Chic Newsletter: Issue I
Today, in Chic News, we’ve decided to make our newsletter available for download! As we work on the second issue of our print newsletter, we thought we’d make sure that anyone who hasn’t seen it in person at the store has the opportunity to download all the chicness!
Our newsletter is a round up of the chicest in bridal trends, produced bi-annually. We’ve been listening to the questions our brides have, scoping the latest in bridal fashion, and finding a new way to highlight our roster of international bridal designers including: Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, Berta, Mira Zwillinger, Chosen by Kyha, Yolancris, Inbal Dror, Alex Perry, Katherine Tash, Leah Da Gloria, Lazaro, Maria Elena Headpieces and more.
Download it here.
a special thank you to our cover photographer Collin Pierson.
Muse by Berta Inspires in Florence
Florence is extremely romantic, wildly inspiring, the history, the food, the air, the surrounding Tuscan landscape and the wine too, of course. We went gaga over these images from the new Muse by Berta campaign featuring the latest by this chic designer.
Honeymoon in Florence, anyone?
Stay posted for an update on trunk shows and new arrivals from this brand new Muse by Berta collection.
Get To Know Lazaro Perez, Designer of Lazaro
Our summer intern, Carolina Baigorri, sat down with our friend, the talented designer, Lazaro for a chat about how he got involved in the industry, Diana Ross, and the future of his brand. Caro did an excellent job capturing the spirit of Lazaro, who speaks with passion and excitement about everything he does!
How did you discover your passion for designing wedding dresses?
I always wanted to become a costume designer. I entered a competition for a bridal contest while I was still in school for a young designer to create a bridal collection.
Growing up, my mother was a seamstress and she did a lot of bridal gowns and other things to help make ends meet. I realized after joining the competition that I really loved doing this and it was something I wanted to do in the future. If you think about it, a wedding dress is the most important costume you’ll ever wear. I ended up winning the contest and it opened up many doors.
How have your Cuban roots impacted your designs?
You always see a little bit of a Spanish flare in my dresses. Especially when I was starting my career I always put lace that gave almost a flamenco feel to my designs. As years passed, my aesthetic changed but there will always be a little Spanish influence.
I play off of my heritage and a lot of my customers also come from ethnic backgrounds.
Do you have any tips brides?
I always say “keep an open mind.”
I travel a lot and do various trunk shows and I always see that the biggest mistake a bride makes is not wanting to try something out of their comfort zone. Some brides have an idea of what they want their dress to be but it may not be the one you walk out of the store with.
Do you have a muse or a specific person you think of when designing?
I’m going to be very corny and say my brides are my muse. A lot of my collections are based on what I see that my brides want.
I have this repore with my brides where they tell me what they like and I can probably go back and design a whole collection based on that.
I grew up in the 80’s with the whole disco era and my style icon is Diana Ross. I actually designed a dress for her daughter and I thought I would die when I met her. She is able to change 20 times throughout one show and it is a mind blowing experience. Diana Ross made a movie called “Mahogany” and it was what made me want to be a fashion designer. In the movie she plays a designer and when I met her she said “That’s what I really wanted to do, that was my passion”. Every fashion person should watch Mahogany it was life changing for me.
Describe your creative process. What steps do you take when creating?
I am not one of those designers that actually sits and creates a whole collection. I may come up with an idea and there’s always one sketch which can lead to ten sketches.
I am a very visual person, so I like to work on the mannequin a lot. Every designer starts with a certain way that they want the collection to go to, whether it’s glamorous or very soft. I come up with a concept and we take it from there.
What do you think makes a bride feel beautiful?
I think once a bride puts on that one dress, it hits her.
Every bride to me is beautiful no matter what dress it is, mine or someone else’s. I think that’s something to be said for the bride because they try on a dress and feel like this is the one. It’s a happy occasion, so no matter what they try on, they feel it.
What does the future have in store for Lazaro?
I would love for the brand to evolve. I am starting to creep in there some of the red carpet looks. Eventually, there will be an evening line coming out, which I am excited about.
Every designer should expand for themselves, not just their brand.
You start very red carpet, you know for evening events and eventually expand. Eventually that evening collection can turn into mothers of the bride or something similar. That is where I see it going right now, there are talks of many other things but that is where I see it going.
