ROYAL COUTURE.....Pippa Middleton Wedding: Wedding Gown, Best Dressed & "Uh Oh" Guests!

ROYAL COUTURE.....Pippa Middleton Wedding: Wedding Gown, Best Dressed & "Uh Oh" Guests!

 Wedding Gorgeous: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews smile after their wedding--St. Marks Church Englefield England

Pippa Middleton--the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, married hedge fund manager and former professional racing driver, James Matthews on Saturday at a glorious wedding fitting a royal--or "Royal Adjacent". Pippa might not really be a royal but because of her very close approximation to one, I am placing her--and her wedding--in this Royal Couture blog. So let's discuss the wedding and more importantly, the Wedding Couture beginning with Pippa's wedding dress and then some of the guests...



The Dress:

Pippa Gown: Pippa Middleton chose a "Princess"/A-line shaped ballgown style for her wedding day. The handmade gown of lace and pearls was designed by British designer Giles Deacon. The dress was done in a manner that would not show any seams--by overlapping the lace--by hand--meticulously over the many seams that are in a gown of this silhouette. The dress featured a full ballgown skirt shape and UBER fitted drop-waist torso/bustier. It also had a high neckline, drop shoulder sleeve detail and heart-shaped semi-open back.

 British designer Giles Deacon

Giles Deacon Couture Fall/Winter 2016, modeled by model Anna Cleveland, daughter of famed 70's Supermodel Pat Cleveland 

Giles is said to have put on hold all his fashion business for the last few months to concentrate on Pippa's one-of-a-kind gown. His most recent "Couture" collection was for Fall/Winter 2016 and it showed glorious, billowing handmade gowns with exquisite applique detail. Pippa's wedding dress would probably cost in the realm of $75,000-$100,000, at least that would be the going price for an actual Haute Couture gown from the likes of Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Chanel or Dior. No news if she possibly got a "discount" for all the press he would receive.



The Veil:

The veil--of tulle and pearls--was done by famed milliner Stephen Jones.

Sister Fixing: Pippa's sister, Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge, was seen fixing Pippa's tulle-and-pearl veil as she was about to enter the church ceremony, just making sure that it was perfect

Shape Similar: Pippa's lace and pearl wedding gown was similar in shape to the iconic Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton wedding dress worn by her sister Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

Sealed with a Kiss: Pippa Middleton and James Matthews as they emerge from their church wedding ceremony with their "Flower girls and boys", including William and Kate's children Prince George (second from right) and Princess Charlotte--St. Marks Church, Englefield England

Page Boys and Girls:

Stylish George: Prince George (center), giving a "look" to the photographers--and looking very much like his father when William was his age. Prince George looked super cute in a white Peter Pan collared shirt with mini pintucks and emerald green silk shantung knickers.

Royal Style:

Mommie Kate: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge looked chic and wedding appropriate in a dusty rose/light salmon colored silk crepe dress from Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton. Her dress was a lady-like tea-length and featured a v-neckline, gathered Bishop sleeves, fitted midriff and pleated front skirt details. Her daughter Princess Charlotte looked ADORABLE in her gathered flower girl dress, with fresh flower headdress and pink cummerbund.

I have to say that Catherine looked very "Wallis Simpson Duchess of Windsor"-like in this 30's-like dress.

Dapper Brothers: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and his brother Prince Harry in their tailcoat/morning coat ensembles. 

Guests:

Princess Eugenie, daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York--(seen here with her boyfriend Jack Brooksbank) wore this navy blue A-line shaped knee-length dress from French designer Paule Ka. The cotton dress features a "split-shoulder" neckline and retails for $1,014 HERE. For Pippa's wedding she decided to "play it safe" as opposed to her head-turning look at Kate's wedding.

Vanilla Yellow Donna: British actress--and aspiring fashion designer--Donna Air (who is on-off girlfriend to Pippa's hottie bearded brother James for the last four years)--attended the wedding in this lemon yellow/cream coat-dress from UK designer Emilia Wickstead Spring/Summer 2017 collection. Lots of fashion-watchers criticized her for saying that she should not have worn WHITE (a No-No as a wedding guest) but I have to disagree with these wanna-be-fashion experts...this coat-dress is NOT white and in fact more of a "vanilla yellow"-like color. I liked it! It was demure, elegant and lady-like. I also loved the matching hat and those fabulous ankle strapped pumps. The magenta colored clutch added a respite from all the vanilla/lemon yellow. Did I mention that this WAS NOT WHITE. OK. Thank you.

