Category: BA Love List

Blush & Bling Romance Blog

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-6110-1

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6110)

We headed down to a local dance studio with our hearts set on capturing all the romance, grace, and beauty that comes from styling a blush photo inspiration shoot! With gorgeous gowns by Truvelle bridal, we paired up a variety of glittering headpieces and dreamy veils. The result? Absolute perfection.

If you’re choosing a blush gown for your wedding or reception, scroll down to check out some gorgeous styling ideas. The rose gold sequin and soft lace dresses created opportunities for two very different looks, and both left us absolutely smitten.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-6110

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6110)

First, we styled side-swept loose curls, featuring a gorgeous rhinestone headband glittering with tiny metallic leaves and flowers. Style 6110 is so easy to wear, creating a look of effortless beauty.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-6524

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6524)

Next, we turned our attention to a more minimalist look. If you want just a subtle hint of sparkle, we recommend a narrow hair vine such as 6524. This nature-inspired piece adds the lightest, most delicate touch to any hairstyle and coordinates beautifully with a garden-inspired or boho-chic look.

If vines aren’t your style, check out a narrow headband such as 6040 or 6388. This vintage-inspired pieces are simply stunning and can be worn at a bridal shower or engagement party, too!

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-6525

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6525)

Florals are hugely popular this year, and there’s nothing lovelier than a soft organza flower headpiece with sparkling rhinestone accents. Style 6525 combines the best of both worlds and looks absolutely dreamy with an already-romantic lace gown.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-8662-6525-2

It helps to have the big picture in mind when you’re planning your accessories. Are you going for a stunning and glamorous look, with sequins and bold jewelry? Are you a lace and veil type girl? Choose your headpiece to enhance your personal style!

Bel-Aire-Bridal-Truvelle-8662-6525

In this case, we paired a simple beaded blush headband 8662 with Truvelle’s sparkling sequin-dipped gown for an eye-catching, modern bride. For the more classic girl putting a spin on tradition, the plunging lace v-neck gown grows exponentially more feminine with a sweet floral headpiece and simple organza-lined veil. Whether you’re dancing the night away in a reception hall (or in this case, a ballerina’s dance studio) or saying “I do” at the beach, these versatile looks are straight out of a dream.

Tell us, which combo is your favorite? How will you style your hair and accessories for the big day?

Want more? Check out My Bridal Style Romantic and the Fall 2015 Collection for accessories inspiration. You might also like our We ♥ Blush and Romantic Weddings boards on Pinterest, and follow us on Instagram for style updates.

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

How To Personalize Your Look

CY9A2961

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Your bridal look is so much more than a white dress. The accessories you choose create a total ensemble that expresses your personality in the most beautiful way. Belts, bracelets, earrings, and headpieces create a magical feeling of elegance that makes your wedding wardrobe feel truly special.

With that in mind, we are so excited to showcase some of our most enchanting bits of sparkly. With rhinestone-encrusted bridal combs and glittering bracelets, this pretty, posh selection evokes a theme of opulent glamour. Scroll to discover your favorites!

CY9A2888

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

CY9A2882

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6503)

There’s something so charmingly graceful about these old-world style rhodium designs. Swirls and curls and glittering round rhinestones create a dazzling accent for a soft lace dress or ethereal tulle ball gown.

CY9A2900

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6407)

If you’re the bride seeking a touch of sparkle for her lovely locks, this stunning hair jewelry combines silver leaves and dramatic rhinestone accents in a totally boho-chic design.

CY9A2893

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style BC141)

Slip a pretty, nature-inspired design onto your wrist for those close-up bouquet shots. A bit of bling adds unexpected beauty.

CY9A2920

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 1965)

Feel beautiful and feminine on the big day wearing a soft feather and organza flower in your hair. Lustrous pearls and sparkling rhinestones add a touch of glamour to this sweet accent piece.

CY9A2934(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Tell us, how will you personalize your bridal look?

Check out our My Bridal Style pages for more inspiration on the theme that best expresses your style, and feel free to peruse our latest collection for more eye-catching and utterly romantic designs.

Product Spotlight: Cathedral Veil V7176C

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Elegantly embroidered and beaded scalloped edge veil

A cathedral veil is traditional for many religious weddings; however, it is also one of the most stunningly romantic accessories a bride can choose for her big day! Gorgeous and graceful, cathedrals add dramatic wedding-day allure; there’s no other occasion in life that calls for such a long veil. Modern veils range from ethereal, cut-edge styles that float like wisps of cloud to luxuriously embellished statement pieces. Pearls, rhinestones, embroidery, lace, and crystals decorate many types of veils—but turn the most heads on an eye-catching cathedral.

Our features lavish silver embroidered flowers with a delicate, scalloped beaded edge. Silver bugle beads, tiny rhinestones, and miniature pearls infuse this design with uncommonly detailed beauty.