Mira Zwillinger's 2014/2015 Collection Trunk Show and Notes on Personal Style
Next week is our Mira Zwillinger Trunk Show (September 5-6) and in preparation/to get you as excited as we are, we wanted to share these photos from her 2014 - 2015 collection. We love the bold and edgy unexpected choices for styling these very beautiful and feminine gowns; instead of seeing them in a traditional bridal style, we're seeing these chic and feminine gowns styled with a bit of edge. Replace the flowing locks with a short cropped hair cut and a bit of sly ink peeking out from under sheer overlays and swap the chandelier earrings for studs on the upper cartilage. The dresses themselves still feature styles that everyone loves and traditional, flattering cuts made of the most sumptuous fabrics you can imagine.
Designer Mira Zwillinger sites snowflakes as the inspiration for this collection, as no two dresses are exactly alike - remind of all of you. This photo shoot is a pleasant reminder of how a traditional gown can be styled to suit a bride's personal style.
Whether you decide to style one of these gowns, or whatever gown you pick, with a bit of your own flair and style you're sure to make it feel like it was made for you. Call and schedule your appointment now to come in and feel these Mira Zwillinger for yourself!
Make a Statement in a Berta Bridal Gown; Collection Preview June 27 & 28 (Trunk Show)
When it comes to this year’s hottest bridal trends, there’s no question that the statement back tops the list. During Bridal Week in New York earlier this year, several top designers debuted a series of gowns featuring stunning backs. No stranger to jaw-dropping designs with unique statement back options, Berta Bridal has truly mastered the art of designing tastefully daring wedding gowns.
Not only is Berta Bridal known for its statement backs, but also its plunging necklines, which truly help set this collection apart. Brides revel in the fact that these designs make for a grand entrance, as well as an equally swoon-worthy walk down the aisle. Due to the creative use of illusion netting, tulle, intricate beading, and elaborate appliqués, Berta Bridal gowns are not soon forgotten.
Curious as to whether a Berta Bridal gown is the gown for your walk down the aisle? You're in luck because Chic Parisien is one of the few bridal boutiques in the US that will preview this stunning collection during a special in-store Trunk Show this month. Come see why brides think the statement back is the perfect complement to a plunging V-neck gown, or how a statement back adds intrigue to a simple design in the front. We look forward to seeing you there!
Berta Bridal Trunk Show @ Chic Parisien
June 27 & 28
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Once Upon A Dream: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2015 Collection Debuts This Weekend
What's the connection between Monique Lhuillier's long awaited Spring 2015 collection and famed American artist John Singer Sargent? The ethereal nature of his portraits, which includes the elegant and mysterious Madame X (below), served as the inspiration for the entire collection.
You may recall that we first brought this collection to you during our behind-the-scenes reporting at bridal market in New York City back in April, and now we're thrilled to finally welcome these stunning gowns in store.
Described as "'[an] ethereal dream" by Monique Lhuillier herself, the Spring 2015 Collection features tulle, Chantilly lace, intricate beading and embroideries. Silhouettes range from mermaid styles to architectural shapes. The collection also features whimsical pastel options in shades of blush, pistachio, and mist.
For this collection, the designer certainly favored the embroidered tulle gowns in a strapless A-line cut with matching shrugs, as well as timeless strapless styles, replete with tiered tulle and lace appliqué skirt.
This Friday and Saturday, we will host a dedicated Trunk Show to showcase Monique Lhuillier's complete Spring 2015 Collection. Chic brides are encouraged to reserve an appointment soon, as this will be one of our premier Trunk Shows for 2014.
As you may know, Chic Parisien is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year. If you haven't already, be sure to check out our Facebook page, where we are posting key milestones, memories and highlights from the past four and a half decades for 45 consecutive days. As part of the celebration, we'd also like to salute our dear friend, Monique, whose designs we've been privileged to carry in store for many years.
We hope you will join us this Friday and Saturday. We look forward to seeing you there!
Monique Lhuillier Spring 2015 Trunk Show
Chic Parisien
June 13 & 14
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Be Still Our Hearts! Inbdal Dror Returns For Two-Day Trunk Show (March 28 & 29)
If you've ever combed Pinterest for some bridal inspiration (who hasn't?), then you've definitely come across an Inbal Dror gown. The Israeli haute couture designer has been shared and circulated across all social media channels by trendsetting brides given her penchant for sexy, sultry, and absolutely stunning designs.
