2024 Wedding Trend: Pantone Color of the Year
Introducing Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year: Peach Fuzz!
Peach Fuzz is a gorgeous, soft pink-orange hue that can be combined with a variety of color palettes to produce a stunning wedding. When paired with fresh colors such as brighter pinks, greens, and blues, the resulting look is vibrant and cheery. When paired with deeper jewel tones such as plum, maroon, and mustard, it produces a harmonious contrast. For a romantic, soft, spring or summer look, pair Peach Fuzz with a monochromatic mix of warm-toned blushes to create a delicate and airy display.
Peach Fuzz and its soft, subtle hue make an undeniable impact wherever it is incorporated, from florals to paper, candles, and bridesmaid dresses. Peach Fuzz is a uniquely versatile shade that can be added nearly anywhere, whether as the focal color of your event or as an accent pop of color.
We guarantee that Peach Fuzz’s refreshing, gorgeous hue will beautifully enhance your wedding day decor!
Holiday Wedding Decor
Let’s face it, although winters can be hard they are beautiful and they set the stage for magical weddings. However, often when you hear of a wedding around the holidays, images of evergreen, wreaths, and literal holiday elements flood your thoughts. Just because a wedding is over the holidays doesn’t mean it should look like a holiday party! In fact, we go so far as to say it should not look like a holiday party. You can use acorns and bows, but class it up with gorgeous, rich linens and florals mixed in. We are here to challenge the narrative and inspire you in a different direction if you are considering a winter wedding.
We suggest three winter decor directions: Elegant Jewel Tones, Frosty Winter Wonderland and Cozy Cabin. All are without the kitch of the holidays, taking your decor from Happy Holidays to elevated winter wedding. The chilly weather outside sets the stage as your guests enter your stunning reception, filled with subtle nods to the season.
Check out what winter wedding decor inspires us!
Elegant Jewel Tones
Frosty winter wonderland
elegant cozy Cabin wedding
TREND ALERT - Bring on the Black!
The hottest trend in weddings is BLACK! No longer simply relegated to tuxes, invitation print, and gold/black color palettes, black is now the primary color with other tones playing supporting roles in the background. Bold and dramatic, and sometimes moody, black accents add depth and certainly make a statement. Some think that weddings should be bright, airy, and neutral to stand the test of time. At Style-Architects Weddings, we do NOT think that is the case. We believe that, although light, bright, and neutral are beautiful, when black takes center stage, magic happens!
We have created some beautiful weddings with black as the primary focus. Check out how we added black to the forefront of some of our couples’ wedding designs.
Want your wedding to stand out from others? BRING ON THE BLACK!
Photography: Russell Heeter Photography
Photography: Geneoh Photography
Photography: Matt Lien
Photography: Shane Long Photography
NY Bridal Fashion Week - Fall 2023 Collections
What are the next big trends in bridal gowns? Well, look no further than New York’s Bridal Fashion Week to learn all you need to know. We’ve scoured the shows to share with you the very latest go-to looks. Yes - heavy illusion, lingerie-inspired looks, and corsets are still being shown, but the latest trends appear to be less focused on baring yourself and more focused on romanticism. These gowns play with the versatility of bridal fashion and prove that no matter your style, there is a gown perfectly suited for you!
BRIDAL SEPARATES
Bridal separates used to mean bridal suits, and though suits are featured every season, “separates” are taking on new forms. Think dramatic capes, detachable trains, and interchangeable tops and bottoms to create multiple looks.
(Left: Willowby by Waters, Middle: Ines Di Santo, Right: Rita Vinieris)
SEXY CUTOUTS
Cut-outs turn a sleek silhouette into a contemporary and bold work of art.
(Left: Apollo, Middle: PatBO, Right: Yolancris)
COLORFUL HUES
Who says brides have to wear white? Push the boundaries of bridal fashion and pick the perfect match for your skin tone.
(Left: Andrew Kwon, Middle: Francesca Avila, Right: Monique Lhuillier)
VOLUMINOUS RUFFLES
Fluffy and oh so sophisticated, go all out with heavy texture!
