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Hayley Paige Bridal

A Trend Report

On the heels of New York Fashion week, we have trends on the brain. Watching the collections walk the runway is basically like having someone say “Hint hint, this is what you should be wearing.” It’s perfect; you get to look at pretty clothes, spot celebrities in the front row, and stay on top of your fashion game all at the same time. The bridal world is no different; each collection gives brides a heads up on what is fresh and new in wedding wear. Seeing as how our Hayley Paige trunk show coincides with NYFW, we figured now was the perfect time for a HP trend report. Here’s what to look out for:

Florals – Hayley Paige is definitely known for her sparkle. I don’t think she has ever met bling she didn’t like, and you get to reap the benefit with her shining, stunning styles! In her latest collections, though, we’ve seen a major increase in another pretty detail – flowers! Whether it’s via embroidery, appliqués, or lace, florals have popped up more and more in her recent work, and we’re loving it!

Left: Enchanting Chantelle Right: Radiant Remmington

Left: Enchanting Chantelle Right: Radiant Remmington

Darker tones – Hayley’s got your back; she knows that white is not an easy color to wear, so she always fills her collections with plenty of hue options. Choices range from the still traditional ivory tones to the more modern blushes and blues. There’s truly something for everyone!

Oh pretty Nicoletta, we're obsessed with you!

Oh pretty Nicoletta, we’re obsessed with you!

See ya strapless – Straps have made a major comeback in the past few years, and Hayley Paige’s collections are no exception. I think a big part of what we love about strapless is the subtle sex appeal, so HP always makes sure to pop some va va voom in other areas of her strapped designs, in the form of illusion details, low backs, and more!

Left: Marvelous Mona Right: Beautiful Behati

Left: Marvelous Mona Right: Beautiful Behati

A-line – In recent years, it seems like brides have been into the extremes when it comes to silhouettes. We saw tons of fitted mermaids, and plenty of voluminous ballgowns, but less options in the middle. Thankfully, Hayley Paige knows that brides like options, and she has provided them with beautiful a-line styles that are the perfect mix of flowy and fitted.

Left: Elegant Ellie Right: Pretty Portia

Left: Elegant Ellie Right: Pretty Portia

Wedding Hair Accessories

Add some chic to your coiffure!

Welp, it has finally happened. Winter has arrived. We got off easy for awhile, but there’s no denying it now. As much as I tried to be annoyed, secretly I was happy to see the flakes fall this week. I probably won’t be singing the same tune after a few more weeks of this, but for now the snow just seems to have added some much needed sparkle to the world. It got me to thinking about something that adds sparkle to a bride’s world; her hair accessories! I love a good bridal headpiece. We’re used to wearing jewelry on a daily basis, but it’s not often that you get the excuse to adorn your tresses with some bling, too. So, make sure you do it right! Here’s how:
Marry your dress and headpiece – If your gown has bling, you’ll want to make sure the sparkle on your headpiece matches accordingly. If your dress has crystals with a gold tone/setting, for example, try to find the same for your hair accessory. Or, if your gown is heavier on the pearls, focus your headpiece search on those with pearls, too. If your gown is bling-free, that leaves the door wide open, though; do whatever you like!

We love that this gorge "Bramble" headband (by amazing designer Elizabeth Bower) works both over and under a veil!

We love that this gorge “Bramble” headband (by amazing designer Elizabeth Bower) works both over and under a veil!

Consider your hair – Not every headpiece works with every hair type. Heavier styles, for example, work best with thicker hair that can really hold them in place. On the other hand, if you have thin hair you might want to stick with more delicate pieces that won’t overpower your locks. If you’re considering adding some extensions, just make sure your stylist puts them in nice and tight, so that your headpiece doesn’t accidentally loosen them.

Elizabeth Bower's Cleo comb is such a modern style; a total wow coming down the aisle!

Elizabeth Bower’s Cleo comb is such a modern style; a total wow coming down the aisle!

Give it a thorough inspection – Your photographer is going to catch you from all angles, so be sure you like the placement/look of your headpiece from the front, back and sides. You don’t want to find out when you get your proofs that your accessory gave you a cone head look in all of your side shots! In the same breath, you also don’t want to find that it gets lost in some angles. After all, you worked hard to find your piece, so make sure you can properly show it off! Have your hairstylist try it in a few spots to see what you like best.

