Inspiration Monday!
Happy Monday! We’ve had such a busy yet fantastic weekend! We had an amazing multi-designer trunk show that was all around gorgeous! We also worked with Randy Fenoli for his show, Randy to the Rescue… It was a blast!
But after crazy weekends, it’s always nice to see things calm down and reflect on what’s ahead… We have lots coming up, so stay tuned! In the meantime and in the spirit of reflections, let's start off the week with some amazing Monday inspirations from around the web that we loved and wanted to share with you! What has inspired you lately? We always love to hear!
Balloons on your Wedding Day!
The Toast Chronicles – Great Inspiration!
5 Ways Out of a Bad Mood!
If the 5 Ways didn’t work… Try caramel brownies! Yum!
Looking for more wedding inspiration… follow us!
XOXO
PS Notice the bride's pink shoes peeking from under the dress... Isn't that surprisingly lovely?
Image: Devlin Photos
Amsale, Christos and Kenneth Pool Trunk Show Sneak Peek!
Are you a bride-to-be looking for an elegant, modern gown? Or maybe you’re a bit more traditional, looking for a romantic gown? Or do you lean more dramatic and hoping for something grand? Maybe you’re not sure what your wedding style is and are looking to try on a number of different options!
Well, do we have a treat for you! This weekend, we’re hosting a very unique trunk show… A multi-designer trunk show that caters to ALL brides-to-be! We will have the amazing Amsale bridal collection for the forever modern bride; the extraordinary Christos, whose collection evokes a feeling of fairy-tale femininity and romance, and the gorgeous Kenneth Pool bridal, a collection that celebrates and caters to the bride that commands the spotlight!
This trunk show is an absolute dream, and to top it off we will have Marco Cattoretti, VP of Amsale Design Group, on hand to assist brides with their perfect gown. Really, it just doesn’t get better than this! We are thrilled! For more information on how to make your appointment (hurry, they’re going fast) go here! Here are some of our favorite gowns from each designer. Aren’t these gowns stunning? What are your faves?
XOXO
Randy to the Rescue Comes to Miami
We are absolutely thrilled with today’s announcement! This weekend we’re working with the one and only Randy Fenoli! The Say Yes to the Dress fashion director and one of the most trusted names in bridal fashion is hosting the ultimate pop up bridal salon in Miami and we get to be a part of it!
This is the perfect opportunity for brides-to-be to experience Randy’s bridal road trip and let Randy Come to the Rescue... How fun! Ladies, book your appointment with the ultimate Friend of the Bride and he will help you in making your bridal fantasies come true! We get to be a part of this fantastic experience and we can't wait, it is going to be a blast! For more information and to make your appointment please, go here! Appointments are for Sunday March 3, so hurry before all appointments are booked! Can't wait to see you guys there! XOXO
Fashion's Big Night Out!
Did you watch the Academy Awards last night? A-Ma-Zing! It’s an event full of glamor and glitz… Tinseltown at its best! We have to admit the ceremony was a bit slow, but truth be told, it's the fashions what keeps us up every year… Ahhhh, the fashions! The Oscar red carpet is the MOTHER SHIP! All the A-Listers dressed in the most gorgeous gowns of the year is just insanely awesome to watch!
Needless to say, the red carpet is a great source for bridal wear inspiration. Many celebrity favorite designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, Romona Keveza, Naeem Khan, Elie Saab, Badgley Mischka have amazing bridal gowns that are counterparts to the red carpet fashions we have seen throughout awards season.
Here are some of our favorites from last night’s red carpet… Would you consider any of these in white as a bridal gown? We could definitely imagine many brides on their big night wearing gowns inspired by the gorgeousness we saw last night! What was your fave? For more fashions from last night, go here!
XOXO
Images source: Just Jared
Badgley Mischka Sneak Peek!
We truly believe that brides should always shine like a star on their wedding night! So we couldn’t be more excited with this weekend’s trunk show that is inspired by constellations, stars and the zodiac! Badgley Mischka’s Spring 2013 bridal collection is absolutely DIVINE.
One of America’s top design houses has really outdone themselves with this stunning collection. The details, the craftsmanship, the styles… They are just to die for! And trust us, this is one collection you want to see up close and personal to really enjoy all of its beauty! The trunk show runs Feb 22 – 23, so if you are looking to twinkle and shine on your big night this is definitely a trunk show you don't want to miss! Here are some of our favorite gowns from this inspired collection. Are you loving any? As always, we love to hear what you are swooning over! For more details on the trunk show, please click here!
XOXO
Blushing Bride!
