Favorite Fall Wedding Ideas

If I had to choose one favorite wedding season, it would be fall. It might have something to do with the crisp cool temperatures, aromas (pumpkin spice anyone??), or my slight obsession with textures (and the pairing of them):

Pillows: West Elm | Stool: World Market | Pink Stone Coasters: West Elm | Hammered Metal Decanter: Bed Bath and Beyond | Pretty Macaroons: L'extravagance | Fall Wedding Centerpiece: Jacin Fitzgerald

Colors: My go-to colors that are inspiring me right now are jewel tones with a touch of neutral + light pink. I think it keeps it ethereal while still adding the right amount of bold elements. 

Textures: Fall is your ticket to using all sorts of textures and patterns without anything looking or feeling too busy. Along with the more expected (warm) textiles like fur, I love the idea of incorporating other elements like stone or crystal to mix it up and keep it interesting. 

Gold: Need I say more? Gold goes with everything. Use it. 

Comfort Food: The fastest way to your guests' hearts is through their tummies. Take advantage of the cooler weather and serve both sweet and savory comfort food. Now is the time to get a little decadent and experiment with a menu that touches all of their taste buds. {And hot toddies are never a bad idea either}

Flowers + Foliage: Whimsical, natural, and textural. This amazing centerpiece by my friend Jacin Fitzgerald says it all. 

Beaded Wrap: Bhldn | Peaked Lapel Tuxedo: The Black Tux | Gold + Pearl Cufflinks: The Black Tux | Rockstud Ivory Pumps: Valentino

A fall wedding is also the opportunity to get jazzy with your look for the day. Statement pieces and bold accessories are such a beautiful addition. 

For her: Boleros and caplets are all great additions (both for style and comfort), but how about this stunning beaded wrap? And imagine, some killer shoes and a classic, ethereal gown. 

For Him: Who can go wrong with a black tux? This classic look is both dramatic and stunning at the same time. While suits became the norm of summer weddings, I'm looking forward to seeing more of this iconic look this fall season. Pair it with some eye-catching cuff links and I'd say this couple is camera-ready. I recently came across The Black Tux, an online tuxedo rental company, and was so excited to see quality, well-fitted tux, suit, and accessory rentals available to men wherever they're located. If you haven't discovered it yet, take a peek- you'll be glad you did! 

What are your current favorite trends or ideas for fall weddings? 

Xo,

Brandi

What to Wear to the Wedding {Dress Codes De-Coded}

As we continue into the most popular season for weddings, it’s inevitable that you have received at least one invitation to attend a wedding celebration.  And depending on the location and timing of the event, you’ve probably also had at least one moment of panic as you wonder what you are going to wear.

With so many things to consider- tradition to climate to formality to terrain- it’s no wonder the etiquette for wedding guest attire has gone cloudy for most. So when the men’s clothier Paul Fredrick contacted us to weigh in on the subject we jumped at the opportunity to join in the conversation!

This infographic is a handy reference guide Paul Fredrick put together in conjunction with a team of stylists, wedding specialists, and the like. At first glance you can see how the formality progresses as the day goes along.

We thought we could elaborate on this even further by discussing the fine line between tradition and our thoughts on how to dress your best for every style of wedding- for both men and women.

Formal- After 6p

Wedding ceremonies beginning at 6p or later call for your most polished duds- and even more so if the invitation indicates Black Tie. A tux will always be the way to go in either of these situations, polished black shoes, and we agree with this graphic that the traditional bow tie (ala Bond) is the only way to go (and besides, ladies do you not agree the men look so dapper in a bow tie?).

Sara + Dylan Photography

Ladies you’ll want to pick out a dress, tea-length to floor length (black tie), to really seal the deal at a formal wedding. If you have straps, bring a shawl or bolero to cover your shoulders if the ceremony is held at a church. And let’s weigh in on the debate over whether you can wear white or black to this affair. In short, we think black is chic and is completely acceptable. White? Though times have changed a bit and traditions have loosened we still agree with etiquette and say let the bride be the only one shining in white.

Semi Formal- Before 6p

Ceremonies beginning at 5:30p or earlier call for a less formal look, though by no means casual. Guys look cool and polished in a dark suit- think dark navy or gray. A slim tie or vest (with a jacket over top) is acceptable in this situation too.

Ampersand Studios

Ladies will look for what we call cocktail attire for this style of event. With the exception of a floor length gown, you can often intermix the attire requirements for a formal and semi formal event. One rule we live by- for cocktail attire, keep the hemline at the knee, longest at the calf. We are not clubbing so let’s leave the super short dresses at home, ok?

