Category: Spring 2016

Shimmery Shoulder Jewelry Spotlight

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Our shoulder jewelry is finally here! From vintage stylings to modern designs, our twinkly and glamorous accessories dress up your strapless gown and make it unique to you.

Whether you’re matching a beaded vintage gown, giving a plain dress more bling, or adding sparkle in place of a necklace, these lovely shoulder jewelry styles add stand-out beauty to your bridal look. Remember to use #shouldershimmer for a #BelAireBridal repost!

Beautiful Fairy-Tale Bling

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Ready to sparkle? Style SH206 adds a dose of pure glamour. Delicate double strands grace the front and back of your neckline, while triple rows of bling decorate your arms. A dazzling alternative to a wrap or bolero, this daring design lets you shine.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous and Cathedral Veils

Elegant & Pretty Pearls

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Get your vintage style on wearing design SH207. Packed with pretty pearl strands culminating in intricately beaded appliqués at the front, shoulders, and back, this charmingly old-fashioned design complements a graceful ensemble. Match it with pearl earrings to complete the look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic and Lace Veils

Luminous & Luxurious Crystals

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Catch the light with dazzling allure wearing style SH208. Shimmering rows of clear crystals and decadently beaded appliqués studded with tiny silver beads enriches your bridal ensemble with lavish beauty. Style this gorgeous design with stud or drop earrings to complete the look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy and Classic Veils

Glamorous Beads & Sparkle

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Incorporate gorgeous sparkle and stunning silver shine with style SH209. Rows of dazzling clear crystals and silver beads combine in a breathtaking design of double draped strands in the front and back, with triple strands dangling down over your shoulders. Beautifully complement a beaded or plain gown with this luxurious design.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous and Beaded Veils

Ravishing Retro Pearls

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Top off your vintage gown with style-savvy SH210. Composed of beautiful strands of pearls and sparkling rhinestones, this timeless design incorporates the elegance of decades past with a dramatic new twist. Add other pearl accessories for a radiant bridal look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage and Embroidered Veils

Are you going strapless for the big day? Be sure to follow us on Instagram for ideas to style your reception look and more! Share your pics with #BelAireBridal for a repost.

Gorgeous in Rhinestone…

Hello, Princess! 10 Twinkly Tiaras for the Fairy-Tale Bride

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Are you dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding? We are, too! There’s something so utterly captivating about a ceremony/reception theme on par with knights in shining armor and once-upon-a-time maidens.

Selecting a stunning gown is important, of course, but it’s our job to steer you towards sparkly accessories to complete a magical look! Check out these glamorous and romantic headpieces straight out of a fantasy.

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Narrow tiara 6620 is composed of a narrow line of sparkling rhinestones with central accents. Dazzling yet dainty, this cute little item tops off your ensemble with special radiance.

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Crystal and rhinestone tiara 6627 adds classic twinkle to your fairy-tale look. This beautiful, shimmering design looks lovely with a romantic veil and dazzling belt.

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Glittering and glamorous, style 6583 weaves an enchanting spell. Catch the light with crystals and rhinestones wearing this contoured tiara that embellishes your hair with pure elegance.

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Combining the elegant sparkle of rhinestones and classic romance of flower motifs, tiara 6183 tops off your look with true beauty. Style it with a dramatic veil for a heart-fluttering ensemble.

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For the modern bride, tiara 6210 combines swirling lines and sparkling rhinestone filigree for a completely eye-catching ensemble. Add chandelier earrings and stunning veil to finish off your look.

And now, a few non-traditional tiaras for you romantic, creative types…

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Style 6635 glitters with beautiful crystals and miniature flowers. Inspired by the romantic blossoms of spring, this lovely headpiece lends you stunning sparkle for the big day.

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Weaving through your locks with magical sparkle, style 6623 swirls with romantic floral motifs. Style this design with a dramatic veil for your once-in-a-lifetime ensemble.

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Twinkling, contour tiara 6284 adds subtle glamour to your look. Pair this gorgeous design with a belt like BT059 and elegant earrings for wedding worthy of a castle.

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Old World elegance meets modern design with headpiece 6518. Secured on elegant satin ties, this swirling and twirling floral style adds a touch of unique beauty.

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Style 6611 reigns supreme when it comes to captivating sparkle. For the glamorous bride, this bold headpiece twinkles with countless rhinestones for a look of legendary beauty.

Are you planning a fairy-tale wedding?

Check out our inspiration board for Glamorous brides, and follow us on Instagram for romantic styling ideas.

3 Ways to Style a Boho Wedding Look

Do you love the outdoors? Are you into sunshine, soft flowers and breezy skirts? Do you adore the idea of a wedding on the beach or in a garden? You might be a bohemian bride!