Trained in Tel Aviv, Dror spent time in Milan refining her craft while working for world renowed designers such as Roberto Cavalli. It was during this time that she gained an appreciation for modest vintage designs while cultivating a more modern style of her own. The result? A fun and daring blend of old and new world that truly sets Inbal Dror apart. She is widely celebrated for her tasteful use of form fitting fabrics, plunging necklaces, backless features, and barely there straps.
This week, Chic Parisien will host a two-day Inbal Dror Trunk Show featuring one of the designer's most recent collections. Brides will be delighted to preview a wide array of form fitting silhouettes featuring many vintage touches including delicate French lace, airy tulle, and intricate pearl and Swarovski detailing.
Rarely modest, Inbal Dror gowns perhaps invite the more daring bride, who wishes to strike a balance between sensual and romantic. The designer's use of plunging necklines paired with long sleeves, for instance, is a perfect example of this collection's flirtatious play between risqué and elegant.
Inbal Dror Trunk Show @ Chic Parisien
March 28 - 29, 2014
For appointments, (305) 448-5756
Monique Lhuillier Returns! Fall / Winter 2014 Trunk Show, March 21 & 22
If you were watching the "Today" show this morning, then you heard the big news! "Today" show anchor, Savannah Guthrie, announced her secret weekend wedding to longtime boyfriend, Mike Feldman, on live TV! The blushing bride, who also announced she's four months pregnant, shared a photo of her special day with millions of viewers, looking absolutely radiant in a lace Monique Lhuillier A-line belted gown.
Beloved by some of the biggest names in TV and film, Monique Lhuillier has been the go-to choice for many brides, including Reese Witherspoon, Giuliana Rancic, and Carrie Underwood. It's hard not to feel like a princess in a Monique Lhuillier gown, famed for her flattering silhouettes and creative use of lace accents.
The Monique Lhuillier Fall / Winter 2014 Collection, which Chic Parisien will preview during a March 21 - 22 Trunk Show, has something for every bride. Many of the gowns feature Chantilly lace and white or ivory silk organza. From simple to elaborate, the gowns come in varying lengths and colors, but all are absolutely stunning.
Even as we previewed the gowns ourselves, it was hard to pick just one that defined the entire collection. We find this incredibly exciting since preferences vary from bride to bride, and this diverse collection definitely answers the call when it comes to finding the perfect gown for each individual bride.
Previewing the gowns online simply won't do them justice, so we invite you to join us in store this Friday and Saturday for your first-hand look at the gorgeous Fall / Winter 2014 Collection! We look forward to seeing you!
Monique Lhuillier Fall / Winter 2014 Trunk Show
@ Chic Parisien
March 21 - 22, 2014
For appointments, (305) 448-5756
Fall 2014 Bridal Preview: Step Into Marchesa's Secret Garden (March 14 & 15)
We've got a spring in our step, as we prepare to unveil Marchesa's Fall 2014 Bridal Collection during a two-day Trunk Show this weekend! On March 14 - 15, Chic brides will be invited to step into The Secret Garden - Marchesa's inspiration for its Fall 2014 Collection - to experience the magic and allure of these stunning gowns.
In describing this latest collection, the famed fashion house said:
Marchesa's Fall 2014 Bridal Collection draws inspirations from the allure of The Secret Garden. Exquisite handmade floral appliques cascade down flowing tulle skirts and fitted re-embroidered lace cocktails. Light, feminine silhouettes are draped in point d'esprit while dotted pearls accents illusion tulle creations
Hidden layers of chantilly and corded laces peek out from flowing skirts and crystals glisten atop delicate lace caplet sleeve gowns. Marchesa's Fall 2014 collection of signature silhouettes lends charm and romance to every bride."
We can't deny that Marchesa has mastered the art of illusion tulle. A Marchesa bride looks as though she is floating as she walks. The way the light dances with each lace detail and floral applique is absolutely breathtaking. With no detail overlooked, a Marchesa bridal gown enhances and flatters every silhouette. It's no wonder that the designer dresses some of Hollywood's biggest stars.
