J.K. Rowling on 'The Casual Vacancy,' Using a Disguise, What She Learned from Michael Jackson
J.K. Rowling has found success few authors could dream of, but managing her worldwide fame is something the notoriously private author still wrestles with as she prepares for the release of her highly-anticipated adult novel, "The Casual Vacancy."
"I once have used a disguise," Rowling, 47, said in an exclusive and rare television interview with "Nightline" anchor Cynthia McFadden in Edinburgh, Scotland. "It was effective. It's how I managed to buy my own wedding dress. But I am not going to tell you what it was, in case I have to use it again. But it did work."
Rowling's Harry Potter books have sold more than 450 million copies, been translated into 73 languages and produced eight blockbuster movies, making her the first billionaire author. But the woman who built an empire using made-up words such as, "codswallop," "Hufflepuff" and "veritaserum" left that magical world behind to write about a much grittier place, one called Pagford, where characters use words like "condom," "heroin" and "vagina."
The frenzy of interest in "The Causal Vacancy" has the publisher guarding it like the Sorcerer's Stone, keeping its plot under lock and key until its Sept. 27 release date. (McFadden and ABC News producers read the manuscript, kept protected in the publisher Little, Brown and Company's New York office).
Rowling's world hasn't been ordinary for quite some time. She was on a train when she first dreamed up her idea for a story about the boy wizard in 1990. "The Casual Vacancy" came to her five years ago while she was on a private jet, touring the United States to promote the last Harry Potter book.
"When I first became, what I called rich, and actually, that was way before a lot of people would have called me rich, it was uncomfortable," she said. "The shift was so dramatic. I found it very disorientating. I felt guilty, strange, out of order, didn't know what to do, was scared I was going to blow it in some way and my daughter's security would be gone."
It's a fear that became very real when Rowling discovered that a journalist had managed to slip a note into her 5-year-old daughter's school bag one day.
"That was pretty much the worst thing that ever happened to me," Rowling said. "It felt like something the secret police would do, just to prove they could get there.... To this day, I think that was the worst thing."
Last year, Rowling, along with actors Hugh Grant and Sienna Miller, testified before a judge-led committee investigating Britain's aggressive tabloids. Rowling said she grappled with the decision to testify for some time.
"I thought long and hard before doing that," she said. "Because you're in this paradoxical situation where you're sitting up in front of live cameras, and in the interest of your privacy, you're kind of invading your privacy. But…it was quite healing."
She even considered writing "The Casual Vacancy" under a pseudonym, but decided against it in the end.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Avoiding a wedding (budget) hangover
Avoiding a wedding (budget) hangover
He's not the marrying type, but James Bond will be a lasting memory for newlyweds Grant McIntyre and Maxine Morrison on what's possible when saving for a wedding.
In the lead-up to their June wedding, the Melbourne couple were shocked at how easy it would be for costs to skyrocket, notably when Morrison couldn't find the right dress and faced the prospect of spending thousands on something that was not quite perfect.
So Morrison instead chose an off-the-rack dress that could be worn again. With the money saved, the couple treated themselves to an A$1300 (NZ$1635) vintage poster from the famous Bond movie Thunderball that they saw in a shop across the road. Not quite the typical wedding gift, but nonetheless striking.
"We could see there would be a lot of things the money could be better spent on," Morrison said of the approach they took towards their wedding.
The couple estimates they spent about A$24,000, and saved money on several fronts. A winter wedding kept the price down at their reception venue and holding separate "pre-parties" for extended family in their home towns meant the guest list at the wedding didn't swell out of hand.
While pleased with how they organised the wedding, they acknowledge it grew from what was originally intended to be a small occasion with immediate family.
For many couples, a wedding budget is well intentioned but easily stretched as the big day nears. Extra outlays can be justified by the dream of the perfect day or putting on a memorable show, but what if it means going into financial difficulty?
Melbourne wedding planner Rob Greca, of Vogue Weddings & Events, says there is little point in a couple paying for an extravagant wedding if it puts strain on the relationship.
"We always tell the bride and groom that they need to understand that the last thing they want to do is tie the knot and then have a burden that they need to pay off - the wedding," he says.
"Having all these elements in the wedding, they need to be sure it's not going to be an issue later on ... we don't want people to spend A$60,000 on their wedding and feel like they're celebrities if afterwards they'll struggle to make the payments and have pressure put on the partnership."
Financial planner Laura Menschik, a director at WLM Financial, says discipline is the key in paying for a wedding as things can get out of hand with so many elements to consider.
He's not the marrying type, but James Bond will be a lasting memory for newlyweds Grant McIntyre and Maxine Morrison on what's possible when saving for a wedding.
In the lead-up to their June wedding, the Melbourne couple were shocked at how easy it would be for costs to skyrocket, notably when Morrison couldn't find the right dress and faced the prospect of spending thousands on something that was not quite perfect.
So Morrison instead chose an off-the-rack dress that could be worn again. With the money saved, the couple treated themselves to an A$1300 (NZ$1635) vintage poster from the famous Bond movie Thunderball that they saw in a shop across the road. Not quite the typical wedding gift, but nonetheless striking.
"We could see there would be a lot of things the money could be better spent on," Morrison said of the approach they took towards their wedding.
The couple estimates they spent about A$24,000, and saved money on several fronts. A winter wedding kept the price down at their reception venue and holding separate "pre-parties" for extended family in their home towns meant the guest list at the wedding didn't swell out of hand.
While pleased with how they organised the wedding, they acknowledge it grew from what was originally intended to be a small occasion with immediate family.
For many couples, a wedding budget is well intentioned but easily stretched as the big day nears. Extra outlays can be justified by the dream of the perfect day or putting on a memorable show, but what if it means going into financial difficulty?
Melbourne wedding planner Rob Greca, of Vogue Weddings & Events, says there is little point in a couple paying for an extravagant wedding if it puts strain on the relationship.
"We always tell the bride and groom that they need to understand that the last thing they want to do is tie the knot and then have a burden that they need to pay off - the wedding," he says.
"Having all these elements in the wedding, they need to be sure it's not going to be an issue later on ... we don't want people to spend A$60,000 on their wedding and feel like they're celebrities if afterwards they'll struggle to make the payments and have pressure put on the partnership."
Financial planner Laura Menschik, a director at WLM Financial, says discipline is the key in paying for a wedding as things can get out of hand with so many elements to consider.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Dating: Plan to Get Dog Together, Marry and Have Babies?
Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Dating: Plan to Get Dog Together, Marry and Have Babies?
A friend told a press, "Mila and Ashton have been touring shelters looking for an abandoned dog that needs a loving home."
GlobalGrind reported: The "That 70's Show" couple showed some public displays of affection on the streets of Manhattan, as they headed for some gelato in matching outfits. Both Mila and Ashton rocked Chicago Bears t-shirts, but they still gave a shout out to NYC.
Before their casual Sunday afternoon watching football and eating sweets, Mila and Ashton spent the previous evening at a romantic dinner at Spasso in New York.
According to People.com, "It seemed like they wanted everyone to know they were together."
The pair has been linked since April.
In August, Kunis denied the rumors that her and Kutcher were dating, but it seems unlikely now.
People magazine were also spotted smooching in New York's Central Park on Monday.
With Kutcher, 34, wearing a baseball hat and Kunis, 29, dressed casually in sweats, the famous pair could easily be mistaken for lovestruck tourists visiting the park.
"They held hands and were very affectionate," an onlooker tells PEOPLE. "They seemed to enjoy exploring the city together. They looked very relaxed and seemed very happy together."