Casual- Before 6p

If the wedding invitation clearly states a casual celebration, don’t overdress for the occasion. Men can look to lighter fabrics like khaki, poplin, or seersucker (tradition holds this to Memorial day through Labor day only if you’re really by the book).  A sport coat would be the way to go here, though guys can even get by with a nice dress shirt, tie, and slacks sans the jacket (Paul Fredrick has a great selection of looks here), loafers or other less formal dress shoe, and a smile. And by no means are you allowed to wear jeans to a wedding.

Ampersand Studios

A more casual wedding can also be considered “garden party” attire for the ladies. Think summery fabrics (cotton, linen, light silks), and getting a little more colorful in patterns is acceptable (and don’t worry- it doesn’t have to be florals). The most important issue to note here is the terrain.  Most of our garden party or casual weddings have included grass or other nature to contend with, so consider wearing flats or wedges to avoid sinking or other ankle rolling debacles.

Resort Chic- Anytime

With more and more destination weddings becoming the go-to celebration, we’ve found a lot of would-be guests struggling to find the right seaside look. Unless Black Tie or other formality is indicated, much lighter fabrics and styles of dresses (ie: we would find the maxi dress totally acceptable in this situation) are the norm. Depending on the locale, men would even be good to go in flat-front khaki shorts and a button down shirt with loafers.

And there you have it- the complete thought list on what we think your guests should be wearing. We would love to have you weigh in on the discussion- what are your thoughts on wedding attire and formality?

An August Soiree

{Sometimes, in the midst of planning weddings and parties, we find a spare moment to dream up our own perfect iconic wedding. Here is a look for an August bride I'd love to see....}

The August Soirette.....

• Is elegant and cool in a form-fitting back-see gown perfect for the garden
• Loves a succulent over a peony any day
• Sips on a Watermelon Sangria
• Isn't afraid to show her soft and daring side with a mix of gold and diamonds....and a little blue for hue
• Knows that gold heels can be worn after the wedding, too

What are your current favorites for August? 

Succulent Bouquet | Iris Gown by Claire Pettibone | Crystal Venus Flytrap Necklace | Olive Leaf Bracelet | Pave Link Bracelet | Gold Nudist Heel

Soiree Feature | Ties.com

When Ties.com emailed us, we were ecstatic! We're always looking for ways to include the menfolk and to make sure he's feeling just as dapper on the big day. Ties.com is a perfect site for a whole assortment of colorful, unique ties. They have a talented team of designers, and with over 35 colors and 10 styles, you are sure to find the perfect match for that wedding day attire!

My favorite part? How To Tie A Tie, now we will all know how! Not just how to tie one tie either, a handful of ties to tie! There are so many to look at on the site, be prepared to have trouble picking a favorite, but I think I narrowed mine down to a page... Polka Dot Ties. But their entire line of Wedding Ties is perfect for those summer time nuptials. Here's a little line from their site, 

To entice you even more, Ties.com is offering our readers an exclusive offer to receive 15% off your entire purchase- just enter WEDDINGSBYSOIREE at checkout! I hope to see some swanky neckwear on all those gentlemen this wedding season!

Happy day,

Kim

Inspiration | Day of Makeup

I love these looks because they are timeless! Whether you opt for a retro red lip, smokey eye or you go for a natural look, remember to keep your signature personal touches. You can make each one of these your own!

From left to right: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Happy planning!

Lifestyle | Packing With Style

Even though the summer is coming to an end, I know there are a few of us out there who are trying to get those last minute warm weather vacays in before fall arrives. As I prepare for my own little weekend retreat I think to myself, there has to be a better way to pack! I found this excellent website called Buzz Feed which had some great ideas to ensure a stress free vacation.

1. Put some cotton balls or cotton pads in your compact powder cases so they won't break in transit.

2. Cover the top of anything that could leak with plastic wrap, then twists the lid back on to ensure that there won't be a mess when you arrive at your destination.

3. Pack a cute shoulder bag with all of the essentials so they are handy when you need them. If you are traveling by plane, take it as a carry-on. That way if they lose your baggage (it happens to the best of us) you have your make-up, face wash, toothbrush...ect. You will save a ton on a drugstore visit and you'll be fresh faced and ready to go, even if you don't have that cute sundress and flip-flops to change into.

I hope that these tips help you sit back and relax during your fun excursions!

Happy traveling!

Inspiration | Hairstyles

Here are some wedding hair styles that are in vogue this spring and summer. Whether your hair is short or long there are several options that you can pull inspiration from. Create your own trend with a beautiful hair piece or a floral element that couple with these untied soft looks.

From Left to Right: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Enjoy the rest of the week!

Trending | Bright Wedding Lips

Good Morning!

With so many fabulous trends happening this season, it's tough to pick just one. What's trending right now? Bright wedding lips! Red, pink, even coral. And these lip colors give every bride the opportunity to add a little "pop" of color to her wedding day style.

