The Parachute Wedding Dress

Yep, this wedding dress was made from a nylon World War II parachute.

Maj. Claude Hensinger (A B-29 pilot) proposed to his girlfriend in 1947, offering this life-saving military gear as the material for her wedding gown...

Photo courtesy of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History

From the Smithsonian Museum:
In August 1944, Hensinger, a B-29 pilot, and his crew were returning from a bombing raid over Yowata, Japan, when their engine caught fire. The crew was forced to bail out. Suffering from only minor injuries, Hensinger used the parachute as a pillow and blanket as he waited to be rescued. He kept the parachute that had saved his life. He later proposed to his girlfriend Ruth in 1947, offering her the material for a gown.

Ruth wanted to create a dress similar to one in the movie Gone with the Wind. She hired a local seamstress, Hilda Buck, to make the bodice and veil. Ruth made the skirt herself; she pulled up the strings on the parachute so that the dress would be shorter in the front and have a train in the back. The couple married July 19, 1947.

Actresses wearing wedding dress

Gene Tierney, Pier Angeli, Rita Hayworth, Romy Schneider, Natalie Wood, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Crawford & Clark Gable, Catherine Deneuve in "Les Parapluies de Cherbourg"Jacques Demy (thank you Melee !), Boris Karloff and Marian Marsh, Bebe Daniels, Audrey Hepburn, Julie Delpy in "Trois Couleurs - Blanc" ("Three Colors - White"), 1994 (dir. Krzysztof Kieślowski).

Actresses wearing bridal gown : http://dsata.blogspot.com/2010/06/actresses-wearing-bridal-gown.html



Maurice Denis


Marc Chagall, Les Fiancés de la Tour Eiffel (dét.)



Midlake - Young bride

Actresses wearing bridal gown

Catherine Deneuve, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Liz Taylor, Joan Crawford

Inspiration : BCBG Dress

Just love this strapless applique dress from BCBG.

This dress can be found at Nordstrom online for $398

Inspiration Board : Martha Stewart Style

If you are a fan of Martha Stewart's ability to coordinate - everything! - then check out this inspiration board from items/articles found on marthastewartweddings.com .

Shrugs, Shawls, Wraps, & Jackets

A beautiful collection of shrugs, wraps, jackets & shawls for the wedding day in rich creamy whites, ivory, lace, knit & more.

Ivory Romantic Soft Shrug ($75) by Reflections Byds / Sasso Minnelli Shrug ($120) at PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com / Lacey Bridal Shrug ($225) by Rohm / Ivory Pashmina ($70) at ThePashminaStore.com

Dotty Bridal Shrug ($65) at Rohm / Asymmetrical Capelet at Berniolles Designs / Linen Femmy Ruffle Jacket ($118) at Anthropologie /  Wild North Star Shawl ($75) at Kocurek Shop / Absolute Angel Ooak ($210) by Tiana CHE

1940's Cream Rabbit Shrug ($80) / Military Ruffle Jacket ($148) at Free People / Queen Anne Collar Wrap/Shrug ($80) /Emporio Armani Bolero ($125) at  PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com /  Ecru Floral Shrug ($69) at Mucar's Shop 

Inspiration: Fantasy Wrap

  I saw this awesome ruffled shawl and felt I had to share. ... thinking it will be this week's inspiration.

Ruffled Shawl was found at Vart's Shop on etsy.com

Wedding Veils & Hair Accessories

I love accessories! And really great way to add a little something personalized to your wedding attire is with your accessories. There is an endless number of different pieces you can choose -  everything from a cathedral veil (for a more traditional and formal look), to a birdcage veil (for a more vintage look), to headbands and hair clips to tiaras.  I searched around and pulled a few together for an inspiration board.

Cathedral Veil ($165) at Encore Bridal / Finch & Linnet Bird Cage ($105) by Ariaby Allison / Adorned Arc Headband ($32) & Glitzy Aster Bobby Pin ($15) at Anthropologie /  White Scalloped Embroidered Veil ($68) & 1 Tier Elbow 7/8 Ribbon ($50) at Love the Bride / Blusher Birdcage ($37) by YJ Design / Bridal Ivory Birdcage with Wine Flowers ($79.99) by KMD Creations .

Modern Grace Kelly ($113) by Wedding Aisle / Veil with Wide Lace ($110) at Recycled Bride / Jasmine Feather Headband ($18) at Free People / Scalloped Veil ($200) at Recycled Bride / Luscious 36" wide lace ($44) by Simple Beauty Veils / Rhinestone Headband ($164) at Distinctive Veils / Untamed Fascinator ($89) by Untamed Petals.

