Pretty Little Things….because every girl likes pretty little things….

August 29th, 2010

I have many blog articles that I research that are informational and objective in nature rather than subjective. From time to time, I will, however, share my personal thoughts on various products, trends, and ideas.

Last week I received several orders from my vendors. I am always excited to open the boxes to see what pieces are inside when I order new items. Occasionally, I am blown away and wistfully wish for another wedding (to the same man!) to be able to wear some of these beautiful and unique pieces. I always imagine and create a whole new look in my mind with the current trend while embracing my unique style…..just as you, the bride, probably does as you peruse our site or read this blog.

I have decided to share my experiences, so that you, the bride, may accompany me on my journey ofdiscovering some of these beautiful pieces that a computer screen could not do justice.

I have been a fan of the embroidered bracelets by Justine M. Couture since I began featuring her line. They are a distinctively different take on a cuff style bracelet that has a very romantic, delicate feel. The Cinderella bracelet arrived and I was in love! It has good amount of weight to it from the crystals which speaks to it’s quality. The crystals are dazzling and the bracelet lays on the wrist with such elegance. It has an ethereal, romantic feel while also speaking to fashion and trend. Paired with a chandelier earring, it is a beautiful, elegant look! Even in my Nike workout gear, I felt esquisite when I tried it on!

The second item that gave me the WOW Factor this week was from Cheryl King Couture. I am never disappointed in Cheryl’s pieces but this one had me running all around the office! The Pearl and Crystal Bead Dangle Earrings looked gorgeous in the photo but when I received them, they were much more impressive than I imagined. These earrings are definitely striking and do not require a necklace! I need somewhere formal to go because I have purchased my own pair! For the bride who will want her hair down and needs an earring that will not get lost, these are breathtaking! I am not surprised these are the hit of the season because I have not seen anything like them on the market!

If you have any questions about these or any of our items, please feel free to contact us at info@bellableubridal.com.

Thank you for reading about some of our Pretty Little Things. Until next time…..be well.

Andrea

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BRIDESMAID GIFT ETIQUETTE AND IDEAS

July 26th, 2010

It is customary for the bride-to-be to give each of her bridesmaids a bridesmaid gift to thank them for their time, effort and investment. Gifts can be presented by the bride-to-be anytime all the bridesmaids are together and have quiet moment. Gifts are also given to the junior bridesmaids and, if appropriate, the flower girl.

Often all the bridesmaids receive the same gift; with the exception of the maid of honor, who is usually given a more extravagant gift than the others since her duties exceed the other bridesmaid’s. Each bridesmaid gift can also be a variation on a theme (ex. different colors) or completely different items for each bridesmaid.

Bridesmaid gifts are often jewelry or hair items to wear at the ceremony that can also be worn for years to come. But bridesmaid gifts can also include a photo album/scrapbook, cosmetic items such as make up brush sets, or even a handbag or shoes to wear at the wedding ceremony and reception. Useful items that can assist with wedding day attire are also great ideas!

There are many opinions when it comes to the price of bridesmaid gifts. Generally gifts are purchased a month or so before the wedding, spending up to $100 per gift. Some consider the gift’s price should be in alignment with the cost of the wedding; others feel the more time the bridesmaids have spent helping, the more costly the gift; and still others feel the bride-to-be should spend what she sees fit and can afford.

By giving a gift to her bridesmaids, the bride-to-be is thanking her bridesmaids for all of the time (and money) they have invested in her wedding. Bridesmaid’s gifts are her token of appreciation and friendship.

No matter what is chosen for the bridesmaid gift, enclosing a card with a handwritten note or poem makes it even more personal.

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Introducing Justine M. Couture at Bella Bleu

June 24th, 2010

Bella Bleu features Justine M. Couture

Justine Murray established the Justine M Couture collection in the U.S. in 2002. Justine M Couture offers the bride a distinct alternative to traditional accessory styling. The collection aims to capture the imagination through extensive use of eclectic materials that raise the level of bridal fashion to that of artistry. Justine M Couture brides are feminine, confident and stylish, unafraid to show their individual personality yet appreciate traditions.