Tartan: A couple of male guests opted for tartan pants as part of their tailcoat ensembles. And I say "Go On Boys!". Love the tartan, love the statement and even though, yes, I know as a guest of a wedding, it really isn't about you but...I love when (especially) male guests GIVE YOU FASHION!

Flower Prints and Hats: These two guests stood out for their Wedding Fab printed dresses, perfect for a Spring/Summer wedding. I love the canary yellow flower printed dress on the left as well as the blue one on the right. Both looks are great examples of chic Wedding Guest Style, especially for a May wedding. If I had to chose my favorite of the two, it would be the blue; the waist-tie shirt dress style was elegant, fun and I loved the feminine ruffle details.

Fab Dressed: These two guests get my Wedding Guest Best Dressed points--the left one, for that fab pheasant feather-topped hat and blue-and-white ensemble as well as those navy-and-white pumps. I also loved the guest on the right in the pink pleated silk dress with Bishop sleeves and delicately appliqued detail. The gold pumps were a super chic addition.

Uh No Part One: Two female wedding guests that were not on my Best Dressed List were these printed ladies. Now, there's a way to do printed dresses for a wedding (scroll above) and this is a way to not do it. The guest on the left wore this drab Autumn-like printed dress that not only, looked dowdy but also said "I'm not happy at this wedding". And then, somehow, in the middle of May, the guest on the right thought it was fine to bring out her gray fur chubby/mini coat. All I can say is #GURL ! But kids, these two weren't the only ones who went Wedding Koo Koo Couture...

Happy Hands At Home Dress and Lifesaver Fruit Dress Guest: Well, look what we have here--the guest on the left looks as if she took her old Laura Ashley 80's bed sheet or window drapes and felt fine in making a dress out of it. And then, in addition, decided an iridescent organza shawl would make a fine accessory. Speaking of accessories, what in the name of the FASHION GODS are those putrid brown shoes??? Let's move on to the guest on the right--I give this woman points for being "sassy" in this colorful striped ensemble. And the big hat screams "I'm a good friend of the Gays" and I will bet a couple of British pounds that she's a hoot at the open bar, but...this is just too 1992 for me. Especially those "Lifesaver Fruit Flavor"-like buttons.



Oh well, at least, I can still go back to this gorgeous dress:

Congratulations to the Happy Couple--Pippa Middleton and James Matthews!

Curvy Girl Fashion Outfits - Tips For Ladies

Curvy Girl Fashion Outfits - Tips For Ladies

With the rise of full-figured models, there has been a sudden surge of appreciation for the curvier aspects of feminine beauty. Curves are to be embraced, celebrated, and accessorized—not hidden!

From mini dresses to chic tunics, Pink Lily has cute outfits for curvy women that follow the most up-to-date runway fashion trends. The outfits we offer show you how this season’s trends, colors, and styles can flatter your body and express your personality.

Dress for Your Body

 While many styles for curvy girls were once shapeless, clothing designers are now working to create cuts that flatter the variety of curvy shapes. Learn about which cuts and embellishments are the best styles for a curvy figure with Pink Lily!

Pear Shape

If you have a pear or triangle shaped body, try to find a way to visually extend your neck and shoulders with a scoop, v-neck, or sweetheart line. Since your bust is smaller, highlight it with extra details like pleats or ruffles. Accentuate your waist with belts and empire silhouettes, and choose pencil skirts, A-line dresses, and wrap around styles.

Hourglass

An hourglass body generally has shoulders and hips that are the same size. The best styles for this curvy figure are ruffles and soft drapes, as well as open collars and asymmetrical cuts. Fit and flare shapes will fit the hourglass body well and fitted tops ensure that the upper body is accentuated.

Oval Shape

When you have an oval shape, you need to elongate your body with a low neckline. Choose cowl, scoop, or v-neck cuts to flatter your upper body. Do the same for your waist with ‘peak' empire waistlines, princess seams, and faux wrap dresses. Balance your lower body with dropped waist pants or skirts with high slits.

Rectangle

Rectangle bodies require you to create a waist and accentuate your chest. Use the sweetheart, asymmetric, jewel, and cowl necklines to highlight your femininity. You can also embellish your top with curve defining bodices and ruched and frilled tops. Wear belts to fabricate a waist and add slightly flared leg pants to create the illusion of a curved shape.

