Kate Middleton's Gown...The Royal Reviews

The moment has arrived, and it was magnificent!! There was no denying that this was an enchanted event. The Royal Wedding was regal, beautiful and somehow, subtly extravagant. The hats alone were enough to keep a smile on my face for days, and watching for celebrity arrivals among the guests was much like a red carpet event. The Bentley processionals added great anticipation for the arrival of the wedding party....and finally, THE DRESS. Ahhhh, it was just as I had imagined and more. It was a modern take on the "Grace Kelly" style. Effortless elegance.

Sarah Burton, creative director of luxury British design house Alexander McQueen, created a classic gown for the modern day princess. (rather, Duchess of Cambridge, as I have learned) The full a-line silhouette and pleated skirt was so flattering on Kate. The bodice was covered in French Chantilly lace and full length illusion sleeves, finished by elegant buttons placed at the wrist. The modesty of the lace coverage did not overshadow the immaculate fit and construction of the bodice, with emphasis at the natural waist. The appliqués on the silk gazar skirt rounded the front hem as well as the 9 foot train. 58 silk gazar and organza covered looped buttons completed the back of the gown. Pure Perfection.

Kate's veil was surprisingly subtle, yet so appropriate for her hair style and Cartier "halo" tiara. The silk tulle was adorned with a thin trim of hand sewn floral detail. Just enough of an illusion blusher to add romance without overshadowing her beauty.

Despite the added pressure of the entire world's anticipation, I feel as though Kate stayed true to herself, and her style...as all brides should. Kudos to you Kate.

Thank you to CBS NEWS for the photographs, and you are welcome for the image of David Beckham. ;)

A Lazaro Trunk Show Fit For a Princess!

As if there was not enough to celebrate this weekend with the Royal Wedding activities, Serendipity is hosting a "Best of Lazaro" trunk show......Truly an enchanted affair in its own right.

Among the gowns gracing us at the show, will be styles LZ3004, LZ3010 and LZ3106, just to name a few. These unbelievable dresses are hand crafted and made with the finest fabrics to reveal the princess bride in all of us. Lazaro has remained a sought after and ground breaking designer consistently each season, and his attention to detail is truly remarkable.

The innovative designs and unbelievable silhouettes will be at Serendipity today, tomorrow and Saturday, along with flowing mimosas, sweet treats and helpful bridal consultants to ensure the best experience possible.

Helping us celebrate the "Royal Affair" is HAUTE CAKES Couture Desserts with amazing samples of wedding cake. HAUTE CAKES was awarded Wedding Wire's Bride's Choice Award of 2011, and their motto has always been, "High Fashion is SO delicious!" Couldn't say it better myself!

What will Kate Middleton Wear???

Everybody has put their two cents in as to what the future Princess Kate (Kathryn) should wear on the big day, so I figured I should join in the fun.

I sheepishly admit that I am more than just a little smitten with the whole "marrying a prince" fairy tale aspect of Friday's big event, and I am adoring the famous bride to be more by the day. Her style is classic, yet modern. She is graceful, but down to earth. She is beautiful, yet seems approachable. Yea, I think I could be friends with this girl. ;)

Styling brides is what I love to do most, so I am going to suggest a few gowns that I think would be great for Kate, and then we will just have to imagine them blown up to royalty status. (think yards and yards of added train length...a veil and blusher that would tent a football team...you get it)

Amsale is the first designer that I think really shows Kate's style. A few seasons ago, Amsale debuted a strong collection that reintroduced the natural waist and full skirt silhouette. And let's not forget to thank Amsale for the fantastic pockets that we adore so much! I think that Kate's style and figure are really well suited for these gowns. With a few more sparkles, and an illusion lace sleeve to the elbow, my money is on a design very similar to the Melina gown from Amsale.

I personally would like to see her in a pop of color, like the beloved Lazaro LZ3108 gown in sherbet, or the dreamy Alita Graham 7708 gown. Such beautiful combinations of blush, ivory and coral tulle. The shapes are spectacular, and the Lazaro's jeweled belt and Alita's beaded top is gorgeous. Whatever would the queen say?!?

Another designer that pops into by head is Priscilla of Boston. You don't get any more classic than POB. Priscilla Kidder designed gowns from European Royalty to American aristocracy, so I think that this would be a great match up. One of my choices is gown PL 396 from the Platinum line for Priscilla of Boston. It's not over the top, but it is regal and body conscious, while extremely classy.

