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What Wedding Hair Accessories Will You Choose?

BellaSugar — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 08:13:33 -0700

Welcome to week two of Wedding Planning Mania! Once you have figured out how you are going to style your hair, the next step is deciding what you will accessorize it with. On this very special day, you have countless options of tiaras, headbands, barrettes, combs, feathers, pins and flowers to choose from! What type of hair accessory gal are you?

When making your decision, keep in mind that looking beautiful also means keeping your look balanced. You wouldn't want more than one overpowering hairpiece, just like you wouldn't want to be wearing too much jewelry. The first thing to look at is your veil length and style. Next, consider what type of detail is on your dress. Is there crystals, pearls, metallic threading or lace on it? You'll want to coordinate all of these details to create your own, perfect wedding ensemble whether you are a princess, natural or daring bride!

A few great sites that feature lots of wedding hair accessory options are glamforless.com, weddingblissaccessories.com, and weddingchannel.com. To see a gallery of some of the different types of wedding hair accessories to choose from, read more

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Wedding Nails: The Quintessential French Manicure

BellaSugar — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 06:12:22 -0700

The French manicure has a regal connotation to it that represents class, elegance and a sense of high quality grooming. Having said that, plenty of people today feel that the French manicure is out of style and would even consider it cheesy. Whichever way you decide to go, I still think the French manicure is the quintessential way to paint your nails for your wedding day. It's soft, understated and shows that you pay attention to detail.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the French manicure, I have pictured it here for you. A white stripe is painted to the tops of the nails (I prefer a soft, square cut nail with a thin stripe) and then a sheer, pale pink or beige toned polish is applied on top. Here are a few French manicure kits to choose from.

Bourjois French Manicure Kit, $20, is a three piece French manicure kit. It includes a curved brush designed especially to create the most perfect and even white nail tips, a light pink polish which is so sheer that you can apply one or two coats depending on your taste, and a clear topcoat to ensure shine and protection to your manicure. In no time you'll look like you just waltzed right off the Parisian runways!

For two more D.I.Y. French manicure kits, read more

Sally Hansen French Manicure Kit, $6, includes a really cool feature. Inside are a set of stickers for you to apply to your nails so that you can create professional looking, no mess white tips. Once you apply the tips, peel off the stickers and then apply the soft colored nail polish on top. The kit also includes a topcoat and super clear and easy instructions.

Orly French Manicure Kit, $6, will give you a very natural looking manicure! This kit includes a polish, a base coat, white tips (you can choose from two different styles; straight or half moon) and a quick drying topcoat. Available in four different sheer shades.

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Basic and Beautiful Wedding Hairstyles

BellaSugar — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 10:34:33 -0700

Finding the right hairstyle for your wedding day is a big deal, so don't be ashamed or embarrassed to play with different looks. I sat through five different trials trying everything from long, wavy extensions to updos. Heck, even celebrity hairstylist Ken Paves said that, "once Carmen Electra selected her wedding dress, I created 13 different hairstyles on her and took a Polaroid of each one so she could select the one which was perfect for her."

This is your day to shine - you should look fabulous! And a great suggestion, Ken. It's important to take a Polaroid so that your stylist knows exactly how to recreate the look. I know it all feels kinda vain, but once you find something you love, you'll be so happy to have one less detail to worry about on your wedding day!

Oh and did I mention that Ken Paves also styled wedding hair for Jessica Simpson and Christina Applegate as well as J.Lo's hair for her wedding scenes in "Monster In Law" and "The Wedding Planner?" I wonder if he'll do Eva Longoria's too, I know she goes to him regularly. To see four popular wedding hairstyles to consider, read more

Updo: This is a broad category because it can mean chignon, french twist, ballet bun or simple knot. You can part it on the side to modernize this classic look, or give some volume to the crown. Even though it may not feel like something you'd be interested in, I encourage you to try your hair styled off your neck and away from your face. It really allows you to have a fuss free night! Check out Sarah Michelle Gellar here.
Half Up, Half Down: This keeps your hair out of your eyes but still allows somewhat of a flowy and natural feel. This look is really popular with all types of brides. You can see Nicole Kidman's wedding hair here.
Long and Natural: This is great for someone that wants to look like themselves on their wedding day. This look is becoming ever more popular with modern and natural brides. I would opt for shine/loose waves. Check out Jennifer Aniston's lovely locks here.
Short Hair With Added Body: If you have short hair you've got to do something to give it some oomph. You could add curl, volume or even spikes to dress it up a little bit. Look at Victoria Beckham's wedding 'do here.

