When I tell you I LOVE my job, please believe and understand that I do love my job! One of my favorite brides called me today to ask my opinion on her brilliant idea on purchasing three different gowns. I’m thinking, three different gowns to wear that evening? YES, she said and we begun discussing her point of change. While putting our ideas together, we came up with the change for the wedding cake cutting gown and you guessed it, I wanted to share it with you.
I’m loving this idea and what a way to make you’re a statement and to keep your guest guessing about what you’ll do next? So, her idea is to get married in a formal wedding gown, she’ll be introduced in that gown and just after the first course is served she will go into the bridal room and change her entire look! After the cake is cut and a mere hour later she’ll once again change her entire look and will emerge in her last dance gown. Yes, I know it’s brilliant!
Below are the gowns she and I are looking into. Now, you know I LOVE Oscar de la Renta and when one of my brides decides to wear his gowns, believe me when I tell you I’m over the moon.
Well, what do you think of this idea? Do you see yourself changing three times or twice? You know just how much I love to hear from you.
With three gowns in mind,
Violaine Diogene
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Out of all the amazing and brilliant designers that we’re fortunate to be a witness to their work, does any of them whisper your name? When a designer whispers your name, he’s calling you to wear his designs; Regardless if you can actually afford that particular designer at the very moment, eventually you will give in to that whisper and you’ll start wearing their designs.
Valentino has been whispering my name for a while now and I’m about to answer his call with the very first pair of shoes below. Yes, I know, I LOVE that amazing pair of shoes and it screams Violaine all over! But besides the amazing shoes, Valentino is a designer whom provides ample inspiration for the lady seeking a one-of-a-kind gown, and this particular Valentino collection simply took my breath away! This collection delivers exquisite and timeless couture gowns.
Which of these designs whispers your name? Which designer whispers your name? I know some of the suits below are white and I would love to hear your thoughs on where you would wear the white suit to! I would love to hear your thoughts…..
Inspired by Valentino,
Violaine Diogene
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Ok, Kenneth Pool has some of the most amazing gowns I’ve ever seen. Now, I know I love wedding gowns, you know I love wedding gowns and yes, I go crazy over the gowns but seriously, Kenneth Pool has amazing gowns. Well, the fact that Amsale Aberra was already renowned for her Amsale and Christos collections should make you pause for a moment.
The Kenneth Pool label has long been recognized for its embodiment of fantasy and drama with its grand ball gowns, luxurious fabrics and exquisite beadwork. As the Creative Director, Amsale Aberra’s creations for the collection carry on the legacy of the label, with each of her gowns for Kenneth Pool celebrating and catering to the bride who commands the spotlight. Yes, for the bride who commands the spotlight!
“I am so excited to be designing this collection,” says Ms. Aberra, working in her New York Atelier where all of the gowns are designed and sewn. “I have always loved the Kenneth Pool bride and the fantasy she represents. My other collections are more about softness and simplicity, and designing Kenneth Pool allows me to express the more elaborate side of my personality.”
This season there is a special emphasis on unique fabrications and couture details. Organza ruffles, sensuous silk jersey, and creamy duchesse satin dominate, whether artfully draped, elaborately beaded, or delicately trimmed with Swarovski crystals. Each gown encapsulates the essence of the collection: Ultimate Femininity combined with Kenneth Pool’s signature brand of sexy, opulent, unapologetic glamour. Now you know, I love this unapologetic glamour thing these gowns carry so brilliantly.
I could go on for days about Kenneth Pool and I almost posted every gown, but that would have been one long post. Below are my absolute favorite gowns in this collection. The first two are my “must have” gowns. The first one is FASHIONISTA; and Fashionista is correct. I love, love and I do mean love this gown. This amazing gown is made of tulle with strapless mermaid gown with shirred Tulle bodice and low dropped waist. Skirt features layers of seamed tulle and clear paillettes. Available in Ivory only. My second gown is ROYALTY. Did I mention that I love the names of these gowns? Well, I love the name of this gown. Royalty and that’s exactly how one will look in this gown made of Royal Duchess Satin. Strapless Satin ballgown with softly draped bodice. Full skirt is adorned with self-fabric roses, Crystal accents and pickups. Natural waist is accented by Crystal beaded belt. Available in Champagne as sampled, Ivory and White.