When in doubt, schedule a half-hour accessories appointment with Flair and we’re happy to help you find your perfect piece!

Finding the perfect wedding dress

How saying no can ultimately help you say yes to the dress!

I’m a total people pleaser; I’ve always had a difficult time saying no, especially to those that I love. In the past, if I ever did have to say no, I was always ready with a valid reason why. As I’ve gotten older, though, I’ve learned that saying no isn’t always such a bad thing. I don’t have to be all things to all people, and saying no every now and then is totally fine; no excuses or reasons necessary. You know who could stand to be reminded of that? Brides! In our line of work, we’re typically all about saying yes to the dress, but we’re here to tell you that there are also times when it’s totally acceptable to say no. Here’s when:

If the dress is over your budget – This is a given. Sure, it’s all fun and games in the store, but when you get home and have to break the news to your fiancé and re-budget everything, things may not seem so amusing.

Speaking of finding your perfect dress - we have a Hayley Paige Fall 2015 trunk show coming up...so we'll just leave this here ;)

Speaking of finding your perfect dress – we have a Hayley Paige Fall 2015 trunk show coming up…so we’ll just leave these photos here 😉

If your friends/family love the dress more than you do – It can be easy to get caught up in the ohh’s and ahh’s from your audience, but try and focus on your feelings above all else. If you’re not having the same strong reaction they are, it’s probably not the dress for you.

Would be hard to say no to this beauty!

Would be hard to say no to this beauty!

If the dress is perfect, BUT… – There are tons of gowns out there, so you don’t have to settle. If you find yourself thinking “This would totally be my dress if thing a, b, or c was different” then it’s likely not your gown. Keep looking, you’ll find one that you won’t want to change a thing!

Can't see a thing we'd change about this stunning style!

Can’t see a thing we’d change about this stunning style!

No, just no – Sometimes we can’t pinpoint it, but something is just telling us “this isn’t right.” Like I said above, you don’t always need a reason. If the gown looks great and is in budget, but it just isn’t clicking with you, then say no. Listen to your gut!

We always remind our brides that it’s OK to not like/say no to a dress. After all, every no gets you a little bit closer to the one that makes you say “Yes!” 🙂

Wedding Dress Accessories

How to make sure your bling and bridal gown are a match made in heaven!

When it comes to wedding planning, one thing leads to the next. You make your guest list which leads to finding the venue that accommodates it. Then, once you book said venue you can plan your décor. Checking one thing off of your to-do always seems to just add another. Luckily, though, most of this to-do list is fun! For example, once you choose your wedding gown, you can then think about accessorizing it! With the exception of those that have an heirloom piece they definitely want to incorporate, most brides choose their gown before their shoes, jewelry, headpieces, etc. The reason being is that, let’s face it; the dress is the most important part so you find that first and then work everything else around it. To ensure that all of your bridal style items work together, keep the following in mind:
1) Your dress neckline determines what jewelry you should wear: The basic rule of thumb is that the more covered the neckline the simpler you want to go with your jewelry. A strapless dress is obviously the easiest; add pretty much whatever you want! On the other hand, if you choose a one shoulder or boat neck, for example, you probably want to skip the necklace and stick to earrings and/or a bracelet. The same goes for your dress’ fabric; busier fabrics pair best with simpler jewelry that won’t fight with it. If you’re unsure what’s best, we always have jewelry on hand here to try with the gowns that you like!
2) Consider the color of your gown when choosing metals: Bright white gowns often pair better with silver tones, while off-white/cream mixes well with gold. For the bride looking for something a little different, rose gold tends to go well with either!

Now this is a bride (ok, model) that did it right! She skipped the necklace with her high neckline and opted for a sparly headband instead. Plus, it's gold tone totally goes with the off-white lace. Perfection!

Now this is a bride (ok, model) that did it right! She skipped the necklace with her high neckline and opted for a sparly headband instead. Plus, its gold tone totally goes with the off-white lace. Perfection!

3) Remember the style of your gown: We’re not talking the fit here, but rather the dress’ aesthetic. If you choose a vintage gown, for example, you probably shouldn’t pair that with a trendy, chunky necklace. At the same time, a sculptured, architectural, and modern gown wouldn’t really mesh well with a classic pearl necklace. This can be a tricky one to navigate, so again, we’re always here to help with style choices!
4) Last, and certainly not least, stay true to your personal style: Don’t let those around you talk you into an accessory that doesn’t feel like “you.” After all, while the dress won’t be easy to re-wear, the accessories definitely can be! Keep that in mind as you shop.

