The Road to "I Do"

by Anne Bella July 27, 2015

As a bride-to-be getting hitched in a few months, I didn't have a clue what dresses I wanted for myself and my entourage when I was in the initial stages of planning. For my gown, I visualised something feminine, off-shoulder with an a-line skirt. No serpentina or structured shapes, that I was sure of. For my entourage, I was in a search for something different, unique from the usual draped or heavily embellished gowns that can sometimes be ageing. I also didn't want my bridesmaids to hate me by insisting they wear pouffy skirts in pastel colors. Style icon Olivia Palermo got married a few weeks after I got engaged last year and the whole fashion world waited for the first photos of her dress.

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When it did come out, everyone was in for a shock. It wasn't a dress but a white sweater with (gasp!) shorts under a sheer tulle skirt. Her hair and make-up were downplayed making the whole package look quite casual. My friends and I were on the fence--some loved it yet some, me included, thought she could've been more dressed especially standing next to her very dapper husband. But after looking at it more than once, it grew on me and I got the point. It was unexpected alright yet actually felt very modern and chic. Her ensemble gave me the idea to dress my entourage in separates, too: a top and skirt in different textures and embellishments to make it wedding-appropriate.

We recently launched our Bride Shop here in STU and upon seeing the gorgeous separates in the collection, I kind of wished it came out a year early. I definitely would've snagged my bridesmaids' separates here. Apart from a few RTW dresses available in department stores and a certain Spanish brand, there aren't that many choices for the Pinay bride, hence the custom of having one made by a favorite designer. Nothing wrong with that either but for those who want a stress-free process, a good online retail selection is a lifesaver. So we thought of filling that void and being the innovators that we are, came up with a variety of looks to suit every personality, including robes for the wedding prep! We are more than happy to present our first collection. Prepare to be swept away.

Let's start off with these luxurious Arenzano lace trimmed jersey robes. It has an adjustable drawstring waist and an open collar to easily slip in and out of. The lace trim on the sleeves add that whimsical touch.

The Kladno lace trimmed silk-satin robe has a full lace detail at the back giving it a sexy twist.

This Linz lace separates are so chic and subtly sexy.

If you prefer a traditional lace shift dress, then the Liberec is for you.

The Ronces peter pan collar (left) and the Ponferrada off-the-shoulder maxi dresses are perfect for garden weddings like mine.

The Lazne twist front jersey dress comes in two striking shades of palm green and my personal favorite, plum!

Whoever said black isn't wedding appropriate hasn't laid eyes on this ultra-sophisticated Karlovy dress.

It comes in regal navy blue, too.

The Opava one-shoulder draped jersey dress spells Godess like no other.

It comes in cool lemon and peach shades. Most ideal for a summer wedding at the beach.

If you must do pastels, take your cue from these lovely separates. Your bridesmaids will surely thank you after!

The Vacha lace top and tulle skirt set evoke genuine royalty vibes, Princess Kate would definitely approve.

For the girls who dare to bare, the Ostrava lace top and tulle skirt set is for you.

The divine Kharkiv beaded suit and tiered ball skirt set is the Grand Dame of this collection.

And rightfully so. The black version is even red carpet-worthy with the intricate beadwork and seriously voluminous skirt. Love!

I'm already thinking of ways to wear the tops and skirts with closet staples like a denim button down, slouchy sweater or a structured jacket. The possibilities are endless. But that is another post altogether.

To the brides-to-be and those guests who have "nothing to wear", feel free to peruse our Bride Shop. I promise you will be the belle of the ball!

Your Purveyor-at-Large,

Anne