Justine only uses the finest of materials, including precious metals and tarnish proof stainless steel wire for her hair jewelry, headpieces and tiaras. Lever backs or cubic zirconia studs are used for all of the bridal earrings, they cost a little more than the French wires, but they are much more secure for brides to wear on their wedding day. Only sterling silver or 24 ct gold fill are used for the jewelry.
All of Justine M. Couture crystals and rhinestones are Swarovski Crystallized Elements and some vintage Czech Republic and German crystals because of their unique qualities and rare facets/cut. Pearls are both freshwater, ocean and Swarovski crystal pearls.

Shell Bay Necklace and Bracelet

All of the combs, frames and pins are metal – never plastic!. The rhinestone hair ornaments and brooches are prong set, meaning that they are not glued, and therefore offer a much more professional finish. The back of the headpieces are finished with a invisible rubber bond that allows for a comfortable wear as well a perfectly polished finish.

Denise Headband

Tulles are French and English and woven extra fine. The French net, also popularly known as Russian Tulle, is authentic French tulle and not its stiffer cheaper counterpart. The silk charmeuse, taffeta, duchesse satin, organza and all other fabrics are purchased at source and are of the highest standard. Justine uses authentic French Alencon and Chantilly laces that are imported directly from France. She also use Italian laces and both the French and Italian laces are made using the traditional loom method and hand finished. Vintage laces are also used for some of the  products.

Raffles Flower

Justine M. Couture pieces takes Bridal Fashion to a new level. Be one of the brides that stands out with these pieces of art. View our Justine M. Couture collection today.

Wishing you happiness today and always,

Andrea @ Bella Bleu

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BELLA BLEU FEATURES BLINC MASCARA-A BRIDE’S “MUST HAVE”

May 20th, 2010

A New Generation of Mascara

When it comes to mascaras there are many options that will help your lashes look great… as long as you don’t sweat during your workout, cry at your wedding, rub your eyes at work, have oily skin, etc. The question is, “Are conventional a mascaras fit for today’s active woman?”

Enter blinc Mascara, the pioneer of what the brand calls “tube technology.” When applied, blinc Mascara, formerly known as Kiss Me Mascara, forms tiny water resistant “tubes” around the lash, amplifying their volume and length. Once set, the tubes bind to the lashes – unlike conventional mascara that simply paints color onto the lash – and will not run, smudge, clump or flake.

Removing blinc Mascara is just as easy, and requires no makeup remover. Simply apply a little warm water along with some gentle pressure, and the tubes easily slide of your lashes. It’s like removing a glove from your hand. You will actually see the tiny tubes in your hand as blinc Mascara comes off without leaving any tint or residue behind.

Finally, a new approach to mascara designed for women who want to look great but don’t have the time or the desire to “deal” with their makeup.

Key Features

  • Forms a tube around each eyelash
  • Cannot run even if you cry or sweat
  • Will not smudge even if you rub your eyes
  • Rich texture adds volume & length without clumping
  • Does not require an eye make-up remover
  • Removes simply by combining water and gentle pressure
  • Comes off completely in tubes without leaving any residue
  • Less likely to damage contact lenses
  • Ideal for those with sensitive eyes, active women, busy executives and any woman that wants to put her mascara on in the morning and forget about it all day!

Retail Price: $25.00 at www.bellableubridal.com.

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Bella Bleu is looking for a Social Media/Marketing Intern

May 19th, 2010

Create a comprehensive social media strategy to define programs that use social media marketing techniques to increase visibility, membership and traffic for Bella Bleu. Implement and manage bridal and other social media programs.

* Experiment with new and alternative ways to leverage social media activities (“marketing R&D”)

* Monitor trends in social media tools, trends and applications in the bridal media and appropriately apply that knowledge to increasing the use of social media at Bella Bleu.

* Strategize with and educate the management on incorporating relevant social media techniques into all of the company’s products and services

* Measure the impact of social media on the overall marketing efforts.

For more information, please contact Andrea@Bellableubridal.com

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Trends Happening in Bridal Fashion-Straight from the 2010 NYC Fashion Week.

May 17th, 2010

You have reserved the venue, your dress has been purchased, and you even have your favorite hair and makeup stylist on lock down. Now that your classic look is neatly prepared and is waiting to be revealed on your wedding day,  it’s time to implement some fabulous trends that are happening right now for stylish brides everywhere!

Straight from the 2010 New York Fashion week, here are the hottest accessories trends for brides in 2010.