(Left: Nadia Manjarrez, Middle: Amsale, Right: Marchesa)
SQUARE NECKLINES
Making a huge debut this season, square necklines have a regal feel that princess necklines just can’t match!
(Left: Dana Harel, Middle: Halfpenny London, Right: Theia)
STATEMENT SLEEVES
Whether flared, puffed, or removable, these statement sleeves create drama and added romance to already beautiful gowns.
(Left: Verdin, Middle: Halfpenny London, Right: Galia Lahav Couture)
NY Bridal Fashion Week 2022
Another New York Bridal Fashion Week has come to a close and a new batch of remarkable looks are going to be hitting the aisles. Among the looks: jaw-dropping ballgowns, striking mini dresses, colorful gowns, unique necklines, removable sleeves and gorgeous embellishments. Wedding fashion is a top priority for the modern bride and designers have embraced this with more looks than ever before, catering to all brides!
So, for those of you wanting to make a statement, check out the top trends from the Spring 2023 collections below!
BLUE HUES
Pink hues have stuck around in bridal fashion for some time but blue is making its moment known. This season the color blue has taken center stage and makes for an easy choice on your “something blue.” Available in all shades of blue, these gorgeous gowns are fit for any bridal celebration.
(Left: Trent Baily, Middle: Amsale, Right: Nadia Manjarrez Studio)
SHEER FABRICS
Designers are stepping it up with this bold design. By incorporating crystal embellishments and nude linings with illusion gowns, these sheer designs have an elegant, sexy style.
(Left: Dana Harel, Middle: Mira Zwillinger, Right: Galia Lahav)
ASYMMETRICAL NECKLINES
An Asymmetric neckline add interest and drama to even the simpliest gown creating an on-trend silhouette that will surely stun your guests!
(Left: Ramona Keveza, Middle: Theia, Right: Anne Barge)
MOCK NECKS
Many Royals and celebrities have chosen this timeless look and its popularity has soared. Form fitting silhouettes, corset or sheer bodices, and bare arms help dial in the level of modesty you are looking for.
(Left: Anne Barge, Middle: Monique Lhuillier, Right: Ines Bi Santo)
REMOVABLE SLEEVES
Removable sleeves are a great way to create two separate looks for your ceremony and reception. Add interest to your ceremony look with long silk tulle or short billowy sleeves. Then, during your reception, change up the look by completely removing the sleeves. Or, leave them on all night if you prefer the look of sleeves but like to bare a little shoulder too! So many options!
(Left: Halfpenny London, Middle: Mira Zwillinger, Right: Rita Vinieris)
PARTY MINIS
Party minis are a fun fashion style suitable as bridal shower, bachelorette, and secondary wedding day looks. This look is for the bride that wants to showcase her fun fashion sense and show a little skin on her big day.
(Left: Peter Langner, Middle: Loveshackfancy, Right: Costarellos)
ELABORATE BALLGOWNS
Even with a surge of non-traditional designs, there is still a demand for glamorous ballgowns. Feel like the belle of the ball in a ballgown that showcases large sleeves, colorful embroidery, and amazing fabrics to make your gown stand out from the rest.
(Left: Elie Saab, Middle: Hermione De Paula, Right: Monique Lhuillier)
MINI BOW DETAILS
Each season, designers are always looking for ways to incorporate unique details, and this year it is mini bows. This whimsical design element is taking shape in many forms.
(Left: Legends by Ramona Keveza, Middle: Yelena Yemchuk, Right: Rosie Assoulin)
OVERSIZED FLORAL MOTIFS
Floral designs are a staple in bridal wear, but this year the motif is oversized, turning this traditional aesthetic into something modern, fresh, and new!