It’s a ton to absorb, so if you’re in need of some guidance, Flair is always here to help! We book half hour accessories appointments most days, and also have stylists standing by to chat at our online shop, Frills, that is chock full of beautiful, budget friendly baubles! Happy shopping 🙂

2016 Bridal Trends

Ring in the new year in style!

The end of December is all about reflecting on the past year. You can’t turn on the radio without hearing a countdown of the top songs of 2015, for example, while all of the news channels are reminiscing about the year’s biggest headlines. We’re all for it, let’s just not recall those resolutions we made back in January. Forget about those, instead let’s shift our focus to the future! We’re ready for a new year, and definitely pumped for some new bridal styles! Here are some trends we think will be huge in 2016:
Feathers: Every year, brides get bolder and bolder with their style, and in 2016 that might just come in the form of feathers. Romantic, soft, and flowy, feathers have just what you need to create a modern yet not too outside of the box bridal look. Aria’s Veronica dress is a perfect way to dip your toe into the feather pond. It makes a great reception dress, so you can take part in the feather trend while still wearing a more traditional look for your ceremony.

veronica by aria
Embroidered Illusion detail: By now, we’ve all become familiar with illusion necklines. They’re a great way to have the support of a strapped top but the look of a strapless. Now it was time for designers to take this look one step further, and one way they’re doing so is by adding embellishments to their illusion styles. It gives an almost 3D look that is super fresh, modern and unique! The Elodie gown from Willowby by Watters makes this trend look good!

elodie willowby by watters
Keyhole tops: I don’t know about you but I loved me a keyhole top back in junior high. It was an easy compromise for me and my mom; mostly covered but with a little hint of skin! The same principles work for a bride. Most don’t want to show too much skin in front of their families, but still want to show a little for their future spouse 😉 Hayley Paige’s Zahira dress is a totally modern take on this “best of both worlds” look!

HP Zahira
Lingerie inspired looks: This is a whole new way to bring the sex appeal on your big day! Lingerie inspired slip dresses were huge on the recent bridal runways, and why not?? They are the perfect mix of comfortable, lightweight, and sexy. You’ve been forewarned, though; these clingy beauties will almost definitely require a Spanx underneath. If you’re not into this particular look but still want to pop in a little lingerie to your style, opt for the already popular corset top!

Left: Amy Kuschel's Ginger gown Right: Jenny Yoo's Celine gown with applique

Left: Amy Kuschel’s Ginger gown Right: Jenny Yoo’s Celine gown with applique

Tiered skirts: Gone are the days of the single layer skirt! Popping in a few tiers is an easy way to add volume, interest, and drama to your look. Depending on the fabric, it doesn’t add a ton of weight, either. Whether you add one tier or a bunch, you’re sure to have a current, gorgeous look. Need proof? Tara Keely style 2609 is a tiered dream!

tara-keely-2609_x3

See you in 2016, Boston brides and bridesmaids 🙂

Jenny Yoo 2016 Collection

Get the newest, hottest styles before anyone else!

If I had to pick a super power, the ability to see the future would be high on my list. Will I get that bag I want this holiday season? Will the weather be nice for that anniversary trip I have planned? Not to mention the obvious lottery benefits! While seeing the future is probably not in my, well, future, there is one way that I (and you!) can see what’s coming ahead in the bridal and bridesmaids’ world; a 2016 preview trunk show! You know about a normal trunk show, right? It’s basically when we get a ton of pretty, pretty dresses in from one of our designers and for that weekend they’re all on sale. You can’t get much better than that! However, our upcoming Jenny Yoo 2016 preview trunk show (November 27-29) manages to do one better; all of the dresses we’ll be receiving are brand, spanking new and have never been available in Boston before! This is THE time to snag them for your wedding before anyone else, and know that you’ll be getting the latest and greatest. To clue you in on some of the hot, new trends in Jenny’s latest collection, we have a little sneak peek for you below (thanks to The Knot for all of these gorge photos!). Check them out and then give us a ring to book your trunk show appointment (while they last!) and see all of these beauties in person!