According to EntertainmentWise, sources say that the co-stars aren't feeling as concerned towards Kutcher's ex Demi Moore, and that Kunis is not scared about showing how series she is about her future with Kutcher.
"Mila knows she's not always going to be liked by Demi, but she's done nothing wrong," the source told Closer magazine.
"Now she and Ashton have decided to make a real go of things together, she's never been happier."
It seems the couple is getting even more serious since moving in together. Mila shacked up with Ashton earlier this month and are already thinking marriage and babies.
"They've been so happy since moving in, they've said they've discussed starting to try for a baby," the source went on.
"They don't see the point in waiting when they're so deeply in love and want the same thing."
According to Perez Hilton, "Mila's now saying she and Ashton want to marry and raise children, and she's assured stunned pals that he doesn't need a divorce from Demi because the two were never legally wed in a civil ceremony... They got 'hitched' in a symbolic Kabbalah ceremony."
According to USWeekly, in the August issue of Interview magazine, Kunis opened up about her plans to start a family -- one day in the future, that is. "Listen, in five years I do hope to have a family, and, you know, who knows? . . . "I've always been a big proponent of not working for the sake of working, because I don't want to work for the rest of my life -- I want to live. So I'd rather work to live than live to work."
A friend told a press, "Mila and Ashton have been touring shelters looking for an abandoned dog that needs a loving home."
GlobalGrind reported: The "That 70's Show" couple showed some public displays of affection on the streets of Manhattan, as they headed for some gelato in matching outfits. Both Mila and Ashton rocked Chicago Bears t-shirts, but they still gave a shout out to NYC.
Before their casual Sunday afternoon watching football and eating sweets, Mila and Ashton spent the previous evening at a romantic dinner at Spasso in New York.
According to People.com, "It seemed like they wanted everyone to know they were together."
The pair has been linked since April.
In August, Kunis denied the rumors that her and Kutcher were dating, but it seems unlikely now.
People magazine were also spotted smooching in New York's Central Park on Monday.
With Kutcher, 34, wearing a baseball hat and Kunis, 29, dressed casually in sweats, the famous pair could easily be mistaken for lovestruck tourists visiting the park.
"They held hands and were very affectionate," an onlooker tells PEOPLE. "They seemed to enjoy exploring the city together. They looked very relaxed and seemed very happy together."
According to EntertainmentWise, sources say that the co-stars aren't feeling as concerned towards Kutcher's ex Demi Moore, and that Kunis is not scared about showing how series she is about her future with Kutcher.
"Mila knows she's not always going to be liked by Demi, but she's done nothing wrong," the source told Closer magazine.
"Now she and Ashton have decided to make a real go of things together, she's never been happier."
It seems the couple is getting even more serious since moving in together. Mila shacked up with Ashton earlier this month and are already thinking marriage and babies.
"They've been so happy since moving in, they've said they've discussed starting to try for a baby," the source went on.
"They don't see the point in waiting when they're so deeply in love and want the same thing."
According to Perez Hilton, "Mila's now saying she and Ashton want to marry and raise children, and she's assured stunned pals that he doesn't need a divorce from Demi because the two were never legally wed in a civil ceremony... They got 'hitched' in a symbolic Kabbalah ceremony."
According to USWeekly, in the August issue of Interview magazine, Kunis opened up about her plans to start a family -- one day in the future, that is. "Listen, in five years I do hope to have a family, and, you know, who knows? . . . "I've always been a big proponent of not working for the sake of working, because I don't want to work for the rest of my life -- I want to live. So I'd rather work to live than live to work."
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Tashkent Mayor Seeks To Tone Down Extravagant Weddings
Tashkent Mayor Seeks To Tone Down Extravagant Weddings
Planning a lavish wedding? Then it's best to avoid the Uzbek capital.
Tashkent's mayor has imposed strict new regulations on weddings, funerals, and other family celebrations.
The rules, outlined in a September 10 decree by Mayor Rakhmonbek Usmanov, aim to limit the cost, number of guests, and duration of such events, which he says have become increasingly "pompous" and "extremely wasteful" -- and need to be toned down.
“The parties should therefore be smaller, cozier, and conducted in an orderly fashion," Usmanov wrote in the decree, which was published on his official website. "It is very important to make them smaller and more formal."
Across Central Asia, lavish weddings and funerals are the norm, with families often spending their entire life savings on them.
In Kazakhstan, for example, wedding parties can last up to seven days and sometimes cost tens of thousands of dollars. Even a "chapan," the traditional overcoat that Kazakh families are expected to present as a gift to their new in-laws, can cost as much as $5,000.
In Uzbekistan, the smallest of weddings typically involves at least 300 guests.
But that's about to change, at least in the country's capital.
Under the new decree, families holding weddings in Tashkent will only be able to invite a maximum of 100 guests. The rule will also apply to funerals and other gatherings.
Families will be obliged to sign a contract with the owner of the venue, settling on the price and number of guests prior to the ceremony.
Planning a lavish wedding? Then it's best to avoid the Uzbek capital.
Tashkent's mayor has imposed strict new regulations on weddings, funerals, and other family celebrations.
The rules, outlined in a September 10 decree by Mayor Rakhmonbek Usmanov, aim to limit the cost, number of guests, and duration of such events, which he says have become increasingly "pompous" and "extremely wasteful" -- and need to be toned down.
“The parties should therefore be smaller, cozier, and conducted in an orderly fashion," Usmanov wrote in the decree, which was published on his official website. "It is very important to make them smaller and more formal."
Across Central Asia, lavish weddings and funerals are the norm, with families often spending their entire life savings on them.
In Kazakhstan, for example, wedding parties can last up to seven days and sometimes cost tens of thousands of dollars. Even a "chapan," the traditional overcoat that Kazakh families are expected to present as a gift to their new in-laws, can cost as much as $5,000.
In Uzbekistan, the smallest of weddings typically involves at least 300 guests.
But that's about to change, at least in the country's capital.
Under the new decree, families holding weddings in Tashkent will only be able to invite a maximum of 100 guests. The rule will also apply to funerals and other gatherings.
Families will be obliged to sign a contract with the owner of the venue, settling on the price and number of guests prior to the ceremony.
Monday, September 24, 2012
CdM Businesses Team Up for First-Ever Bridal Walk on Sunday
CdM Businesses Team Up for First-Ever Bridal Walk on Sunday
More than 20 brides spent the afternoon strolling through Corona del Mar, shopping and researching wedding-themed businesses that teamed up for the inaugural CdM Bridal Walk held Sunday.
“This was small and intimate,” said bride-to-be Jennifer Huynh of Fountain Valley, who is planning an August 2013 wedding. “It was entertaining, it was elegant, there was no pressure. It’s a community event, not a bridal expo, and it had a different atmosphere.”
Brides began the afternoon at the Port Restaurant, where they checked in and received a map showing about 30 participating businesses. Then they walked or drove their own course, visiting shops including Tony Florez Photography studio, The White Dress bridal gown shop, Beach Candy swimwear boutique, Mark Patterson Jewelry, Corona del Mar Florist, Francis-Orr Stationery and more. Many of the shops offered refreshments and special coupons — or ideas for brides to consider while planning their weddings.
“I definitely got some ideas,” said Jamie Pienkowski of Newport Beach, who is planning a May wedding. “Everybody was really nice. I had some ideas, but it’s coming down to the wire. Now it’s time to prioritize.”
Michelle Plummer and her fiance, Frank Nellor, of Aliso Viejo, are planning a June wedding, and they said they really enjoyed checking out Sherman Library & Gardens as a possible venue.
“The gardens were amazing,” Nellor said.
“It was a lot of fun,” Plummer said. “I’d definitely recommend it for other brides.”