There are a couple really great websites that you can also surf through to see many wedding hairstyles and celebrity wedding hair. To see my photo gallery that includes two versions of each type of hairstyle listed in this post, read more

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Bridal Beauty Looks, Part III: The Daring Bride

BellaSugar — Wed, 18 Apr 2007 12:12:22 -0700

The daring bride has no intentions of having a conventional wedding. She's a modern day woman who thinks outside the box and marches to her own tune. Think Sarah Jessica Parker (she wore black), Dita Von Teese or Alabama from True Romance! A daring bride is unlike the princess bride or the natural bride. Her goal is to have the kind of affair that will make her and her fiance happy, not to conform to the customs of tradition.

She may choose not to wear white, she might even skip out on a veil, bridesmaids and an assigned seated reception. The sky is the limit. Oftentimes I hear something like this from non-traditional brides: I'll do what I want, I'll have what I want and I'll wear what I want. This affair could even be a second wedding or something more spur of the moment.

To see a complete makeup look for a daring bride, read more

Primer: The most important thing about creating a dramatic look is having flawless skin. This isn't the time to skip the primer. Start by applying something amazing like Laura Geller's Spackle Makeup Primer, $25.
Concealer/Foundation: Next, add some concealer under your eyes and also to anything left over that still looks red or blotchy. I love The Balm's Time Balm Concealer, $16, since it gives you great coverage but it doesn't crease or feather. Then apply a foundation such as Yves Saint Laurent Perfect Touch Radiant Brush Foundation, $50, for full coverage that won't feel overly heavy and that will keep your skin looking hydrated.
Cheeks: If you are going to go heavier on your eyes and lips then you must keep your cheeks soft. Try something neutral such as Cover Girl Cheekers Blush in Natural Shimmer, $3.
Highlighter: If you haven't tried Physician's Formula Pearls of Perfection Face Tint in Translucent Glow, $13, you're going to love it. Just be careful that you don't overdo it. Drop the tiniest amount on your hand and swipe a small amount onto the upper portion of your cheekbones for a little bit of glow!
Brows: Brows need to be strong for this look. Make sure they are groomed and arched properly. Then fill them in (remember, just one shade lighter than your hair color) with something like Bobbi Brown All In One Mini Compact, $35.
Eyes: You can go dark on the eyes, but you'll want to keep the colors neutral if you are opting for a bold lip. I really love some of the new Spring colors out such as Estee Lauder Pure Color Eye Shadows in Copper Penny (lid), Chocolate (crease) and Tea Biscuit (brow bone) $21 each. Line eyes with either a black or deep brown cream eye liner. Then add a touch of your highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes for some extra pop. To finish your dramatic eyes, first curl your lashes and then apply two to three coats of thickening mascara in black. You might also want to apply false lashes for a more dramatic effect.
Lips: Begin by applying a pressed powder on and around your lips. Next use a deep liner such as Givenchy Lip Lip Lip Liner in Lip Rosewood, $23, followed by a super rich plum color like Givenchy Rouge Interdit Satin Lipstick in Ilicit Raspberry, $26. You can leave lips as is or top them off with a high shine gloss such as Givenchy Pop Gloss Syrup Lip Gloss in Raspberry, $22, for deep color with serious shine.

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Bridal Beauty Looks, Part I: The Princess Bride

BellaSugar — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 13:10:22 -0700

Besides being a fantastic movie, The Princess Bride is classic, timeless and breathtaking. Think Grace Kelly, Countess Sophia and Jacqueline Kennedy. The princess is having a decadent and fairy tale style affair. This type of blushing bride is seeking a refined, polished look that will highlight and enhance her best features.

