided to feature two of the bridal ones in our very own e-store! We think these shoes are Ah-Ma-Zing! Are you loving any of the pairs? Tell us about it, we always love to hear.
XOXO
Special Sneak Peek, Bliss 2014 by Monique Lhuillier!
Gorgeous, unique, breathtaking, glamourous… These are just a few words that describe Bliss by Monique Lhuillier 2014 collection! Which, as you can imagine, makes us that much more excited because this weekend we’re hosting the trunk show for this stunning line! Monique Lhuillier’s bridal designs capture the essence of sophisticated luxury highlighting a femininity, allure and luxury that have made her renowned in the world of design. Monique’s sense of style is prevalent throughout her Bliss bridal collection, and definitely it is an exquisite collection that can not be missed! The trunk show is this weekend from August 8 through August 10, but it's by appointment only, so brides-to-be don’t miss this opportunity and go here for you appointment! Here are some of the gorgeous dresses from the collection, we're in love with all of them, do you have any favorites? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
Randy to the Rescue and Chic Parisien Get Together!
Back in early March we had an amazing experience when Randy Fenoli came to Miami and we collaborated on his show Randy to the Rescue! It was so much fun… We worked with the loveliest brides-to-be and Randy and his team were a blast! Tonight the episode airs at 10PM on TLC and we can’t wait! Tune in, check it out and then tell us how we did… We have to admit we’re a bit nervous about seeing ourselves on TV, but on the other hand we can’t wait! We hope we do ok and more importantly, we hope you enjoy it!
XOXO
Berta Special Engagement Trunk Show!
What is it about marvelous designs and unique bridal gowns? We’re drawn to them like a magnet! Which is why we’re so excited for our special engagement Berta Bridal Trunk Show August 15 - 17. Berta is one of the most experienced and well known designers in Israel. Her couture designs have been sold to women in Israel and all over the world for many years. We couldn’t be more excited to feature her unique, elegant, fresh, young and modern designs during this Trunk Show! Appointments are filling FAST. So brides-to-be, don’t wait and make your appointment today, this opportunity is once in a lifetime! Here are some of the pics from Berta’s collection – we are dying over all of them, what are your favorites? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
Marchesa Bridal Fashion House!
Marchesa is truly one of the most glamorous and elegant bridal collections, and it’s also one of the most fashionable! Marchesa’s fabrics, details and designs truly make for breathtaking gowns! So in honor of our upcoming Marchesa Trunk Show this weekend, we have compiled some of our favorite fashion snapshots of behind the scenes Marchesa fashion shows and photo shoots of recent times! The drama and movement in some of these pics is simply stunning! Brides-to-be don’t miss this trunk show opportunity this upcoming weekend, for appointments go here! In the meantime, tell us which pic you're loving... We always love to hear!
XOXO
Images courtesy of Marchesa Instagram
Marchesa Bridal Spring 2014, Simply Breathtaking!
Officially, we’re over the moon! We have one of our favorite trunk shows this weekend… The one and only Marchesa, and this weekend we will have the Bridal Spring 2014 collection! A design house that is synonymous with couture, red carpet glamour and cool girl style! This collection is simply breathtaking! The details, the lace, and the lovely touches of sheer fabrics… From stunning fairy tale gowns to sexy mermaid silhouettes, Marchesa has something for every glamorous, fashion bride-to-be. The trunk show is this weekend, July 26 and July 27, appointments are very limited, so don’t hesitate and make your appointment here today! In the meantime, which gowns are you loving? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
Austin Scarlett Bridal Collection Trunk Show Sneak Peek!
Chic Parisien has a surprise for you! Amazing designer Austin Scarlett’s bridal collection is coming to Coral Gables for a trunk show this coming weekend! Austin, who first gained international recognition for his designs on the original season of Project Runway, now has a bridal collection that is nothing short of exquisite! Grand yet delicate, romantic yet unexpected, the Austin Scarlett collection takes a thoroughly modern approach to vintage Paris couture. Creativity and classical elegance combine with time honored techniques to create a glamorous collection that enchants the senses and redefines romance. We’re truly ecstatic that we’ll be featuring this collection for the first time! This coveted trunk show, July 19 and July 20, is by appointment only, so hurry and make your appointment here! We're amazed by his designs and honestly can't pick a favorite, are you loving any? Tell us about it, we always love to hear!
XOXO
