Style Spotlight: The Beautiful Bohemian Bride

Planning a laid-back bohemian style wedding? Congratulations! You are officially a low-key, cool bride.

For boho-chic, glamping, or rustic wedding themes, your styling options abound. No longer are brides limited to strapless ball gowns and high heels.

In fact, once you’ve chosen a comfortable dress you love (that’s right, we said comfortable), all you have to do is add a few special accessories, and presto! You’ll look and feel like a bride—without boning, pins, body tape, or corsets.

Since we’re an accessories company, we’ve got the inside scoop on the prettiest headpieces and veils for your style of wedding. Scroll to check out our top 6 picks just for you.

The Floating Petals

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Sheer beauty floats atop your head with this light-as-air veil. Six different tulle petals create a graceful, ethereal design that is bridal yet so boho-chic. There are no trims or fussy frills included. You can order this style with the same color petals or with a blend of shades for your own unique look.

The Simple Trim

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For a look that is blissfully simple, a cascading ribbon edge veil will do the trick. This design features rounded corners and a waterfall of tulle that floats down to fingertip length. Especially if you’re hosting a wedding weekend with multiple events, this style is perfect to throw on for the actual ceremony.

The Breezy Foldover

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Want that picture with a beautiful long veil blowing in the breeze? If you love the dreamy appeal of a bridal veil, this cathedral is perfect. A sheer foldover design floats behind you in a cloud of tulle. You can wear the top tier over your face or behind you—both looks are incredibly romantic.

The Sparkly Hair Vine

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Weave an enchanting spell with a gorgeous, glittering hair vine. This lovely, flexible design features shimmering opal crystals or rhinestones and can be worn as a headband or woven into your hair. Perfect for styling a creative boho-chic look with a smidge of sparkle, this vine secures on organza ties.

The Metallic Leaf Headband

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Make your day feel truly special by gilding your locks with a metallic leaf headband. Glittering with rhinestone accents, this antiqued metal headpiece brings an elegant aesthetic to your bohemian look. This design coordinates beautifully with an enchanted forest or glamping theme.

The Floral Half Halo

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Bring on the flower power! Grace your hairstyle with a beautiful tie headband of soft organza flowers and rose buds. Embellished with subtle lace details and sparkling rhinestone accents, this ethereal design touches your tresses with bridal romance. The semi-flexible band ties on sheer organza.

Want more ideas? Check out our My Bridal Style: Bohemian page for inspiration. You can also follow us on Instagram for pretty styled shoots and real bride features.

Plan the Ultimate Bohemian Wedding

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If you’re a bohemian bride, you probably don’t care much for mundane details. What type of tuxedo should your groom wear? Pass. How many tables should you rent? Snooze. What color do you want the linens? Wait, there are linens?

Yup, there are linens. But don’t worry, some aspects of the ceremony/reception are actually fun to plan! Read on for 10 easy ways to create your own boho-style wedding bash.

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book an outdoor venue

Have you always dreamed of a wedding on the beach? Maybe your wish is to say I do in a secluded forest, or exchange vows beneath a sprawling oak tree in a meadow. Keep the size of your wedding and preferred style of gown in mind when choosing a place. Plan ahead for the weather!

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choose a theme

Your theme ties everything together. You can use coordinating colors as a generic wedding theme (the traditional choice), or you can go with something more personalized. Great boho-friendly styles include the beach, astrology, an enchanted forest, a midsummer’s dream, or a celestial theme.

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Photo Credit | Jessica Cooper for Sweet Caroline Styles

plan the party

Give your guests something fun to do! Popular activities include photo booths, drink mixing stations, yard games, or outdoor excursions. Be sure to offer multiple options, especially if you’re stretching the celebration over a weekend. Get creative and provide interesting entertainment.

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write your own vows

It’s best to write or choose vows with deep meaning. Your relationship is unique; the words you use to make this commitment should be personal. Put thought into this and show your future spouse exactly how you feel. Reflect your heritage. Express yourself.