Veil with Beads ($85) at PreOwned Wedding Dresses / Brianna Feather Headband ($18) by Live in Style / Victoria Nude Headband ($22) at Luciabella  / Silver Rhinestone Headband ($24.50) at Ryeleigh Rose / Pink & Ivory Netting Headband ($50) at Be Something New / Princess Tiara ($48) by Bridal 360 Degrees / Octavia Hairpin ($30) at Tigerlilly / Hair Poof ($65) at Tiger Lilly

To check out some more hair accessories:
Best Wedding Hair Accessories
Etsy.com
PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com
RecycledBride.com
Tiger Lily Jewelry
VeilShop.com
Wedding-Veil.com
WeddingVeil.com

What Questions to ask your Dressmaker

Let's face it, if you are going to invest this much money in a dress, it's a good idea to have the fit you really want. Hiring a seamstress will allow you to enjoy your wedding day without having to give any thought to the dress on your big day. You don't want to be tugging on your dress all day long or worried you will trip over a dress thats too long. So to ensure the right fit, have the dress tailored to your frame. And to help with that, here are a few questions you may need to know to help you out.


When will the dress be ready?

Most dresses will be finished in an average of four to eight months. If your seamsterss is unable to get your dress completed before your wedding day, consider going to another tailor. Appointments for your alterations may need to be made far in advance if their are specific times and dates you need. The last fitting is generally scheduled two weeks before your wedding day. If you are in a rush for your dress, don't be surprised if there is an additional 15-25% rush order fee.

How many fittings are needed?

Most dresses require only three fittings. The exception is for dresses made from scratch which may require several more. During the first fitting, your seamstress will determine what step will need to be done to the dress. For example, is it too long, too short, does the bodice need to be tightened, buttons moved etc. It's a good idea to have your shoes purchased by then & bring them along to the fitting. (You may also want to consider bringing your lingerie to this fitting as well.) The second fitting will allow you to determine if the goals from the last have been met. Additional changes can be made at this fitting. It's often a good idea to bring a friend along for the third fitting. This is when your dress should look like you want it to on your wedding day. So it is a good idea to have someone shown how the dress should bustle etc.

Do the fittings cost extra?

Many stores will offer three fittings in the price when you use their tailor. Designer gowns, however, usually offer an unlimited number of fittings. But make note, not all dress shops offer this. It's alway a good idea to ask up front about this service.

Can I make changes to the dress design?

This will depend on the designer and the dress shop. There are usually limitations to those changes. For example, you may be able to order the dress in a different color or with a different neckline or length. If the answer is a no , you can consider going to a seamstress for your customizations.

What happens if I gain or loose weight after the final fitting?

As long as the changes aren't too drastic, your seamstress should be able to make some last-minute adjustments. If you think there is a good chance you will be gaining or loosing a lot of weight in this timeframe, then it may be a good idea to give your seamstress a heads up. This was she can save extra fabric if necessary. Be sure to check on the additional costs to this.

How do I care for the dress?

Most dress makers will provide instructions on what to do with your dress to ensure it remains in perfect condition until your wedding day. They may also offer advise on where to have the dress cleaned and how to preserve it after your wedding day. (Many dry cleaners offer this service, but make sure you go with one that is well known for this service.)

Check out cleaners such as Margaret's in the San Diego area for more information on this process.

The Right Wedding Dress for You

  With so many beautiful dresses out there to choose form, how do you know where to start? I know it;s important that you find a dress that fits your style but it's even more important that you have a dress that you feel comfortable in.  Some brides know when they try a dress on that it's 'the one'.  But how do you even know which dresses to try on?  Pouring through websites and magazines is a great way to see what is out there. But keep in mind the dress in the magazine you love, may not be the right style for your body type. 
 I did a little research to find out what the experts suggest works best & what to avoid. 


Curvy/Full Figure
    So if you are they type of gal to have curves in all the right places - if you want to show them off with a mermaid/trumpet silhouetted gown.  Many dress fitting experts recommend the A-line style dress with a drop waist for those who want a more simplified.  Designers often pair this shape with a sweet heart neckline. Just be careful not to have a neckline that dives to far down. You want your guests to be looking at your face too. 

Pear-Shaped
  An A-line cut is also a flattering shape for those of you with pear-shape. The waistline of the dress should be at your natural waistline, to help accentuate your narrow midsection and smooth out the hip line. Avoid clingy fabrics and mermaid skirts and bows along your hip line. 