(Left: Elie Saab, Middle: Reem Acra, Right: Amsale)
2022 Wedding Trends: Pantone Color of the Year
Introducing the 2022 Pantone Color of the Year: Very Peri. This color is a beautiful hue of periwinkle, offering a playful twist on the colors of purple and blue. Whether playing a small role or center stage, Very Peri pairs wells with any tone including warmer reds, eggplants, oranges, butterscotch, apricots and blush tones, and cooler blues and greens. Or, add it as an extra punch to neutral tones. Because it is not overwhelming, Very Peri can be used in nearly any aspect of your wedding, even men’s attire, cakes and invitations.
So break out the Very Peri and add some punch to your wedding!
Up & Coming Wedding Color // Cinnamon
2021 brought us bright, bold, and stunning weddings. As we look ahead to 2022, we are excited to see some new trends on the horizon - including a shift in color.
Bringing depth, richness, and warmth, cinnamon accents are a stunning way to add a bold and fresh look to your wedding day. The cinnamon color palette adds a tasteful twist which is endlessly versatile. Go boho by adding pampas grass or freshen it up by marrying the warmth with soft spring and summery colors like vibrant blues, bright yellows and soft greens for added style and sophistication.
Whether dressed up or down, cinnamon will surely stun your guests.
2021 Wedding Trends: Pantone Color of the Year
Though we may be a little late to the party {hey we’ve been busy!}, we think that everyone can agree that the 2021 Pantone Color of the Year, Illuminating Yellow, is bringing the color that we all need! This yellow brings excitement and happiness back into our world! Illuminating Yellow is energetic, vibrant and versatile. Because it plays well with most colors, we’ve seen it influence 2021 weddings as well as 2022. Use it as a primary or as an accent color, either way it will make your event POP!
2021 New York Bridal Fashion Week
New York Bridal Fashion Week is always an exciting time when we get to see what our brides will be wearing in the coming year! Dramatic looks are certainly in with puffy sleeves, feathers, pantsuits and plunging necklines. {It’s as though these gowns are providing a shot of adrenaline to wake up our senses.} Check out the looks and get inspired!
BALLROOM PUFF SLEEVES
Regency-era designs are making a comeback and designers are using this design as a bold statement. Who doesn’t want to look like a princess on their wedding day?
From left to right: Odylyne the Ceremony | Forged In The North | Savannah Miller
FLORAL MOTIFS
Florals are blooming this spring for wedding gowns. From full gowns of florals, sequins, and beading to mini dresses with three-dimensional floral appliques, this trend is growing!
From left to right: Oriana Layendecker | Marchesa | Alyne by Rita Vinieris
DRAMATIC FEATHERS
Brides are amping up their bridal fashion with dramatic feather details, bringing that wow factor and really turning heads.
From left to right: Elie Saab | Naeem Khan | Marchesa Notte Bridal
BRIDAL SEPARATES
Non-traditional bridal wear continues to be a focus of New York Bridal Fashion Week. This year the pantsuit has added drama and sophistication.
From left to right: Scorcesa | Nordeen | Yolancris
DEEP V-NECKLINES
Another very sophisticated look is the deep V to the waist. It’s modest elsewhere which makes it grandma approved! However, with no support, this look is not for everyone.
From left to right: Wona Concept | Galvan | Viktor & Rolf
THIGH-HIGH SLITS
Brides are ready to step out and show some leg! The thigh-high slit brings a bit of sexy mixed with high fashion.
From left to right: Ines Di Santo | Sareh Nouri | Fifth & Welshire
2020 Wedding Trends: Pantone Color of the Year
It’s a new decade, but 2020’s Pantone Color is going back to the classics. We are always excited to hear the announcement of the Pantone Color of the Year as it heavily influences wedding colors for the upcoming year (and sometimes even longer)! Rose Quartz, the 2016 Pantone Color of the Year, certainly hung around for years!
But for 2020, the 2020 Pantone Color of the Year is Classic Blue! Following is inspiration on how to incorporate this shade into your wedding.
COLOR COMBOS
Classic Blue is so versatile. It can stand on its own or serve as a neutral for bolder hues. Following are just five examples of color combos which showcase how nicely Classic Blue plays with other hues.
