Monthly Archives: September 2024

Clean and Chic Trunk Show: Trend Spotlight

We’re ordering in loaner dresses from our designers following one of the biggest wedding dress trends of the season.

Every now and then a bridal trend really takes off and becomes the new defining look of an era—and that seems to be what’s happening with the new “clean and chic” look that has been in high demand all summer.

“Clean and chic” is defined by smooth fabrics, precise design details, and a lack of embellishment (no lace, beading, or bedazzling to be seen here—but maybe some pearls!). What it does NOT mean is “boring.” These dresses often make bold silhouette choices, and come in a range of fabrics, from luscious Mikado satin to smooth crepe to floaty chiffon. They also aren’t necessarily “simple!” While some may fall into the minimalist aesthetic (as you’ll see!), others include oversized elements and plenty of volume.

We love giving our brides access to as wide a range of dresses and styles as possible—including ones they might not find at their local wedding boutique. To that end, we’re hosting a special in-store trunk show on September 28th, to highlight the “clean and chic” trend. We’re ordering in nine loaner gowns from our designers that we don’t usually carry in our store so that brides who are interested in this style can shop a broader selection. We’re also offering 10% off when a bride says “yes” to a trunk show dress—or to any other dress in our store that matches the “clean and chic” style!

Our weekend is already pretty full, but we have Friday slots open for brides who are eager to shop this style. Contact us to book an appointment, and take a look at the dresses we’re ordering in to see if any of them match your aesthetic.

Essense D3991: Curve-hugging contours.Remember when we said this trend didn’t mean “boring?” Essense D3991 is what we’re talking about. This figure-hugging gown features a deep, plunging V neckline that is matched in the back by a dramatic train. The Mikado satin fabric gives the dress a lustrous feel that is enhanced by the rows of pearl beading that give an extra pop to the seamline coutouring.

Remember when we said this trend didn’t mean “boring?” Essense D3991 is what we’re talking about. This figure-hugging gown features a deep, plunging V neckline that is matched in the back by a dramatic train. The Mikado satin fabric gives the dress a lustrous feel that is enhanced by the rows of pearl beading that give an extra pop to the seamline coutouring.

Essense D3631: Dramatic and luxurious.

To us, Essense D3631 is the definition of “maximalist.” A voluminous A-line silhouette, off-the-shoulder shawl, and a thigh-high slit give this gown plenty of dramatic elements. But if that isn’t enough drama for you, it also comes with an oversized detachable bow at the waist. The matte Mikado fabric give this dress weight and would make it perfect for a fall or winter wedding.

To us, Essense D3631 is the definition of “maximalist.” A voluminous A-line silhouette, off-the-shoulder shawl, and a thigh-high slit give this gown plenty of dramatic elements. But if that isn’t enough drama for you, it also comes with an oversized detachable bow at the waist. The matte Mikado fabric give this dress weight and would make it perfect for a fall or winter wedding.

Essense D3705: Storybook elegance.

Can’t decide what silhouette to go for? Essense D3705 offers a two-in-one. This sheath dress features a beautifully draped bodice that flows into an elegant train. Prefer a ballgown? The detachable overskirt adds volume and gives this gown more of a fairytale feel. After all, what’s more magical than a transforming gown?

Can’t decide what silhouette to go for? Essense D3705 offers a two-in-one. This sheath dress features a beautifully draped bodice that flows into an elegant train. Prefer a ballgown? The detachable overskirt adds volume and gives this gown more of a fairytale feel. After all, what’s more magical than a transforming gown?

Essense D3524: Sleek and sexy.

From the front, the low V neckline on Essense D3524 combined with straps and a high slit give this sheath an almost casual feel. All that changes with the low backless design, set off by a scooped drape of fabric. A bold, confident choice, this dress is sure to leave an impression. Keeping the styling simple with minimalist jewelry, or contrast with statement metals.

From the front, the low V neckline on Essense D3524 combined with straps and a high slit give this sheath an almost casual feel. All that changes with the low backless design, set off by a scooped drape of fabric. A bold, confident choice, this dress is sure to leave an impression. Keeping the styling simple with minimalist jewelry, or contrast with statement metals.

Essense D3576: Minimalist and modern.

There’s a lot to be said for gowns that speak volumes with just a few details, and Essense D3576 is one of them. The wide straps accentuate the scooped V neckline, while the thin belt provides definition at the waist. A long train with fabric covered buttons finishes off the look.