The event concluded at Five Crowns Restaurant, where the brides and their friends, or mothers, or fiancés, sampled a specialty cocktail called Wedding Cake that included whipped cream-flavored vodka, as well as passed canapes, in the garden rooms. Brides received raffle tickets at each shop they visited, and at the end of the day, tickets were drawn for prizes including restaurant gift certificates, flower arrangements and a Mark Patterson platinum and diamond band. Barbara Wallace, a former wedding planner based in Corona del Mar and author of “Beautiful Bride from Every Angle,” signed copies of the book as gifts to registered participants.
Organizers said they were pleased with the success of the event, and they planned to organize another.
“I think it was a good start,” said Harriet Malmon, owner of Francis-Orr. “I hope we do it again.”
Josette Patterson of Mark Patterson Jewelry was a major force behind the walk.
“It was worth all the work,” she said, watching as brides laughed and shared stories at Five Crowns. “It’s an investment in the future.”
More than 20 brides spent the afternoon strolling through Corona del Mar, shopping and researching wedding-themed businesses that teamed up for the inaugural CdM Bridal Walk held Sunday.
“This was small and intimate,” said bride-to-be Jennifer Huynh of Fountain Valley, who is planning an August 2013 wedding. “It was entertaining, it was elegant, there was no pressure. It’s a community event, not a bridal expo, and it had a different atmosphere.”
Brides began the afternoon at the Port Restaurant, where they checked in and received a map showing about 30 participating businesses. Then they walked or drove their own course, visiting shops including Tony Florez Photography studio, The White Dress bridal gown shop, Beach Candy swimwear boutique, Mark Patterson Jewelry, Corona del Mar Florist, Francis-Orr Stationery and more. Many of the shops offered refreshments and special coupons — or ideas for brides to consider while planning their weddings.
“I definitely got some ideas,” said Jamie Pienkowski of Newport Beach, who is planning a May wedding. “Everybody was really nice. I had some ideas, but it’s coming down to the wire. Now it’s time to prioritize.”
Michelle Plummer and her fiance, Frank Nellor, of Aliso Viejo, are planning a June wedding, and they said they really enjoyed checking out Sherman Library & Gardens as a possible venue.
“The gardens were amazing,” Nellor said.
“It was a lot of fun,” Plummer said. “I’d definitely recommend it for other brides.”
The event concluded at Five Crowns Restaurant, where the brides and their friends, or mothers, or fiancés, sampled a specialty cocktail called Wedding Cake that included whipped cream-flavored vodka, as well as passed canapes, in the garden rooms. Brides received raffle tickets at each shop they visited, and at the end of the day, tickets were drawn for prizes including restaurant gift certificates, flower arrangements and a Mark Patterson platinum and diamond band. Barbara Wallace, a former wedding planner based in Corona del Mar and author of “Beautiful Bride from Every Angle,” signed copies of the book as gifts to registered participants.
Organizers said they were pleased with the success of the event, and they planned to organize another.
“I think it was a good start,” said Harriet Malmon, owner of Francis-Orr. “I hope we do it again.”
Josette Patterson of Mark Patterson Jewelry was a major force behind the walk.
“It was worth all the work,” she said, watching as brides laughed and shared stories at Five Crowns. “It’s an investment in the future.”
Friday, September 21, 2012
‘Downton Abbey’ Fashion: Season 3, Wedding Dress, and Emmy Nomination
‘Downton Abbey’ Fashion: Season 3, Wedding Dress, and Emmy Nomination
A new season of Downton Abbey offers up the sprawling British countryside, eye-rolling maids, and a sharp-tongued Dowager Countess. But if you ask some of us what we’re most looking forward to with Downton’s return, the answer is simple: the costumes.
The third season of the Emmy-nominated series, which returned in the United Kingdom on Sunday and premieres in the U.S. in January, continues with the show’s tradition of lavish period fashion. Since it premiered in 2010, Downton has secured its place in the fashion world: Ralph Lauren themed his fall collection around the show, and recently announced a sponsorship of Masterpiece. The show’s fashion has received so much attention that its fashion designer, Susannah Buxton, was nominated for an Emmy Award this year. Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary) has appeared in countless fashion glossies; Anna Wintour has given the show her seal of approval; and even Pippa Middleton is a fan, visiting the set with her parents last season for a guided tour. “I explained to her that the costume tries to reflect personality and class of each character, and she was really interested,” Buxton says.
The show’s second season introduced World War I, and the upper-class Crawley family was forced to adapt to the changing times. “There was a question of how we would portray them,” Buxton says. “There were constrictions on the availability of good cloth. They weren’t able to indulge their fashion desires the way they would previously. In the daytime they dressed more somberly, but behind the scenes in the evening, all the diamonds came out.”
But since the finale of Season 2, a lot has changed. For starters, the war has ended. And Buxton is gone; now the costume department is run by her former assistant, Caroline McCall. “I just felt the time was right,” Buxton tells The Daily Beast. “You can lose your initial passion for it.”
Season 3 opens in the dawn of the 1920s, and styles change considerably over the course of the season. Men’s suits have slimmer waists and wider legs; dresses are shorter and less fussy than those of the Edwardian period. The show’s fashion is reflected most in the three young daughters of the house—Mary (Michelle Dockery), with her passion for sophisticated style; Edith (Laura Carmichael), who tarts up to snare a husband; and Sybil (Jessica Findlay Brown), with her love of bohemia— but certain characters remain stuck in the mud. Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) remains largely unchanged, and Violet Crawley (Maggie Smith)—practically mummified in Edwardiana—comes face to face with new cast member Shirley MacLaine’s Martha Levinson, the jazzed-up American mother-in-law who shows her ankles and is covered in jewels.
While the costumes appear to be a pitch-perfect backdrop to the unfolding drama, they surprisingly don’t adhere to the period as much as one might imagine. “I wanted to achieve the aesthetic of the time, but to make it attractive to modern audiences,” Buxton says. “It’s a translation rather than trying to be historically accurate.” That meant dying modern fabrics to appear old, creating pieces and accessories inspired by the period, and being influenced a fair amount by modern styles. The designers say they create a mood board for each principal character.
“You try whenever possible to recreate the feel of the period,” says McCall, who designed the costumes for season 3. “I bought a lot of vintage fabric. It’s much easier to start with something real and work with that than start from scratch.” McCall says there are a lot of original period pieces this season, adding that she scoured the pages of contemporary fashion magazines for inspiration. (She even says that Lady Mary reads Vogue in one episode.) Mary owns a dress by designer Vionnet, which McCall created around styles from the period.
A new season of Downton Abbey offers up the sprawling British countryside, eye-rolling maids, and a sharp-tongued Dowager Countess. But if you ask some of us what we’re most looking forward to with Downton’s return, the answer is simple: the costumes.
The third season of the Emmy-nominated series, which returned in the United Kingdom on Sunday and premieres in the U.S. in January, continues with the show’s tradition of lavish period fashion. Since it premiered in 2010, Downton has secured its place in the fashion world: Ralph Lauren themed his fall collection around the show, and recently announced a sponsorship of Masterpiece. The show’s fashion has received so much attention that its fashion designer, Susannah Buxton, was nominated for an Emmy Award this year. Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary) has appeared in countless fashion glossies; Anna Wintour has given the show her seal of approval; and even Pippa Middleton is a fan, visiting the set with her parents last season for a guided tour. “I explained to her that the costume tries to reflect personality and class of each character, and she was really interested,” Buxton says.