Apple-Shaped
 If you want to hide your tummy, search for styles that have beading or tight ruching around the waistline. You will also want to choose a style with a more conservative neckline like a scoop or v-neck.  Wide straps on your dress will help to balance out your figure and also allow you to wear a bra without issues. Avoid off the shoulder necklines and too high necklines. And flaunt 'em if you got 'em! Don't be afraid to show off those fantastic legs with a shorter hemline either. (just stay away from a short trumpet skirt. You want to avoid making your best attribute look wider at the knee.)

Petite
  Be careful of your hemline. Too long or too short can cause your legs to look shorter then you are. For longer length gowns consider a trumpet skirt that hugs your frame. And for the layered look be sure to stick to light fabrics like lace and tulle. V-shaped necklines help to elongate your torso and give the appearance of height. Check out the sheath, trumpet and a modified A-line gown. Watch out for dresses with a lot of detailing at the hemline. This can cause you to look weighed down.  Be sure to avoid heavy looking accessories, big bows and too much jewelry.  When selecting your flowers, consider a smaller bouquet, as to not cover up your petite frame. 

Tall & Slender
  Think simple. If you want to accentuate your lean form, choose a flowing silhouette. Choosing one made of silk will allow your dress to be less formal and add some sex appeal. But if you want to play down your height, choose a dress style with added volume instead. By selecting a defined high-waisted skirt, you will give the illusion of having more curves. For a long sleeved dress, make sure the sleeves fit all the way to your wrist. When if comes to your accessories avoid the obvious - high heels, and super up-do hair style not cause attention to your height.

Busty
   As a bride you want people to notice your pretty face. Busty girls should look for scoop neck gowns to help display your cleavage but not show off too much. For a strapless gown, consider one with a slight dip  (sweetheart) and not a plunging neckline. You want to feel comfortable out on the dance floor, and not need to worry about constantly pulling up your dress or worse - falling out. You also want to avoid choosing a straight line for your strapless dress & looking like you have a uniboob (yes I said it!)  So avoid ruching, satin and silk along your bustline. 

Small Chested
   Extra fabric at the top helps, so check out dresses with a ruched bodice and halters with some extra padding. Having a good bra can help add a nice push up when it comes to strapless or backless dresses. If you can't find the right bra, consider the self-adhesive silicone cups.

Plus-Sized / Curvy All Over
  Empire dresses were made for you. With a waistline that flows just under the bust line to a nice soft A-line to the floor. Avoid waistlines that start directly underneath the chest. Instead choose a dress with a band if fabric under the bust line and a skirt that starts under that. Avoid any type of pleats and a too loose fabric. The dress should have some structure and provide a slimming shape while appearing light. Accessories should be understated.  

For more information on finding the right fit here are a few helpful links:
Your Wedding Dress: Find the Right Fit
Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress For You Body Type
Best Wedding Dress Shape for You
Choosing a Figure Flattering Wedding Gown

Eco-Friendly Wedding Budget: Pre Owned Wedding Dresses

   Most of us do not have an unlimited budget for the wedding day.  So a great way to save on your budget and still get that designer dress you have been drooling over since you saw it the last three issues of magazines - preowned wedding gown. There is a fantastic site devoted to just this, appropriately called PreOwned Wedding Dresses . (And some dresses may even be samples and were never worn.)  Shop by style, price, designer or most popular.  This is a great way to save and still help the environment. Here are just a few gowns that I loved on the site and had to share:

 Monique Lhuillier ($3800 orig $7600)  / Vera Wang 'Diana' ($4650 orig $7689) / Elizabeth Fillmore 'Maddison'  ($1500 orig $2862) / Vera Wang '2G119' ($1900 org $3400) / JIm Hjelm 'JH8859' ($1500 orig $3150) /Jenny Yoo 'Anessa' ($600 orig $1200)

Amy Michelson '2220 Ballet' ($1350 orig $3044) / Monique Lhuillier ($3500 orig $5500) / Jim Hjelm '8859' ($1500 orig $3500)/ Amy Michelson 'Laurel' ($1500 orig $3800)/ Alvina Valenta 'AV9700' ($1100 orig $3000) / Carolina Herrera 'Spring 2008' ($2650 orig $5400) /J.Crew '11423' ($600 orig $1000) / Carolina Herrera ($2000 orig $2600)


  Even if you have already found 'the one'  you will be wearing, they have accessories from veils to shoes to shawls to jewelry.  (and you can even sell your dress on here too!)


Looking for more budget-friendly dress ideas? Previous posts include:
Trunk Shows & Sample Sales 
Vintage Inspired Dresses

Eco-Friendly Items on Etsy

We can all do our part in small ways to help preserve the environment. And for my weekly Etsy finds I searched out some great little enviro-friendly items including a fantastic bridal gown from one of my favorite handmade Etsy vendors, Your Fairytale Wedding, recycled paper invitations from Foosie Design and an herbal party favor for your wedding guests from Favor Creative ... 

