Elie Saab Paris-Spring 2011

Although I haven't had much time to follow the recent fashion shows my inbox has been flooded with all the reviews. I haven't been able to open them like I usually do but I had to look at one of my favorite designers, Eli Saab. I was a bit disappointed that the glamour and bling he usually brings to the runway was muted this season. The bling was scarce but it was a very wearable collection. I did find 2 looks that I like and thought I would share.

Elie Saab RTW Spring 2011

Have you been following the season's shows? Any favorites?

The Encore Bride Style File-My Favorites

After going through all my posts this week I realized I hadn't post any wedding "porn". Here is a recap of some of my favorites style files. Please click on the title to view the original post with source credits.

Something Blue-The Encore Bride Way

Vintage Tropical

The Original Encore Bride Style File

Which one is your favorite?

Aisle Style-150 Years of Wedding Fashions

Last weekend Mr. Encore and I headed to Charleston, SC to hang out in what was our last weekend together for a while. I dragged him to the Charleston Museum where the Aisle Style exhibit was on display. The exhibit was a nice size and had many original gowns from the 1800's. I learned that many of these gowns were handmade in France, most were two pieces because it was perfectly acceptable to wear your gown again with a more simple top during the first year of marriage. Also, as we know colored gowns were popular at the time as well and they had a few on display. The exhibit will be on display until June 30, 2010, stop by if you're in Charleston.

(Click to enlarge)

All photos taken by me

For more information please stop by the Charleston Museum website!

The Encore Bride Style File-Paris Fashion Week

Welcome to the recap of my favorite Fashion Week...Paris! As an Encore Bride I have been looking for wedding inspiration outside of the traditional "wedding avenues". I have been following fashion week as a source of inspiration for everything to include attire and decorations.

On to my favorites!

First up is the incredible Karl Lagerfeld, his collection was very structured as you can see from the shapes of the garments. He's a master at what he does and I love his work, especially couture. Click on pictures to enlarge.

Source: Style.com

Elie Saab is a bride and celebrity favorite, his couture collection never disappoints and this year's Ready to Wear collection did not either. His use of neutral colors and draping created a timeless collection. Although his collection included more casual looks he did not disappoint in the evening wear area.

Source: Style.com

Lastly, one of my absolutely favorites designers: Valentino. Granted, he no longer designs his namesake collection but the new designers have done a great job at taking his design aesthetic and making it more modern and youthful. I loved their use of sheer fabrics along with ruffles and beautiful soothing colors. In my opinion, these are all timeless pieces.

Source: Style.com

A few of the major trends that you can see over and over in most of these shows were the use of neutral colors and sheer fabrics. Many designers presented an entire collection of casual wear making the search for the next great evening gown just a little bit narrower. Many collections were presented in just two colors: black and white. At times many collections lacked colors we associate with a Spring collection, making many wonder if designers sacrificed their art for sales by making pieces that were "too safe". In the end, it is no secret that the current economic downturn has forced many to re-consider costly purchases and it was clearly seen on the runway.

I look forward to seeing how the bridal designers will cope with the situation when they present their new bridal collections this month during bridal market week. I will be doing my recaps as soon as I can get my hands on the collections. Stay tuned!

The Encore Bride Style File-Milan Fashion Week

After NY Fashion Week, the party continues to Milan. From the shows presented there are two "wedding inspiration" worthy collections. Alberta Ferretti's collection was dreamy and included tones of blush, lavender and purple, I especially liked the short lavender dress. Click on photos to enlarge.

Source: Style.com

I also enjoyed the collection presented by Gianfranco Ferre, he used more metallic colors as well as white and ivory. I loved the draping and soft fabrics he used, especially the white knee length dress, I love the side draped treatment of the dress.

Source: Style.com

I've been anxiously awaiting the complete collections from Paris. Most of my favorite designers present in Paris every year and I will recap my favorites as soon as they are posted? Do you have any favorites?

The Encore Bride Style File-Ring Beauties

We're having our couples session tomorrow, yes, couples, not e-pics (that's engagement pictures for you non-wedding planning folks!). I'm patiently waiting for "the" moment but in the meantime I keep looking at all these beautiful contemporary rings out there. Aren't these gorgeous? It's amazing what designers can do!

(Click to Enlarge)

Source: 1st Row L to R: Fay Cullen, Fay Cullen, Fay Cullen, Tacori
2nd Row L to R: Tacori, Mark Silverstein, Mark Silverstein, Mark Silverstein
3rd Row L to R: Mark Silverstein, Mark Silverstein, Mark Silverstein, Mark Silverstein

I love them all, especially those with different colors. Do you have any favorites?

The Encore Bride Style File-NYC Fashion Week II

More beauties from the catwalk, up first designer Naeem Khan; his line was one of the very few that had many special occasion gowns. I love the beading on his fabrics and the heavy on details fabrics and shapes. This one was one of my favorite collections.

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Style.com

Next: Monique Lhuillier, this collection was not one of my all time favorites from her, mostly due to the lack of serious evening wear. She still managed to have a few interesting dresses though.

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Style.com

J. Mendel's collection was "dreamy" it had enough chiffon ruffles and gathers to feel like you were floating along with these beauties. The colors were also very sweet, perfect for a daytime event.

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Style.com

Lastly, the Halston collection did not stray far from their roots: easy, wearable caftans. Their chiffon dresses were effortless and would make a lovely entrance at any daytime wedding. What do you think?

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Style.com

Have you looked at fashion to gather inspiration for your event, what about your day of style? If so, what designer are inspired by?