Image via: Style Me Pretty

Will you be rocking the red lips for your wedding? Check out this step-by-step tutorial for those bright lips. Also, check out some more trending beauty combos (it really is impossible to pick just one!), whether it's for your wedding, or just a fun day out. Enjoy!

Inspiring Photo No. 62

In a world of white, sometimes color is just it. And this Carolina Herrera dress? It's lovely in every way (as is the bride)- do take a peek at all of the photos in this San Francisco affair...

Hope you have a relaxing Monday if you've got the day off, and if not, here's to a productive work week!

Xo,

Monique Lhuillier | A Sneak Peek Into The Life Of

Being one of my favorite bridal and fashion designers, anything on Monique Lhuillier will catch my eye. Recently Monique and her swanky LA home (read: her amazing closet) was featured on the Coveteur, with images of her home life too pretty not to share.

The designer has expanded on her bridal line and now features ready to wear, shoes, and even a home line. That dress in the middle? One of our mothers of the groom wore this lovely on the wedding day...it was stunning to say the least.

There are so many more pictures over at The Coveteur- they did a great job at letting us peek into her daily lifestyle!

Xo,

2012 Weddings Round Up | Favorite Dresses

The wedding gown is usually one of the biggest decisions of the wedding- it needs to reflect the bride as a person while complimenting the style of event as well. Modern, classic, traditional- so many choices when brides are choosing their look for the day. 2012 was affectionately dubbed the year of the dress here at Soiree- all of our brides donned lovelies that took our breath away. And I would go so far to say it was also a throwback to classic elegance...here are some of our favorites from the year. 

 

Kristen in her stunning Monique Lhuillier

Images via Ampersand Studios 

 -
Emily in a gorgeous Casablanca

Images via Ampersand Studios

 -
 Lindsey in Watters

Images via Sara K Byrne

 -
Tiffany in a backless Maggie Sottero

Images via Tana Photography

  -
Brandi wearing the stunning gown by Maggie Sottero

Images via Tana Photography

 Marisa in Tadashi Shoji

Images via Tana Photography

 Sam in her oh so elegant Paloma Blanca

Images via Ampersand Studios 

-
Caitlin in BHLDN

Images via Two Bird Studio

Xo,

Bridal To Red Carpet | Golden Globes 2013

Like most women you probably watched the Golden Globes last night- if not for the awards then simply for the fashion. We couldn't help but notice several celebrities donning gorgeous frocks from some of our favorite bridal designers, either. Here are four favorite stunners that caught our eye last night:

Carolina Herrera 

Lucy Liu chose this garden variety from one of the most graceful bridal designers out there, Carolina Herrera.

Via

..And loved how she kept the jewelry simple and understated with just some barely-there earrings.

Monique Lhuillier

Bestow my beating heart, if it isn't my favorite bridal designer. And this piece worn by Julianne Hough could easily walk straight to the altar too.

Via

Reem Acra

This lovely lady comes thisclose to my love of the romance of a Monique; could be a tie actually. Isla Fisher looks just radiant in this sparkly number, and how pretty is her red hair with the nude gown?

Via

Jenny Packham

And finally, Kristen Bell in this studded, empire waist style gown is just amazing. 

Via

These were just a few of the gorgeous styles and designers on the red carpet this year. What were your favorites? Can you see any of these styles down the aisle too? 

Xo,

Brandi's 2012 Holiday List | Simple Sophisticate

The tree is trimmed, lights are up, and I've already had my eye on the many holiday gift guides going around in the blogsphere of late. This year, instead of doing a gift guide round up like we did last year, we are personalizing things a little bit by posting our personal favorites that we'd be giddy to receive ourselves. If you missed Stephanie's, be sure to take a peek if you fancy fashion, and we've got more holiday and wish lists coming up this week and next for you.

As I was putting together my holiday list, I took a look at it and realized everything (ok, almost everything) was pretty practical and would be reasonable additions to both wardrobe and lifestyle, and all of the items would graciously carry one well into next seasons to come. Or so says my voice of reason. That was when I named mine "simple sophisticate", because that is what I'm focusing on this year...getting back to my roots and really building a foundation that can be accessorized as seasons come and go. Then add in the fact that I'm currently six months pregnant, I'm finding the more basic and classic I go, the better off I am (and saves me mad frustration in the mornings as I find things to wear).

So forgive me as I channel my inner stylist and post my current most coveted things here...if anything it might give you some gift ideas if you're currently searching for someone with classic, simple taste (or just needing ideas for your own wish list).

From Left to Right:

1. Boucle Peplum blazer from Jcrew. I'm currently loving all things blazer right now, especially since I can pair them with a fitted tee to show off the baby bump. Not to mention blazers always keep me feeling pulled together and ready for business or play.