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Photo Credit | Jessica Cooper for Sweet Caroline Styles

Rings | Harry Merrill

include crystals & natural stones

For your décor, you can choose meaningful crystals and stones to reflect your feelings. Stones make beautiful and interesting centerpieces, place cards, or even invitations! You can send guests home with their own crystals and/or gift your bridesmaids with natural stone jewelry.

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use flowers

Flowers are a lovely finishing touch. For a boho ceremony, a cascading bouquet with wild flowers looks gorgeous. You can wear a natural floral crown, a fabric flower headband, or even a gilded halo. Floral prints for bridesmaids’ dresses are big this year! Play off the natural beauty of your surroundings.

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Photo Credit | Jessica Cooper for Sweet Caroline Styles

be eco-friendly

Every wedding should be eco-friendly, don’t you think? Use local, seasonal flowers or potted plants for your décor, and shrink your ecological footprint. Send digital invitations. Ask guests to carpool. Let the flower girls scatter biodegradable confetti. Give favors that people can grow, eat, or re-use.

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Photo Credit | Jessica Cooper for Sweet Caroline Styles

post quotes

Incorporate extra-special meaning into your wedding by displaying your favorite quotes from poets, novelists, philosophers, or even movies! Some couples hang banners; others print quotes onto table cards or make a custom aisle runner. Invite your guests to reflect on the nature of life and love.

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create reception magic

Host your reception at a site with campfires. Roast s’mores, drink, and be merry until the sun comes up! Provide space heaters or blankets if it will be chilly; glow stick or lanterns are helpful if there won’t be much lighting outside. Watch the stars, discuss the phases of the moon, and enjoy the night.

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Are you planning a boho wedding bash? Share your ideas! Be sure to check out our My Bridal Style: Bohemian page for bridal outfit inspiration.

7 Fabulous Ways to Sparkle on Your Wedding Day

Want to look radiantly beautiful on your wedding day?

Special accessories enhance your whole bridal ensemble and personalize your look like nothing else. Our new Fall 2016 collection includes glamorous headpieces that infuse your wardrobe with stunning sparkle. Discover your favorite design!

Opulent Metallic Flowers

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Embrace pure romance wearing a gorgeous headband glittering with rhinestone-encrusted metallic flowers. Available in silver or gold, this gilded design blends glamour and nature-inspired beauty. This pretty floral piece is perfect for a garden wedding.

Put a Crown On It

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Are you wearing a bridal gown fit for a princess? Complete your look with a dainty yet dramatic rhinestone and crystal tiara with tiny pearl accents. This regal accessory tops off your dream wedding style like icing on a cake. Pair a sparkly, romantic veil to complete a glamorous ensemble.

Hidden Treasure Pins

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For a subtle yet luxurious look, pick a set of dainty rhinestone and pearl hair pins. These sweet, sparkly little treasures infuse your hairstyle with special elegance and beauty. Wear them beneath a veil, or gift them to your bridesmaids for the big day.

Starburst Comb

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Sparkle all night long with an amazingly glamorous headpiece. Packed with a dazzling array of rhinestones, this eye-catching comb shimmers with luxurious elegance. Pair it with drop earrings or a dramatic veil to complete the ultimate bridal ensemble.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Headband

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Slip something sparkly into your tresses with an opulent tie headband. Shimmering with glamorous rhinestones, this modern design adds an elegant touch to your whole look. Add a veil to complete a stunning ensemble.

Stunning Baguette Tie Band

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Turn heads wearing an utterly gorgeous tie headband embellished with dramatic baguette, marquise, and pear-shaped rhinestones. Sparkling with radiant beauty, this easy-wear headband may also be worn as a belt. Pair it with a veil to complete your ensemble, or gift it as a belt to your MOH.

Shimmering Dewdrop Comb

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Channel nature-inspired elegance with a gorgeous comb composed of wired rhinestone sprays. Shimmering like dew, this twinkling comb transforms your hairstyle with luminous elegance. Pair it with a glamorous veil for an utterly dreamy wardrobe.

Are you a glamorous bride? Check out our My Bridal Style boards for inspiration, and follow us on Instagram for pretty little updates on all things sparkly.