There’s a lot to be said for gowns that speak volumes with just a few details, and Essense D3576 is one of them. The wide straps accentuate the scooped V neckline, while the thin belt provides definition at the waist. A long train with fabric covered buttons finishes off the look.

Essense D3080: Pure princess.

Essense D3080 is the ultimate Hallmark romance movie wedding dress, with the deep plunge on the sweetheart neckline and full ballgown silhouette. We love how the sheer back with illusion paneling gives this gown some subtle impact. Best of all? It has pockets.

Essense D3080 is the ultimate Hallmark romance movie wedding dress, with the deep plunge on the sweetheart neckline and full ballgown silhouette. We love how the sheer back with illusion paneling gives this gown some subtle impact. Best of all? It has pockets.

Essense D3340: Full glamour.

If you’ve always been in love with a trumpet gown, Essense D3340 is the gown of your dreams. The clean lines on this gown enhance the fit and flare silhouette, which is further emphasized by the folding and wrapping on the bodice. Finally, the pointed sweetheart neckline adds a touch of spice to a classic design detail.

If you’ve always been in love with a trumpet gown, Essense D3340 is the gown of your dreams. The clean lines on this gown enhance the fit and flare silhouette, which is further emphasized by the folding and wrapping on the bodice. Finally, the pointed sweetheart neckline adds a touch of spice to a classic design detail.

Stella York 7600: Airy romance.

We’re in love with the layers of tulle that Stella York 7600 brings to this trend. The ruching across the bodice combined with the exposed boning gives this dress a soft, ethereal vibe that goes perfectly with the off-the-shoulder sleeves. We think this would be a perfect choice for a garden wedding in late spring, with flowers in full bloom.

We’re in love with the layers of tulle that Stella York 7600 brings to this trend. The ruching across the bodice combined with the exposed boning gives this dress a soft, ethereal vibe that goes perfectly with the off-the-shoulder sleeves. We think this would be a perfect choice for a garden wedding in late spring, with flowers in full bloom.

Stella York 7461: Country simplicity.

Maybe it’s the sweetheart neckline, or the wide straps, or the voluminous skirt, but Stella York 7461 is one we can see stealing the show when paired with white cowboy boots at a rustic venue. This dress isn’t without it’s special details, however. Don’t miss the line of pearls down the back—or the pockets perfectly hidden in the side seams.

Maybe it’s the sweetheart neckline, or the wide straps, or the voluminous skirt, but Stella York 7461 is one we can see stealing the show when paired with white cowboy boots at a rustic venue. This dress isn’t without it’s special details, however. Don’t miss the line of pearls down the back—or the pockets perfectly hidden in the side seams.

We’re always happy to order in a dress from our designers if you would like to try it on in our store.

If you missed our trunk show for the clean and chic trend, don’t panic! We’re always happy to call our designers for a sample dress if the one that’s captured your attention isn’t at our store. Simply give us a call two weeks ahead of your visit and request your dress, and we’ll make sure it’s here for you! There is a $40 fee for any dress you call in, but always credit that toward the purchase of a dress if you buy one in our store.

And of course, we have plenty more dresses that fit the clean and chic trend in our store if that’s what you’re looking for. Book you appointment today if you would like to come in and try them on for yourself!

Our Gilmore Girls Wedding Gown Picks

What would our favorite Stars Hollow characters wear for their wedding? Here’s what we selected.

It’s a perennial game: choose a popular show or book series, and figure out which dresses are a best fit for the main characters. As a wedding dress boutique, we love imagining which of our gowns would suit different characters, and which design details might be the perfect easter eggs. (Check out our previous selections for Taylor Swift eras and popular fandoms!)

This weekend, our hometown of Brighton, MI is hosting a very special fan event honoring one of the 2000s most beloved shows. Destination Stars Hollow: A Gilmore Fan Celebration is this Saturday, where fans of the show are invited to dress up as their favorite character and explore our downtown, where over forty local businesses—including us!—will be offering themed experiences.

In preparation, we’ve pulled together a selection of wedding gowns that we think perfectly fits each of our favorite characters. You can see our selections on Instagram (give us a follow!) and read more about our choices below.

Lorelai Gilmore: Gorgeous and glowing.