COLOR INSPIRATION
2020 Wedding Trends: Fashion
Cheers to the New Year! There are so many new wedding trends on the horizon for 2020, so for the month of January we are going to share the top wedding trends in a variety of different categories. Today is all about wedding fashion - from frills to full coverage to minimalistic styles, there is something unique for everyone!
FROTH + FRILLS
Your wedding is the ultimate day to showcase your romantic side by incorporating texture and dimension into your dress. 2020 is all about “froth” - weightless, dreamy and full of movement. We think it’s the perfect way to add a bit of volume to your look that looks both whimsical and feminine.
WATERCOLOR + PRINTS
While wearing a colored dress isn’t exactly a new trend, watercolor is more about a softer take on all things colorful - be it gowns in shades of blue, green, blush, etc. We especially enjoy seeing floral and watercolor prints and details on wedding dresses. So romantic and bohemian!
UNIQUE NECKLINES
We all know that plunging necklines are all the rage, but 2020 is introducing some more unique looks to consider! The scalloped neckline offers an updated take on the sweetheart neckline which is fresh yet still feminine. For something a bit more fashion forward, we have also seen a lot of high necklines that are regal, modest and cutting edge.
SEXY DETAILS
Sexy never looked so chic! Sheer gowns are making the nearly-naked look feel sophisticated by offering a sexy silhouette but still leaves the bride fully covered. Want something a little more regal? We love the corset bodice with exposed boning paired with sheer tulle and lots of lacey layers.
Which wedding dress trend is your favorite for 2020? Leave us a comment below with your thoughts!
Vendor Feature Q&A: Sara Victoria Cakes
Sara Victoria Cake Design was born from a genuine love of baking and art; stemming from childhood. After graduating from the Institute of Culinary Education, Sara has worked with both classically trained artists and some of the best sugar artists in the industry which has helped build her signature style. Sara’s work isn't just a cake but a piece of edible art, elegant and unexpected. No two cakes are ever the same, each client receives something that is unique to them.
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR COMPANY!
“My company is Sara Victoria Cake Design, and I specialize in custom and elaborate cakes for every occasion under the sun! I use edible mediums to create works of art, I also do custom dessert bars, cupcakes, cookies and anything sweet!”
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THIS BUSINESS?
“I was always baking as a kid, making desserts for family parties, whatever I could. I ended up working at a bakery that made mostly grab and go items breads, muffins, cookies, cupcakes etc… I learned so much working there, they let me make a few custom cakes there and it made me realize that the cakes were what I really wanted to do so I decided to go to the institute of culinary education, which in my mind is the start of my professional career.”
WHAT DIFFERENTIATES YOU FROM OTHER DESSERT BUSINESSES?
“I think what sets me apart is my desire to make a piece of art that happens to be edible. I work hard to make everything on each piece edible as well. I take a lot of time to watch trends, not in desserts but in colors of the year, florals, I watch the runway shows, fashion is such a great indicator of the times. I think that keeps me fresh and modern. I also never remake a cake, I want to sit with each client and design something thats unique to them and fits their event perfectly. I also love to be creative with my flavors, I love to come up with something that is out of the box but tastes amazing, adding a little hibiscus, a hint of spice, i’m constantly playing with recipes and coming up with new things. Sky is the limit with flavor in my opinion!”
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH WEDDINGS?
“Working with people on the biggest day of their lives is exciting, they want everything to be perfect and have a dream of what the day will be. Coming up with designs for each wedding is like solving a puzzle, fitting all the colors, flowers and venue in mind, what can I make thats going to blow them away, not just in look but in flavor. You’re making someones special day even more special, the look on the couples faces when they see it for the first time is such a rush.”
WHAT IS THE MOST DIFFICULT WEDDING SITUATION YOU HAVE FACED WITH A WEDDING CLIENT AND HOW DID YOU RESOLVE IT?