Romona Keveza has always had that "royal flare" to her collections, and in New York, her designs were definitely influenced by Kate. This Romona L216 style is sweet, pretty and timeless. The veil is spot-on and adds a romantic flare that captures the whole fairy tale aspect of the event.

And now for the wild card. Kate could "bring the drama" with a gown such as this one from the incredibly talented Reem Acra's Fall 2011 collection. The modern twist on the sweetheart neckline and organic flow of the skirt might be a contending style for the future princess. The illusion beaded sleeves are a perfect fit for Kate's beautiful shoulders and frame.

Be sure to set your DVRs to record this amazing event! Check out the Celebrity News and Style blog for details.

Reese Witherspoon's Blush-Toned Wedding Gown

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Ahhhh, a wedding gown fit for a Hollywood A-lister, or the all American girl next door. In this case, they are one in the same. Reese Witherspoon married agent Jim Toth last month wearing a gorgeous Monique Lhuiller blush-hued gown with a Chantilly lace corset bodice and full tulle A-line skirt, according to People Magazine.

The soft and sweet pink hue is such a fantastic way to create an unforgettable bridal style. Heavy hitter designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Romona Keveza, Lazaro and Alita Graham for Kleinfield, (soon to arrive at Serendipity), have utilized this trend and released tulle, satin, and organza gowns in scrumptous tones of blush, sorbet and pink.

Bridal Makeup Style with Maris Malone Calderon

Austin is filled with fantastic make up artists, but Maris Malone Calderon is somebody that I have followed and admired for quite some time. Her approach to makeup is always stunning, flawless, yet achievable beauty. Maris's range of looks is endless, and her experience and recognitions speak for themselves. Included in her awards are: winner of the Austin Fashion Week 2010 Peers Choice Award for Best Makeup Artist, and 2009 Critics Choice awards for Best Use of Color & Most Creative Makeup Artist. She has been interviewed by American Beauty Magazine, GSD&M Idea City and her work has appeared in Austin Monthly, Austin Wedding Day, Tribeza, Southwest Airlines Spirit Magazine, Under the Radar and Hairdressers Journal to name a few. As if all of these credentials don't have you convinced yet, take a peek at some of the pictures below, and you will become an uber-fan.... just like me!

I wanted to share a little bit of her wisdom, and helpful tidbits for our wonderful brides and bridesmaids. Enjoy!!

1. What trends are you seeing for brides this spring?
"Bright citrus corals, cotton-candy pinks on lips, cheeks and even on eyes were all the rage on the runways at New York Fashion Week and it seems Spring 2011 bridal makeup trends are following suit. As always, bridal makeup is about looking beautiful and polished, but this time with a splash of color! The pictures featured here show how to take the fun and fresh colors seen on the fashion runways and make them wearable for blushing spring brides."

Fresh Faced

"Both matte and dewy finishes are suitable for the season, but a flawless complexion, as always, is a must. I chose the best of both worlds for these looks using an airbrushed foundation to provide a beautiful, natural application that will remain pristine for the duration."

All Eyes on You

"Inspired by the bright coral eyeshadows seen on the runways, I chose more muted, bridal friendly corals matched with warm creams and browns for the eyes. I wanted the lashes to be

thick and lush, so I used individual false lashes to enhance the eyes while still keeping them very natural."

Get In Line

"Thick, cat-eyed liner is everywhere, but it can be a bit harsh for spring brides. Instead, I used a

bit of deep brown cream eyeliner right at the lash line to add a little drama to this understated

look."

Cheek to Cheek

"Flushed, colorful cheeks are a must for a spring bride! Since I didn’t want the blush to be to

bright, I used pastel salmon and rosy tones topped off with a slight shimmer to give a soft, dewy

look."

Lip Service

"Intense pinks and coral-red tones are popping up everywhere for spring! To transform these

shades into bridal-perfect pouts, I used vibrant, but muted hues of corals and pinks, then finished the look with a luster gloss in a corresponding shade."