Nature-inspired accessories, untraditional gowns, and off-the-beaten-path venues are the hallmarks of the whimsical bride. Go boho-chic for your spring or summer wedding with just three items.

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Get a dreamy veil. A soft Chantilly lace veil like V7309 or a breezy cut edge design like V7234 creates a stunning bridal accent that sets your style apart.

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Wear a nature-inspired headpiece. Floral headbands like 6588 with metallic flowers or 6571 with soft blooms add lavish romance. Designs with vines or leaves such as 6628 and 6634 grace your locks with glittering bohemian glamour.

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Carry a messy bouquet. Free-flowing, trailing, cascading, overflowing—anything but a prim and proper bundle of roses. Incorporate local plants, wild flowers, succulents, grasses, or even feathers for true bohemian beauty.

How are you styling your bohemian wedding? Share your ideas!

6 Ways to Style an Outside-The-Box Wedding

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Getting married with a twist? If you want to stand out and avoid clichés, try on these tips for styling an outside-the-box look for your wedding.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Colored Dress

A white dress has been the traditional bridal staple for well over a hundred years. Mix it up by choosing something different! More and more wedding gown designers are playing with non-white/ivory hues, including light blue, blush pink, lavender, floral prints, gold, or even black!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Unique Headpiece

Brides usually show up with garlands, veils, and flower combs on their wedding day. Instead, choose something unique that you would wear to a dressy party or on New Year’s Eve. Opal pins, wired crystal vines, and metallic halos can really jazz up your style.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Casual Accent Piece

Spice up your look with a casual accent. A bold jacket, stand-out shoes, or patterned scarf will do the trick. Especially if you’re wearing a white dress, this will give your outfit personality—so you can feel like yourself on the big day.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Wearable Jewelry

Most weddings call for formal bling—think pearls and rhinestones. Create a modern look by choosing jewelry you would actually, honestly wear again. Feature your birthstone or something special that you already own!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Minimal Reception Décor

Skip the linens, china plates, and abundant flowers. Take advantage of the natural appearance of your venue; the less you have to dress up the space, the better! Get crafty and DIY personalized touches with custom calligraphy, paper flowers, and upcycled centerpieces.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Exotic Getaway

Many couples drive off in their car or limo with cans tied to the back or a sign that says “Just Married.” For something different, try riding away on bikes, motorcycles, or horses. Take a cable car or boat. Better yet, lead a band of revelers in a parade! Point is, feel free to get creative.

How are you personalizing your out-of-the-ordinary wedding? Let us know!

Follow Vendors on Instagram For More Inspiration:

Product styling – @pippaandfig

Photography – @jessicacooperphotography

Gowns – @sweetcarolinestyles

Hair – @bellesandgrooms

Makeup –  @occasionsbydiana

5 Must-Have Items for Every Spring Bride

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It’s finally spring! The sun is peeking through, tiny birds are chirping, and trees are starting to bud. Today, we’re spotlighting lovely spring weddings and sharing our tips for how to stay warm, look stylish, and absolutely glow on your big day!

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PRETTY VEIL

There’s nothing like a whimsical veil to add glorious beauty to your bridal look. Even if you’re not a head-over-heels romantic bride, this lovely accessory is a must-have when it comes to your ceremony and bridal portraits. This is also a great opportunity to express your personal style.

Choose a soft floral lace for a touch of romance; lace appliqués or more structured Alen­çon lace for a traditional look; rhinestones or beads for fairy-tale sparkle; and a clear cut edge or light rolled edge veil for sheer elegance. Short or long, you can find a design that is totally you.

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STYLISH COVER-UP

Spring weather can be pretty unpredictable. Sure, your groom will give up his suit jacket so you don’t freeze, but do you really want to cover up your gorgeous gown—and leave him shivering?

Plan ahead by choosing a light shawl, bridal jacket or bolero, or a cute wrap. Even if it doesn’t rain, you can use it for your getaway or even honeymoon! More bridal salons are offering these accessories in a range of styles—from 3D flowers on organza to intricately beaded cover ups to silky scarves, so pick one that will keep you looking beautifully bridal.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

CHANGE OF SHOES

Whether you’re getting married inside or outdoors, you’ll want at least two pairs: one for your walk down the aisle and one for the reception. Typically, it’s best to choose a wide heel for outdoor ceremonies and formal heels for weddings inside. Reception shoes can be anything that you are comfortable dancing in for at least a couple hours—choose something attractive yet cushiony (like a flat) that you can rely on.

If it rains, it’s not a bad idea to bring an extra pair of sneakers—some brides even wear boots! Lots of great photo opps revolve around shoes, so play around and have fun. Florals, bling, and bold colors offer you a range of options.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

EMERGENCY BEAUTY KIT

Every bride should have an emergency kit for touch-ups. After all, people will be taking photos of you literally the entire day—and probably into the night, depending on how long your reception lasts.