“I’ve been pretty lucky client wise, I think because I always want to design something to fit them and their event there isn’t a lot of issue there. But theres always logistical issues if you have to move a 4ft cake that weighs 200 pounds. I arrived at one wedding with that exact situation, it was so big that it had to be assembled on site, there was no planner and they were running behind and no one knew where I was supposed to set up the dessert table. In that instance I just kind of did it myself, found the table, set it up, did the linens and did my set up. Not finishing isn’t really an option, in those situations you just get stuff done!”
FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE, WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU CAN OFFER ENGAGED COUPLES?
“Hire a wedding planner! It’ll make your life so much easier, even if its just for a day. On delivery day you don’t want me bothering you asking where to set up, it should be time spent with friends and family. Leave those details to the experts and enjoy your day!”
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION AND/OR MOTIVATION?
“I’m the most inspired by art and runway fashion, rarely other cakes or desserts. Ive been so lucky in my career that I’ve been surrounded by amazing artists, they have pushed me to look beyond what you think is possible. I also find nature so inspiring, I love that it’s naturally imperfect.”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WEDDING CAKE/DESSERT TREND AT THE MOMENT?
“Texture! Theres so many great ways to play with texture and so many edible mediums to work from, texture really has no ceiling so creatively its a lot of fun to find new ways to add it. Another great one is shapes, stepping away from the typical round tiered cake and doing something unexpected. Im loving clean lines and straight edges at the moment, especially mixed with some unexpected florals or pattern.”
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU’RE AWAY FROM WORK?
“I have a few hobbies, I’ve been riding and showing reining horses for the last ten years. I also starting doing aerial silks (and a little Lyra) and yoga. I keep building on those circus things, it’s a lot of fun!”
WHAT WOULD WE BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?
“This one is tough! Maybe that I’ve never taken an art class? I wish I had but in high school I never really saw it as something I could go far in. In hindsight I wish I had and followed up with some fine arts classes in college. I’ve learned a lot but the background in arts is so helpful!”
Vendor Feature Q&A: Doggy Social
There’s truly nothing better than having your furry friend by your side on your big day! Cue Doggy Social, a growing company that provides professional wedding pet attendant services for all of MN and beyond.
Combining her love for animals and passion for weddings is owner Lara Leinen's dream come true! With her 10+ years experience in planning and coordinating creative weddings, her professional yet kind-hearted demeanor and her ability to quickly build trusted relationships with animals of all types make her the perfect wedding pet attendant! We asked her a few questions to give us a PAWfect glimpse of who they are and what they do!
Photo Credit: Kate Becker Photography
TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT DOGGY SOCIAL (for those who don’t already know)!
“We are an all-inclusive and custom Pet Wedding Attendant Service serving MN, WI and beyond. We chauffeur your pup to the wedding, help them throughout the day with pictures, visiting, the ceremony, social hour and get them safely home, all while giving them all our love and care while you and your friends are enjoying the day. We essentially eliminate any concerns you may have with having your pup there for a little or as long as you like. We are also fully insured, have our current Pet CPR certification, will build a custom Pinterest board fur your pup for pic and attire ideas, provide a complimentary leash and collar set as well as take a few behind the scenes pics of your pup that we send to you the week after your wedding as you are waiting for your paw-mazing professional pics from your photographer!”
Photo Credit: Russell Heeter Photography
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO START THIS AMAZING BUSINESS?
“I had been a wedding planner fur years and stepped away to explore other opportunities, but realized how truly happy it made me to help create a pawfect day fur a couple, so I started a blog of helpful wedding planning advice. While doing this, I adopted my pup, Asbjorn, and he completely turned my life right side up! He inspired me to not only spend more time with him during my days, but also combine my passion fur weddings and love of animals! I honestly didn't know how many people would be interested in having their animals involved in their weddings, but I knew I wanted to provide the service to anyone that did and I knew, if I could be great at anything, I just knew this had to be it. I didn't have my pup yet when I got married, but I really wanted a pic of my cat and me, but I never said one word to anyone. This pic never happened, because who was going to help? I don't want another person to miss this super sweet opportunity again!”