Sweet Romantic Bridal Gown ($799) by Your Fairytale Wedding / Unique Collar with Organic Silk  ($39) by Lilliput Chipmunk / White Wool Acorn Ornaments (12 for 6) by Green Baboon Designs  / Wedding Invitations 'Cynthia & James' ($4.55) by Foosie Design / Turquoise Hemp Bag with queen anne's lace ($45) by Lizura / Peaced Together Babydoll Dress  ($60) by Mountain Girl Clothing / Julian Boutonniere ($22) by Lint and Lavender / Blue House Slippers ($25) by Green Tea Vintage / Sea Glass Personalized necklace ($31) by Swept From the Sea / Seed Pod Place Holder ($12) by Thitaree / Lemon Balm Herbs Favor ($4.50) by Favor Creative / Misha Headband Felt & Peacock ($52) by Lint and Lavender / Half Carat Pebble Ring ($3800) by Single B Beautiful

Today's Inspiration: Pink Sugar!

I was searching my way through etsy.com today and found this cute pink wedding gown! Who says brides must wear white?  I'm thinking that to add a little something something to your destination wedding - why not add a little color?

Find this Kelley Pink Sugar vintage inspired gown for $965 and more at Bellini Bridal on Etsy.com 

Budget-Saving Tip of the Week: Bridal Gown

You don't have to spend an enormous amount on your wedding gown to find the one of your dreams. (See blog post about custom dress finds on etsy.com) There are several ways to save. 

Can you say 'Sample Sale'?

  Back in the day I worked for a retail store, whose corporate office just happened to be down the street.  And what was better then a discount at the store? Sample sales! held in the early hours before opening. (and yes when in college 7am is early). But talk about deals! I once purchased a $250 comforter for $5. Now you may not be able to find a wedding gown for $5 but you can find some incredible deals out there if you are willing to search them out. Samples sales are held by retailers such as Filene's Basement and sites like Scarlett's Closet & PreOwned Wedding Dresses .

  Be aware, that often sample sales do not have an abundance of sizes in the style you like. So having the dress altered will need to be a part of your budget as well.

Have you ever heard of a Trunk Show?
  Well most bridal boutiques carry select designers that they work with. Think of a trunk show as a nicer sample sale.  A trunk show offers special discounts during the show only. Even designers like Vera Wang have trunk shows. Here you will get a chance to browse all the dresses, sometimes ever before they are available to the public. And there is someone at a trunk show (unlike a sample sale) that will help you try on and find a dress to fit your style.  There are trunk shows throughout the year, but a majority of these shows will occur between Jan & Mar as the designers & dress shops prepare for the launch of the bridal season.  Trunk shows are by appointment only and book fast. If for some reason you cannot make your appointment, be courteous and cancel. This will allow another bride to take your place.

There are a few tips to remember when shopping a sample sale or a trunk show:

* Begin by looking around at the designers and style to find out which is most appealing to you and which fall within your budget.

* Be prepared to buy the dress. If you find 'the one' now is the chance to get it. You won't be likely to repeat this type of discount at another time. However, if you are unsure about it, do not allow yourself to be pressured into making hasty decisions. Be 100% about your purchase.

* Bring two of your most trusted friends who know you well enough to help with this important decision. It can be tempting to bring more then two, but as they say 'too many cooks spoil the broth' and this can lead to a stressful time with too many questions and too many opinions.

* There are more then just dresses at a trunk show! If you already have the dress or are looking for it all, there are also accessories from jewelry to bridesmaids dresses, veils to shoes. (And of we love shoes!)

To find out when the next trunk show is, just check out a touring list of your favorite designers to find out when they will be in your area next. 

Rent or Borrow

   Or even buy one second hand. You can search out dresses on Ebay and Craigslist for great deals. I have already seen postings for a never-worn dress from someone who ended up with two after changing her mind.

  

Philanthropy 

 You can find the dress of your dreams and help out a cause at the same time by buying a from sites that support a cause. For example: www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org    Or www.bridalgarden.org in New York City features bridal gowns by some of the top designers. The proceeds go to one of the designer's favorite charities.

   Check out more bridal dress inspirations and ideas at the Lovely Bride Blog

(And Even if you don't find your dream gown at a charity site, you can still choose to give back and donate your gown or bridesmaid's dresses. Want to wear your gown again? Check out this blog post)

Eco-Friendly Idea: Recycle My Dress

If you are looking for a way to recycle your worn-once dress or just redesign your grandmother's wedding gown, check out this site - RecycleMyDress.com. Create an eco-friendly & original design from your dress so you can wear it again!