We look forward to seeing you this weekend. Don't forget to schedule an appointment (details below), as spots fill up fast. For those unable to join us in-store this weekend, we invite you to follow us on Instagram as we chronicle 48 hours of Marchesa bridal heaven!
Marchesa Fall 2014 Bridal Collection Trunk Show
Chic Parisien
March 14 - 15, 2014
For appointments, (305) 448-5756
February Ends On High Note with Jenny Packham Trunk Show (February 28 & March 1)
Noted for her fun, flirty and vintage-inspired wedding gowns, Jenny Packham celebrated her 25th anniversary in 2013 and this year, she certainly shows no signs of stopping.
With an enviable client roster, which includes The Duchess of Cambridge, and an impeccable sense of style, Jenny Packham has delighted brides around the world with her delicate and ultra-feminine designs.
Her 2014 Bridal Collection is nothing short of breathtaking and this Friday and Saturday, we are excited to welcome the latest collection in-store and share it with our favorite brides.
From beautifully beaded capped sleeves to strikingly elaborate necklines, the 2014 Bridal Collection offers a wide variety of options for brides seeking that picture-perfect, post-worthy, jaw-dropping gown for their big day.
One of our Chic models even had a little fun twirling in a stunning Jenny Packham dress during a recent event. Not only are these gowns absolutely gorgeous, but they're also irresistibly fun. See you this weekend!
Jenny Packham 2014 Bridal Collection @ Chic Parisien
February 28 - March 1, 2014
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Naeem Khan First-Ever Bridal Line Arrives at Chic Parisien (Trunk Show, February 21 & 22)
Since the moment it was first announced, the fashion industry has been waiting with bated breath for the long-awaited debut of Naeem Khan's bridal line and this Friday and Saturday, Chic Parisien is thrilled to bring this premiere collection to you during a dedicated Trunk Show.
Naeem Khan is a longtime favorite among many A-list celebrities, as well as First Lady Michelle Obama, for helping them achieve their "red carpet moment" with his stunning gowns, but now, for the first time ever, the Indian-born, New York-based designer has ventured into bridal territory and the result does not disappoint.
The premiere collection, designed for the Fall / Winter 2014 season, features Khan's signature ribbon appliqués in floral-deco motifs, delicate crystal beading in architectural shapes, and stunning handmade flowers.
The 15-look lineup was inspired by the many venues where brides say "I do" - whether city, garden or beach - and this weekend, we can't wait to pair brides with their perfect, once-in-a-lifetime dress.
Come join us this Friday and Saturday to preview this stunning collection and don't forget to bring family and friends, who can peruse Naeem Khan's evening gowns which we also carry. We look forward to seeing you!
Naeem Khan Bridal Trunk Show @ Chic Parisien
February 21 - 22, 2014
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Anne Barge to Preview Fall 2014 Collection During February 7 - 8 Trunk Show
If there were ever a month to host a Trunk Show featuring some of the most romantic bridal gown designs in the world, it's definitely this one! This Friday and Saturday (February 7 - 8), Chic Parisien is excited to host Anne Barge Bridal, which will be showcasing its Fall 2014 collection in-store.
Famous for their "classic designs with museum quality beading and embroidery," Anne Barge bridal gowns have been featured internationally in magazines and newspapers including The New York Times, Women's Wear Daily and Town and Country Weddings.
Chic Parisien has had a chance to preview the Fall 2014 lookbook, and we assure you that this Trunk Show will not disappoint.
So get inspired by perusing Anne Barge's Pinterest board here, and join us this weekend for an exciting Fall 2014 preview!
Anne Barge Bridal Gowns Trunk Show at Chic Parisien
February 7 - 8, 2014
For appointments, call (305) 448-5756
Monique Lhuillier: Tickled Pink About This Weekend’s Trunk Show
“It’s opulence with a light touch,” said Monique Lhuillier when asked to describe her Fall 2014 Collection, and the designer did not disappoint.
The Monique Lhuillier Fall 2014 Collection, which Chic Parisien will preview during an exclusive Trunk Show January 17 – 18, is a stunning bouquet of tulle and lace, as well as embroidered floral, vine and lattice motifs.