The show’s second season introduced World War I, and the upper-class Crawley family was forced to adapt to the changing times. “There was a question of how we would portray them,” Buxton says. “There were constrictions on the availability of good cloth. They weren’t able to indulge their fashion desires the way they would previously. In the daytime they dressed more somberly, but behind the scenes in the evening, all the diamonds came out.”
But since the finale of Season 2, a lot has changed. For starters, the war has ended. And Buxton is gone; now the costume department is run by her former assistant, Caroline McCall. “I just felt the time was right,” Buxton tells The Daily Beast. “You can lose your initial passion for it.”
Season 3 opens in the dawn of the 1920s, and styles change considerably over the course of the season. Men’s suits have slimmer waists and wider legs; dresses are shorter and less fussy than those of the Edwardian period. The show’s fashion is reflected most in the three young daughters of the house—Mary (Michelle Dockery), with her passion for sophisticated style; Edith (Laura Carmichael), who tarts up to snare a husband; and Sybil (Jessica Findlay Brown), with her love of bohemia— but certain characters remain stuck in the mud. Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) remains largely unchanged, and Violet Crawley (Maggie Smith)—practically mummified in Edwardiana—comes face to face with new cast member Shirley MacLaine’s Martha Levinson, the jazzed-up American mother-in-law who shows her ankles and is covered in jewels.
While the costumes appear to be a pitch-perfect backdrop to the unfolding drama, they surprisingly don’t adhere to the period as much as one might imagine. “I wanted to achieve the aesthetic of the time, but to make it attractive to modern audiences,” Buxton says. “It’s a translation rather than trying to be historically accurate.” That meant dying modern fabrics to appear old, creating pieces and accessories inspired by the period, and being influenced a fair amount by modern styles. The designers say they create a mood board for each principal character.
“You try whenever possible to recreate the feel of the period,” says McCall, who designed the costumes for season 3. “I bought a lot of vintage fabric. It’s much easier to start with something real and work with that than start from scratch.” McCall says there are a lot of original period pieces this season, adding that she scoured the pages of contemporary fashion magazines for inspiration. (She even says that Lady Mary reads Vogue in one episode.) Mary owns a dress by designer Vionnet, which McCall created around styles from the period.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Evocative art on display in Wymondham
Evocative art on display in Wymondham
A Christian Dior gown from 1954 in bronze taffeta, lavish paintings of the female body, digital drawings inspired by catwalk models of the forties and fifties and beautiful dresses adorned with butterflies, hymn books and snake skin. It’s an eclectic mix of art and fashion set to shock, surprise and entertain the viewer in equal measures at an exhibition in Wymondham Arts Centre this week.
Curated by artist Krys Leach, Unlaced – clothing and the female form is an exhibition of work by Norfolk artists intended as an elegant reflection on the female image; with and without clothes.
“The female image is one of the most evocative forms of art,” says Krys. “Her body has dictated style – in art and fashion – but it has also been moulded by it. Some of the work is innovative and eye-opening. Some is witty, and some is just ravishing. It all adds up to a vibrant celebration of a subject that is as enduring as it is varied.”
This is the third Unlaced exhibition from Krys, who launched the installation in Cromer a few years ago when he was a curator at the Church Street Gallery. This time, nine artists from differing mediums will present their work based upon the female image and how clothing has changed over the past century, from the Victorian era to the present day. Krys will also be exhibiting his paintings depiciting the female form.
“The exhibition is a mix of arts and crafts,” explains Krys. “There is no distinction between fashion and clothing, ceramics and art. All represent the female form in ways that will surprise not only through the pieces on show, but I also think that people will be surprised to learn that we have so much variety of work that is produced in Norfolk. There are lots of high end art exhibitions and also pieces that are mass produced for the tourist industry, many artists that fall between these two stalls are not as well-known or represented. This exhibition aims to give both well-known and lesser known artists a platform to showcase their work. It’s interesting to see what emerges from the work when it is put together in one show.”
One of the eminent artists to exhibit is Sprowston’s Louise Richardson, who is one of Norfolk’s foremost artists and a part-time lecturer on the textiles course at the University College of the Arts (NUCA) – she also studied at NUCA in the days when it was known as Norwich Art College. Her work involves turning wearable dresses into the unwearable by incorporating unexpected materials in beautiful pieces of fashion.
“The idea behind my pieces is myth, memory and storytelling,” says Louise. “I use similar techniques to painting a portrait but clothes are used instead of a person. I take a dress as the basic format and then turn this into something beautiful, but totally unwearable, by incorporating surprising materials such as butterflies or dandelions.
“The idea is based on how people would stitch herbs into the hems of children’s clothing or would leave a needle in the fabric for protection.”
One of Louise’s most startling pieces is entitled Telling Tales and is a dress made out of nine-inch nails which, at first glance, looks like fox fur.
Each item of clothing can be interpreted in different ways depending on the viewer and this is the intention of curator Krys Leach – to create a journey that is innovative and eye-opening, witty and unexpected.
A Christian Dior gown from 1954 in bronze taffeta, lavish paintings of the female body, digital drawings inspired by catwalk models of the forties and fifties and beautiful dresses adorned with butterflies, hymn books and snake skin. It’s an eclectic mix of art and fashion set to shock, surprise and entertain the viewer in equal measures at an exhibition in Wymondham Arts Centre this week.
Curated by artist Krys Leach, Unlaced – clothing and the female form is an exhibition of work by Norfolk artists intended as an elegant reflection on the female image; with and without clothes.
“The female image is one of the most evocative forms of art,” says Krys. “Her body has dictated style – in art and fashion – but it has also been moulded by it. Some of the work is innovative and eye-opening. Some is witty, and some is just ravishing. It all adds up to a vibrant celebration of a subject that is as enduring as it is varied.”
This is the third Unlaced exhibition from Krys, who launched the installation in Cromer a few years ago when he was a curator at the Church Street Gallery. This time, nine artists from differing mediums will present their work based upon the female image and how clothing has changed over the past century, from the Victorian era to the present day. Krys will also be exhibiting his paintings depiciting the female form.
“The exhibition is a mix of arts and crafts,” explains Krys. “There is no distinction between fashion and clothing, ceramics and art. All represent the female form in ways that will surprise not only through the pieces on show, but I also think that people will be surprised to learn that we have so much variety of work that is produced in Norfolk. There are lots of high end art exhibitions and also pieces that are mass produced for the tourist industry, many artists that fall between these two stalls are not as well-known or represented. This exhibition aims to give both well-known and lesser known artists a platform to showcase their work. It’s interesting to see what emerges from the work when it is put together in one show.”
One of the eminent artists to exhibit is Sprowston’s Louise Richardson, who is one of Norfolk’s foremost artists and a part-time lecturer on the textiles course at the University College of the Arts (NUCA) – she also studied at NUCA in the days when it was known as Norwich Art College. Her work involves turning wearable dresses into the unwearable by incorporating unexpected materials in beautiful pieces of fashion.
“The idea behind my pieces is myth, memory and storytelling,” says Louise. “I use similar techniques to painting a portrait but clothes are used instead of a person. I take a dress as the basic format and then turn this into something beautiful, but totally unwearable, by incorporating surprising materials such as butterflies or dandelions.
“The idea is based on how people would stitch herbs into the hems of children’s clothing or would leave a needle in the fabric for protection.”
One of Louise’s most startling pieces is entitled Telling Tales and is a dress made out of nine-inch nails which, at first glance, looks like fox fur.