Dramatic and free-spirited, we know Monika would be a perfect fit for a true bohemian like Lorelai. With delicate straps, a plunge neckline, and exposed boning, this gown is perfect for a fall wedding—complete with cups and cups and cups of coffee. While the trumpet silhouette is stunning, our favorite feature is the subtly textured lace which gives the whole gown an extra layer of radiance. We imagine this standing out in any one of our amazing local rustic chic venues, where hay rides and photo pavilion would make for the perfect Stars Hollow backdrop.

Dramatic and free-spirited, we know Monika would be a perfect fit for a true bohemian like Lorelai. With delicate straps, a plunge neckline, and exposed boning, this gown is perfect for a fall wedding—complete with cups and cups and cups of coffee. While the trumpet silhouette is stunning, our favorite feature is the subtly textured lace which gives the whole gown an extra layer of radiance. We imagine this standing out in any one of our amazing local rustic chic venues, where hay rides and photo pavilion would make for the perfect Stars Hollow backdrop.

Rory Gilmore: Effortlessly romantic.

For Rory, we chose Ariya. We love the fitted lace bodice and thin straps, as well as the overall flow of this dress—a gown that is both thoughtful and whimsical. And just like Rory, this dress may seem sleek and straightforward in front, but it saves its drama for the train! Perhaps the most beautiful detail is the scalloped lace at the hem, which gives this otherwise modern dress a slightly traditional finish.

For Rory, we chose Ariya. We love the fitted lace bodice and thin straps, as well as the overall flow of this dress—a gown that is both thoughtful and whimsical. And just like Rory, this dress may seem sleek and straightforward in front, but it saves its drama for the train! Perhaps the most beautiful detail is the scalloped lace at the hem, which gives this otherwise modern dress a slightly traditional finish.

Lane Kim: The double-take.

We would expect Lane to add a twist to her gown, which is why we chose Mason. We like how this dress has the clean, simple lines of a more traditional era, but spices it up with a thigh high slit. And for that second look (because Lane did have two wedding dresses!), the detachable overskirt reveals a short party dress underneath! The removable puff sleeves can be worn with either style, allowing you to play with your style even more.

We would expect Lane to add a twist to her gown, which is why we chose Mason. We like how this dress has the clean, simple lines of a more traditional era, but spices it up with a thigh high slit. And for that second look (because Lane did have two wedding dresses!), the detachable overskirt reveals a short party dress underneath! The removable puff sleeves can be worn with either style, allowing you to play with your style even more.

Paris Geller: A statement in minimalism.

Of course Paris would go for Archer. Known for her sharp whit, we couldn’t help but pick a dress that embodied “saying more with less.” A sophisticated gown, we imagine the smooth satin embellished with pearls would appeal to Paris’s ambition—as well as her taste. The plunge neckline give this gown an extra bit of edge that is not for the faint of heart. We think this dress would style well with a chic French twist and a pair of chandelier earrings.

Of course Paris would go for Archer. Known for her sharp whit, we couldn’t help but pick a dress that embodied “saying more with less.” A sophisticated gown, we imagine the smooth satin embellished with pearls would appeal to Paris’s ambition—as well as her taste. The plunge neckline give this gown an extra bit of edge that is not for the faint of heart. We think this dress would style well with a chic French twist and a pair of chandelier earrings.

Sookie St. James: Offbeat and enchanting.

For Sookie, we’ve chosen Greer. The long sleeves remind us of the gorgeous wedding dress she wore in the show, while, the trailing lace pattern gives this gown a soft, ephemeral quality. One of the most beloved and memorable characters from the show, Sookie always stood out for unusual (in a good way!) style choices. We think this gown is follows the same principles: a bold choice that you’ll never grow tired of.

For Sookie, we’ve chosen Greer. The long sleeves remind us of the gorgeous wedding dress she wore in the show, while, the trailing lace pattern gives this gown a soft, ephemeral quality. One of the most beloved and memorable characters from the show, Sookie always stood out for unusual (in a good way!) style choices. We think this gown is follows the same principles: a bold choice that you’ll never grow tired of.

Emily Gilmore: Old school glamour.

Nothing says “old money” like Kyra. With it’s classic lines and smooth fabric, this dress is one for showing off the accessories, such as a beautiful necklace, statement ear rings, and of course your rings. The off-the-shoulder neckline is giving old Hollywood as well—the perfect amount of glamour for the matriarch of the show. And because Emily Gilmore does have a hidden radical side, we love how this gown also has pockets.