DO YOU OFFER SERVICES FOR OTHER ANIMALS AS WELL?
“Oh yes! We have attended a kitty and I think we may have bunnies next year! I am very excited to be asked about other fur-babes!”
Photo Credit: Amanda Marie Studio
WHAT IS THE MOST UNIQUE WAY THAT YOU’VE SEEN A PET INCORPORATED INTO A COUPLE’S WEDDING DAY?
“Every single wedding is so unique because it's a genuine and personal connection that the couple has with their fur-babes. It really is so incredible to be a part of! It is fun when the pup stays fur social hour. Guests just saw your sweet pup go down the aisle and now they can say hi as they enjoy a drink...honestly, best social hour ever! We also have chauffeured pups adventuring around the city meeting up with the couple and the photographer as they take fun pics together! A big part of our job is to help your photographer capture those pawfect moments and we have learned SO much from photographers on how to best help them and the pups during photos.”
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU SHARE WITH ENGAGED COUPLES WHO WANT TO INCLUDE THEIR PUP IN THEIR WEDDING?
“First of all, don't immediately shut down the idea because it seems like too much to deal with, we really do help figure all that out and gladly take care of it all on your Big Day. Also, if your pups don't do well with lots of people, we can easily bring them to you fur a few adorable moments and pics with them in an intimate setting with your photographer and then bring them right back home. This way it's not overwhelming fur your pup and you get those precious moments with them. Also, I have found that when pups are just a little tired from the day, they do a little bit better during the ceremony. So, have them get a good run in, or social time before the ceremony, which we absolutely can do with your pup!”
Photo Credit: Russell Heeter Photography
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WEDDING DAY LOOK LIKE FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE?
“They are all a little or a lot different from each other, but typically, and in short, we bring your pup the ceremony site for photos before the ceremony, help set them up fur the ceremony and then usually take them home fur the night. We make sure they are fed, had time to go out once again and usually they are ready to sleep away the evening at that point!”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
“Well, your pups. We absolutely love, respect and adore all animals, so we take great pride in having the honor of being responsible fur them on your Big Day. Seeing the love between the couple and their pup brings me to tears a little every single time, I am even getting a little teary-eyed right now as I write this thinking of my most recent weddings. Your friends and family LOVE that your fur-babe is there as well and we love providing a service that allows them all to fully enjoy your pup being there without any of the responsibility. Funny enough, the hardest part of the job is also your pup, because leaving them at the end of the day is SO hard!”
Photo Credit: K Schulz Photography
NY Bridal Fashion Week Spring 2020
As event designers, we are all about decor, but there is nothing more beautiful than a bride on her wedding day! So, we get super excited to see all the amazing fashion that is headed our way for 2020. NY Bridal Fashion Week - Spring 2020 just wrapped and the runway showcased a wide range of looks for every type of bride: elaborate gowns with intricate detailing for those looking to make a statement, pantsuits for the trendsetters, and ultra-minimal looks for the sophisticated bride. Long sleeves and lace have been popular for a few years, but the look still feels fresh. We can’t wait to see our brides rock plunging v-necks, peplum skirts and possibly color next year. Check out some of our favorite looks from the show.
Our Top Five 2020 Wedding Trend Predictions
It may be 2019 but 2020 wedding planning is in full force! So, when planning your 2020 wedding, look beyond what is currently being done and see what is starting to emerge within the industry. We see shifts and we are all about sharing!
1. Goodbye Greenery!
As gorgeous as greenery looks, this trend has seen its better day. Brides are utilizing grasses and other non-traditional elements in place of greenery for more natural looks and moving back to fuller floral (with greenery as an accent not the focus) for more formal looks. With the greenery trend came more organic shaping and this is definitely sticking around. Dropping the greenery allows couples to incorporate a wide variety of stunning flowers and colors into their wedding decor, giving it a more vibrant and lively look.
