Fall 2011 Collections--Effulgent Rays of Happiness and Satin

I have often found myself wondering--if forced to give up either weddings or donuts, which would I choose? I realize this is a disturbing hypothetical, my apologies for any nightmares that may result. After much consideration and intensive self reflection, I have come to a decision. Weddings, it has always been weddings--even more than ever at this time of year as we just wrapped up NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK! As Hilary from Alta Moda describes it, Bridal Fashion week is "the ugly stepsister" to THE Fashion Week, which occurred the first part of September. My lifelong dream is to go to NYC during this time and attend the shows of my favorite designers. This may be happening next Autumn (I don't use the word fall), and I am so excited! Below are my favorites from my favorite designers (in order of fave designer)

Trends spotted: belted ruffled organza, continuation of pickups, continuation of structured floral accents, possible renewal of basque waist (hoping this doesn't happen), very strong egyptian look (lots of asymmetrical draping with knots) and illusion necklines (think of Julia Roberts "bell dinging" dress in Runaway Bride, that is an illusion necline. I am not a fan of these generally)

FIRST: My three favorite of ALLLLLLL the collections. Haha, see anything in common with these?

Amsale. I am obsessed with this dress.

Oscar. I know it is kinda awful,  I do inside. But I can't help myself.

Priscilla of Boston, can't remember which line



1. Oscar de la Renta

2. Amsale

 There are only one or two designers whose embellishment I actually like. Kenneth Pool with Amsale is one of them. Bead baby, bead away.

3. Romona Keveza

 After MUCH discussion with a collection of the best bridal minds in the state of Utah, we finally decided this is indeed Tiffany Blue. Not seafoam or teal or tourquoise. This was supported by those who were actually lucky enough to see this masterpiece in person!

4. Vera Wang (all you need to know about Vera Wang--she loves tulle, she loves black. Seriously, the woman loves silk tulle, like more than a friend)

Insanely similar to one by favorite designer OdlR last year, but we still love you VW.

5. Jim Hjelm

 this dress has received a lot of attention. It is just a party.

Yay for modest!

6. the Priscilla of Boston lines (there are 6 last time I counted)

I am a sucker for box pleats.They just do something to my heart.

HAHAHA, HATE HATE HATE HATE! But yes, this is actually a wedding dress. And the coat is a copy of a Nina Ricci Oliver Theyskeins creation, for more see the spread in Vogue circa 2009

7. Monique Lhuillier (don't love her as much as the rest of the world, but she still has mad skills)

Watters & Watters (they don't get  a number, they aren't a favorite yet)--this is just a beautiful gown. This is the modern day version of Jackie Bouvier's wedding gown.

Aren't wedding dresses just the most wonderful thing in the entire world?! They are.