Each item of clothing can be interpreted in different ways depending on the viewer and this is the intention of curator Krys Leach – to create a journey that is innovative and eye-opening, witty and unexpected.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Making Parents Part of the Gay Wedding Day
Making Parents Part of the Gay Wedding Day
Our new Civil Behavior advice column will be written by Steven Petrow, the author of “Steven Petrow’s Complete Gay & Lesbian Manners” (Workman, 2011) and the “The Essential Book of Gay Manners & Etiquette” (HarperCollins; 1995). Mr. Petrow will answer questions about issues of particular interest to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, as well their straight friends, co-workers and family members. The situations will be geared to a boomer-aged audience. This first column involves a wedding of gay men, the role of their parents and the question of who should have the first dance — the Moms and sons or Dads and sons. Mr. Petrow has written or edited more than a dozen books and covered the H.I.V./AIDS epidemic for more than 25 years. He started his career at The Wall Street Journal and has since held editorial positions at Life magazine, HotWired, Time Inc., Everyday Health and The Times’ Same Sex Marriage Topic page. He lives in Chapel Hill, N.C. —MICHAEL WINERIP
Q. My partner and I, both in our 30s, are planning to get married next year in a fairly traditional church ceremony. We have two logistical concerns. First, would it be awkward to have my mother and father walk me down the aisle if his are not doing the same for him? I’m very close to my parents, while his mother and father have only begrudgingly accepted our relationship — but we don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable. Our second question, do sons ask fathers to dance the first dance with them? I’m just not sure how that would sit with our family guests, most of whom are the older generation. Your thoughts?
A. I love both these ideas for making your parents part of this important day. And I want to point out that neither of your questions is purely logistical. Such key decisions about your wedding ceremony and the celebrations that follow are quite symbolic, both for you and for other same-sex couples looking for inspiration while retrofitting traditional wedding customs.
That image of your parents taking that walk down the aisle with you is powerful and moving, especially because there are so many others, including your partner, who still don’t have that kind of visible support and love because of the sex of the person they love.
Now to the nitty gritty: There is no requirement for parents to behave as matched sets (as much as it’s fun to take a straight tradition like walking down the aisle and make it more balanced between the partners). But you must let your in-laws-to-be know your parents will be escorting you and look for a way that they can participate in an equally prominent way. Possibilities include their hosting the rehearsal dinner (perhaps it is easier for them to express themselves by picking up the check) or making one of the first toasts at the reception (even if it is as simple as, “To a long and healthy life together").
Here are two suggestions for arranging the actual promenade. 1: Your partne
Our new Civil Behavior advice column will be written by Steven Petrow, the author of “Steven Petrow’s Complete Gay & Lesbian Manners” (Workman, 2011) and the “The Essential Book of Gay Manners & Etiquette” (HarperCollins; 1995). Mr. Petrow will answer questions about issues of particular interest to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, as well their straight friends, co-workers and family members. The situations will be geared to a boomer-aged audience. This first column involves a wedding of gay men, the role of their parents and the question of who should have the first dance — the Moms and sons or Dads and sons. Mr. Petrow has written or edited more than a dozen books and covered the H.I.V./AIDS epidemic for more than 25 years. He started his career at The Wall Street Journal and has since held editorial positions at Life magazine, HotWired, Time Inc., Everyday Health and The Times’ Same Sex Marriage Topic page. He lives in Chapel Hill, N.C. —MICHAEL WINERIP
Q. My partner and I, both in our 30s, are planning to get married next year in a fairly traditional church ceremony. We have two logistical concerns. First, would it be awkward to have my mother and father walk me down the aisle if his are not doing the same for him? I’m very close to my parents, while his mother and father have only begrudgingly accepted our relationship — but we don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable. Our second question, do sons ask fathers to dance the first dance with them? I’m just not sure how that would sit with our family guests, most of whom are the older generation. Your thoughts?
A. I love both these ideas for making your parents part of this important day. And I want to point out that neither of your questions is purely logistical. Such key decisions about your wedding ceremony and the celebrations that follow are quite symbolic, both for you and for other same-sex couples looking for inspiration while retrofitting traditional wedding customs.
That image of your parents taking that walk down the aisle with you is powerful and moving, especially because there are so many others, including your partner, who still don’t have that kind of visible support and love because of the sex of the person they love.
Now to the nitty gritty: There is no requirement for parents to behave as matched sets (as much as it’s fun to take a straight tradition like walking down the aisle and make it more balanced between the partners). But you must let your in-laws-to-be know your parents will be escorting you and look for a way that they can participate in an equally prominent way. Possibilities include their hosting the rehearsal dinner (perhaps it is easier for them to express themselves by picking up the check) or making one of the first toasts at the reception (even if it is as simple as, “To a long and healthy life together").
Here are two suggestions for arranging the actual promenade. 1: Your partne
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Revealed: Kareena Kapoor's wedding dress
Revealed: Kareena Kapoor's wedding dress
There is still a month to go before Kareena Kapoor says her 'I Dos' and marry longtime boyfriend Saif Ali Khan, but the buzz round the celebrity wedding is growing stronger each day.
With every passing day more and more information are pouring out. First it was the wedding date, then the invitation card which is not the actual formal invitation but nonetheless, sent out by Saif's mother Sharmila.
Now the latest is that it wills Kareena's favorite designer Manish Malhotra who will be designing her wedding ensembles.
The fashion designer, designing the actress' attire, says he will stick to the bride's simple, yet elegant taste.
Manish did not give much detail about the marriage but a little insight about the wedding dress. Malhotra says the preparations are on in full swing, and Kareena wants to keep it simple.
He said that Kareena on-screen and off-screen never likes too much of embroidery and jewelry so he doubts if it will be too elaborate.
He says too much of shine and bling is not Kareena's preference. However, it is going to have more old-world charm with lots of nice fabric.
Talking about the wedding he said there will be a very small function within the family and friends. Then there will be a reception in Delhi.
Saif's mother, veteran actress Sharmila has so far maintained that the D-day is Oct 16.
Saif and Kareena have been dating each other since 2007.
There is still a month to go before Kareena Kapoor says her 'I Dos' and marry longtime boyfriend Saif Ali Khan, but the buzz round the celebrity wedding is growing stronger each day.
With every passing day more and more information are pouring out. First it was the wedding date, then the invitation card which is not the actual formal invitation but nonetheless, sent out by Saif's mother Sharmila.
Now the latest is that it wills Kareena's favorite designer Manish Malhotra who will be designing her wedding ensembles.
The fashion designer, designing the actress' attire, says he will stick to the bride's simple, yet elegant taste.
Manish did not give much detail about the marriage but a little insight about the wedding dress. Malhotra says the preparations are on in full swing, and Kareena wants to keep it simple.
He said that Kareena on-screen and off-screen never likes too much of embroidery and jewelry so he doubts if it will be too elaborate.
He says too much of shine and bling is not Kareena's preference. However, it is going to have more old-world charm with lots of nice fabric.
Talking about the wedding he said there will be a very small function within the family and friends. Then there will be a reception in Delhi.
Saif's mother, veteran actress Sharmila has so far maintained that the D-day is Oct 16.
Saif and Kareena have been dating each other since 2007.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Kareena has been making it to the best-dressed list of most of the fashion portals for the past few weeks
The Saifeena wedding, which time and again got the media and fans confused around guessing the probable wedding date, seems to be finally around the corner. Specualtions are rife that the invitations are already being sent out to the dear kith and kin of the Kapoors and the Pataudis. The to be bride's wedding ensemble's designing responsibility has been given to none other than Kareena's favourite designer cum dear friend Manish Malhotra.
At the most recent HT Brunch Dialogues which witnessed Kareena bonded fondly with her to be husband's mother, Sharmilla Tagore, and even addressed her as her 'Ma-in-law' in front of all. Another little and interesting piece of news regarding Saifeena's wedding has been revealed. Kareena's dear friend and Bollywood's most sought after designer, Manish Malhotra, confirmed that he would be designing Kareena's wedding attire.