2. Bands over DJ’s
DJ’s have been used heavily at wedding receptions for decades now, but bands have taken over the wedding entertainment scene. For 2019 and 2020, well over 3/4 of our couples are hiring bands over DJs. Bands create great energy in a room and provide visual entertainment for those stubborn guests who simply won’t dance - regardless of how the music is produced.
3. Bye Bye Blush - Hello Color!
The blush trend is over and close behind is marsala. Blush is still being used as a neutral to bridge deeper and lighter hues, but it in no longer the primary color in weddings. Bold and bright palettes for summer and rich and moody palettes for winter are on the horizon. We are beyond excited to see couples choose bolder and richer colors for their wedding. Not only do these colors add a sense of uniqueness, but they also add drama and depth to the overall look.
4. Clean and Simple Wedding Gowns
Supposedly Inspired by Meghan Markle’s elegant choice for her wedding gown, more and more brides are shying away from lace and heavily-detailed wedding gowns and are sticking to clean and simple looks. This trend certainly allows the bride more freedom to accessorize in a variety of ways or to go with more dramatic makeup.
5. Creative Cakes
Couples are retreating back to the {not so} traditional wedding cake. Whether it is creatively displaying the cake or getting creative with the cake itself, couples are getting inspired in the design and presentation of their cakes, making them works of art to display at their receptions.
Engagement Ring 101
With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching and love in the air, we thought this would be the perfect time to teach you all there is to know about engagement rings. From diamond cuts to ring styles, we’ve got it covered. (After all, we don’t want any confusion when communicating what you want to that special someone!) Share this blog with your guy and tell him it’s time to ditch the teddy bear and box of chocolates and go big this Valentine’s Day!
Diamond Shapes
1. The Round Brilliant Cut
Starting with the most popular shape, the Round Brilliant diamond has been used in rings for hundreds of years, making it a truly ageless choice.
2. The Princess Cut
Available in both square and rectangular shapes, the Princess Cut is the second most popular diamond shape. Notice the corners are square and not clipped. The color that the Princess Cut projects is very unique compared to other shapes.
3. The Marquise Cut
Looking for a more unique yet gorgeous shape? The Marquise Cut is the perfect shape for maximizing carat weight since it is a shallower cut. Because of the unique shape it holds, it creates the effect of longer, more slender hands and fingers.
4. The Emerald Cut
The Emerald Cut diamond is unique because it showcases the diamond’s original clarity beautifully because of its large rectangular shape and beveled facets. This shape also makes inclusions and color more apparent (not a good thing!)
5. The Cushion Cut
Because of its pillow-like shape, The Cushion Cut is another timeless look. With rounded corners and large facets, this particular shape often appears more brilliant and clearer.
6. The Radiant Cut
Another more unique shape, the Radiant Cut combines the lines of an Emerald Cut with the brilliance of a round diamond.
7. The Oval Cut
A classic look making a resurgence, the Oval Cut is another one of the more popular cuts of diamonds. Similar to the Marquise Cut, this shape makes the fingers and hands of the wearer appear longer and more slender.
8. The Pear-Shaped Cut
Soft and delicate, the Pear-Shaped cut has a teardrop-like style that is absolutely gorgeous. This shape combines round and marquise cuts, making for a brilliant look.
9. The Asscher Cut
Often mistaken for an emerald cut because of their similar shapes and facets, the Asscher Cut is clipped in the corners.
10. The Trilliant Cut
Another unique shape, the Trilliant Cut is a triangular shaped stone that offers a number of variations, including the shape of the top surface and sides.
Ring Styles
Once you have your preferred diamond shape in mind, it’s time to consider how you would like it set. Whether you prefer a modern setting or you embrace unique or vintage styles, there is sure to be a look for everyone.
1. The Solitaire
Most jewel experts consider the Solitaire ring to be the “Classic” engagement ring. The ring centers its focus on the chosen stone, set on either a three, four, or six prong setting.
2. The Cluster
The Cluster ring stands apart from others because of the number of stones used in the piece. Where the Solitaire style places its focus on the center stone, the Cluster uses many smaller stones to form a cluster look.