Style Me
Elegant brides seeking an extravagant yet feminine look will love the sweeping beauty of V7176C. Gracefully balancing modern design with old-fashioned motifs, this elaborate style embellishes a plain gown or frames an already-stunning dress with decadence to match.
V7176C suggests a tone of luxury. Coordinated with sumptuous accessories, it completes a theme of regal elegance. When enhancing a simpler look, however, this veil takes the spotlight. Classically bridal, the floral design complements plain or embroidered gowns and understated jewelry.

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Match Me
This cathedral veil is best paired with a gown featuring a long train. We love this piece coordinated with a sparkling rhinestone or beaded belt like BT010 or a floral belt such as BT040.

While this veil may be worn alone as a statement, a touch of sparkle gorgeously complements your whole look. We recommend pinning a small accent underneath in your hairstyle, or wearing a headpiece after you remove the veil for your reception! Cathedral veils are most appropriate for your walk down the aisle and photos, though you may bustle them for the after-party.

My Perfect Wedding
Formal, feminine brides will be drawn to V7176C, while brides styling more casual looks will find less-embellished designs more attractive. This elaborate veil best complements an elegant theme.

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Love This Look
Love this design and want to see similar accessories?

Check out the Cathedral Veils section on our website for more heart-fluttering styles!

Florals in Gold & Blush

Pretty in Pearls

(via Shutterstock)

Did you know that in some cultures brides are afraid to wear pearls? The shape of these beautiful, natural gems is said to represent a tear.
We think pearls must represent tears of joy—pearl accents look especially gorgeous in bridal ensembles! Lace gowns and dresses with embellished backs are particularly stunning with pearls, which give your outfit a delicate, feminine glow. In fact, many gown designers incorporate either real or imitation pearls (made from crystal) into beaded and embroidered dresses. Check out our most popular pearl headpieces, veils, and jewelry to enhance your special day.

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Lustrous Pearl Headpieces
A charming pearl headpiece transforms your bridal ensemble with natural beauty. Whether you have your heart set on a destination wedding, rustic celebration, or elegant ceremony, you can add pearls for a touch of extra romance.
Wind a lovely pearl or crystal vine through your bridal locks or wear it as a boho-chic halo; tuck a pretty pearl comb into your updo; or flaunt a pearl and rhinestone headband for a sweet touch of vintage-inspired style. So many options for one day—choose more than one so you have a bridal accessory to wear for your engagement party, bridal shower, reception, and honeymoon!

6510 – Halo of pearl filigree motifs  (Shown above)

Bursting with lustrous pearls and shimmering rhinestones, a glittering halo encircles your locks with modern elegance. Fashioned with enchanting pearl flowers floating on silver filigree, this rhinestone-encrusted design will enchant your groom and enrich your wedding photos.

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Stunning Pearl Veils
Nothing says bride like a veil. Complement your pearl headpiece or jewelry with the ultimate wedding-day accessory. Our designs include styles with tiny pearl dots, beaded and pearl embellished edges, embroidered designs enhanced with pearls, and cascading pearl beauties with multiple layers. Find a veil that makes your heart flutter!

V7253 – Pearl-dotted cascade veil (shown above)

A lavish cloud of tulle cascades down your shoulders to fingertip length, this gorgeous 1-tier design dotted with soft pearls makes a beautiful bridal statement. Frame your silhouette with feminine charm while perfectly matching pearl jewelry or accents on your gown.

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Sparkling Pearl Jewelry
Touch up your bridal ensemble with a beautiful pearl and rhinestone bracelet, elegant earrings, or a snazzy jewelry set. Though you may or may not have picked out your engagement ring, you can choose which accessories you’ll wear for the wedding!
We recommend selecting special jewelry that you’d love to wear over again—and every time you do, you’ll think of all the wonderful memories from your wedding day. From trendy stretch bracelets to graceful chandelier earrings, we have a style for you—discover your favorite!

BC144 – Pearl and rhinestone stretch bracelet (shown above)

An easy-wear treasure, this glamorous stretch bracelet features dazzling rhinestones and lustrous pearls for a stylish embellishment! Perfect for matching jewelry or coordinating with a veil, this glam accent glitters with bridal bliss!

(via Shutterstock)

♥ To view more pearl styles visit: www.belairebridal.com

Brief History of The Wedding Veil

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6251)

Wondering whether or not you should wear a veil for your wedding day? As it stands now, the veil is a fashion statement. Whether or not you’d like to wear one is entirely personal preference.

However, people often believe the bridal veil symbolizes something—because throughout the ages, various cultures have attached religious or social meanings to it. We’ll cover the most well-known connotations of wedding veils—from protection against evil to a display of extravagance!