5 Reasons to Have a Beach Wedding

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Trying to decide if a beach wedding is right for you? There are wonderful reasons to host an elaborate ceremony in a cathedral or ballroom, and for saying “I do” in a blooming, flower-filled garden. But getting married on the beach has its own special charms!

In honor of summer weddings, here are 5 fabulous reasons why you should pick a coastal venue to exchange your vows.

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No Shoes, No Problem

Are you a laid-back bride? Want to steer clear of stiletto heels? If you would rather go barefoot or dance in flip-flops, a beach wedding is perfect for you. This situation is ideal for a casual theme with nautical details like starfish, sand, surf, and shells.

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Sunglasses Always Look Cool

Go on, get that photo of everyone wearing sunglasses, looking like they’re straight out of the CIA. You can ditch the formal jackets and ties, and go for an all-out summer theme! If your idea of a good time involves tropical drinks and sunblock, this is a good way to go.

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Dare to Bare

Is your dream wedding gown free-flowing rather than structured? Does it lack straps or show a bit more skin than usual? If you’re just itching to ditch the traditional dress with a long train, the beach is your opportunity to show off a more relaxed style. Your guests can come with casual attire, too!Just-married-couple-kissing-on-tropical-beach-at-sunset-000032199840_Medium-(1).jpg

Incredible Veil Photos

Beach weddings give you amazing photos. You can get one with your veil blowing in the coastal wind, and showcase the natural ocean scenery. Rather than skipping accessories, highlight them in beautiful, beachy bridal portraits that will be anything but boring.

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Romantic Getaway

If you want to honeymoon on the coast or at a tropical location, a beach wedding just makes sense. You’ll already be at or near your destination, and friends and family can stay longer than just one day! The beach is soothing, romantic, intimate, and absolutely gorgeous. What better place to kick back and start your married life?

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Are you dreaming of a beach wedding? Check out our Destination Weddings and Nautical Weddings boards for ideas!Romantic-decoration-on-the-sea-side-000068855939_Medium.jpg

The Best of Bridal: Styles of the Past 100 Years

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We absolutely love this amazing video published by Glamour! Showcasing the lovely engagement rings and popular bridal looks of the past 100 years, this stylish shoot features all kinds of pretty.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkBvN17Ww10

Which decade is your favorite? We adored them all, so here’s the scoop on how to style your very own vintage-inspired look!Family-000077062903_Medium.jpg

1910s

At the turn of the century, modest Edwardian gowns and simple rings were in vogue. Think parasols, bustiers, stockings—the whole nine yards! Veils during this era were long and simple, often accompanied by flowered hats or floral garlands.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a vintage gown à la Downton Abbey and classic accessories like headpiece 6410, veil V7198, and bracelet BC141.

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1920s

This decade was all about opulence and fashion-forward sparkle. Thanks to the Gatsby movie a few years back, modern brides inspired by this jazzy era have plenty of options! Geometric designs, beautiful beading, and Art Deco lines create a fabulous ‘20s theme.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a jazzy, beaded sheath gown and sparkly accessories. Try on headpiece 6351, a clip like 6405, and a tie veil such as 6354.

1930s

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Due to the economic crash of the Great Depression, this era featured much more modest wedding attire. Suit sets and blazers came into style, though intricately beaded cap veils were still popular.

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Our Top Picks: Petite bow clip 6607, Chantilly lace cap 6364, and bracelet BC130.

1940s

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Much like the previous decade, dress suit sets were popular and often worn by military brides. Modest, high-necked wedding dresses and long veils were in style. Flower headpieces, pearls, and lace gowns grew in popularity.

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Our Top Pics: Style a look of endearing romance with pearl crown headpiece 6491, tie lace veil 6444, and pearl jewelry set J2094.

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1950s

The economic upswing of the ‘50s meant more extravagant wedding attire! Stand-out examples include Jacqueline Kennedy’s beautiful off-the-shoulder bridal gown and decadent cap veil, as well as Grace Kelly’s high neck lace gown and lace trimmed veil.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a period-inspired French net veil like 6225 or a dramatic cathedral veil like V7179C. Add pearl-encrusted bracelet BC139.