Affirming the rumor, Manish excitedly said, "That's right! You ask her the details. But yes, it's mid-October, everyone knows this now. There is a very small function which is (for) family and friends. Then there is a reception in Delhi, so (I am designing) for both the occasions."
Kareena, who is known widely for her simple yet elegant and magnificent taste in clothing, has clearly asked Manish to design a wedding dress that reflects her taste and at the same time adds to the mood of the wedding celebration.
Corroborates Manish, "Kareena, always as an actor and as a personality, never likes too much of embroidery and jewellery. She is beautiful and she is very aware of that. I don't think there would be too much of embroidery or shine, it's going to be more old world charm, lots of nice fabric, but not too much."
Kareena has been making it to the best-dressed list of most of the fashion portals for the past few weeks. The beautiful and talented actress has been flaunting a radiant glow and stunning dresses at varios promotional events for her upcoming flick 'Heroine'. We wonder if she would be able to generate just as many headlines with her wedding day look as well!
Even though the to be mother-in-law, Sharmilla Tagore, has repeatedly asserted October 16 as the Saifeena wedding date, some sources reveal that the wedding will take place on October 17 at the Pataudi Palace in Haryana.
Friday, September 14, 2012
5 Don'ts Of Wedding Dress Shopping
5 Don'ts Of Wedding Dress Shopping
Over the past 20 years of owning VOWS bridal outlet, I've found there are five major faux pas brides tend to make when they embark on the dress shopping process. These 'don'ts' can make the process extremely difficult and cause unneeded stress and frustration during an experience that is supposed to be exciting and fun. When you set out to find the perfect gown, avoid these big no-nos and you'll be sure to have a fufilling experience and walk out the door with the dress of your dreams!
Don't bring an entourage- Too many opinions can easily drive you crazy and make the entire process of finding a gown far more difficult than it needs to be. From your mother telling you "that doesn't look good on you" to your best friend saying "I can't see you wearing that," it can be hard to determine whose opinion to listen to and you may find yourself trying on far more gowns than necessary trying to please everyone. Instead of bringing along a full entourage, take only one or two of your closest friends and/or family members. Your mother, maid of honor, best friend or sister are some excellent choices when choosing your shopping support system. Choose the people you feel know you best and whose opinions matter most to you. Talk to them about what you're envisioning for yourself before you go to your appointment and make sure they are on the same page as you or at least can be supportive of your viewpoint and choices. The last thing you want is a fight breaking out because you want a strapless gown and your aunt thinks you should wear a dress with sleeves!
Don't be closed-minded- If you've never tried on a wedding gown then you probably don't know what's going to look best on you. Wedding gowns fit much differently than sundresses or cocktail dresses, so in reality you likely have no idea which type of silhouette will best flatter your specific body shape. The most important advice I give my clients is to keep an open mind as they browse and try on dresses. I encourage them to try on every silhouette to start; sheaths, ball gowns, fit and flairs, a-lines, mermaids... you never know; you just might surprise yourself! Once you've found a silhouette that flatters you, you can narrow down your choices and try on gowns specifically in that silhouette to ensure a dress you feel beautiful and confident in your dress.
Don't wear old underwear or no underwear- This is my biggest pet peeve... brides who wear old underwear or NO underwear at all! You want to feel beautiful in your wedding gown and that starts with wearing the proper undergarments. I'm not saying you have to splurge on a little lace number to go shopping in, but at least wear something that you're not embarrassed to be seen in (or seen without). Remember, a consultant will more than likely be assisting you in and out of gowns, so for both your sakes, wear something decent. Additionally, wearing well-fitting underwear will improve the fit of the dresses you try on. You don't want to try to work around bunching or inch-wide bra straps while trying to figure out if a dress is flattering on you or not. A strapless bra and a plain pair of white cotton underwear are an excellent choice.
Don't ignore the bridal consultant's suggestions- Your bridal consultant has most likely worked with countless brides-to-be and very likely knows what she is talking about. Try to at least be open to her suggestions and comments about different dresses. Remember, she is familiar with all types of body shapes and sizes, as well as every silhouette and style of gown. She knows which gowns are flattering for someone with a larger bust, which gowns fit a bit funny in the hips or even which gown looks terrible on the hanger but fabulous on someone with YOUR figure. This doesn't mean you have to let her choose the dress of your dreams, but at least be receptive to her suggestions and give some of her recommendations a chance. Remember, from the time you walk in the door her job is to help YOU. She has a vested interest in making sure you leave happy.
Don't rush- Sometimes brides will fly through the door at VOWS in a whirlwind announcing they only have 20 minutes until their next appointment. This is NOT a state of mind conducive to finding your dream gown. It will severely limit the time you have to browse and try on gowns and assess how each gown fits. If possible, take a day and dedicate it solely to bridal gown shopping. Schedule 2-3 appointments and perhaps a break for a light lunch. Make the dress shopping process fun. Enjoy it!
Over the past 20 years of owning VOWS bridal outlet, I've found there are five major faux pas brides tend to make when they embark on the dress shopping process. These 'don'ts' can make the process extremely difficult and cause unneeded stress and frustration during an experience that is supposed to be exciting and fun. When you set out to find the perfect gown, avoid these big no-nos and you'll be sure to have a fufilling experience and walk out the door with the dress of your dreams!
Don't bring an entourage- Too many opinions can easily drive you crazy and make the entire process of finding a gown far more difficult than it needs to be. From your mother telling you "that doesn't look good on you" to your best friend saying "I can't see you wearing that," it can be hard to determine whose opinion to listen to and you may find yourself trying on far more gowns than necessary trying to please everyone. Instead of bringing along a full entourage, take only one or two of your closest friends and/or family members. Your mother, maid of honor, best friend or sister are some excellent choices when choosing your shopping support system. Choose the people you feel know you best and whose opinions matter most to you. Talk to them about what you're envisioning for yourself before you go to your appointment and make sure they are on the same page as you or at least can be supportive of your viewpoint and choices. The last thing you want is a fight breaking out because you want a strapless gown and your aunt thinks you should wear a dress with sleeves!
Don't be closed-minded- If you've never tried on a wedding gown then you probably don't know what's going to look best on you. Wedding gowns fit much differently than sundresses or cocktail dresses, so in reality you likely have no idea which type of silhouette will best flatter your specific body shape. The most important advice I give my clients is to keep an open mind as they browse and try on dresses. I encourage them to try on every silhouette to start; sheaths, ball gowns, fit and flairs, a-lines, mermaids... you never know; you just might surprise yourself! Once you've found a silhouette that flatters you, you can narrow down your choices and try on gowns specifically in that silhouette to ensure a dress you feel beautiful and confident in your dress.
Don't wear old underwear or no underwear- This is my biggest pet peeve... brides who wear old underwear or NO underwear at all! You want to feel beautiful in your wedding gown and that starts with wearing the proper undergarments. I'm not saying you have to splurge on a little lace number to go shopping in, but at least wear something that you're not embarrassed to be seen in (or seen without). Remember, a consultant will more than likely be assisting you in and out of gowns, so for both your sakes, wear something decent. Additionally, wearing well-fitting underwear will improve the fit of the dresses you try on. You don't want to try to work around bunching or inch-wide bra straps while trying to figure out if a dress is flattering on you or not. A strapless bra and a plain pair of white cotton underwear are an excellent choice.