3. The Three-Stone
The Three-Stone look features a larger center stone with one smaller stone on each side. Initially created as an anniversary style to represent past, present and future, it is gaining in popularity as an engagement style as well.
4. The Halo
Due to the large amount of gemstones needed to produce this style of ring, The Halo is one of the most difficult rings to make. With a center stone surrounded by a halo of smaller stones, the ring has a gorgeous shine to it. This style accentuates the center stone, making it appear larger.
5. The Double-Halo
Giving the classic Halo ring a modern twist, the Double-Halo features two rows of small diamonds that frame the center stone.
6. The Pavé
This style of an engagement ring was created with maximum brilliance and light in mind. It uses tiny gemstones placed so tightly together to form an illusion that there is no setting holding them in place. Coming from the French word for “paved,” these engagement rings look as if their surfaces have been paved with diamonds, creating a glittering, unbroken expanse of light and sparkle.
7. The Bezel
A striking modern look, the Bezel ring uses a type of elevated collar which wraps the rim of the diamond in a complete metal edging.
8. The Split Shank
The Split Shank engagement ring is another unique choice, where the band splits near the diamond. This often creates the illusion of two bands rather than one.
10. The Channel Setting
Unlike a pave ring where each side diamond is individually set, this style features diamonds set in a channel forming a line around the band.
11. The Tension Ring
With the center stone being supported not by prongs but rather by pressure, the Tension ring has a unique and modern look to it.
12. The Twist Ring
Symbolizing endless love and commitment, this beautiful ring showcases intertwined bands with the main focus being on the center stone.
Pantone Color of the Year 2019
It’s bold. It’s bright. And it’s absolutely beautiful. Pantone has recently announced the 2019 color of the year, Pantone 16-1546 Living Coral, and we couldn’t be more excited to move into more vibrant decor visions. A beautiful combination of orange, pink and peach hues, this stunner plays nicely with nearly every color imaginable (both subtle and vivid) thus creating endless possibilities for incorporating it into your special day. Just look at the gorgeous bouquets below. Can you imagine walking down the aisle with one of these?
Just look at how this 2019 color of the year beautifully livens up a table scape. Layer color for maximum impact!
Don’t forget about the details! See below for some beautiful ways to subtly (and not so subtly) tie it into your wedding day.
Back in Black
Fill your champagne flutes, write down your New Year’s Resolutions, and cue the ball drop because we are officially one month away from 2019. Wedding season is wrapping and we are excited to look ahead and to see the new trends that will make their way into our 2019 weddings. Black is hardly new, but it’s making its way back as a deliberate color choice as opposed to a neutral intended to fade into the background.
Bringing depth, character, and a whole lot of edge, black accents are a stunning way to add drama {and not the personal kind!} to your wedding day. Black is bold and rich and adds a tasteful twist on classic color palettes. We love marrying the intensity of black with soft spring and summery colors like blush, gray-blue and peach for added style and sophistication.
NY Bridal Fashion Week
Bridal fashion designers and creatives from all over the world showed off stunning designs on the runways at the Spring 2019 NY Bridal Fashion Week. They brought every bride's wedding gown inspiration and silhouette to life. We're going to be seeing varying necklines {from plunging necklines to mock turtlenecks}, jumpsuits, and more ball gowns {brides, it's time to embrace your inner-royalty} in 2019. Of course designers have been playing with color for years. This year, watch for pops of pastels mixed with nudes as well as metallics.
The designers held nothing back this year. See some of our favorites from the various collections below!
Pinspiration // Velvet
Velvet is a hot 2018 trend and it is proving that it isn't just for winter weddings anymore {like most brides would think}. As you'll see below, the possibilities for this rich, textured fabric are endless. It drapes beautifully, adds a luxurious feel, and comes in nearly any color to fit any inspiration. From attire to décor to simple little velvet ribbon touches, this cloth is a perfect addition to any wedding celebration.
If you're looking for even more inspiration, head over to our {VELVET} Pinterest Board!