Nothing says “old money” like Kyra. With it’s classic lines and smooth fabric, this dress is one for showing off the accessories, such as a beautiful necklace, statement ear rings, and of course your rings. The off-the-shoulder neckline is giving old Hollywood as well—the perfect amount of glamour for the matriarch of the show. And because Emily Gilmore does have a hidden radical side, we love how this gown also has pockets.

Homecoming Bonus

Finally, we couldn’t wrap up our Gilmore Girls dress roundup without a shoutout to our Homecoming collection.

We see Rory in blue chiffon—her signature color, after all. And the neck detail on this dress reminds us of scarves, fall days, and endless orders of coffee. For Lane, we’re going green. We think the dark color with the pop of sparkle is the perfect match for her rock and roll aspirations. And finally, for Paris we’ve chosen a more fitted style, which we think expresses her ambitious mindset, while the sparkles are a nod to the sparks that fly when she loses her cool.

We see Rory in blue chiffon—her signature color, after all. And the neck detail on this dress reminds us of scarves, fall days, and endless orders of coffee. For Lane, we’re going green. We think the dark color with the pop of sparkle is the perfect match for her rock and roll aspirations. And finally, for Paris we’ve chosen a more fitted style, which we think expresses her ambitious mindset, while the sparkles are a nod to the sparks that fly when she loses her cool.

Coming to the GG Event? Stop by our store!

If you’re in Brighton, MI this weekend, be sure to make our store one of your stops! Our theme is “The Life and Death Brigade,” …but what that means is for us to know and you to find out. We expecting a full event, so bring your friends and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.

See you there!

Check Out Our New Collection of Short Wedding Dresses!

Who doesn’t love a fun and flirty second look?

Ask any bride: picking a wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. Many brides have had an image of their dream wedding dress in mind from when they were little girls, while others are avid fashionistas keeping tabs on bridal trends in the hopes of finding that perfect timeless-yet-era-defining look.

While many bridal trends have come and gone over the years, most brides opt for a floor-length gown—often with a lengthy train—to maximize the drama and celebrate the special day. As a result, shorter styles aren’t often seen. However, a recent bridal trend has been for brides to choose a second dress (often a less formal look) to wear for one of the many events surrounding the official wedding.

Occasions for a second dress:

  • Engagement photos. If you’re hiring a professional photographer, investing in a second dress will give you the most bang for your buck.
  • Bridal shower. The bridal shower can be a big opportunity to bring family and family friends together before the wedding, and for in-laws to bond, making it a good time for a more sophisticated look.
  • Bachelorette party. In contrast to the bridal shower, the bachelorette party is a moment to do something more fun and playful than the wedding day.
  • Rehearsal dinner. There’s no better way to cast aside pre-wedding jitters than with a cute dress! (Or is that just us?)
  • A formal or tight dress may be exactly what you want for the ceremony, but when it comes time to hit the dance floor, and shorter dress can give you the movement you want to have a great time.
  • Wedding brunch. Traditionally, the wedding brunch is for the day after the wedding, as a final way to say thank you to the smaller group of friends and family—especially those who traveled from out of town to attend.
  • First anniversary. Since second dresses are often more wearable than a formal wedding dress, they make the perfect option for a romantic date on your first anniversary.

If one of these occasions stands out as extra special to you, and you’d like to use it as an opportunity to showcase a second look, we have great news! Our collection of short dresses could be just what you’re looking for to celebrate the day.

1: Reese: A petite princess look.

Reese has every element of a classic princess ballgown—just with a shorter hemline! From the Basque waistline to the corset boning to the off-the-shoulder straps, this dress is an absolute fairytale.

Reese has every element of a classic princess ballgown—just with a shorter hemline! From the Basque waistline to the corset boning to the off-the-shoulder straps, this dress is an absolute fairytale. We love this for a rehearsal dinner—or even for engagement photos!

2: Oaklynn: Glitzy and chic.

Oaklynn may have a simple silhouette, but she makes up for it with all-over beading that is as sparkly as anyone could ask for. The thin belt at the waistline adds an extra point of interest to this classic short dress silhouette.