Don't ignore the bridal consultant's suggestions- Your bridal consultant has most likely worked with countless brides-to-be and very likely knows what she is talking about. Try to at least be open to her suggestions and comments about different dresses. Remember, she is familiar with all types of body shapes and sizes, as well as every silhouette and style of gown. She knows which gowns are flattering for someone with a larger bust, which gowns fit a bit funny in the hips or even which gown looks terrible on the hanger but fabulous on someone with YOUR figure. This doesn't mean you have to let her choose the dress of your dreams, but at least be receptive to her suggestions and give some of her recommendations a chance. Remember, from the time you walk in the door her job is to help YOU. She has a vested interest in making sure you leave happy.
Don't rush- Sometimes brides will fly through the door at VOWS in a whirlwind announcing they only have 20 minutes until their next appointment. This is NOT a state of mind conducive to finding your dream gown. It will severely limit the time you have to browse and try on gowns and assess how each gown fits. If possible, take a day and dedicate it solely to bridal gown shopping. Schedule 2-3 appointments and perhaps a break for a light lunch. Make the dress shopping process fun. Enjoy it!
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Lady Gaga Loves to Wear Wedding Gowns, But There is ‘No Wedding Plans’ Yet, Says Grandmother (EXCLUSIVE)
Lady Gaga isn’t shy about sporting new fashions — and wedding gowns are no exception — but don’t expect the “Marry The Night” singer to be walking down the aisle anytime soon, according to her grandmother.
Angeline Germanotta told Celebuzz exclusively that although her famous granddaughter has been photographed lately donning white wedding dresses a wedding date is not on the superstar’s schedule.
“There’s no wedding plans,” said Germanotta. “I’m sure I’d be one of the first ones to hear.”
Why is Lady Gaga wearing wedding dresses?
No stranger to controversial fashion choices, Gaga pushed the fashion limits once again as she was snapped in a white strapless wedding dress (complete with veil) alongside her girlfriends last month, tweeting:
“It’s my best friends wedding she made us try on dresses! BRIDESMAIDS VERA Baby (sic).”
“Knowing Stefani the way I know her, she was fooling around,” Germanotta giggled.
And the 26-year-old fashion icon also went bridal in London at the 2012 Paralympic Games after party at the Arts Club last Sunday wearing a risque wedding dress ball gown with long train.
Angeline Germanotta told Celebuzz exclusively that although her famous granddaughter has been photographed lately donning white wedding dresses a wedding date is not on the superstar’s schedule.
“There’s no wedding plans,” said Germanotta. “I’m sure I’d be one of the first ones to hear.”
Why is Lady Gaga wearing wedding dresses?
No stranger to controversial fashion choices, Gaga pushed the fashion limits once again as she was snapped in a white strapless wedding dress (complete with veil) alongside her girlfriends last month, tweeting:
“It’s my best friends wedding she made us try on dresses! BRIDESMAIDS VERA Baby (sic).”
“Knowing Stefani the way I know her, she was fooling around,” Germanotta giggled.
And the 26-year-old fashion icon also went bridal in London at the 2012 Paralympic Games after party at the Arts Club last Sunday wearing a risque wedding dress ball gown with long train.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
How to find a wedding dress for any body type
Wedding gown shopping can be overwhelming. But knowing basic dress silhouettes and body types and also understanding how they flatter your figure will help. Remember: How you feel in that dress is crucial to finding the right fit.
Busty
Petite, plus or average size, you've got a full bust.
Dress dos: Accentuate the positive with an uplifting foundation garment, like a good bra, or a corset. Or minimize your curves by balancing your top with a full skirt.
Dress don'ts: Be careful that your dress isn't too revealing -- you want the focus to be on your face. And don't forget to move around in your gown during fittings to make sure everything stays in place.
Designer to try: Dennis Basso
Dennis Basso incorporates lots of ruching into his designs. Terry Hall, fashion director at Kleinfeld Bridal, says, "Ruching can actually help slim and balance a larger bust."
More from The Knot: 9 most daring new wedding dresses
Broad
You're built like a swimmer, with wide-set shoulders.
Dress dos: Highlight your toned shoulders with a halter neckline, or go for drama in a gown with long sleeves worn off the shoulder. Select a dress with a bodice that highlights your waistline to offset your shoulders and create an hourglass shape.
Dress don'ts: Trying to conceal your shoulders is not recommended, as it sometimes produces the opposite effect. Stay away from cap sleeves, which can add width to the shoulder area.
Designer to try: Amsale, Lela Rose
Amsale is a go-to for Hall when he's helping clients find a halter-style gown. Mark Ingram of Mark Ingram Atelier recommends Lela Rose, however, because her designs are perfect for accommodating broad shoulders.
Pear-Shaped
Though small on top, you round off toward the bottom.
Dress dos: A dropped-waist style or a strapless ball gown will cover your bottom half and put more emphasis on the top. An off-the-shoulder neckline will keep the attention on your upper body, and an A-line gown is always a flattering choice.
Dress don'ts: A sheath can be unflattering, and a V-neck will draw the eyes downward.
Designer to try: Alita Graham
Available in a variety of styles, A-line silhouettes look good on most body types. Alita Graham has an assortment of full A-line options, says Hall.
Full-Figured
You're voluptuous, with a well-endowed bust and curvy hips.
Dress dos: Try a mermaid- or trumpet-style gown, which will have a slimming effect. A high-waisted A-line dress with a low neckline also complements curves.
Dress don'ts: A slim sheath or slinky bias cut will cling and may accent any extra inches; also avoid spaghetti straps because they won't provide the support you need.
Designer to try: Pnina Tornai, Monique Lhuillier
Pnina Tornai is noted for her sensual styling and fitted designs. Many of her gowns have corsets to help define your shape. Ingram recommends Monique Lhuillier for her sexy silhouettes with good coverage.
Boxy
Short or tall, you have a boyish waistline.
Dress dos: Empire-waist gowns are made with you in mind. And a ball gown with a basque waistline, which is a V-shaped dip in the front, will give your waist a nipped-in look for more shape.
Dress don'ts: Steer clear of sheaths and dropped-waist styles, which will make you appear boxier.
Designer to try: Amsale, Pnina Tornai
"Both Amsale and Pnina Tornai have beautiful corset options, which create the illusion of shape by defining your waist," says Hall.
More from The Knot: 5 red carpet beauty looks to steal for your wedding
Petite
You're tiny.
Dress dos: The key word here is elongation. It's best to keep it simple. A column-like sheath or an A-line dress works best: These will keep the eye moving and create the illusion of height.
Dress don'ts: Almost all silhouettes will flatter your figure, though a big ball gown or a dress with lots of voluminous fabric may look overwhelming on your small frame.
Busty
Petite, plus or average size, you've got a full bust.
Dress dos: Accentuate the positive with an uplifting foundation garment, like a good bra, or a corset. Or minimize your curves by balancing your top with a full skirt.
Dress don'ts: Be careful that your dress isn't too revealing -- you want the focus to be on your face. And don't forget to move around in your gown during fittings to make sure everything stays in place.
Designer to try: Dennis Basso
Dennis Basso incorporates lots of ruching into his designs. Terry Hall, fashion director at Kleinfeld Bridal, says, "Ruching can actually help slim and balance a larger bust."
More from The Knot: 9 most daring new wedding dresses
Broad
You're built like a swimmer, with wide-set shoulders.
Dress dos: Highlight your toned shoulders with a halter neckline, or go for drama in a gown with long sleeves worn off the shoulder. Select a dress with a bodice that highlights your waistline to offset your shoulders and create an hourglass shape.
Dress don'ts: Trying to conceal your shoulders is not recommended, as it sometimes produces the opposite effect. Stay away from cap sleeves, which can add width to the shoulder area.