Bold Patterns and Colors Stripes and floral designs were all heavily represented on the runways this year, so embracing this year’s celebration of bold colors and fun patterns is essential for every fashion-obsessed woman. 

When adding to your collection of cute outfits for curvy women, find pieces that create contrast between dark colors and bright patterns to create an eye-drawing outfit that will earn compliments every time.

Stay cool with Pink Lily’s What I Live For Damask Mini, where contemporary styling meets classic beauty, with a nod to the sophisticated tea parties of yesteryear. The neon pink damask pattern paired on a black background evokes a sophisticated outfit that looks amazing on the curvy woman. Since this mini dress accentuates the waist and minimizes the chest with a patterned bottom and a plain top, this dress is one of the best styles for a curvy figure.

Accessorize the scoop neck with a statement necklace to draw attention to your face and add a couple of bracelets to complete the look. Slip into your favorite wedges and you’ll be ready for a night out with the girls, or opt for flats to fabricate a look that’s perfect for a casual lunch date.

Cut and Shape

 Cut and shape are important parts of a piece that ensure your clothing hugs you in all the right places. The mini dress is cut in a way that accentuates your legs, balancing your body and making you look taller. This is definitely one of the best styles for the curvy figure! This style of dress lends itself to more casual events, like summer barbecues and strolls on the beach.

In addition to its flattering cut, the Count on Me Mini plays with this season’s love of bright pastels. The shallow pockets add an adorable detail to this dress and embellishes a simple cut without adding bulk. Both the top and bottom pieces are unlined to keep you cool throughout the day.

Add a fashionable floppy hat in coral or straw for sunny summer days and delicate gold jewelry to subtly highlight the outfit. Pair this dress with all of your favorite summer shoes—from gladiator sandals to height-enhancing wedges. As the weather cools, add a pair of leggings and booties for additional warmth and keep rocking your mini.

For more formal events, a longer skirt or dress—like the maxi dress—is also one of the best styles for a curvy figure. A dress with an A-line waist that skims your figure, instead of hugging it, lengthens your torso and balances the upper and lower body.

Our Holdin On to Something Maxi is appropriate for both dressy and casual events—it fulfills all of the requirements for the perfect curvy piece! Flowy and fabulous, the soft drape flows over your curves without squeezing, ensuring your comfort and elegance. Wearing your maxi with wedges or heels will keep the hemline pristine and lengthen your legs. A few bangles and subtle earrings embellish your look while keeping your silhouette clean and curvy.

Warm and Cozy Maxis

 At Pink Lily, we firmly believe that the maxi dress can be worn even after the summer solstice. To let all maxi lovers wear their favorite dress well into the autumn season, we offer a maxi with a three-quarter length sleeve for cooler days and evenings.

The Over My Head Maxi has a classic chevron pattern and soft colors that complement any shape. It can also be worn to any event, making it one of the best styles for a curvy figure. For an extra sizzle, wear a wide belt to highlight your waist and separate your upper and lower body. Adding a thin cardigan or wrap around sweater will supply the extra warmth you need without adding bulk to your outfit. Wearing fleece-lined ankle leggings under this dress is another way to stay warm without compromising style or elegance.

Autumn Tops

 As we move into fall and winter weather, shirts and pants are essential to stay warm. Instead of boring basic tops, add interest to your wardrobe with a stylish tunic. Tunics are somewhere between a dress and a shirt, meaning they have the same versatility as dresses and look great on any curvy shape.

A charcoal side button tunic from Pink Lily has a modern asymmetrical cut to emphasize the waist and balance the hips and shoulders. Pair this tunic with leggings and heeled boots for an elegant ensemble or wear it with skinny jeans and booties for a casual look. Grab a black quilted clutch and some delicate, colorful jewelry to accessorize.

Dress Code: Black Tie

Dress Code: Black Tie

Dress: Ted Baker 'Nelum' | Bag: Alice + Olivia 'Clee' Old but Love This Fluffy Evening Option | Lip Colour: Topshop Lip Polish 'Gallery' | Earrings: Next Old but Similar | Heels: Reiss Old but Super Cute Alternative Here 

So, what to do when the invitation states Dress Code: Black Tie . . . ?! First: do a celebratory dance. Immediately. I mean, how often is black tie required nowadays?! This is EXCITING. And two: google Blair Waldorf. Nobody gives better gown game than Blair. Fact. 

