Accessorise!! To veil or not to veil??

It’s a bit like the races, (I’ve kept my fashion eye on all that recently) - on your wedding day you have to something on your head!

That’s not a hard and fast rule but what I mean is that most gals are looking for that perfect bridal touch for their hair. Tiara's used to be the go but I have to be honest and say that I am so over them! They can look a bit “try hard” princess to me – Ok, don’t start emailing me! I apologise to all the girls who wore them on their big day – that includes me!! Mine was a little bizarre as it was made by a sculptor and was gold resin and fake pearl. It was fab at the time but every look has it’s day.

However I do like beautiful hairpieces (maybe some shiny bling) in the side or the back of the hair – that can look stunning with the right hairdo. Make sure though that you try it out with your hair stylist ahead of time and don’t spring it on them on the day. You want to make sure it sits right and won’t fall out.

Fascinators, according to one of my fashion stylists on the magazine, are no longer fascinating! He may have been referring to the races – but I still think they can be cute on the right person with the right style wedding gown. Maybe something a bit 1920’s inspired – slinky and sexy. Too many feathers and fluff though is a bit wrong for a bride in my opinion.
I personally love pretty lace veils (think Spanish senorita) or just fresh flowers in the hair. Both looks to me are classic and romantic and just really perfect with a cream or white gown. The tradition behind them is another reason that they hit the right note.


Unusual and gorgeous headbands and hairpieces are really appealing to me at the moment. Ok they may seem a bit out of fashion one day but I can’t help loving the look for now. A good example of creative genius for the bride - Milliner Richard Nylon in Melbourne is fabulous. (see pics with Gwendolynne gowns on the catwalk). Also check out Culture Shock if you live in Sydney as she has such unusual and divine veils and headpieces designed to go with her very original gown designs.

At the end of the day - It’s all up to your personal style.
Hope you enjoy the search for the perfect finishing touch!
Kirstie

Less is more

No matter how simple your tastes may be in everyday life, there seems to be something about choosing a wedding gown that frequently makes a girl crave a small degree of ornamentation. It’s understandable! As even though chic is all about simplicity and those words “less is more” may echo in your head there’s another voice there saying “but it’s my wedding!!!” You can be chic any old time but weddings conjure up dreams of lace, beads, diamante bling, floaty bits of chiffon or georgette.. you get the gist. Maybe not the kind of style you normally go for.
Don’t be perturbed you can still be simply elegant yet satisfy this urge with a tasteful hint of the trimmings you’re dreaming of. There’s so many fabulous ways to get subtle decorative detail. For a few years there’s been quite a trend toward sparkly diamante in either brooches or even in the straps of the gown and is an extravagant touch that lifts a dead simple frock (very Versace 2005!). Another beautiful feminine touch is a layer of gorgeous lace or a touch of appliqué in the bodice - nothing too busy but it lifts the totally plain look to something a little bit more special. Beading can be amazing too – you don’t have to go to “Bollywood” extremes – just a pretty little scatter combined with lace appliqué is divine. Also think sashes and ties (always romantic), chiffon trains, silk flowers (so pretty) or even hand painting fabric. Images here are to give you inspiration. You don’t want to be disappointed later and think I had the chance to look all “bridey” and I blew it! Unless of course seriously simple is totally you in which case follow your style and don’t be swayed! I am only speaking to those who have a hankering for adornment like me.

It’s worth remembering that the less full on you go, the more your pictures will stay unembarrassing for future generations! Another pearl of wisdom is: too much embellishment can ruin a stunning gown. Mind you there’s always the bride who thinks “stuff that” and will go the whole hog. Princess More Is More. That’s ok - It’s a personal thing.

Spring is in the air so enjoy your bridal shopping.

Kirstie