For a list of product ideas to help create the look of a beautiful princess bride, read more

Primer: Begin your primping process with a face primer such as Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer, $38, in the color you deem best suited to help even out your skin tone.
Concealer/Foundation: Next, apply something with medium matte coverage like Amazing Cosmetics Perfectly Amazing Kit, $107, which is a heavy concealer, a mineral powder foundation, loose powder a concealer brush, and an instructional DVD. This will ensure that your face starts off as a blank canvas for which you can then create your dream look on!
Cheeks: For a princess look, I would use a medium powder blush on your cheeks such as Laura Mercier's Powder Blush in Wild Bouquet, $22. This is a versatile neutral-brown-rose color that can be layered for a deeper effect or brushed on lightly to just add some healthy color to your cheeks.
Highlighter: Use a dab of cream shimmer such as Estee Lauder's Tender Blush Sheer Stick in Pearl, $25, in the inner corners of your eyes for a twinkly and brightening effect. Also, use a strike on the upper part of your cheekbones for a dewy look.
Brows: Make sure that you don't neglect your brows. Here are a few kits that will ensure your brows will get the attention they deserve. Remember, don't go more than one shade darker than your hair color. Fill them in softly and blend well. You'll be astonished just how much this makes a difference.
Eyes: This is where you can really play up a feature. I would choose shadows that best emphasize your eyes. For more on which colors to choose, click here. I suggest creating a very subtle version of the smoky eye in your palette of choice. For hazel and green eyes, I absolutely love Prisme Again Eyes in Purple Emotion, $50. Then add an eyeliner to your upper and lower lashes that is a similar color to your crease color (the dark one) and wet it for a more precise line. Finish with two coats of black mascara.
Lips: Begin by lining your lips with a neutral liner such as Estee Lauder Artists Lip Pencil in Spice Writer, $19, followed by a medium hued pink lipstick like Lancome's New Color Design Lipstick in Swept Away, $21, (due out soon). Top off this gorgeous lip look with an ultra shiny and shimmery pink gloss such as Lancome's Color Fever Lip Gloss in Heatstroke . Viola! The princess is ready for her fairy tale wedding!

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A Beautiful Bridal Eyeshadow Palette

DearSugar — Wed, 26 Jul 2006 15:02:39 -0700

Calling all sensitive skin brides! Your Name Professional Brand's Timeless Bride Palette is perfect for creating a soft, sweet, polished and demi-matte finish for your big day. The palette contains three Silk Radiance Eye Shadows in Champagne Lace, Pink Charmeuse, and Shimmering Taupe and two lip shades: Micro Teaberry lipstick and Serenity lip gloss.

These cosmetics are developed with natural minerals and oil-absorbing rice silk, each shadow is formulated without fragrance, oil, or talc. Click here to learn more about Your Name Cosmetics.

There's just one catch. Since the company is called "Your Name" (because they sell goods to small companies who want to promote their own brands) you have to call them to order - (at least it's TOLL FREE: 1-800-221-3071).

Blushing Fall Brides

FabSugar — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:00:22 -0700

I don't plan on tying the knot anytime soon, but it's always fun to look. Bridal Fashion Week is underway and it's looking to be a very beautiful Fall. So far, I've seen an amazing array of gowns ranging from Reem Acra's Grecian-inspired gowns to Monique Lhuillier's glamorous frocks. One thing is for sure: there's a dress out there for every future blushing bride. Check out my slides to see more amazing bridal confections.

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Fab's Guide to Finding the Perfect Dress to Say "I Do" In

FabSugar — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:00:22 -0700

Hello, bride-to-be. I'm Fab, your personal wedding dress shopper! Whether you have three months or twelve to shop for your dream dress, here is a guide to help you look your most beautiful, and keep your sanity. You be the bride and I'll be your guide . . .