When planning a wedding, beautiful, pretty and gorgeous are definitely adjectives brides want to hear… Not only when describing how they look, which we believe ALL brides look gorgeous on their wedding day, but how the wedding looks! So if a bride wants to bring the pretty, BLUSH PINK is the perfect way to go. Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Biel both went blush pink with their gowns, but even a simple blush pink hair accessory, nail color or an accent on the cake will be elegant, gorgeous, delicate… Simply, beautiful! Here are some of our favorite blush pink dresses and bridal inspirations! What do you think, is blush pink gorgeous and romantic or is it too feminine for a wedding affair? Would love to hear what you think... and for more blush inspiration go here!
XOXO
Bouquet white dress: Lisa Lefkowitz
Pink cupcakes: Catch My Party
Pink Ribbon Cake: Linda Rosa
Pink Bouquet Centerpiece: Karen Buckle Photography
Pink Flower Girl dress: Kristin Vining Photography
Reese and Jessica Wedding Pics: Hello! Magazine
Happy Fashion Friday!
Happy Friday! Happy Fashion Friday! We just came back from Fashion Week, and as you can imagine, it was an amazing experience! We’ve been to NYC Fashion Week a number of times, but truly, it never gets old! There was so much inspiration and creativity… And of course, beautiful fashion!
Our heart skipped a beat when we witnessed Monique Lhuillier’s collection sashay down the runway! Her jewel tones and use of this year’s official color, emerald green, was truly breathtaking! And her RED jeweled gown: A-Ma-Zing!
Jenny Packham’s collection was also gorgeous! It was decadent, intricate and the details are just impeccable! Definitely, a collection fit for any princess! Finally, Carmen Marc Valvo, was another favorite! The collection was simply stunning... The fit of the dresses, the details of the fabrics - OMG!
Here are some of our favorite gowns… We paired our pics with some of the runway shots so you can appreciate the detail and let your heart skip a beat with the gown! Any that you are loving? Would love to hear what you think, and we can’t wait to receive these and more Fall 2013 fashions in the store! Stay tuned!
Have a great weekend!
XOXO
Happy Valentine's Day!
May you have a Perfect Kiss on a Perfect Valentine's Day! For more kiss inspiration go here!
XOXO
Image: “V-J Day, Times Square, New York City, 1945.” Photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt.
Pre-Lovers' Day Inspiration!
Yay, tomorrow is Lovers’ Holiday… Otherwise known as Valentine’s day! As you can imagine this is one day we HEART at Chic Parisien! Firstly, it is an extremely popular day for couples to get engaged. And we have to admit Valentine’s Day engagements are our favorites, they are always so romantic! But secondly, and more importantly, it is a day to celebrate LOVE!
We know many cynics don’t enjoy this day anymore, but at its core, it's really such a lovely occasion! It is the one day of the year that is meant for couples to celebrate their love for each other! We say, who cares what cynics think…Take a moment, say I love you to that special someone, be romantic, be corny, have fun, and definitely, take advantage and smooch your lover as much as you want!
And just in case you need some last minute inspiration, here is a roundup of great Valentine’s Day goodies from around the web… Happy Lovers’ Holiday!
XOXO
Yum! Chocolate Caramels
The perfect red lip!
Pretty and Sexy in Pink
Drop Dead Gorgeous Red Dress
Image source: Julianne Berry Photography
New Wedding Trend Alert: Short!
In the last few years, we have witnessed one trend make a comeback: short wedding dresses! Back in the 50s and 60s this was a popular trend with brides and recently we have seen it reappear with brides who are looking for something unique, unexpected, gorgeous yet more relaxed in its nature but still very chic! It works perfectly for outdoor weddings, beach weddings, and chic city hall weddings, among others!
However, what’s exciting is that we have seen this trend also embraced by more "traditional" brides that are looking to change into a reception dress. To wear not only one gorgeous gown during the ceremony, but also a second, short gown, during the magical evening! Finally, many brides who wish to extend their wedding events by wearing a short wedding dress for their rehearsal dinner is also becoming popular!
In essence, it does not matter why the bride chooses short, what is certain is that it is definitely a great way for a bride to make a fashion statement yet keep it fun, young, flirty and still very chic! What do you think? Would you wear a short dress on your wedding day? Here are some of our fave short wedding dresses:
XOXO
Daydreaming of an Italian Wedding!
Yay for Fridays! Are you doing anything exciting this weekend? We couldn’t be more thrilled with this weekend’s trunk show: Peter Langner Bridal collection. This amazing collection comes directly from Rome, Italy, and we heart Italy!