Photo credit: Maria Bernal Photography

2. Bird cage veils are always a big trend for brides...what style of makeup do you suggest to compliment this look?

"I love the Bird Cage Veil! It’s often seen as suitable only for a vintage inspired wedding, but I

think it works on so many more levels because it’s really a very modern trend! As you can see in the picture, I chose a more modern makeup style with an intense smoky eye and a pale pink lip. It’s just as compatible as the red-lipped starlet look (of which I’ll always be a big fan!) that we all associate with the bird cage veil, but it’s better for those brides who are looking for just a hint of vintage flare."

Photo credit: Forever Photography

***(10% off offer to Serendipity Brides from Forever Photography)***

3. How do you think a bride's make up style should compliment her gown?

"So much goes into how I choose a makeup style for a bride and her dress is a very key element; it truly reflects her own personal style and the makeup should be in harmony with that. If her gown is of a vintage style, like Amy’s featured below, that doesn't necessarily mean choosing a vintage style makeup to match. One of Amy’s hobbies is the trapeze, so the red lip fit her style perfectly! On the other hand, Lindsay’s dress and hair style are very vintage inspired, but we choose a smoky eye and a nude lip because vintage makeup would have been to far away from her everyday style. Lastly, Jennifer’s dress, makeup and style are romantic, pure and simple. Ultimately, my goal is always for a bride to look and feel like herself, only more polished!"

Photo credit: Christina Carroll Photography

Photo credit: Rebel with a Camera

Photo credit: Forever Photography

***(10% off offer to Serendipity Brides from Forever Photography)***

4. How do you like to incorporate the bridesmaids' makeup style?

"I think the bridesmaids makeup is almost as important as the bride’s. Why? Because they will be an accessory to the bride on her wedding day. They’ll be by her side during the ceremony and in the pictures and having perfect makeup is a must! Choosing a specific style as well as keeping colors the same is a good idea, but I really feel it’s important to incorporate each bridesmaids individual style into her makeup... no cookie-cutter bridesmaids allowed!"

Photo credit: Christina Carroll Photography

Photo credit: Rebel with a Camera

****Maris Malone Calderon is extending a limited time offer of 10% off for Serendipity Brides!!***

Thank you to Maris for teaming up with Serendipity Bridal for this awesome piece! You rock!!

Designer Sample Sale Bridal Gowns, Starting at $250!!

This is THE Designer Sample Sale of the Season!! There are dozens of fantastic bridal gowns marked down to help make way for the new dresses that are arriving, as well as the upcoming boutique remodel.

Some designer gowns in the sample sale include: Monique Lhuillier Bliss, Lazaro, Amsale, Marisa, Paloma Blanca, Watters, WTOO...just to name a few.

Sample gowns are the perfect purchase for any bride that is in time restraint, traveling or has a crazy-busy schedule, or a budget conscience bride that does not want to compromise quality for price. Purchasing a gown off the rack is a great solution to any or all of these issues....and I should know....I bought my designer wedding gown from a sample sale, and it worked out wonderfully for me!

Take advantage of these steals while they are around...most dresses will not last long at these prices!! Many of the samples have been kept in immaculate condition, and the bridesmaids dresses are a steal!! Among the goodies, we are selling lace mantilla veils, cathedral length veils with crystal detail, and classic cuts to complete your bridal style at a fraction of the price....not to mention without the order delay! Looking for silk bridal shoes with bling? Got em...On sale!! Need a cute cocktail dress for the weekend? We have adorable silk chiffon, dupioni, satin and organza bridesmaids dresses at bargain prices!!

Call the salon to reserve an appointment, and one of our consultants can complete your head-to-toe bridal style, and recommend you to a seamstress to perfect your fit within one visit!

512-374-9492

New York Bridal Market Review: Rock & Roll Romance

This season's market was A-MA-ZING! Each designer debuted fantastic collections! The overall feel was what I like to call "Rock and Roll Romance." Every designer had their own feel and vibe, but there was a definite direction in the Fall 2011 lines. The collections included crazy-awesome texture, amazing pleat work, and floral details that rocked my socks off. What sets this season's texture detailing apart from Spring, is the unfinished look. It was less tailored, much softer, but still had a rock edge to it. There was more subtle sparkle incorporated to the skirts as well...but keeping it effortless and unexpected. The silhouettes remained flattering and classic....a great way to incorporate trends while staying timeless. Color was also huge on the runways... the idea of ombre pinks, soft peaches and deep oatmeal. Think Gwen Stefani and Kate Middleton's style combined. Speaking of the future Princess - Kate was definitely and inspiration this season. Body conscience lace detailing and sheer sleeves were among the favorites!