1960s

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Diverse fashions in the ‘60s offered brides everything from long lace sleeves to full-skirted princess gowns to modest going-away suits. Some brides wore hats, some wore flowers, and some went with multi-tiered veils.

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Our Top Picks: A dreamy veil with lots of volume like V7164, Venise lace flower clip 6533, or drop earrings EA227.

1970s

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Spread the love! Bohemian looks were all the rage (and are still loved by the modern boho-chic bride). Floral lace veils, unstructured dresses with lots of layers, and flower headbands were popular.

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Our Top Picks: Stick a pretty flower on lace headwrap 6378, wear a lovely lace-trimmed veil like V7322, or try on a sparkling vine headband like 6647.

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The poufy sleeves, crazy colors, and big volume of the 1980s left a lasting impression. Over-the-top veils and voluminous gowns with long trains became popular after Princess Diana’s 1981 wedding. Opulent ceremonies with lots of lace and floral accents became the big thing.

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Our Top Picks: Re-create a retro look with an eye-catching headpiece like 6324, a dramatic cathedral veil like V7196C, and bling-worthy jewelry like BC102.

1990s

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Sleek and slim became popular in the ‘90s, with satin gowns, spaghetti straps, and simple silhouettes taking over. Crisp updos and minimal makeup were preferred to create an elegant, refined look. Brides began to incorporate colored sashes or ombré gowns.

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Our Top Picks: A princess tiara like 6304, a ribbon edge veil like V9999, and dainty jewelry set J2035.

2000s

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In the past decade, strapless princess-style dresses and dramatic skirts ruled the runways. Fit and flare lace gowns and destination wedding looks became popular. Fingertip veils grew in demand, while unique accessories personalized each bride’s ensemble.

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Our Top Picks: A beaded edge veil like V7301, sparkly headpiece like 6587, and a beautifully embellished belt like BT030.

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Welcome to The Pinterest Bride era! Today, customization is everything. Lace sleeves, creatively embellished backs, and whimsical layers offer brides plenty of options. Designers offer gowns in a range of colors. Beaded patterns, removable overskirts, dress separates, and new laces have taken center stage. Cathedral veils are back.

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Our Top Picks: A dreamy foldover cathedral veil like V7234, nature-inspired headpiece like 6605, and shoulder jewelry like SH209.

2020s

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What do you think the next decade will bring? A return to the sleek and sparkly styles of the 1920s, a throwback to retro designs from the ‘70s or ‘80s, or something entirely new?

Want to see more lovely vintage-inspired looks?

Browse our My Bridal Style: Vintage board for ideas!

 

6 Classy Summer Wedding Styles

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The “unofficial start to summer” is a week away! Are you ready?

Attending a wedding this summer? Styling outfits for your bridesmaids? Whether you’re getting married in a garden or running to the beach, you can create a look that is totally classy yet still laid-back with just a few fun bridal accessories.

Pearls are always in style, and there’s no time like the summer to show them off! Created by the ocean, pearls infuse an air of natural bohemian glamour into your ensemble.

Our glass pearl accessories preserve the look and style of natural pearls with the added sparkle of rhinestone accents in modern, creative pieces. Browse our hottest designs and find a new bit of pretty to wear at your summer event!

Wired Leaves Lined with Pearls

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Stunning in gold or silver, style 6558 combines a delicately wired design of open leaves with tiny pearl accents on ribbon ties. Beautifully bohemian, this lovely headpiece may be styled just how you want it: worn across the forehead or as a headband, with or without a veil. Sparkling rhinestone accents finish off an unforgettable look.

Floral Comb with Lustrous Pearls

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Understated. Classic. Gorgeous. Style 6569 combines sparkling rhinestone flowers with champagne pearls in a small comb that goes with everything bridal. Tuck this tiny treasure into an updo or beneath a veil for a pretty bit of sparkle that’s just at home on the beach as it is in a church.

Sparkly Headband with Pearl Flowers

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Sparkle like a siren from the sea wearing headband 6531. Glistening crystals, ivory pearl flowers, and shimmering rhinestones enhance tiny silver leaves in a lovely bridal statement piece. Pair it with a pearl dotted veil or cut edge design to exude an air of carefree beauty.