Oaklynn may have a simple silhouette, but she makes up for it with all-over beading that is as sparkly as anyone could ask for. The thin belt at the waistline adds an extra point of interest to this classic short dress silhouette.

3: Magnolia: Classic glamour with a modern twist.

We love the “old money” look of Magnolia—a great choice for a country club or a ritzy Detroit venue. The pearl-studded bow at the back is removable, but we love the flare it ads. And as far as we’re concerned, accessorizing with gloves is a must!

We love the “old money” look of Magnolia—a great choice for a country club or a ritzy Detroit venue. The pearl-studded bow at the back is removable, but we love the flare it ads. And as far as we’re concerned, accessorizing with gloves is a must!

4: Mae: Short dress, statement train.

Mae may be petite, but she packs a big punch! While the dress proper is a form-fitting sheath, the giant bow in the back does all the talking. We’re in love the way the gathering on the satin snatches in the waist, adding a point of interest to the front while balancing out the drama of the back.

Mae may be petite, but she packs a big punch! While the dress proper is a form-fitting sheath, the giant bow in the back does all the talking. We’re in love the way the gathering on the satin snatches in the waist, adding a point of interest to the front while balancing out the drama of the back.

5: Lily: Puff skirt meets fitted bodice.

Don’t let the tiered skirt distract you from the gorgeous brocade on the bodice! While the ruffles give Lily volume, the modern pattern of the lace elevates adds a touch of sophistication to those who give it a closer look. The delicate beaded straps and plunge neckline are the final details to complete this design.

Don’t let the tiered skirt distract you from the gorgeous brocade on the bodice! While the ruffles give Lilyvolume, the modern pattern of the lace elevates adds a touch of sophistication to those who give it a closer look. The delicate beaded straps and plunge neckline are the final details to complete this design.

6: Jenny: Country charm, city dazzle.

From the giant puff sleeves (we love the off-the-shoulders styling!) to the sweetheart neckline, Jenny is an absolute darling. For brides that love sparkle, the all-over sequins on this dress make it shine. We think this is the perfect choice for a reception dress at a rustic chic venue.

From the giant puff sleeves (we love the off-the-shoulders styling!) to the sweetheart neckline, Jenny is an absolute darling. For brides that love sparkle, the all-over sequins on this dress make it shine. We think this is the perfect choice for a reception dress at a rustic chic venue.

7: Evelyn: A corset bodice and lace sleeves.

Corset boning, a sweetheart neckline, and removable sleeves: Evelyn fits a lot of detail into a short package! The all-over lace adds a touch of romance, while the sheer sleeves remind us of opera gloves. We love this look for the reception, with the option of taking the sleeves off once you’re ready to hit the dance floor.

Corset boning, a sweetheart neckline, and removable sleeves: Evelyn fits a lot of detail into a short package! The all-over lace adds a touch of romance, while the sheer sleeves remind us of opera gloves. We love this look for the reception, with the option of taking the sleeves off once you’re ready to hit the dance floor.

8: Emma: Sweet and sparkly.

The simple lines on Emma let the beaded tulle overlay do the work. We love how the flowing lines look like tree branches or the veins on leaves, enhancing the flow of the full skirt. The deep V of the neckline completes a look that would be perfect for a rehearsal dinner or wedding brunch.

The simple lines on Emma let the beaded tulle overlay do the work. We love how the flowing lines look like tree branches or the veins on leaves, enhancing the flow of the full skirt. The deep V of the neckline completes a look that would be perfect for a rehearsal dinner or wedding brunch.

9: Brooklyn: Full glam with feathers and sequins.

There’s nothing demure about this little number! If you’ve always loved a show, Brooklyn, with its skirt of ostrich features and bejeweled bodice will make sure you’re the center of attention. We think it’s perfect for dancing queen brides who want to buck tradition and go their own way.

There’s nothing demure about this little number! If you’ve always loved a show, Brooklyn, with its skirt of ostrich features and bejeweled bodice will make sure you’re the center of attention. We think it’s perfect for dancing queen brides who want to buck tradition and go their own way.

Make the most of your bridal style.

Whether that’s the bridal shower, the rehearsal dinner, the reception, or your first anniversary, a second dress can give you the flexibility to carry your bridal vision beyond your main gown and into other major events. If you’re ready to come try on dresses at our bridal boutique, located right here in downtown Brighton, MI, schedule an appointment! We look forward to seeing you.