I was lucky enough to spend time with TLC's Monte, Lazaro legend, Lazaro Perez, and the super cool and talented Liz Fields.

I am super excited to share a few pictures with you from the Watters, WTOO bridal and bridesmaids line, as well as some Anais new designs. As for our other coveted designers...you will just have to wait! ;)

Anais Spring & Fall 2011

Watters Fall 2011

sneak peek from new york market....

so far...sooo amazing!! As expected, most designers want to keep their collection under wraps, but watters bridal is allowing me to share some shots in anticipation of May's trunk show. In a few words...un-flipping-believable!

Fantastic Time at TV Interview Today!!

It was such a pleasure filming today's KVUE news spot for Texas Weddings today! We taped at Vista at Seward Hill and it was so beautiful!! The bride's room was perfect for dressing the models, and there were so many fabulous outdoor spots, it was hard to choose where to set up the camera crew. Jessica, Shelby and Stacy were awesome models. Super fun girls!! Jessica looked so fantastic in the new Lazaro LZ 3108 gown...she was completely breath taking, and the Paris headband completed her look. We had just received the sherbet colored Lazaro gown into the salon, and it we knew it was totally television worthy!! :) Shelby was the perfect fit for Watters' "Grafton." I love the ostrich feathers and floral detail..... the Paris headpiece looked amazing. Stacy looked stunning in the Monique Lhullier bridesmaids dress. The fabric and color looked so beautiful outdoors.

The edited TV spot airs in May, but Texas Weddings will give us a copy of the interview to post soon.

It was so much fun!! We are so grateful to be included!!

Serendipity Bridal Makes the News Again!

We are thrilled to be featured on KVUE for TEXAS WEDDINGS . This will be our second televised segment in a month. Very exciting!! Our taping will happen tomorrow, and I will be chatting about our favorite looks, accessories and trends of the season. I will post the video as well as list our featured gowns, accessories and designer specifics.

Yeah, Team Serendipity Bridal!!

The Style of Gown a Photographer Loves to Shoot

So excited to team up with Diana M. Lott, (who happens to be one of Austin's coolest photographers), and share some of her thoughts and suggestions about what style of wedding gown creates the best photos......because after all, your pictures will be the ever-lasting evidence of the celebration that is your wedding day!! (oh, AND your happy marriage obviously! ;) ) Every bride desires her wedding album to capture the beauty of the way she looks and feels on her big day. I knew that Diana was a great professional to interview about how to get the best out of your bridal style in photos.

1. What type of gown do you love to photograph?

I prefer dresses that are off-white, like champagne or blush, that have some texture to them.

2. What gown do you prefer to photograph in an outdoor setting?

A dress that isn't true white and reflective - satin can be like this.... many times white dresses that lean cool instead of warm will end up looking blue in the images and will need to be corrected. A more matte dress, with texture/detail. However, it can be a true white if the material isn't so reflective, like some silk (crinkle chiffon).

3. Indoor setting?

Really I prefer the same types of dresses for all settings! But, brighter white and more reflective dresses are more forgiving indoors (or outside on a cloudy day!).

4. What gown details do you enjoy seeing?

I like lace and tulle - detailed sash, anything ruched - fabric flowers or feathers! Anything really to add some texture and depth to the dress and the images. I tend to like moody and sassy dresses - if that helps ;)

5.What bridal accessories make for a great photograph?

Hair pieces, bird cage veils, antique jewelry, flowers in your hair - there are so many options to add interest to your images and look.

6.What are the trends that you are seeing right now when it comes to bridal portraits?

They aren't your traditional bridal portraits anymore - brides want something unique and fun, that shows their personality. They aren't afraid to get dirty if need be either! I think wedding photography has changed so much since digital photography came along and it's much more fashion minded and experimental. The days of the stiff pose in the park-like setting are going by the wayside... and i'm real happy about that :)

Diana M. Lott is a super talented and hip Austin photographer that has an eye for everything cool. I have had the pleasure of working with her at an event that included a privately owned lakeside ceremony, fire dancers and unexpected excitement throughout the night. Not only did she handle the unique event like a seasoned pro, but she managed to capture the beauty, emotion and the overall fun vibe of the night in every single photo that she shot.