I have had my fair share of black tie occasions this year, from a ball, to the opera, to a handful of weddings, I have been spoilt with occasions to indulge my Gossip Girl fantasies. There  is something throughly magical about wearing a gown and jewels, and if you don't already have an invitation requiring black tie, I'm going to help you out. More on that later. 

| Shop The Look | 

This beautiful china print Nelum dress from Ted Baker had my heart quickening a pace on first glance. The white felt unseasonably fresh for an Autumn ball, and I adore a touch of cobalt blue in whatever guise. I wore this look for the Next Charity Gala I attended recently, which raised money in aid of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. It was a stunning occasion; Venetian themed, complete with masks, gondoliers, acrobats, fireworks (indoors!) and a heaving dance floor. It was truly a 'pinch me' evening. 

Read on for my roundup of the black tie occasions every one can attend, and the best evening dresses for every body shape . . . 

| How To Find the Best Dress For You | 

Given, wearing a ball gown is hardly an every day occurrence. The process of finding the perfect Blair-worthy dress (with room to eat, dance, get in and out of transport) can be daunting. 

My top tip is to think about your silhouette. What is the most flattering shape for you?

I am an hourglass, and have learnt that a dress which nips in at the waist and skim past my hips is most flattering. I have learnt over time what suits me, but it wasn't always the case! True story: when I was 16 years old and shopping for my prom dress, I was obsessed with buying a silk bias-cut gown similar to Kate Hudson's gold dress in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days (because duh, she looked amazing). However, it was literally the worst shape on me. I persisted, but eventually caved when I realised how much more flattering an A-line skirt is for me. 

See below for a few recommendations for different body shapes: 

Hourglass:

Straight up and down:

Larger chest, smaller hips:

Smaller bust, larger hips:

Lean arms and legs, middle conscious: 

Now, I truly believe every one should get the chance to have a princess moment, it's a right of passage for all gown-loving girls. If you should already have a black tie invitation sitting in your mail, or you know you have your prom, a friend's wedding, a boyfriend's work occasion . . . coming up, book mark this page! If not, here are three occasions to look in to: 

1: The Royal Ballet in Covent Garden. There is no official dress code, however I feel it's the perfect occasion to many an extra effort. Pop in to Balthazar around the corner for a glass of champagne - you'll definitely feel appropriately attired in here!

2: The Grange Park Opera. Oli and I went this year and had the best time. Book up early for next Summer. If you are under 30 you can receive a special ticket concession. 

3: Your very own soiree! Christmas is around the corner and I can't think of a better excuse to host a party with friends! Chip in for room hire in a lovely restaurant (it often works out more cost effective than you think) and make the dress code your own. Hotel Du Vin have many beautiful locations. 

All of this talk of gowns has got me itching to swap my slippers for stilettos . . . OR binge-watch Gossip Girl. 

Must. Remain. Productive. 

Do you love an occasion to dress up? What would be your DREAM gown?! I think mine would be this. 

Love, 

MB x

William and Catherine Royal Wedding Red Carpet Report: The Pre-Wedding Gala Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel London!

William and Catherine Royal Wedding Red Carpet Report: The Pre-Wedding Gala Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel London!

Gowns Gowns and More Gowns...

Ladies In Red--and Orange: Crown Princess of Sweden, Countess of Wessex, Princess Mathilde of Belgium, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg

My faithful Royal Red Carpet Watchers and Readers: Here's what I think will be my final "Nick V. Royal Wedding Red Carpet Report" (for now!). It's from the very fabulous Pre-Wedding Gala Dinner given by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in very posh Knightsbridge overlooking Hyde Park. The dinner was a Black Tie-Only affair with the ladies wearing Gowns Only. The Guest List was strictly reserved for the inner Royal Family, and all its associated members, as well as top royals from neighboring European countries --who are related to the UK Royals anyhow; first cousins, distant cousins... well, you get it, they're all "family".

Red Princess: Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden in Escada

In the first group of four (pictured above) are Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, who looked SMASHING in a scarlet red draped silk crepe Escada gown held by a small diamond brooch. Next to her was Sophie Countess of Wessex Wife to Prince Edward, who also wore red--a red silk taffeta gown with interesting bust detail.

Orange High-Water Gown: Princess Mathilde of Belgium Duchess of Brabant

Next was Princess Mathilde of Belgium, seen above with her husband, Prince Philip of Belgium. She wore an orange scooped-neck shirred gown with cascade front drapes, which weirdly enough, made her look pregnant. It looked a bit ill-fitting and almost "off-the-rack", and THAT length?? What was that! FLOOR length darling! To the floor!!! Was she expecting a flood?

