Friday, February 21, 2014

Prom Trends 2014

Prom 2014 is bringing a broad variety of style this season 
and we are stocked with a HUGE selection of gowns.  

We are seeing, chiffon in soft pastels and jewel tones, 

Remember to exude confidence: stand tall, keep your shoulders back and head held high:  own it.

 Be feminine and alluring with style, panache and class.
Be fun, flirty, sophisticated and mature.

Be romantic and elegant


Taffeta in bold prints  
BE a social butterfly!

tulle,
Be the belle of the ball.

We have gowns up to size 30 in stock.  

 Sophisticated, soft, feminine and sexy in lace,

Charmeuse



Big and Bold Ball Gowns in wild animal prints of Flocked Tulle

and romantic floral prints on chiffon all Soft and Flowing
 In Twinkling Satin Organza

Sleek, sexy, sophisticated fully beaded gowns:


Bring me the Bling:  wear an all beaded gown

Hi-Low Flow with plenty of bling or wild animal prints.

Remember:  bling equals kaching.  Make your spoil me appointment 616-364-0777 
and we do all that we can to help you stay within budget 
and have the dream that you dream.  


We are still offering our sell one and done program:  
once we sell you the gown we will never order that gown in again!
Shop early and layaway.  

Don't forget:  We have GREAT pricing on tuxedos 
and can help your date match,  accent or compliment your gown perfectly.

Bring / send a friend and earn $$$$


“I definitely think prom should feel sophisticated. I’m not really into cutouts and all that. I would go for a more simple look—maybe a dark-colored dress and a red lip and long wavy hair; and for nails a French tip is always classic and cute!"
                                                                             Kylie Jenner Prom - Kylie Jenner Pictures - Seventeen

Monday, February 10, 2014

Shopping Tips for Plus-Size Brides

Shopping for a wedding dress can be an exciting (and sometimes stressful) endeavor for any bride. But it becomes more daunting when the bride is full figured.  While many bridal stores cater to a smaller size and some don't even carry gown in plus sizes. Every body type is beautiful and no one should settle for anything less than their dream dress. Full-figured brides:   here are some tips to keep in mind while shopping for the big day. 
In stock size 20

1. Determine a budget before shopping for a gown.
Plus-size gowns do cost more than smaller sizes:  because manufacturers charge a higher percentage for the additional material, beading and lace.  Most brides are excited as they start shopping, but:  work out your budget first. Avoid trying on gowns outside of your price range because you'll either fall in love with one and be disappointed by every other dress you see (even if they're just as beautiful), or you'll blow your budget.

If you do find yourself pining for a gown that costs more than you can afford, ask if there is a similar style that is less expensive.  Or occasionally the dress will come in another fabric that's less expensive.  But please, keep in mind:  if it is not in your budget:  do not try it on.  It's like dating a married man:  not available. 
2. It's perfectly normal to wear a bigger size in bridal than you would in everyday clothing.
Bridal sizes run smaller than most streetwear sizes, in other words:  regular clothes. You’re considered a plus-size bride if you normally wear a size 14 or higher, which would be a size 16 in bridal. All of our designers do offer plus sizes, some stop at a 20 and other go to a size 30.  While many stores only carry samples in sizes 8, 10 and 12:  we do have gowns in all the sizes that women come. Call to make your appointment before you go shopping to ensure that we be able to accommodate you.
Trying on the dress you love in your size is optimal, but not always possible  — we don't want to get stuck with a dress that doesn't fit — so we work closely to help you chose the closest size and best possible fit other than custom cut to your measurements.  We will help you envision exactly how it'll look on the big day.  Some of our designers offer collections exclusively for plus-size brides. No matter if your dream dress is sweet, sophisticated, elegant, causal or dramatic, you're sure to find a gown that flatters your figure.
Size 20W

3. Choose figure-flattering fabrics.
Thicker fabrics such as taffeta are ideal for curvy brides because they smooth everything out, creating a streamlined silhouette. Be aware that strapless styles can make shoulders look wider, so consider opting for styles with a halter, thicker straps or cap sleeves. We will look carefully at the application of heavily-beaded bodices and appliqués, which can draw attention to areas you’d prefer to minimize if not done well.  However there are delicate and light weight fabrics that are just as flattering when properly fit with the right undergarments.  The right lines will whittle you down. 
4. Find the perfect silhouette for your shape.
The most important advice for finding a wedding dress is to know your body shape. Top-heavy brides with hourglass figures look great in fitted bodice & trumpet silhouettes, whereas an A-line cut is better if you're bottom-heavy, and apple-shaped brides look best in empire dresses or ballgowns
Being a plus-size bride doesn't mean you can not wear a fitted gown! In fact we have worked with very many ladies who have fantastic full figures and look awesome in fitted gowns!  Keep in mind that Marilyn Monroe & May West were voluptuous women who would be categorized as full figure in a size 14.  Look for a style that flares out at the knee, or right above or below it. The perfect dress isn't complete without the right undergarments. We love our long line bras that are supportive while smoothing the middle out perfectly. We also offer shapewear that firms the tummy, hips, thighs and rear. 
5. Be confident! 
While shopping for a wedding dress, don't be timid. Tell the consultant exactly what you want, and don't let them pressure you into buying a style you're not in love with, no matter how flattering it is. The right dress will make you feel comfortable and beautiful!  When you feel beautiful it will shine through on the pictures for your wedding day.  It's just as important to know what your dislikes are as it is to find out what you love. Stay true to yourself and don't be afraid to seek advice from family, friends and honest professionals!