A concealer, powder, blush, mascara, lip gloss, and lip stick are pretty standard. Make sure to include oil blotting pads or wipes, makeup remover, a comb, and spare pins. Between the ceremony and reception is a good time to sneak away to touch up.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

FLOWER HEADPIECE

Spring is the perfect season to grace your hair with gorgeous flowers! You can incorporate the beauty of nature with any number of headpiece options.

If you’re wearing lace, try a soft fabric flower comb or headband with delicate floral details. To jazz up a simple dress, enhance your ensemble with a sparkly hair vine or vintage-inspired comb. If you’re featuring gold in your look, choose painted gold leaves or metallic flowers. Going boho-chic? Try on a dazzling rhinestone halo. Keep looking until you find that perfect treasure for your big day.

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Are you getting married in the spring? Check out our Instagram feed for seasonal bridal inspiration!

Chicago Bridal Market Recap—Most Popular Styles in 2016

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We were so thrilled to see many of our fabulous retail partners at the Chicago Bridal Market! We unveiled our new line for Fall 2016 and got to check out the new trends for this season. If you missed us, we’ll also be in Dallas and New York—so be sure to stop by and add our newest bits of pretty to your store inventory!

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Our most popular carryovers included champagne and blush flowers, gorgeous cathedral veils, and glittering halos. Most coveted headpiece styles included 6500, 6202, 6284, 6551 (shown above), 6571, and 6435—be sure you show them off in your store! Many of these best-selling items are available to ship in as little as 1–3 weeks.

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Top-selling carryover veils included our lovely Alençon lace veil V7034, silver beaded edge veil V7056, silver rolled edge and crystal edge veil V7054, and lace appliqué veil V7159 (shown above). Be sure you have these seasonal favorites in stock to show your summer brides!

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The styles our stores loved the most from our new Fall 2016 line were sparkling combs, pretty little pins, champagne/gold belts, and gorgeous cathedral veils. Our jewelry was especially popular this season! Be sure you select a variety of styles, so that all your brides can discover a Bel Aire Bridal treasure to love.

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Stay tuned on our Instagram feed for sneak peeks at our new styles! If you didn’t come see us in Chicago, be sure to contact your sales representative or visit us at the Dallas or New York bridal markets.

Not one of our retailers, but interested in our products? Brides, please visit our Store Locator to find an authorized salon near you! New stores, please contact us and learn how to Become a Retailer.

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

Spring Flower Inspiration for Your Wedding Pt. I

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Can you believe yesterday was the first day of spring? Now that we’re over the hump of winter, we are looking forward to all things green and blooming—and of course, spring weddings!

Take a peek at these lovely spring flowers for your décor, bouquet, color scheme, and bridal style inspiration.

Style: Pure Romance

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Peony

With hues ranging from white to blushing pink to deep raspberry, this gorgeous flower looks amazing in any bouquet. It symbolizes love, prosperity, and bashfulness. It is also the traditional flower symbol of China, the state flower of Indiana, and your 12th anniversary flower.

Lilac

The lilac generally symbolizes renewal and growth; white suggests innocence, and purple is for love. It is the state flower of New Hampshire and your 8th wedding anniversary flower.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Romantic vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for romantic, blushing brides: V7300, a beautiful scalloped Alençon lace veil.

Style: Sweet & Bohemian

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Daffodil

Reminiscent of spring sunshine, this lovely little flower pops up year after year! These trumpet-shaped blooms are icons of hope, joy, and inspiration. It is also the flower for your 10th anniversary.

Daisy

For the fresh optimist, this year-round flower stands for innocence, purity, and new beginnings. It comes in a variety of cheerful colors and is your 5th anniversary flower.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Bohemian vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for boho brides: V7234, an airy foldover veil that is as light as the breeze.

Style: Fairy-Tale Sparkle

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Snowdrop

One of the first flowers to appear after winter’s snows, these lovely little white blooms symbolize hope in the face of adversity. They can also be used for sympathy or as a sign of rebirth.

Cherry Blossom

These delicate white or pink flowers stand for renewal, optimism, and the fleeting nature of life. They are the national flower of Japan and are associated with beauty in China.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Fairy-Tale wedding vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for glamorous brides: V7175, a stunningly dramatic  lace cathedral veil.

Style: Classic Beauty

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Ranunculus

Ranging from bright yellow buttercups to decadent pinks to pretty white flowers, these boldly beautiful blooms symbolize charm and attraction.

Garden Rose

Also known as cabbage roses for their abundant petals, these lovely blooms are especially fragrant and evoke a variety of meanings, depending on their colors.  Roses are a traditional gift for not just Valentine’s Day, but also your 15th anniversary.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Classic wedding vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for elegant brides: V7303, a two-tier folded ribbon edge veil that says bride with beautiful simplicity.