Separates:

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Patterns:

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Sleeves:

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Embellishments:

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Gorgeous, right?? Act fast and make your appointment come see us (and these stunning dresses) while they’re in town!

jennyyootrunk2016 (1)

Bridal Gown Preservation

Keep your dress flawless and fabulous, forever!

There aren’t too many things that you can keep from your wedding day. Sure, your love lives on, photos keep the memories alive, enter other sappy statements here. While those are obviously true, we’re talking about the tangible things. You can’t take home those plush rental cocktail couches, you can’t keep those fabulous flowers alive forever, and you probably can’t recreate those tasty rice ball passed apps. One thing you can keep, though, is your bridal gown! Sure, if your party was a success your dress is probably a little worse for the wear, but we’ve got a fix for that; gown preservation! From fixing loose beading to eradicating stains to steaming and pressing, preserving your gown is the best way to keep your dress looking “aisle amazing” for years to come. Need more convincing? Here are just a few reasons to preserve your gown:

Click here to learn more and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!

Bluethread Bridal

Giving brides the royal treatment!

Every bride should feel like a princess on her wedding day; that goes without saying. It’s your time to be the belle of the ball and the center of attention. You can eat what you like, drink what you like, talk to whom you like and (equally important) not talk to whom you like. It’s all about you! That princess-like feeling doesn’t have to be limited to just your wedding day, though. Why not start a little early, like with your bridal gown shopping! An easy way to pop some princess into your shopping is by stopping at Flair (duh) and getting acquainted with Bluethread Bridal. This amazing designer gives brides the royal treatment by helping them create their own unique, custom designed wedding gown. Now if that doesn’t scream “princess” then I don’t know what does! Pick your fabric, neckline, skirt style; the list goes on and on! Plus, get your gown in your exact size, made to your exact measurements. Feeling like Duchess Kate yet? We thought so! Of course, they also have some pretty stunning pre-designed gowns to choose from if you prefer. Check some of them out below to get familiar with Bluethread’s fabrics and aesthetic, and then give us a ring to stop by and get started on your custom creation!

OK we know we're only showing you the back of style S1001, but it's fabulous enough all on its own, right?!

OK we know we’re only showing you the back of style S1001, but it’s fabulous enough all on its own, right?!

We have two words for style S1004: romantic and ethereal!

We have two words for style S1004: romantic and ethereal!

We're developing a slight addition to the gorgeous texture on style S1017, and that fit is on point!

We’re developing a slight addition to the gorgeous texture on style S1017, and that fit is on point!

Bluethread sure knows their trends! The subtle cutouts on style S1016 are perfectly modern and fresh!

Bluethread sure knows their trends! The subtle cutouts on style S1016 are perfectly modern and fresh!

Wedding Jewelry

Accessible Luxury at Long’s!

This week we had the privilege of collaborating with the amazing Long’s Jewelers on a fun blog about beach appropriate wedding gowns and jewelry (give it a read here). We so enjoyed working with everyone at Long’s. They are kind, accommodating and really know their stuff! Long’s truly has a piece for every bride’s style and every wedding theme. Want a little color? They have it! Searching for a modern way to wear pearls? Look no further! And of course, they are the bling kings! Working on this project got us thinking about the relationship between your wedding dress and bridal jewelry. You can’t just force two styles together because you happen to like them both. It takes time and work (albeit fun work) to ensure that your gown and jewelry go together. We’ve pulled together a short list of tips/recommendations to help you get started, and be sure to contact the experts at Long’s when you’re ready to finalize your perfect bridal bling!

If your wedding dress is covered in crystals – In our opinion, if you’ve chosen a more intricate gown, we recommend going a little lighter on the jewelry. Our tip: skip the necklace and go for an amazing bracelet and/or earring. The bare décolletage will give some much needed separation between your dress/jewelry and really allow each to shine!

We think these simple and elegant pieces from Long's are perfect to pair with an intricate gown! Top: Sterling Silver Bamboo and White Topaz Studs Bottom: Siviglia 18K Yellow Gold Bangle with Diamonds

We think these simple and elegant pieces from Long’s are perfect to pair with an intricate gown! Top: Sterling Silver Bamboo and White Topaz Studs Bottom: Siviglia 18K Yellow Gold Bangle with Diamonds

If your dress is simple, clean and strapless – This classic, bare neckline makes way for a world of jewelry possibilities! This is your opportunity to go for a fun, fabulous piece, maybe something a little more modern than the typical wedding jewelry. This is your excuse to really have some fun with your accessories because there’s very little that will clash with your timeless, effortless dress.