What do you think? Have you seen one of these gowns in person? Are you a bride who’s worn of these gowns? I would love to hear your thoughts on these gowns. You know your feedback is wanted and needed. Let me know your thoughts.
Inspired by you, my brides.
Violaine Diogene
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Lazaro blends ultra-glamorous vintage details, stunning floral embellishments and signature hand-beading and embroidery in his latest collection. Lazaro’s hallmark craftsmanship, combined with sumptuous fabrics and perfectly cut silhouettes, give every gown an haute couture feel.
In traditional Lazaro style, his latest collection channels old-fashion glamour with vintage-inspired beading, romantic cap sleeves, scalloped sweetheart necklines, lovely tiered pleated tulle trains and lace appliqués. Lazaro introduces sparkle net charmeuse this season, combining it with embroidered Chantilly lace and hand-crafted, ornate beading.
This season, Lazaro is really turning some heads with my two first favorite gowns. What do you think of these gowns? You know I would love to hear from you.
With you in mind,
Violaine Diogene
Ivory organza plume formal bridal ball gown, silk faced satin banded bodice with hand ruched flowers on ribbon at natural waist, organza plume A-line skirt, chapel train.
Ivory floral net formal bridal gown, curved neckline, embroidered bodice with sheer tulle overlay, drop waist, circular floral net skirt with beaded accents, chapel train.
Ivory silk shantung formal bridal ball gown, ballerina sweetheart bodice, ruched cumberbund accented with vintage fresh water pearl brooch, full gathered skirt with silk flowers at back, chapel train.
Ivory hand beaded and embroidered tulle formal bridal gown with floral accents, sweetheart neckline, elongated bodice with circular skirt, chapel train.
Ivory English net formal bridal ball gown, sweetheart neckline, silk Mikado yoke bodice with vintage fresh water pearl ivory ribbon belt at natural waist, full gathered embroidered English net skirt with sequin tulle underlay, sweep train.
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Paige Gamble, who’s that? I know, I didn’t know who this amazing and brilliant designer was until I came across her work on one of my favorite bag reviewers, The Bag Snob! Ok, so I might have missed out on something huge but I’m catching up and let me tell you, Paige Gamble will soon be a household name; well, if you’re obsessed with nice, quality bags.
Paige Gamble is based out of none-other New York City where she produces products that are handcrafted in the finest materials in the world. These bags are so exquisite, there’s a video on her website to show you exactly how to open these clutches; I know, I started to giggle when I saw it. According to Kelly of Bag Snobs, Paige is opening her very first store in Aspen and I can’t wait to hear of the amazing art she will draw for us.
I have to tell you, I had a hard time choosing just one clutch (I know, it’s hard to believe) so, naturaly I had to pick two bags. The very first bag (Sapphire Python and White Flowers) has to be my favorite. I can see this clutch being paired with simple shoes and a killer cocktail dress or stunning ballroom wedding gown.
My second favorite is the White Matte Python and Green Turquoise Wheels. This one is so easy to be paired with a very simple, yet elegant white mini gown and a pair of Turquoise neck piece would stop traffic. Every girl should be able to stop traffic in time square!
Well, what do you think? How would you wear one of these clutches?
I’ve died and gone in clutch heaven,
Violaine Diogene
Sapphire Lacquered Python Clutch with Hand-Pressed White Patent Leather Flowers. These flowers are cut, pressed, and crafted by a third generation flower-maker in New York. Lined in black suede with cash and credit card pocket. Magnetic closure.
White Matte Python and Green Turquoise Wheels. Lined in bone suede with cash, credit card pockets, mirror, and secret compartment. Magnetic Closure.
Matte vanilla ostrich with hand-engraved tulip tattoo. Due to the level of detailing in the tattoo design, no two bags will ever be alike. Lined in bone suede with two large and two small vanilla ostrich interior pockets.
Sapphire Lacquered Alligator with Natural Pyrite Bar. Finished with our unique “hot coffee” finish that is impervious to liquids. Lined in bone suede with cash and credit card pockets
Glazed Forest Green Alligator Clutch with Peacock Feathers. Lined in black suede with cash and credit card pockets. Magnetic Closure 
Copper Lacquered Alligator with Natural Pyrite Bar. Finished with our unique “hot coffee” finish that is impervious to liquids. Lined in bone suede with cash and credit card pockets.
