Bella Sorella

Italian Garden Wedding Inspiration | Credit: Magnolia & Magpie Photography

Outside of South Africa, if there’s one location in the world that’s my happy place, it has to be Italy. Hands down. Which isn’t really a surprise, since I’m half Italian, and I’ve lived there and travelled extensively. But it never gets tired or old or been there done that. And when it’s been a while (which it has for me right now), I get this palpable longing to visit again and breathe it in. Happily, that longing just got a little bit satisfied for me with today’s bridal inspiration, which is like a slice of Italian wedding heaven. First off, it’s shot on the most gorgeous Italian estate you can imagine. Add in exquisite Claire Pettibone gowns on the models (who look like mythological sisters), headpieces from Enchanted Atelier, and lush, elegant florals in classic shades of white and green. A touch of romantic calligraphy? Check. Susie Saltzman rings? That too. And with beautiful images by Magnolia & Magpie Photography to round things out, it’s pretty much the most perfect way to start a week I can imagine. Sigh…

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A Beautiful Illusion {Portrait Back Wedding Dresses}

K-Patz in happier days. Tut tut, Kristin. No more sparkly boyfriend for you.

Blame it on Kristin Stewart. (I mean, she’s getting blamed for everything else right now, why not.) I thought the biggest style statement of that there Twilight wedding would be the hanging blooms, but it turns out that Bella’s gorgeous illusion back gown was the big winner. With lace being huge right now, I am seeing beautiful lace backs popping up everywhere, and goodness if they don’t always catch my breath. Now I’ll admit, there’s a bit of envy here because no way no how am I ever going to be wearing one of these in any form (let’s just say the look gets a little ruined by a bra strap, and I get a little ruined without a bra), but for you ladies who can pull this look off, they make an incredibly stylish and romantic statement. (For the rest of us, of course, there are still illusion necklines which are also a big trend, but that’s another post). There’s something about the mixture of covered and sheer, of lace and skin, that makes them simultaneously demure and sexy. Just one note of caution – if you have your heart set on wearing your hair down (or even half down, or in a ponytail), give this dress style a miss. No point in covering up Mona Lisa’s smile!

To get you inspired, I thought I would introduce you to some of the key designers who have been working this look recently, and then show you my local favourite.Read More