Protection Against Evil

In Ancient Greece and Rome, the veil was originally flame-colored to scare off evil spirits. Many works of literature cite the veil as a source of protection—and since veils, hats and scarves have historically been used in defense against sun, wind, exposure, or even mosquitoes, this isn’t too much of a stretch.

Many wedding traditions have developed out of efforts to protect the bride. A few (such as the bride standing to the groom’s left, so his sword hand is free) were aimed at shielding her from being kidnapped by other suitors. Most practices, however, protected the bride against evil spirits that might be lurking under the floorboards or waiting to attack during the wedding. Even today, Middle Eastern brides still paint themselves with henna to avoid the Evil Eye.

Continue reading Brief History of The Wedding Veil

Reasons to Love a Cathedral Veil

Want to know if a cathedral length veil is a good option (or even an option) for your wedding? Check out our list and weigh the pros and cons of this particular style, find out why so many brides are choosing it, and decide if it’s right for you.

Tradition

Back in the day, a wedding veil symbolized purity and protection. This stylish fashion has been worn by brides since Roman times and has been customized in every era. From long lace masterpieces to short little blushers, the veil is a crucial part of the bride’s ensemble. A cathedral veil has a time-honored history and gets its name from—you guessed it—the length that brides wear for religious weddings in cathedrals. Modern brides are wearing this look indoors and outside.

On Trend

Cathedral veils have recently stolen the spotlight as featured in celebrity weddings. High-profile brides in 2014 popularized this gorgeous length with extravagant, romantic, and elegant ensembles that accentuated each woman’s beauty with a unique—and very long—veil.You can take this fashion and make it your own by selecting a cathedral veil that complements your gown and expresses your personality.

Enhance Your Gown

If you’re wearing a short dress for your ceremony, don’t wear a cathedral veil. Shorter veils such as French net, shoulder, and elbow designs are best for gowns that hit at the ankle or knee. Cathedral veils beautifully complement any formal ensemble: mermaid dresses, fit and flare silhouettes, ball gowns, and even sheath dresses.

You can choose a wide veil for added drama; multiple layers for soft romance; a narrow veil for a sleek appearance; a flat mantilla for traditional beauty; or a foldover for simple elegance.

Reception Change

Are you dancing the night away in a short dress? A romantic, long veil is designed to enhance your walk down the aisle; you can either bustle your cathedral or switch it out for a pretty headpiece or shorter veil for your reception. This gives you the perfect excuse to select something fun and different for the after party!

Romance

A cathedral veil transforms your wedding look with magical romance. From your walk to the altar to portrait photos, the dramatic beauty of a long veil will enhance your wedding in ways that only you will ever know. Some couples do a first look—others take fun photos with friends, style gorgeous still-life shots, or take private boudoir photos. Many women don’t feel like a bride until they put on their veil. Imagine a veil so beautiful and dramatic that you can’t stop staring until it is literally tucked into your hair. Romantic? We think so.

YOMO

You only live once, right? You only marry once, too!
Seize the moment. This is your only opportunity to wear a veil. Why not select a dramatic, ethereal, and utterly fantastic cathedral design? Every day is precious—and your wedding day should be blissfully unforgettable. Choose a style that makes you look and feel amazing.

***
In love with cathedral veils? Check out our Cathedral Veils page for some ideas about how to enhance your look for the big day. Still not convinced? Every bride should select the style she loves the most—check out our other veil lengths and designs for more options. Beaded Veils | Classic Veils | 
French Net & Face Veils | 
Embroidered Veils

Tell us what you think! What type of veil will you wear for your wedding and why?

Happy Fourth of July!

Bel Aire Bridal Fourth of July Post

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Four 4th of July Wedding Must-Haves

Happy 4th of July weekend! To celebrate, here our top four must-haves for the 4th! If you’re getting married, congratulations! Planning for next year? Check out our Red, White & Bling inspiration board on Pinterest for more ideas.

Spectacular Fireworks

From sparklers to fireworks, your 4th of July wedding needs serious wow-factor. Celebrate in patriotic style with favors that literally go BANG! You can use non-smoking sparklers for your send-off, enjoy fireworks to start off your honeymoon getaway, or give sparkling favors that your guests can set off later.

Glitz & Glamour

Who says that a 4th of July wedding can’t be chic? Include a bit of bling and jazz up your look with glittering heels, dazzling earrings, or a shimmering headpiece. Celebrate with fantastic sparkle!

Red, White & Blue

Any 4th of July wedding wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the American colors. Choose bright bouquets or boutonnieres, festive attire for attendants, and patriotic decorations. You can go red, white, and blue on wedding desserts, too!