Designer to try: Amsale, Lela Rose
Amsale is a go-to for Hall when he's helping clients find a halter-style gown. Mark Ingram of Mark Ingram Atelier recommends Lela Rose, however, because her designs are perfect for accommodating broad shoulders.
Pear-Shaped
Though small on top, you round off toward the bottom.
Dress dos: A dropped-waist style or a strapless ball gown will cover your bottom half and put more emphasis on the top. An off-the-shoulder neckline will keep the attention on your upper body, and an A-line gown is always a flattering choice.
Dress don'ts: A sheath can be unflattering, and a V-neck will draw the eyes downward.
Designer to try: Alita Graham
Available in a variety of styles, A-line silhouettes look good on most body types. Alita Graham has an assortment of full A-line options, says Hall.
Full-Figured
You're voluptuous, with a well-endowed bust and curvy hips.
Dress dos: Try a mermaid- or trumpet-style gown, which will have a slimming effect. A high-waisted A-line dress with a low neckline also complements curves.
Dress don'ts: A slim sheath or slinky bias cut will cling and may accent any extra inches; also avoid spaghetti straps because they won't provide the support you need.
Designer to try: Pnina Tornai, Monique Lhuillier
Pnina Tornai is noted for her sensual styling and fitted designs. Many of her gowns have corsets to help define your shape. Ingram recommends Monique Lhuillier for her sexy silhouettes with good coverage.
Boxy
Short or tall, you have a boyish waistline.
Dress dos: Empire-waist gowns are made with you in mind. And a ball gown with a basque waistline, which is a V-shaped dip in the front, will give your waist a nipped-in look for more shape.
Dress don'ts: Steer clear of sheaths and dropped-waist styles, which will make you appear boxier.
Designer to try: Amsale, Pnina Tornai
"Both Amsale and Pnina Tornai have beautiful corset options, which create the illusion of shape by defining your waist," says Hall.
More from The Knot: 5 red carpet beauty looks to steal for your wedding
Petite
You're tiny.
Dress dos: The key word here is elongation. It's best to keep it simple. A column-like sheath or an A-line dress works best: These will keep the eye moving and create the illusion of height.
Dress don'ts: Almost all silhouettes will flatter your figure, though a big ball gown or a dress with lots of voluminous fabric may look overwhelming on your small frame.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Teen Mom' Catelynn Lowell's Wedding Dress Revealed!
Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra are set to walk down the aisle next summer, but there is a lot of planning to do before then! Luckily, it looks like Catelynn has one big thing already picked out and that is her wedding dress! According to Wetpaint, In Touch magazine has a picture of the Teen Mom's wedding dress.
So, what does it look like? While they didn't post a picture of the dress, they did give a detailed description of what it looks like. The dress is said to be strapless and floor length. To add some flair, the dress is feathered at the bottom. Even though they didn't share a picture, a quick Google search brings up some dresses that could potentially be Catelynn's.
It is strange, though, that Catelynn has allegedly revealed her dress. A few weeks ago, she talked to UsWeekly and admitted that she had indeed found her dress, but that she was keeping it at Tyler's moms house. The reason that she decided to keep it there as opposed to the house that she shares with Tyler was so he wouldn't see it before the wedding (that's bad luck y'all!).
While In Touch claims to have the picture of her dress (you can check it out in their new issue), it is hard to say if it will be the actual dress that Catelynn will wear. In the past, the tabloid falsely reported that the Teen Mom couple were expecting a baby. However, in their defense, they were allegedly duped by Catelynn's own mother, April Baltierra.
Would Catelynn Lowell really divulge details of her wedding dress to a tabloid？
So, what does it look like? While they didn't post a picture of the dress, they did give a detailed description of what it looks like. The dress is said to be strapless and floor length. To add some flair, the dress is feathered at the bottom. Even though they didn't share a picture, a quick Google search brings up some dresses that could potentially be Catelynn's.
It is strange, though, that Catelynn has allegedly revealed her dress. A few weeks ago, she talked to UsWeekly and admitted that she had indeed found her dress, but that she was keeping it at Tyler's moms house. The reason that she decided to keep it there as opposed to the house that she shares with Tyler was so he wouldn't see it before the wedding (that's bad luck y'all!).
While In Touch claims to have the picture of her dress (you can check it out in their new issue), it is hard to say if it will be the actual dress that Catelynn will wear. In the past, the tabloid falsely reported that the Teen Mom couple were expecting a baby. However, in their defense, they were allegedly duped by Catelynn's own mother, April Baltierra.
Would Catelynn Lowell really divulge details of her wedding dress to a tabloid？
Monday, September 10, 2012
Wedding Accessories Banker Looks Forward to Affair Season
Wedding Accessories Banker Looks Forward to Affair Season
Autumn and winter are acceptable accepted times for parties and assurance of all kinds if humans charge a lift because of the colder acclimate and the beneath days. For many, the affair division artlessly isn't complete after new dresses and frocks to bout the accepted trends and accomplish something absolutely agitative out of this fun time of year!
In adjustment to accommodated the appeal for brawl frocks that it commonly sees in the autumn season, marriage accessories banker The Marriage Boutique will accessible The Brawl Room in 2012. The banker specialises in conjugal shoes, marriage dresses and bridesmaid dresses, as able-bodied as dresses and accessories that are absolute for proms and parties.
The Brawl Room is advised to bear the autumn collections from some of the a lot of admired names if it comes to brawl dress and brawl clothes architecture - just the admission for those appropriate contest that yield abode throughout the autumn and winter periods, to say annihilation of Christmas and New Year.
Visitors will acquisition The Brawl Room alongside all the accepted categories and casework accessible from The Marriage Boutique. The banker offers a huge alternative of altered brands to baby for the advanced ambit of tastes if it comes to beauteous appearance for the appropriate occasion.
The online abundance is home to an accomplished alternative of marriage shoes that are the absolute accessory for black wear, bridesmaid abrasion and brawl wear. Shoppers can aswell accomplish use of chargeless UK supply for a bound aeon of time on all purchases to accomplish accepting dressed up this autumn even added cost-effective and even added convenient.
Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/09/06/4793488/wedding-accessories-retailer-looks.html#storylink=cpy
Autumn and winter are acceptable accepted times for parties and assurance of all kinds if humans charge a lift because of the colder acclimate and the beneath days. For many, the affair division artlessly isn't complete after new dresses and frocks to bout the accepted trends and accomplish something absolutely agitative out of this fun time of year!
In adjustment to accommodated the appeal for brawl frocks that it commonly sees in the autumn season, marriage accessories banker The Marriage Boutique will accessible The Brawl Room in 2012. The banker specialises in conjugal shoes, marriage dresses and bridesmaid dresses, as able-bodied as dresses and accessories that are absolute for proms and parties.
The Brawl Room is advised to bear the autumn collections from some of the a lot of admired names if it comes to brawl dress and brawl clothes architecture - just the admission for those appropriate contest that yield abode throughout the autumn and winter periods, to say annihilation of Christmas and New Year.
Visitors will acquisition The Brawl Room alongside all the accepted categories and casework accessible from The Marriage Boutique. The banker offers a huge alternative of altered brands to baby for the advanced ambit of tastes if it comes to beauteous appearance for the appropriate occasion.
The online abundance is home to an accomplished alternative of marriage shoes that are the absolute accessory for black wear, bridesmaid abrasion and brawl wear. Shoppers can aswell accomplish use of chargeless UK supply for a bound aeon of time on all purchases to accomplish accepting dressed up this autumn even added cost-effective and even added convenient.
Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/09/06/4793488/wedding-accessories-retailer-looks.html#storylink=cpy
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