Can you imagine an Italian destination wedding? Wouldn't it be super romantic and dare we say, sexy, to get married in Rome! We can imagine the red wine flowing, the delicious food being served, the beautiful lighting and of course, an amazing group of family and friends that makes the party last until the wee hours of the morning! We love this idea for a destination wedding, but would it be crazy to do a destination wedding in such a cosmopolitan city like Rome? Would love to hear your thoughts!
Happy Friday, Happy Weekend! But before we sign off, here are some web and blog goodies that we loved and wanted to share with you…
Is copper the new silver? We like!
Why weddings matter…
Surprising 1st Dance Songs
Front row at the fashion shows!
Marc Jacobs is a sex symbol!
Honeymoon Planning? This might be a great flight booking tool!
5 Great Chic Sneakers.
XOXO
Top image source: Bridal Musings
Images source: David Burton for Elle Brides 2010
Peter Langner Trunk Show Sneak Peak
Buongiorno Amici! We are so excited with this week’s trunk show! We have the one and only Peter Langner Bridal collection. This collection comes directly from Rome – and it is just DIVINE. All the dresses truly have the style, tailoring and workmanship you expect from Italy. The details on each gown are simply breathtaking and gorgeous. This is definitely a trunk show worth visiting, specially, since many of these dresses are not housed at the store year round. Don’t miss this opportunity, the trunk show starts February, 8 but for more details, click here… In the meantime, here is a sneak peak of some our favorite Peter Langner Bridal collection gowns:
Veils: The New Heirloom!
Times have changed, no doubt about it! For many generations, wedding gowns were passed down from mother to daughter, from aunt to niece, even from sister to sister… However, for the past 30 to 40 years we have seen this tradition dissipate. Brides want to be unique, they want to wear something special, their gown should feel something their own.
However, when old traditions die, new ones begin. In the past few years, we have witnessed a new, yet very powerful tradition emerge with the VEIL! More and more brides are requesting very special, one of a kind, lace and embellished veils, particularly because veils are becoming THE family heirloom to be passed down from generation to generation. It is becoming such a beloved and inspired tradition! Lace, short, mantilla, embellished… There are so many gorgeous and original options for brides, and the idea of preserving a veil and passing it down to the next bride in your family swells our hearts! Here are some of our favorite veils… And for more amazing veils click here!
XOXO
Cap Veil: Via Belle Magazine
Classic Veil: Via Bridal Snob
Pleated Modern Veil: Via Coco & Kelley
Mid size veil: Via Jen Huang Blog
Mantilla Lace Edge Veil: Via Once Web
Happy Friday... Dreaming of Paris!
We heart Fridays! How has your week been? We’ve had a great, busy week… We’ve been meeting and working with brides looking for the perfect dress. And we’ve been planning all the upcoming events and trunk shows for February. We can't wait to share details in the upcoming weeks… Stay tuned!
Can you believe January is already over? It seems like New Year’s was just the other day. It is amazing how time flies when you are planning trunk shows, planning a wedding and having fun! Do you have any special plans for the weekend? We don’t have big plans, but we'll be dreaming of experiencing the Louvre in Paris like this!
Happy Friday, Happy Weekend! Before we sign off, here are some web and blog goodies that we loved and wanted to share with you…
Wedding registry guide: Choosing what you actually want!
Stella McCartney… loving this interview.
Gorgeous Miami wedding... Bravo Ray!
Cutest married couples at the SAG Awards!
New wedding trend?!?!? No fondant wedding cakes!
Photos of the moment: Valentino!
XOXO
Top 6 tips to finding the perfect bridal gown!
We have had Chic Parisien for many, many years (over 40 years – OMG!), and we LOVE our job! But over the years, we have heard one question the most: "What is the key to finding THE perfect bridal gown?" We are going to attempt to answer it... However, we were not able to boil it down to one thing. Here is our list of the top 6 tips to finding the perfect dress!
- Once you have a wedding date, make an appointment(s) at your favorite bridal shop(s)! THE dress is one of the key things that sets the overall tone for the wedding.
- You need to “Click” with the store’s staff. Selection, reputation and knowledgeable staff are key to finding THE right dress.
- Establish a budget and stick to it. Don’t fall in love with a Pie in the Sky dress!
- Prior to arriving at the Bridal Shop appointment – Do a bit of research! Browse websites, magazines, blogs… Familiarize yourself with designers and collections!
- Keep an open mind! There is nothing more fun than brides who try on different looks and styles! Surely you may be surprised as to what looks and feels the best!
- Have FUN! This is probably one of the best moments of your life... Enjoy the ride, enjoy the moment and don't stress, that PERFECT dress is out there and YOU will find it!