First things first: determine your wedding style and budget. Close your eyes and try to picture your big day. Is the ceremony ethereal outside on a beach? Or more formal inside a formal church? Or is it something in between? You'll want a wedding gown that fits your picture. Choose something light and airy if you'll be beachside and something more lavish if you'll be in a church. If you're going the church route, remember to cover up with a shawl or bolero as you want to respect the dress code of the establishment. The most important thing is to set a budget so you don't go ga ga over a dress that's out of your price range!

To read the rest of my Fab wedding shopping guide, read more.

Remember that the season could determine the style of your dress, but it doesn't have to. It's your wedding, so you make the rules. If you're in love with an open-back dress for your Winter wedding, you can always pair it with a shawl for warmth. If your wedding is in the Summer but you love a long-sleeve lace gown, go for it (just wear lots of deodorant!)
Once you've decided on your ceremony style and budget, you'll need inspiration. Go out and buy all of the weddings magazines on the stand and start ripping away. Create a wedding dress file - I suggest something special like this Peppercot Accordion File Tote ($24). This file will also come in handy later in life, I promise.
There is an insane amount of dress styles to choose from (classic, retro, modern, color, etc) but my favorite trends now are bows, embellishments, and short lengths. I will show you more of these dress styles in depth later, but for starters here are the the options I'd explore were it my wedding.

(L-R: Bows (Melissa Sweet), Short (Vera Wang Bridal), Embellished (Kenneth Pool)
While you are gathering your gown file, ask your wedding planner or married friends for suggestions of dress salons near you. Also peruse online wedding sites like Wedding Channel and Brides. Brides has a handy dandy glossary you'll appreciate. The most important thing to remember is timing. Special-order gowns can take three to six months to create, and alterations can take weeks, so plan accordingly.
Now that it's time to go gown shopping, it's important to dress appropriately. You want to wear loose fitting clothes that are easy to get in and out of - but don't dress like a slob. It's also good to have your hair either pulled back or down, depending on how you'll have it on the actual day. Bring comfortable shoes with the heel height you plan to wearing. Throw a strapless bra into your purse and try to wear pretty underthings - you will be standing around in them in front of your shopping buddies and salesperson.
Once you are assigned a salesperson, go through your tear sheets with them and point out what you like about dresses and special details you love. When you try on dresses, continue to point out your likes and dislikes.
Keep an eye out for quality. In a high-quality gown every detail should have a perfect finish - no bead or string should be unraveled. Natural fabrics like silk are pricier than synthetics, but the benefits are they let your skin breathe and don't trap sweat. A-line gowns fall smoothly and prevent panty lines; this is also the best shape for fuller figures. If you do have budget constraints, skip beading and fancy details and focus on a fine fabric and a good fit - you can always dress yourself up with jewelry and beauty!
The finishing touches. Take into account the following elements surrounding your look: alterations, headpiece/veil, lingerie, jewelry, shoes, bag, a cover up, and the groom's ensemble. Oh, and the bridesmaids. Lastly, two weeks before your wedding, have a final dress fitting with your accessories and lingerie, and break in your shoes by wearing them at home. There will be more on this in months to come so stay tuned!

To see all of our wedding coverage, check out IDoSugar.com!

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Wedding Trend Alert: Bows, Fabulous Bows

FabSugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:00:22 -0700

Bridal designers are adorning wedding dresses with bows, fabulous bows as a feminine alternative to crystals and ruffles this season. They evoke a fun and whimsical look - see on the runway of Monique Lhuillier left - and are being used as a focal point, embellishment, or scattered across gowns for a more carefree look. This is a beautiful and more casual way to adorn a wedding gown. Me likey.

To see all of our wedding coverage, check out IDoSugar.com!

To see more fabulous bows, read more

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(L-R: Vineyard Collection, Vera Wang, Priscilla of Boston, Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier)

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Fab Photos of the Week

FabSugar — Sun, 11 May 2008 15:12:22 -0700

After much anticipation, the Agent Provocateur Bridal photos featuring Kate Moss were released this week and each and every one of them was worth the wait. Naturally, a fabulous shindig followed suit. And how can I not mention one of the biggest events of the week that gave us tons of photos to look at: the Met's Costume Institute Gala! I would like to personally thank all of the beautiful people who attended because it provided eye candy times a hundred.
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