Want more pretty flowers to brighten your day? Check out our Beautiful Blooms board on Pinterest for more gorgeous floral inspiration!

5 Cool Irish Wedding Traditions You Can Adopt

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Every March 17th, it suddenly seems like everyone you know has Irish heritage somewhere in their family tree. But the rest of us can also appreciate the romantic, historical, and fun traditions that spring from this country’s rich history. Read on for some seriously steal-worthy wedding ideas!

The Claddagh Ring

This one is so romantic, it just had to make the top of our list. The Claddagh ring originated in a small fishing village just outside of Galway and is a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. It may be used as a promise ring, wedding band, or anniversary ring and should ideally be given as a gift.

Wear it on your right hand with the point of the heart towards you if you’re in a relationship; with the point facing out if you’re looking for love. Wear it on your left hand with the point towards you if you’re already married; with the point facing out if you’re engaged.

Want more info? http://www.theirishstore.com/blog/2014/07/16/claddagh-ring-says-about-you/

Handfasting

This Celtic tradition is super sweet and gives you something to do besides just reciting your vows. Handfasting literally ties the couple’s hands together, “tying the knot” to symbolize a steadfast commitment to each other. It can be used in a marriage ceremony or for an engagement. Historically, this agreement joined a couple in a probationary relationship; if, after a year and a day, the couple still wanted to be married forever and ever, they could call a priest to make it official.

Want more info? http://www.celticjewelry.com/content/celtic-weddings/a-brief-history-of-handfasting-in-celtic-marriage/

Irish Drinks

Especially if you’re hosting a St. Patty’s Day wedding, you can give your reception an Irish twist by incorporating traditionally “Irish” drinks such as whiskey, mead, or Guinness. There’s no definite reason why drinking became so popular on St. Patrick’s Day, but the holiday originated from a Catholic feast day honoring the patron saint of Ireland.

Want more info? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick%27s_Day

Ringing Bells

In many religious traditions, people rang bells at the wedding ceremony to drive away evil spirits. The practice of ringing a small bell arose in Ireland under the Penal Laws, which prohibited Irish Roman Catholics and Protestants from performing services except in private. Newlyweds would keep a bell in the home after the wedding, too, to help mediate arguments and remind them of their wedding vows.

You can hand out cute little bells to your guests for the send-off, which is especially convenient if confetti is not allowed at your venue.

Want more info? http://www.ireland-information.com/articles/irishweddingtraditions.htm; http://bridalguide.com/blogs/bridal-buzz/irish-wedding-traditions

Lucky Charms

The shamrock is a well-known Irish symbol of luck, initially popularized by St. Patrick to help explain the Trinity. You can use it on your invitations or feature the symbol in your general décor.

The horseshoe is another token traditionally carried by the bride on her walk down the aisle. Brides in ages past held an iron horseshoe that was later mounted on the wall of her home for good fortune; modern brides often choose porcelain horseshoes or wear silver charms.

Want more info? http://www.irishcentral.com/roots/five-old-irish-wedding-traditions-you-may-not-know-about-photos-221339081-237772511.html

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Style a Glamorous Bridal Look in 3 Easy Steps

Want to look amazing on your wedding day? It’s not as hard as you’d think! Feel extra-glamorous and create your own princess-inspired look with just three items.

Dazzling Headpiece

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If you’re going for a classic or formal bridal look, a veil is a must-have. But did you know that your headpiece is what really ties in your theme?

Whether you want a vintage vibe or romantic style, your hair accessory makes or breaks the look. Choose a shimmering halo for boho-chic sparkle; a lace and rhinestone headband for classic elegance (style 6649 shown); or an Art Deco design for jazz age glamour.

Sparkly Bracelet

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Beauty is in the details. You might think no one will notice if you’re wearing a bracelet or not, but you’ll love the close-up photos of your bouquet and ring if you are!

Choose a glamorous cuff or clasp bracelet (style BC134 shown) for a touch of shimmering elegance that will dress up your whole look. Belts are also a great way to personalize your gown.

Fabulous Earrings

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Perhaps the most important element of a glamorous bridal ensemble, dramatic earrings are practically required (style EA213 shown). If you’re wearing your hair up in an elegant bun, you’ll get incredible sparkle in those photos. If you’re going hair down, a bit of bling can still shine through.

You can add some shoulder jewelry or a necklace if you’re sporting a strapless gown, but don’t overdo it. Try on everything together and strike the perfect balance.

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Styling a glamorous look for your wedding? Check out our My Bridal Style Glamorous page for some ideas. Follow us on Instagram for up-to-the-minute inspiration!