1-Enhancing your classic look with unique floral accessories:

Floral jewelry is ideal for a traditional wedding. Pin up a vibrant flower into your hair or adorn your wrist with a floral cuff or a strong statement crystal floral bracelet. A fabulous accessory can make any classic look a bit more chic. For hair, take a look at the Breanna Pin by Sara Gabriel, or the Trillium Combs. Feathers are delicate and add femininity to the look. The Natasha Combs or the Helen Comb are  beautiful choices a wide array of hairstyles. Many headpieces are available in a variety of colors and include a choice of sterling silver or 14k goldplate metal combs & wire to suit your fancy!

Don’t forget Floral Handbags! Sondra Roberts does these beautifully. Some of the pieces not to miss: Rose Clutch (as seen on Oprah), and the Flower Clutch!

2-Want to feel the wind in your hair at a beach wedding?

Reconnect with nature by adding elements directly from the ocean such as mother of pearl earrings and/or necklace. Handbags with mother of pearl add to a beach theme beautifully. Moyna features a mother of pearl clutch that can be customized with your choice of metal or a silk clutch with mother of pearl flowers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with ocean colors to bring out the surrounding colors of the water.


3-Want to capture the romance of a whimsical destination wedding?

Capture the romance of the floral surroundings with leafy accessories or get creative and accessorize your hair-do under the veil with headband.

4-Fighting to stay on top of the trendy curve?

No matter where you have your wedding you need to make sure that your look is one of a kind. However, achieving a one of a kind look is hard with a white dress so spruce it up with a bold necklace or hair accessory. Two pieces that will stun any wedding guest are:  will be sure to stand out against any decor.

Remember the difference between fabulous and plain is all in the detail! Accessories are a perfect way to spice up your look without going to much over the top!

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Wedding Glove Etiquette

May 17th, 2010

Your wedding is the perfect time for you to sheath your hands in a pair of attractive and elegant wedding gloves. Bridal gloves not only give you the right amount of charm, grace and elegance but they also make your hands look even more attractive. There are numerous varieties of bridal gloves for you to choose from. Bella Bleu features Carolina Amato bridal gloves in stunning designs, styles, and colors. Her designs are regularly featured in top fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle, W, Harpers Bazaar, Town & Country and Vanity Fair, to name just a few. Carolina Amato designs are featured at such upscale retailers as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue and cater to style-conscious consumers who appreciate the impeccable Italian workmanship and consistent fit. Selecting the perfect pair of wedding gloves is as important as practicing wedding glove etiquette.

The Style

Long gloves go well with sleeveless wedding gowns, while short gloves can be worn with long as well as short sleeves. Normally, the traditional color for bridal gloves is white, but your wedding gloves need not necessarily be white. Colored gloves can also be worn if they complement or match your wedding attire. It is also important to ensure that your wedding gloves match your wedding attire in terms of fabric as well as texture.

Basic Etiquette

Wedding glove etiquette is an essential part of culture and tradition. You must keep your gloves on while you are greeting guests, dancing or posing for photographs. Jewelry should never be worn over your gloves with the exception of bracelets, which are specifically designed to be worn over wedding gloves. One of the cardinal rules about wedding glove etiquette is to take off your gloves while eating. You would not want to get them soiled and stained with food or drink.

The Wedding Ceremony

Tradition demands that you should wear gloves during the entire wedding ceremony, though you will find that this can be a bit cumbersome. If you are wearing short gloves, you could remove them and give them to your attendant or bridesmaid just before you exchange rings. However, if you are wearing long elbow-length gloves, it would be very difficult and embarrassing to remove them in front of the whole wedding gathering.

Practicing

You do not want to look awkward while struggling to take your gloves off, so keep practicing everyday until you are able to take your gloves off your hand in a swift, graceful and neat stroke.

The Reception Party

You should continue wearing your gloves even after the wedding, until the reception party is over. Remember, unlike men, women should never remove their gloves when shaking hands and greeting guests. An important aspect of wedding glove etiquette is that the bride continues to wear her wedding gloves during dancing at the wedding reception. It adds an element of grace and elegance to your poise if you dance with your gloves on.

Contributions from Aruna Murthy Anaparti. 

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Bridal Accessories-Essential Bridal Accents for a Complete Wedding Look

May 16th, 2010

Though the wedding dress is usually the center of attention, bridal accessories are an important part of completing the appearance of the bride on her wedding day.