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By now, I trust that you know my healthy love affair with shoes. Certainly one of my favorite things to write about is shoes. One of my favorite and dearest brides is taking a daring and fun approached to her wedding ensembles by wearing a pair of bold colored shoes (Brian Atwood Orange ribbons) with her bright white Vera Wang dress. And you guessed it; she prompted me to write about shoes.
I love the idea of wearing a pair of diva shoes in place of the traditional white shoes. No, there is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing white shoes if that’s what your darling little hears desire, but just think about the amazing contrast of pairing your amazing designer gown with a stunning pair of diva shoes.
Because of my love of shoes and because these shoes lack nothing at all, I’ve included just a few of my favorite pairs. I simple need to hit to lottery to afford each and every single pair in my collection below. To view each shoe’s designer, simply click on the shoe and a window will open with designer’s name.
What do you think? What color shoes are you wearing for your big day? Seriously, nothing pleases me more than to hear your thoughts on my posts.
In shoe bliss,
Violaine Diogene
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Stop blushing at these lovely little pieces. Tame your imagination, you’re a lady…. yeah, I know it’s hard not to giggle when you see these. While reading one of my favorite online news papers; New York Wedding Guide, there was a lovely post from Kaija Helmetag about well, you know; sexy underwear’s and Lingerie. I’ll stop there. To read more about this, visit her post tittled ”Your Other Wardrobe“.
Now, I know you probably don’t want to discuss this online but I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Do you like this post? Should I write more about this?
Always with you in mind,
Violaine Diogene
Blue silk-chiffon chemise, available at Journelle.com
Pearl restraints, available at Kiki de Montparnasse; 79 Greene St.; 212-965-8070.
Faroux bra and knickers, available at catrionamackechnie.com.
Body Silk strapless bra, suspender belt, and thong, available at Journelle
Both Fleur of England Lace Boudoir bra and Tie Brief at Journelle
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It’s official as I’m absolutely crazy, head over hills in love with everything and anything that Ines Di Santos designs. I’ve had the sheer joy of seeing some of the most talented designers design some amazing gowns but I find myself at awe with just about anything this brilliant designer puts her hands on.
I must tell you that I can easily stare with my mouth open at Ines Di Santos 2010 Collection as this collection is nothing short of a feast for your darling eyes. These gowns, to simply put are amazing, gorgeous and yes, beautiful. If you’re the bride whom demands absolutely nothing but the best, you’ve met your match as the 2010 collection features nothing less than the most luxurious European silks, impeccable details in the beading and trims in every gown which brings glamour to the highest power.
Ines Di Santos designs her gowns to fit a particular bride’s silhouettes and I promise you that these gowns are designed as if they have a body of their own; yes, the gowns have a body of their own! Well, what do you expect from a woman who’s the embodiment of romance? This amazing designer was born in Italy, raised in Argentina with strong Spanish heritage. I know, it made me giggle when I thought of how it all played into her dresses. To me, not every bride can wear these dresses. An Ines Di Santo bride is a special bride. Just like Ines Di Santos, she too is the embodiment of romance in her own right. She’s daring, she’s bold, when she walks into a room she owns the room with her confidence! She’s exquisite, sophisticated, and can stop traffic dead on!
Now, you know I have to tell you about my personal favorite gown. My only issue is, I love each and every single gown in this collection. Forgive me, I had to include all the pictures below and I had to allow all the dresses a personal moment by not aligning them on the same roll (I know, I’m weird like that) but I’m hoping that you’ve fallen in love with this collection just as much as I have.
After you’ve seen it all, you know I would love to know your thoughts. Tell me about your gown. Tell me why you choose your designer. What drove you to him/her? What do you think about these gowns?
In love with Ines Di Santos,
Violaine Diogene
What can I say about this gown? Can you hear it? Listen closely and you can literally hear the collective gasp that spreads through the crowd the moment you walk onto the aisle to your future husband….. I need to get remarried so that I can wear this gown!
Yes, I know. I too was speechless when I saw this work of art in the form of a gown. Where do I start? This gown features a translucent beaded corset bodice with lace-up back and heavily Swarovski crystal jeweled neckline along with a amazing ballroom skirt.
How many times can I renew my wedding vows? I promise you I’m going to have a reason to wear this gown.
I told you these gowns had a “body” of their own right? Do you believe me now? Gown features fully beaded bodice and beaded appliqué on one side of hip; pick-up skirt.