Adding to its opulence and vintage romance, the Fall 2014 Collection not only features classic white and ivory gowns, but also antique silver and light pink. You won’t want to miss this preview, so call us today.
Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show / Fall 2014 Collection
January 17 – 18, 2014
RSVP (305) 448-5756
Everything's Coming Up Roses: Liancarlo To Preview Spring 2014 Collection
At Chic Parisien, we’re incredibly lucky to call some of the top bridal designers in the world our friends, and even luckier that they come to visit us in-store as often as they do! Right off the heels of an amazing Trunk Show with Lazaro and Maria Elena Headpieces, which took place last week, we’re excited to welcome back the amazing Carlos Ramirez of Liancarlo.
Famous for combining “feminine silhouettes with the use of luxurious fabrics, sumptuous textures and exquisite hand-work detail,” Liancarlo will preview its Spring 2014 Collection during a special Trunk Show this Friday and Saturday at our store.
As an added bonus, Carlos Ramirez himself will be on hand to chat with our blushing brides, as well as give them styling tips for their big day. Come join us!
Liancarlo Trunk Show
With Special Appearance by Carlos Ramirez
January 10 – 11, 2014
RSVP (305) 448-5756
Two Bridal Greats in One Amazing Trunk Show: Lazaro & Maria Elena, January 3 - 4
We're kicking off the New Year in a BIG way! Our very first Trunk Show of 2014, which takes place January 3 - 4, will not only feature Lazaro's highly acclaimed Spring 2014 Collection (and a special in-store appearance by Lazaro himself!) but we will also preview the latest Maria Elena Collection in its entirety!
Our very own Catherine Fox Milian had the pleasure of spending time with Lazaro during the recent Bridal Market in New York, and he can't wait to visit us in-store to share his inspiration behind his newest Collection with Chic Parisien's brides!
This weekend’s Trunk Show will also be your opportunity to preview the latest Maria Elena Accessories Collection. The amazing Gisele Del Busto will be on hand to help brides-to-be create their perfect look.
CHIC PARISIEN HOSTS LAZARO & MARIA ELENA
Special Trunk Show with In-Store Appearance by Lazaro
January 3 - 4, 2014
Appointments limited. To RSVP, call (305) 448-5756
Meet The Next Big Thing: The Mira Zwillinger Collection
If you haven’t already heard of Mira Zwillinger, you soon will. This dynamic mother-daughter duo is taking the bridal industry by storm, earning international acclaim for their unique and beautifully handcrafted bridal gowns. And during December 6 – 7, you’ll get to preview their latest collection in person, as Chic Parisien is hosting their very first Trunk Show in Miami! This is one event you won’t want to miss!
From lace and chiffon to silk crepe and brocade, Mira Zwillinger’s Bridal Collection touts the finest fabrics and materials sourced from Milan and Paris. In addition, their use of hand embroidery and ornate beading from Italy truly sets the line apart.
Don’t miss your opportunity to sample these elegant, handmade gowns. Reserve your spot today!
Mira Zwillinger Collection Trunk Show ♦ December 6 & 7, 2013
For appointments, call: (305) 448-5756
Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show Arrives This Friday
The Monique Lhuillier two-day trunk show arrives this Friday, November 29! Preview the latest from this celebrated collection, available exclusively in South Florida at Chic Parisien. There's no better way to extend a magical holiday week than by spending this Friday or Saturday sampling these gorgeous gowns.
Appointments are limited, so please call (305) 448-5756 to reserve your spot today.
The Inbal Dror Bridal Collection Has Arrived
The wait is over! The much-anticipated Inbal Dror Bridal Collection is arriving this week and we’re proud to feature the breathtaking gowns during the November 15 – 16 Trunk Show.
Making huge waves in the world of bridal, Inbal Dror’s gowns have become all the rage. The sleek, fashion-forward dresses are in such demand that we’ve been taking orders on them even before they’ve arrived.
Appointments for the exclusive Trunk Show are already filling fast, so be sure to schedule yours today to view this sought-after Collection.
A Halloween Treat
We're also proud to soon feature the brand new bridal line by Naeem Khan, arriving in early 2014! If you like these looks, you're in good company...Naeem Khan's gowns are beloved by many celebrities including Beyonce, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift and First Lady Michelle Obama (just to name-drop a few!)