Choosing the right wedding accessories will help accentuate your wedding dress and make the look complete. It is crucial to find the balance between undone and overdone. Pairing budget or low quality accessories with a luxury wedding dress is akin to hanging fuzzy dice from a luxury automobile.

When looking at wedding day accessories like shoes, jewelry, veils, and handbags, it is important to keep your overall look in mind. Do you usually wear a lot of jewelry? If not, a simple necklace will likely be more comfortable than something more striking, which would suit the more expressive bride. Keeping in mind your style, the theme of your wedding, and the formality of your wedding will help make accessory shopping a success. Bella Bleu features several jewelry designers such as Ti Adoro Jewelry, Cheryl King Couture, Kenneth Jay Lane, and Benjamin Adams with a various looks to meet the your needs and personal style.

Wedding Veils, Headpieces, and Wedding Hair Accessories

Though wedding veils are a common wedding accessory, they are no longer the standard for every bride. Veils now come in all shapes, sizes, and lengths. While the traditional veil typically measure three and a half yards long, veils can be as short as six inches, such as a bird cage veil, or as long as 10 yards, such as a chapel length veil. Bella Bleu features Sara Gabriel Veiling and Headpieces where every veil is individually cut by a professional milliner, finished by hand and beautifully packaged.

For brides who prefer to forgo the veil, simple headpieces or hair accessories may be an ideal wedding day option. This has been a popular option most recently. From rhinestones to feathers to pearls, wedding hair accessories accent your overall look without drawing too much attention from your hair and face. Some examples of stand alone wedding hairpieces include headbands and tiaras, bun wraps, flower pins, or a wreath. Bella Bleu features several collections of headpieces and hair jewelry that is  meticulously crafted from freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals, hand-sculpted silk flowers, and glittering rhinestones.

Wedding Shoes and Stockings

Though wedding shoes may not be seen with many wedding dresses, they are still an important part of your wedding day attire. Not only is it important for the shoes to compliment your wedding dress, it’s important that you feel comfortable while wearing them for hours at a time. Many brides will opt to wear their wedding shoes around the house for a few hours to “break them in” before the big day. It is a common belief that platform shoes are the most comfortable. There is a 1/2 to 1 inch between the concrete and the sensitive balls of your feet similar to shock absorbers! Petite brides will also gain  some height adding to the elegance. Benjamin Adams duchesse silk wedding shoes have several platform styles such as the Dita and Bridgette that are a beautiful addition to any dress.

Shoes crafted from fabrics like silk and velvet can add a touch of formality to the wedding look. Additionally, a bride whose dress is heavily beaded may want to find wedding shoes with a similar beaded appearance. Shoes with sequins, crystals, or even a touch of color are also a popular choice for the wedding day. See Benjamin Adams or Filippa Scott collections for a wide selection.

Wedding Day Jewelry

Beyond the engagement ring and wedding band, considering other jewelry is also important. Jewelry should always compliment the wedding dress, and not overpower the overall look.  Pearls are always a classic and elegant look while rhinestones and crystal are chic and luxurious. Pairing a glamorous pair of earrings and a cuff bracelet is a beautiful look while a dramatic necklace and  earrings is a beautiful addition to a bridal gown with a simple neckline. Ti Adoro Jewelry has a large selection of beautiful cuff bracelets while Cheryl King Couture features a dramatic CZ necklace fit for a queen!

Wedding Handbags

When choosing a wedding day handbag, it is important to consider what you will need during the wedding day. Most clutches and handbag are large enough to hold lipstick, powder, medication, or other small necessities. Floral bags are being seen this season and add fashion and femininity to a wedding look. Hand beaded bags will always be in style and a very elegant luxury addition to the wedding ensemble. Bella Bleu features many designer handbags including Moyna Bags. Moyna handbags and fashion accessories are individually hand beaded and embroidered by skilled artisans in India, using traditional beading techniques. In most cases, the beading is done on 100% silk fabric. Glass beads have carefully been selected so that their colors and shapes complement the fabric and design of the pieces. All of MOYNA products are exclusive and hand made. Any apparent variations in the design are characteristic, and lend uniqueness to the piece. Looking for a perfect floral bag that is so fashionable and feminine? Sondra Roberts Handbags will not disappoint you! Sondra Roberts offers diverse selection of unique styles at affordable prices that inspire curious attention and command the respect of a savvy purchase.