Does your dress allow for bolder accessories? Try a little color or even a fun monogrammed piece, like these from Long's! Top: 14K White Gold Cushion Blue Topaz Necklace Bottom: Yellow Gold Lace Monogram Necklace

Does your dress allow for bolder accessories? Try a little color or even a fun monogrammed piece, like these from Long’s! Top: 14K White Gold Cushion Blue Topaz Necklace Bottom: Yellow Gold Lace Monogram Necklace

If your dress has a vintage vibe – Your jewelry should match! You shouldn’t pair a traditional lace gown with modern, funky jewelry. It will look like your dress and accessories are going to two totally different parties! Buy a timeless gown? Maybe opt for a classic pearl necklace to coincide with that vibe. Is your dress modern and architectural? Then you can totally pair it with a fresh and funky statement piece. Basically what we’re saying here is that your jewelry and dress vibes need to jive.

Vintage and pearls are a match made in heaven, though we're kind of obsessed with that modern diamond necklace, if your dress allows it! Top: 18K White Gold Pearl Necklace, Bracelet, and Earrings Bottom: stunning diamond pendant necklace on a simple platinum chain

A vintage dress and pearls are a match made in heaven, but if your dress is more modern we’re kind of obsessed with the bold diamond necklace below! Top: 18K White Gold Pearl Necklace, Bracelet, and Earrings Bottom: stunning diamond pendant necklace on a simple platinum chain

Now these are just the some basic tips from girls in the dress world; for all the wedding jewelry info you need to know, or to learn more about any of the pieces seen here, contact the amazing staff at Long’s!

Amy Kuschel Wedding Dresses

Get to know this dynamic designer!

Ahead of our exciting designer event this weekend, we wanted to take some time to help you get to know amazing Flair friend and designer, Amy Kuschel, a little bit better. Amy will always have a special place in our heart. When Flair decided to expand our bridal gown selection about 4 years ago, she was the first new designer we added to our collection. It was a little scary; at that time we were known mostly for our bridesmaids’ collection, so we weren’t sure how our customers would respond to us dipping our toe further into the bridal pond. We just couldn’t resist Amy’s stunning, modern and romantic gowns though, and we knew you would love them just as much as we did (and still do)! Cut to a few years later and our bridal gown business is booming and Amy’s gowns are thriving at Flair, and with good reason! They are thoughtfully designed, artfully created and beautifully finished. Amy’s extensive fashion background helps to ensure that. With a degree from FIT, years of experience in ready to wear design (prior to the start of her bridal label) and a keen eye for fit and trends, every dress that Amy creates is sure to fit, flatter and wow! On top of that, Amy is committed to using only the finest fabrics, trims, beads and baubles on her dresses. She manages to do all that while maintaining an affordable price point and keeping her production facilities in the USA. Pretty amazing, right? We’re telling you, this collection (and its designer) has it all! Need proof? Prepare to drool over the Amy Kuschel gowns below and give us a call if you want to experience her beauties in person 🙂

Amy Kuschel shows us that sleeves can be modern and sexy, as seen on stunning Jules!

Amy Kuschel shows us that sleeves can be modern and sexy, as seen on stunning Jules!

Looking for a short dress, or a dress to change into for your reception? Amy has you covered with her adorable Jackie Lady Stardust dress!

Looking for a short dress, or a dress to change into for your reception? Amy has you covered with her adorable Jackie Lady Stardust dress!

Looking for something timeless, yet unique? Look no further than Lennon! A classic silhouette in that subtle shade of pink; a homerun!

Looking for something timeless, yet unique? Look no further than Lennon! A classic silhouette in that subtle shade of pink; a homerun!

Looking for a little more coverage? Tulip is a Flair all star - it was one of the first styles we bought and it is still going strong. So flattering!

Looking for a little more coverage? Tulip is a Flair all star – it was one of the first styles we bought and it is still going strong. So flattering!

See what we mean? There’s a little something for everyone at Amy Kuschel! We can’t sing her praises enough and can’t wait to see her gorgeous gowns on all of YOU 🙂