Classic Edge Cathedral Veil

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Breezy and beautiful, an understated veil goes with literally everything—the cathedral length adds a feeling of once-in-a-lifetime romance. Wear it boho-style on the beach or for your fairy-tale garden event: this lovely, simple accessory says bride with easygoing elegance. Style V7164C features a fold-over blusher; for a single cut-edge layer, ask for style V9994C.

Pearl Dotted Fingertip Veil

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Pop on a pretty accent with a flattering fingertip length veil dotted with tiny pearls. Beautifully bridal, this fun and flirty veil V7253 features a clean cut edge and scattered pearls in a modern design. Secure this style in a braid, chignon, half-updo, or topknot and feel it float behind you in the summer breeze.

Lace Appliqué Cathedral Veil

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Lace brings heart-fluttering bridal romance to your outfit. A simple rolled edge cathedral veil flaunts gorgeous lace appliqués in a design that will turn heads. Wear V7263C at your beach wedding for a look as romantic as the sunset, or show it off at your garden affair for an elegant, floral-inspired ensemble.

How are you styling your summer wedding look?

Follow us on Instagram and share your ideas! 

5 Reasons You Should Have a Spring Wedding

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Trying to set a date? Say “I do” to a gorgeous spring wedding! We are absolutely in love with the romantic stylings available to spring brides. Here are our five favorite reasons for kicking off your marriage between March and May!

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Pretty Flowers Everywhere

We’re talking flower petals in the aisle, flower curtains adorning the walls, tall vases of flowers, flowers hanging from the ceiling, flowers overflowing from your bouquet. Spring is naturally the best season to use fresh blooms in your décor. You can choose seasonal varieties to keep costs down (as much as possible) and indulge in a sensationally romantic ambiance.

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Precious Flower Girls

There’s nothing cuter than a little flower girl in her princess-style dress, sporting a halo of tiny flowers in her hair! (Unless, of course, you tie a floral wreath around your dog and parade him/her down the aisle as the ring-bearer.) Flowers as adornments go back centuries, and this lovely little touch adds fairy-tale charm to your theme.

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Beautiful Bridesmaids

Can this year’s floral gowns be any more romantic? We’re swooning over the incredible floral bridesmaids’ dresses popping up in spring weddings. You can mix and match pretty pastels and flower patterns for a coordinated yet stylish look that will be unique to your wedding.

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Romantic Color Schemes

Soft pastels paint a picture of subtle elegance and feminine beauty. Serenity, blush, champagne, peach, nude, lavender, and sage are perfect for spring weddings. Add a pop of bold color such as marsala or navy for a striking effect, or go for a romantic watercolor look with mostly neutrals.

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Amazing Bridal Florals

Spring is the time to indulge in flower accessories. Options abound for a stunningly romantic look: style your hair with a pretty floral halo, soft petal comb, golden metallic bloom, or sparkly rhinestone design. Consider pairing a veil embroidered with floral designs or edged with lace for a head-over-heels gorgeous ensemble.

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Are you planning a spring wedding? Let us know your styling ideas!  

5 Ways to Style a Black & White Wedding

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

The beautiful thing about black and white weddings is that they can be classic, elegant, and utterly chic—or totally untraditional, modern, and creative. One thing all black and white weddings do have in common? Unforgettable style.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

You can’t go wrong with this classy color scheme. Black is flattering on all body types and adds an air of special elegance to your celebration. Check out these five easy ways to style an absolutely jaw-dropping black and white wedding.