WOW, WOW and another WOW! Gown features a ruched bodice with peek-a-boo hem revealing handmade roses in soft pink and green hues. Detachable overskirt has roses at side, front and diagonally across centre back.
I know; I was in awe when I saw this gown as well. Gown features ruched bodice and asymmetrical beaded tulle with Swarovski floral motifs on skirt.
I love that this gown features this very prety ruched bodice with the dropped waist and tiered skirt. A pair of daring red stilettos would be stuning!
Have I told how much I love Ines Di Santos?
This gown is the simplest one on this collection but make no mistake as this is a stunner! This gown features a one shoulder strap made with handmade large flowers and the detail skirt has princess seams down front and back with pleated detail.
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For as long as I can remember, every Sunday afternoon I’ll spend some quality time turning the pages of one of my favorite wedding magazines and this Sunday was no different. This little time that I refer to as “Bridal Magazine Time” usually gives me something to think about, chat about and definitely obsessed about and my new obsession (at least for this week) is Stephanie Browne of Australia.
Who is Stephanie Browne? Am I glad you asked…
Stephanie Browne is a designer of elegant couture jewelry with a combination of classic and uncomplicated pieces through to strikingly bold “must have” fashion accessories. Several of her collections are highlighted with head turning feather hair accessories, bejeweled belts and headbands, and stories inspired by the increasingly popular styles of the 1920’s showgirl era. Yes, I know; this must be an incredible collection and let me assure you my sweet darling brides, it is!
Stephanie’s awareness of her customers is legendary. Her unique styling allows the wearer to be reminded of classic elegance of a time gone by. Each design reflects originality and beauty, with each hand made piece ensured to become a treasured possession.
According Stephanie Browne, every piece of her work is an original designed, hand-made collection is made using only the finest of components, from Swarovski crystals and pearls, rhodium non-tarnishing bases, flowing emu and peacock feathers, through to silk flowers. And you know I love peacock feathers and Swarovski crystals.
I’m going to start this favorite category off with this stunning and simply to die for piece and you’re right… these pieces are not for the fainted heart. These pieces are for the bride whom adores boldness and dares to make a statement. My absolute number one pick had to be this piece referred to as St Tropez Headpiece and WOW is all I have to say about that.
Obsessed with anything and everything wedding,
Violaine Diogene
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With all the little pleasures in the world, nothing makes happier than an amazing clutch to compliment my assembles of the evening. It is my honest opinion that a girl can never have too many clutches and I do mean you can never, in this lifetime or the next have to many clutches. Whether I’m attending a cocktail party or a black-tie affair I’m certain a clutch will add true elegance to the look and to make me feel truly amazing, Davie And Chiyo are customizing these spectacular delectable’s. No, this is not a typo and you didn’t misread the post; Davie and Chiyo are truly customizing your clutch with whatever your sweet adorable heart desires. Have I customize one yet? Off course silly, anytime I’ve given a chance to put my name on something I love, you can be certain I will take the opportunity.
These aren’t just any clutch; these little delectables are remarkable, unique and eye-catching in every way and are made of high quality materials and attention to detail ensures the excellence of each clutch. Now, you know that it’s simply my joy to share with you what’s posted on line as well my personal favorites. As you can imagine, I had a hard time choosing just two of these clutches but the first two are the ones that I personally ordered and I just fell madly, passionately and head over hills in love it. And yes, I would like to know your thoughts on these amazing little delectables.
The first very pretty and hip fuchsia clutch was my first order with my name stitched inside! The clutch is made in one of my favorite fabric which is dupioni silk in one of my absolutely favorite colors of fuchsia. The lining is cotton with black and white animal patterns. And because I love bows, I have to have the over sized, eye catching bow on and that’s really what makes this clutch amazing!
The second clutch is the Cream Tiered Rose which is made from two kinds of silk; the structure of the body is made with ivory dupioni silk, with layers and layers of silk charmeuse in cream color sewn around the entire clutch. The silk charmeuse comes into a beautifully sculptured rose in the front of the bag, slightly off-centered. The silk edges are all left raw, giving the layers a very soft look. The clutch is lined with dupioni silk in champagne. Need I say more? Oh, my name is also engraved inside this amazing little pile of dupioni and charmeuse silk. Now, you know I can go on and on about these but why not go visit them online and see which of these little delectables will have your name engraved?
Madly in love with clutches,
Violaine Diogene
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