True Love

To make the day feel like YOUR wedding and not just a dressed-up celebration of the national holiday, incorporate personal touches—wear a non-traditional reception dress, a unique headpiece, or sentimental jewelry. Write a love letter to your future husband, take time alone together, and let the romance of your wedding day really sink in. Whether your celebration is formal or just fun, this is your special day. Capture every moment!

Bel Aire Bridal Fourth of July Post 2

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Style Spotlight: Fabulous French Net

(via KLK Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Flirt with chic style on your big day by wearing a gorgeous French net headpiece. A net or birdcage veil is versatile, trendy, and utterly fabulous. From elegant ceremonies to carefree receptions, we’ll cover exactly how you can enjoy wearing French net on your wedding day!

Blending traditional vintage fashion with modern allure, headpiece 6442 offers the perfect alternative to a long veil. Three soft flowers with sparkling rhinestone centers top off a French net face veil in a stunning statement of bridal style.

How to Wear Me

A French net veil looks beautiful styled in a number of ways. You can wear it angled over your forehead and eyes, style it full over your face, wear it further back on top of your head, or even flip it so the netting drapes backwards over your hair! Try out different looks to discover the one you like best.
Most French net veils come on combs, though some can be clipped into your hair. You can pair plain French net with your favorite headpiece, or find a design that incorporates both!

(via Shutterstock)

How to Match Me

French net pairs beautifully with glamorous jewelry. Long earrings look particularly good if you want to highlight a favorite pair; or you can wear studs and focus the attention on a stunning necklace. This type of veil is so minimal that it naturally draws attention to your gown and other accessories.

For oh-so-chic Parisian style, snazz up your ensemble with dramatic chandelier earrings such as EA218 or elegant drops like EA212; to create a look of stunning vintage elegance, wear a red lip with classic jewelry like BC134 or BC131.
If you prefer a more casual bridal outfit, flip the veil back or wear it for a fun reception piece! Because it is so light and may be worn at the court house or on the beach, you can customize French net according to your personal style.

My Perfect Wedding

Go vintage. Feel elegant! Be completely carefree.
A French net veil may be worn to accent a variety of wedding themes. This type of veil is popular for vintage-inspired weddings evoking fashions from the 1920s–1950s, but may also be styled to express trendy, minimalistic beauty.
This veil type gives off a vintage vibe with tea-length or knee-length dresses, yet appears hot-off-the-runway fresh when paired with long, full-skirted gowns. Slender sheath silhouettes or light dresses work perfectly with French net.

One of the best things about French net is that it looks amazing in any season! Be chic in a ball gown for an elegant winter wedding, romantic with floral accessories in the spring, casually beautiful for an outdoor autumn ceremony, or free-spirited at a beach or destination wedding.
Getting married again and want to skip a long veil? This lovely style is perfect for a vow renewal or second wedding.

Love This Look

Love this design and want to see similar veils? Check out the French Net & Face Veils section of our website for more fabulous and vintage-inspired styles!

Bouquet & Boutonniere Beauty

We’re happy to celebrate the first day of spring with some pretty eye-candy for all you spring and summer brides. Check out our Beautiful Blooms and Style My Groom Pinterest boards for even more inspiration. Enjoy!

Blush Romance

(via Shutterstock)

For heart-fluttering, feminine, and gorgeously simple bouquets, check out these lush beauties. Light pink peonies or roses go hand in hand with blush gowns and romantic accessories. Mix them with white flowers or go monochromatic to express a theme of total love.

You Might Like:
Headpieces: 6435, 6525, 6535
My Bridal Style—Romantic
Cathedral Veils

White Elegance

(via Shutterstock)

There’s something timelessly elegant about white blooms. Whether you’re celebrating a black or white tie affair with chic roses or a lighthearted ceremony with sweet baby’s breath, this gorgeous color scheme says “wedding” with panache. This is a perfect choice if you want to enjoy floral beauty without an overabundance of distracting colors or patterns.

You Might Like:
Headpieces: 6533, 6555, 6483
My Bridal Style: Classic
Lace Veils

Pretty in Pastel

(via Shutterstock)

Blooms in pastel hues create a dreamy accent to complement your bridal gown. Collect spring flowers in light peach, misty blue, soft lavender, and mint green for a beautiful palette. Mix your favorites in a meaningful bouquet that will coordinate with your groom’s attire or bridesmaids’ gowns.

You Might Like:
Headpieces: 6531, 6405, 6460
My Bridal Style: Romantic
Classic Veils

Color Pop

(via Shutterstock)

If you’ve got flair, coordinate a dramatic bouquet bursting with color. This is an easy, beautiful way to infuse some fun into the big day! Go with seasonal shades or weave in your favorite colors for a look that is totally you. Daisies, sunflowers, and other bold flowers look great in summer weddings.

You Might Like
Headpieces: 6450, 6420, 6362
My Bridal Style: Glamorous
Beaded Veils

Which look is your favorite? Let us know!