2. On The Dot studs from Kate Spade. One of our good photographer friends has a pair similar to this, and I am always staring. Sometimes a gal just needs a basic, non-fussy pair of earrings and these fit the bill.

3. The Dodocase for Jcrew. I currently have a sleeve that I keep my iPad in, but as I carry it around to every single appointment I know I need a little more protection. This one is stylish and even has a camera hole.

4. Coach Poppy perfume. As I've sworn off all forms of scent since becoming pregnant, this is literally the first perfume I've come across that I was not only attracted to, but rather smitten with. Its citrusy properties with a touch of floral undertones really makes this a fresh daily must have. And come to think of it, brides, do check this out- I think it would be a lovely scent to wear on your wedding day without being overpowering.

5. Moss Stitch Cowl Neck by the Gap. I usually lean more toward basic blacks and gray, and tend to be quite fickle around color, but I find this violet-fuschia color striking. I think it would dress up those basic blacks in a nice way.

6. A new family portrait by Rifle Paper Co. This hand-drawn portrait is of Oh Joy's Joy Cho and her sweet family. How perfect is this as a gift idea? Send in a favorite photo and Rifle Paper Co will turn it into personalized stationery for thank you notes and such, but I love the idea of framing it as Joy did to use as family momentos each year.

7. Okay. This may be one thing that is neither practical nor a reasonable item. But the fact is, I want one. I want him. Dear Santa, can I have my French bulldog puppy this year?

What's on your list this year?

Xo,

Lifestyle: Simplifying your Closet

I always run across lovely closets like this one from My Love of Style and think 1.) Wow!
and  2. ) These closets wouldn't look like this once they were actually filled with someone's clothes.

  Interestingly enough though, I hear the key to having a put together wardrobe is having less clothes. I tend to think more is more and it's very hard for me to get rid of things. The other day I realized it's silly to have a closet literally full of nothing to wear to work. I ended up with two trash bags full of clothes and headed off to the nearest consignment store. When I got back home a few dollars richer (whatever they don't buy they'll donate for you) I went into my closet....and felt like getting rid of more! It feels so good to finally get rid of things you don't wear, either because they're ill fitting or you just really don't like them anymore. So my tip today is to work on simplifying, starting with your closet. Think about how nice it will feel to get ready for the day when everything in your closet is something you feel great in. With the extra cash you get for your old things, you could even buy a few new pieces to help you out with that!

Fall Fashions

  

Today's topic is one of my favorite things: Fall Fashion. I love the layering, funky styling, eclectic pieces and whimsy that seems to accompany this season. All of these outfits came straight from the "like" department of my Pinterest page, it seems every time I log in there is a new look I need to try out before the weather turns too cold for ballet flats or sheer tights. I love how the classic denim shirt gets a fall makeover by being paired with dark wide legged pants and a mini skirt gets some added warmth with the addition of tights and an oversized sweater. Fall is a great time to mix and match and have some fun putting together unexpected pieces!
Outfits from left to right: 1. , 2., 3., 4., 5.
October image source here.

Inspiring Photo No. 53

 Photo Via

Loving this photo from Smitten Magazine's color issue- makes me want to design something around the hues in her dress coupled with the intense shade of green in the background! What colors are you currently loving?

Happy Monday!

Xo,

Brandi

Weekly Faves | Brandi

We have been lacking in the weekly favorites department...actually it's been my turn for about 3 weeks now! So without further adieu, my weekly faves are all about color:

I have been searching high and low for curtains for our office, and I think I may have found them. These black and white curtains from Anthropologie are the perfect mix of sophisticated and playful. I've been lusting after this yellow and white striped scarf, as well as this striped iPad beauty, both from our beloved Kate Spade. Finally, I have had a thing for eclectic hardware lately- I would love to include them in a wedding sometime.

This weekend in Boise is set to be in the 60's- Spring is near, I can feel it! Here's to a fabulous weekend and we'll see you right back here on Monday.

xx,

Brandi

Get Married With Kate Spade

If you're ever having a drab kind of day, look to two people to pick you up: Mrs. Lilien and Kate Spade. The colors alone should be enough to put a smile on your face. And smile I did when I received a little email the other day boasting bridal bliss from the house of Spade. From dainty to bold, slim-lined to eye catching, the new bridal collection at Kate Spade had us at hello.

These are just a sampling of the goodies we saw- you have to take a peek at the website for the full experience.

To Buy: Mrs. Honeymoon Passport Holder | Gerbera Garden Earrings | Clarice Shoe | Best Friend Bracelet

Row 2: Jillian Dress | Cameo Dress | Siren Dress

What do you think of the new Kate Spade Bridal?

~Happy Wednesday!