Philadelphia-Wedding-Photographer_Jessica-Cooper-Photography-2Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Black & White Anemones
Anemones bring effortless drama to your whole look. Arresting and elegant, these lovely flowers are a striking choice for bouquets or centerpieces. Style a traditional bridal bouquet by adding white roses or go for a sprawling, wild look by mixing in greenery.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

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Black Tie Attire
Obviously a black and white wedding should be a black tie affair. Your groom and his friends will look sharp in tuxedos (white or black). Add an elegant black sash to your gown to accentuate the theme. If you’re really thinking outside the box, throw in a pair of swanky black shoes or vintage lace gloves!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Dazzling Dresses
A white or ivory bridal gown isn’t your only option. Slimming, sensual black gowns make a bold impression—whether you dress up your bridesmaids, don a LBD for the reception, or gracefully glide down the aisle in a tulle ball gown. Shimmering sequins in gold or silver also complement a glamorous black and white color scheme.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Sparkling Jewelry
Stunning bling is a must-have for any formal wedding. Fine tune your look with an elegant rhinestone jewelry set, vintage-inspired black drop earrings, or a warm gold accent like a bracelet or belt. If you’ve chosen a strapless gown, consider shoulder jewelry! Ideally, pick something you’d love to wear again for a special occasion.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Cathedral Veil
There’s nothing more romantic and beautiful than a cathedral veil. When you stand before your wedding guests, that pretty bit of tulle becomes the focal point of your wardrobe. Choosing a gorgeous cathedral veil adds unforgettable elegance to your look. When you take it off for the reception, show off a sparkly headpiece. You are only a bride for a day!

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How are you styling your black and white wedding? Let us know!

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.

5 Secrets to Know Before You Choose a Diamond Engagement Ring

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Ever wonder why engagement rings cost so much?

A lot goes into that bit of bling besides just the 4 C’s (cut, carat, clarity, color). The setting and origin of your diamond, for example, play a role in the overall cost—as well as where you buy it, the warranty, and so much more!

So we sat down with an Accredited Jewelry Professional (and bona-fide expert on gemology) to get the inside scoop. Here are five secrets about the diamond industry you should know before you say “I do” to that sparkly engagement ring.

Quality matters more than quantity.

A lot of shoppers are impressed by carat, but it’s not just the size that counts. For a truly gorgeous ring, focus on quality. Consider the clarity and scintillation of your stone. What is the color grade? Are there inclusions? How was it cut? A brilliant cut gem such as a round or princess diamond will hide imperfections better than a step-cut gem such as an emerald-cut or baguette-cut diamond.

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Conflict-free is harder to find than you’d think.

 Many of the big jewelry chains cannot guarantee a conflict-free stone. Be aware of where your diamond comes from and get your stone from a certified, ethical source. Thanks to online resources, it’s much easier to find out of the store’s claims are legit. Also, you should be able to ask questions and get a detailed, intelligent response. Your ring is an investment. If the salesperson doesn’t seem to know what they are talking about, go elsewhere.

What the ring represents matters.

An engagement ring is more than just how much sparkle you can get for your buck. Your ring purchase symbolizes the promise of a life together, so consider your situation when picking a design. For example, avoid spending a ton if you are saving for a house or paying off debt. Choose a ring that best fits you right now, as a couple. While you shouldn’t settle for poor quality or a style you don’t like, remember that you can always add bands or upgrade in a few years for an anniversary or big life event.

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Rings require regular maintenance.

Think you can throw a ring on your finger, and it’ll be good for 30 years? Um, not so much. Proper maintenance is important because the metal band gets worn down from everyday use and chemical exposure. Avoid applying lotions when you are wearing your ring, and skip generic jewelry cleaners. Stores will clean your ring with steam or an ultrasonic treatment, so take it in every six months (or at least every year) for a proper cleaning. Diamonds can scratch the metal or fall out if the settings are loose. If you suspect a damaged setting, immediately snap a photo and take your ring in for repair.

Protect your ring with insurance and safe keeping.

Your ring is made of precious metal and delicate stone, so treat it kindly. Get insurance so you won’t have to pay if it gets stolen or damaged. When you do take it off, keep it on a ring holder or put it in a trinket dish so it doesn’t get lost. Most gold blends and silver bands will tarnish over time because the metal slowly oxidizes when exposed to the air. When possible, store it in a bag or box. Even if it looks fine, take the ring back to the shop for routine cleanings and inspections.

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Overall, you should choose a meaningful engagement ring that is right for your financial situation. As with a relationship, you can’t just forget about it and expect it to last. Take excellent care of your ring and you’ll be able to pass that bit of sparkly on to the next generation.