Duchess Elegance: Maria Theresa Grand Duchess of Luxembourg

And next to her was Cuban-born Maria Theresa Grand Duchess of Luxembourg with her husband, the Grand Duke of course. Much better than what we saw from her the day after at the actual Royal Wedding. At least here, she looks less like a Soccer Mom in a cheap suit from Dillard's and more an elegant Duchess!! Her hair looks FAB, the off-the-shoulder red gown with over-sized waist-bow detail is elegant and HELLO: It hits the FLOOR! She just gets my Instant Nick Love, just for that!

A-List Royal Guests: Princess Beatrice, Princess Tatiana of Greece and Denmark, Queen Elizabeth II

Above, three women who didn't disappoint--Royal Red Carpet style. Fashionista No. 1, Princess Beatrice--she of THE Hat that has its own Facebook Page!!--yes, her. Beatrice wore an ivory and silver metallic one-shoulder "Mermaid-shaped" gown by designer Rachel Gilbert. It's a bit "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" but I still say "At-A-Girl!". On her right is Princess Tatiana of Greece and Denmark, wife of Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Denmark.

She wore a navy blue silk satin strapless gown with grosgrain ribbon detailing from Giorgio Armani Spring 2011 Collection. Interesting that on the runway, the dress was shown in a more casual manner, above the floor and with flats, but on her, she correctly had it to the floor and wore it with heels.

The Queen Exotic: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Then, there was the Hostess with the Mostess: Her Majesty The Queen. Three Words: You Go Girl! Only Elizabeth II can host a Black tie Royal Wedding Party in a brightly printed drop-waist gown in lilac with metallic details, gold pumps and matching gold leather handbag. The gown had a Near Orient motif which was perfect since the Dinner Party was at the Mandarin Oriental. A good hostess thinks of everything darlings, even coordinating her hosting gown with the locale!

Ball Gown Happy: Prince Felipe, Princess Letizia, Queen Sofia of Spain

A Trio of Royals: Prince Felipe of Spain, his wife, Princess Letizia and his mother, Queen Sofia showed up to the Night-Before Dinner dressed to the Nines! Felipe looked dapper in a complete tuxedo. So handsome. His mother, Queen Sofia was REGAL, in a bronzed taffeta ball gown from designer Margarita Nuez. She accessorized it with several layers of pashmina shawls to protect her from the cold London evening.

Princess Seam Princess: Princess Letizia of Spain in Felipe Varela

And to finish off the Spanish Royal contingency, Princess Letizia wore a lavender strapless gown with embroidered applique detail by Spanish designer Felipe Varela. I loved that she wore a ball gown, however, I just thought it was a rather "unexciting one". Basic sweetheart bustier neckline; princess seams...Seriously Letizia? There are soooo many more creative ball gown designs. This just seams so "pattern book" cookie cutter. It was pretty but very "David's Bridal 101".

Billion Dollar Man: Sultan of Brunei and his Queen

Sultan of Brunei, Sir Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah and his first (and currently, only) wife (he had three total, but divorced two) Queen of Brunei, Pengiran Anak Saleha , who incidentally, is his first cousin (Hello!).

Margrethe II Queen of Denmark (above) was of course, invited to this Pre-Wedding Gala Dinner. She's known for her fluid but yet very sumptuous ball gowns--always in big (rather tacky) floral prints. But, this time, someone must have advised her correctly: She looked classy, restrained, and dare I say CHIC! Love th color contrast between the lavender and the chocolate silk satin. Margrethe II gets my "Most Improved Royal" award for this one.

Speaking of the Danes, above we have Queen Anne-Marie of Greece (she was born Princess of Denmark in Copenhagen). She looked quite elegant--and fun--in this flower-printed silk chiffon gown, bronze waist tie and gold shoes...and THAT necklace! As we know, Queen Anne-Marie is the wife of Constantine II, the former King of Greece (who is also Danish and from the same House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg)...Where was the King, you might ask?

Admiring Princess Michael of Kent right before going inside the Mandarin Oriental Hotel (as wife looked on). The Princess--an Austrian-Hungarian member of the British Royal Family, is...
The wife to Prince Michael of Kent Grandson to King George V (above left), She wore a gorgeous chocolate brown silk draped-and-shirred gown with a stunning diamond brooch at the center front bust, a sequined clutch and bronzed satin shawl. She was definitely one of the most stylish royals that night, even with that 80's braided hairdo of hers.