XOXO
Image souce: Monique Lhuillier dress, photo by KTMerry
Macias-De La Vega's Real Chic Wedding!
Today is a big day for us here on the blog… We are showcasing our very first Real Chic Wedding! We couldn't be more thrilled with this first wedding as it took place in our very own neck of the woods: Coconut Grove, Miami. The event was a romantic and extraordinarily joyous affair. It was set against a backdrop of blue Miami ocean waters, a white on white color scheme and a perfect group of family and friends to celebrate the occasion! The venue, decor and ambiance was one of traditional elegance, yet the bride and groom set out to create a fun party mood, thus adding sparklers, stilt walkers, and a Mardi Gras inspired party hour that was simply to die for! When asked what was the most memorable moment of the evening, "Being introduced as Mr. & Mrs Macias as we ran through a tunnel of sparklers" was on top of the bride's list! Take a peek and enjoy!
XOXO
Bride: Evie de la Vega
Groom: Eddie Macias
Photography: Catalina Ayubi
Dress: Custom design from Chic Parisien
Hair: Christina Silvia
Make Up: Anais Guerra
Wedding Ceremony Venue: St. Hugh Catholic Church
Reception Venue: Grove Isle Hotel & Spa
Event Planner: ET Events
Date: February 25, 2012
Bride, Bridesmaids and Balloons! Happy Friday!
Yay for Fridays! What are you planning this weekend? We are looking forward to having an awesome weekend… First, we will be enjoying our Romona Keveza Couture Bridal trunk show today and tomorrow… It is definitely AMAZING! In addition, we are hoping to indulge ourselves a bit at the local Fairchild Tropical Gardens Chocolate Festival... You know what they say: “Everything is better with chocolate!”
Happy Friday, Happy Weekend! But before we sign off, here are some web and blog goodies that we loved and wanted to share with you…
XOXO
Martha's Bridal Shower ideas
Kate Moss turns 39, her best quotes!
Classic birthday cake... for your Besties!
Image Source: My Best Friend's Wedding
Romona Keveza Couture Trunk Show Sneak Peak!
Are you ready to witness another incredible collection? Then get ready for this weekend’s Trunk Show featuring the amazing Romona Keveza’s Couture Bridal collection. New York designer, Romona Keveza, has created an impeccable collection inspired around the visual theme of darkness to light. She takes you on a journey from East to West by including design elements from three awe-inspiring dynasties: Ottoman, Ming and the Windsor dynasty!
Don’t miss the opportunity to see this couture collection. Here is a sneak peak of some our favorite gowns! For more details on the Trunk Show, click here! XOXO
Images: Dan Lecca for Romona Keveza
What is the meaning of Something Blue?
When it comes to wedding traditions, which by the way, we love most of them, sometimes they are a conundrum as to why they exist and what they mean. For example, ever wonder where “Something Blue” comes from? Something old, something new, something borrowed... we can easily imagine what these traditions may represent; but something blue!?!? We were stumped!
Trunk Show 411!
Happy Friday! We are in full trunk show mode and recently we have been talking a lot about trunk shows. We had Monique’s Trunk Show last weekend and this weekend we have the amazing Liancarlo trunk show! However, this got us thinking and we realized not everyone knows what a trunk show is, what are the benefits and what to expect at one… Here is the 411:
What is a Trunk Show?
A Trunk Show highlights one particular designer collection. Gowns from the designer’s newest collection are on display, it may even be the first time some of these gowns are in the store, along with gowns from the designer’s previous collections.
Why Shop During a Trunk Show?
There are a variety of perks to shopping for your gown during a Trunk Show. Special "gifts" are often offered from the store as well as the designer such as a complimentary plain veil or pattern changes to your gown (which would normally have a fee attached).
Additionally, the designer or a top company representative may be in-store during the Trunk Show and will be available to personally assist with your selection.
Before Attending a Trunk Show?
We always urge brides to do their homework and have an idea of what they’re looking for before attending a Trunk Show. Search online, shop around, try on various styles so you know what’s right for you. Trunk Shows are not intended to be “pressure cookers” or stressful, but due to the limited time the dresses are in the store and the special event incentives, brides are urged to purchase the dress they fall in love with on that day.
When selecting Trunk Shows to attend, make sure you’re familiar with the designer being showcased. During a Trunk Show, the store’s team likely will be open to showing you gowns from other designers, but the highlighted designer is definitely the focus of the event.
We hope you have a great weekend! And for more information on this weekend's Liancarlo trunk show, click here!
XOXO