Wedding accessories may seem like little details not worth paying attention to, but they can make all the difference. While you do not have to wear a lot to look complete, carefully chosen accessories can enhance the overall appearance of the bride, your gown, and the wedding in general.

Some excerpts from Analise Kaylor.

Posted in Dress the Dress, It's in the Bag | 2 Comments »

Birdcage Veils-An Elegant Bridal Headpiece

April 12th, 2010

Also known as cage veils, blusher veils and madonna veils, birdcage veils are made of wide, heavy netting known as French or Russian netting. The birdcage veil is quite short, coming to chin-length or even shorter. It is fastened to a bride’s hair with combs or hairpins, and is a chic vintage look that goes with many types of dresses. A wonderful contrast to a modern wedding dress, the birdcage veil is equally suited to the bride planning a vintage-inspired wedding, whether they are wearing a tea-length dress, or an old-Hollywood-inspired glamour gown.
Styles of Birdcage Veils

* Blusher Veil- a fuller veil, it is often placed at the crown of the head, where it is gathered, and the length covers the face, often down to the bride’s chin, or even below. The blusher birdcage can create a kind of halo effect, and often encircles the bride’s head.
* Angle Veil – A veil that comes to just below the bride’s eyes, it can be worn further back on the head, or set at an angle to cover only part of the bride’s face.
* Bandeau Veil – almost like a mask, the bandeau style veil covers the bride’s eyes or her entire face. The bandeau birdcage veil is fastened at each side of the bride’s head with combs or hairpins. The bandeau birdcage veil is a lovely option for brides with short hair, or who will be wearing their hair down for their wedding day.
* Wedge Veil – Placed at the side of the head or at the temple, the wedge veil is a birdcage veil that covers only one eye

What Bride Should Wear Them?

Birdcage veils are excellent for brides who do not wish to wear a traditional veil, who love vintage wedding veils, or who a searching for a second, less-bulky veil for their wedding reception. The birdcage veil is a great wedding accessory for brides with both short and long hair.
Where To Find Birdcage Veils?

Many bridal shops carry several styles and colors of birdcage veils. There are also specialty shops online that carry only birdcage veils. Brides may also find a local seamstress or costume designer who is able to custom make her veil, or even find another bride selling her gently-used veil second hand. More adventurous brides can make their own birdcage veil as well. French or Russian netting can be purchased at some fabric stores, craft stores, or online at millinery supply shops.

Accessorizing Birdcage Veils

To complete the vintage look, birdcage veils can be combined with other bridal headpieces such as feather fascinators or other hair accessories. Some brides choose to remove their wedding veils for the reception, and wear only the fascinator. Brides considering this option should consult with their hair stylist to make sure the veil can easily be removed.

Catherine Walsh

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Compassion Collection-Dresses that Heal

March 11th, 2010

Combining Fashion with Compassion

Dresses that Heal is a unique fundraiser that allows brides to honor breast cancer survivors. The program features designer gowns donated by some of the top names in the industry – Judd Waddell, Henry Roth, L’Ezu Atelier, Amy Michelson – which are auctioned off at bridal shows to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Recovery.

The Dresses that Heal fundraiser was conceived by Rachael Rivard, a bridal consultant in Madison, WI. She was inspired by a young bride who shared that she thought she might never have a chance to be married, as she had been diagnosed with breast cancer a year earlier. “It became a powerful moment for all of us in that fitting room — her wedding gown became a symbol of survival and transformation,” Rivard said.

The Compassion Collection consists of gowns and wedding accessory items from design houses across the country. Designers designate a particular dress or accessory item to be part of the compassion collection, as well as determine a percentage of the proceeds of that item that will go to Dresses that Heal.

We, at Bella Bleu, support Dresses that Heal by featuring the Compassion Collection necklace KV93N designed by Cheryl King Couture. Today, we all unite in the bridal fashion world to show a greater level of compassion toward women living with breast cancer.

When  Bella Bleu sells one of these necklaces or you buy one for your wedding day, we are helping those women that we know and love, living amongst us with breast cancer; our sisters, our mothers, our daughters, and our friends.

Visit Dresses That Heal online at www.dressesthatheal.org.

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