have you gained weight since your wedding? (it's okay if you have...)

Yesterday I wrote some of the factors that contribute to post-wedding weight gain for my newlywed column at The Examiner. (That waffle maker doesn't fire itself up every morning you know.) Admittedly, I've noticed that my honeymoon jeans are a little less, um forgiving, than they were nine months ago. As it turns out, most newlyweds gain an average of 10 pounds during their first year of marriage. Maybe more! So while I'm not concerned that I'm the only newlywed with a little more to love, I am ready to kick myself out of this post-wedding weight category and get my waist back to its pre-wedding measurements. To read the rest of my article, click here. And feel free to weigh in on your own experience with post-wedding weight gain. (Why didn't anyone tell us about this....!)

would you wear a wedding turban?

Turbans are taking the mainstream fashion world by storm. When Kate Moss donned a gold turban designed by British milliner Stephen Jones to this year's Costume Institute Gala, heads turned (and more than a few people protested.) But did brides take notice? Tell me, would you consider wearing a turban on your wedding day? Never mind that Erin Featherston filled her Spring 2008 collection with more than a few gilded head wraps and Prada kicked off the Spring 2007 collection (at right) with a gorgeous display of colorful turbans. For brides to embrace this trend, it may take more than a few turban clad models on the catwalk.

{photo credit: armour sans anguish}

coach adds color to their new floral jewelry collection

Leave it to Coach to come up with a collection called Poppy. I've been a fan of their leather goods for as long as I can remember and now there's even more of a reason to linger by the display case. The Poppy collection is whimsical and colorful and just playful enough to keep your look sophisticated yet sly. I adore the purple and pink flower rings as bridesmaids gifts and would wear that multicolor three strand floral necklace (at right) in a hot minute. Are you a fan of Poppy too? Do you know someone in your bridal party that could use a little flower power?

Daily Inspiration Gallery includes: Daphine Flower Tiara, $148; Poppy Button Bracelet, $148.00; Poppy Flower Ring, $68; Poppy Three Strand Floral Necklace, $198.

michael jackson: king of style

Where would we be without the music or the style of Michael Jackson? If you too are spending the day wrapped up in your favorite Michael Jackson album, you're not alone. May he rest in peace. Here's a little fashion tribute to the King of Pop to go with the music.

Les Chiffoniers Sequin-sprayed jacket at Net-a-Porter. Matthew Williamson leather belt with studs. Guess Skinny Leather Belt with Metal Studs. Banana Republic Studded double-strap belt.

Les Chiffoniers Sequin-sprayed jacket. ASOS Leather Studded Fingerless Gloves. Sequin single-breasted jacket. Eugenia Kim Chainmail embellished fedora.

Top Shop, Plastic Aviator Sunglasses

still thinking about boudoir wedding photos? try feathers

Model Sophie Vlaming made nice with photographers photographers Bruno Dayan and Jimmy Backius and some 5-inch feather heels. I love her look. Don't you? Feathers are my favorite way or turning the ordinary into something unexpected and sexy.

At right, Daily Inspiration: Ostrich Feather Hairpin, $32, available at Encore Bridal. Feathered wedding gowns from the runway via New York Magazine include Jenny Packham, Junko Yoshioka, Monique Lhuillier and Jenny Packham.

via refinery29

shine on sweet girl

Today we say farewell to our favorite feathered-haired beauty, Farrah Fawcett. Her battle with cancer ended this morning. In sickness and in health, she always stood strong. "She's gone. She now belongs to the ages," her longtime partner Ryan O'Neal told the press. For more, click here.

Free Tickets! New York Wedding Workshop: How To Design on a Dime

Lindsay Landman of the New York Wedding Workshop is wrapping up a hugely successful year with one last workshop. Fans will remember that Lindsay's Signature Event was bursting with style and top-notch vendors and her "How to Get the Most for Your Money" event was invaluable for couples concerned about contract negotiation and savvy savings. On June 27th, Lindsay will present on "How to Design on a Dime" and teach brides on every budget level how to maximize the look and style of their wedding. I'm delighted to announce that Lindsay has graciously extended a limited number of free tickets to this final event! This is a do-not-miss for DIY'ers. Just send an email to info@nyweddingworkshop.com with the subject "tickets from perfectbound" to snag a seat and be prepared to be blown away.

NYWW Bridal "How To" Series: How to Design on a Dime
SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2009
10 AM – 1:00 PM

Sharon Schuster Photography Studio147 West 15th Street

Between 6th and 7th Avenues

{photo credits: belathee photography}

a wedding jumpsuit. why not?

Would you swap your white gown for a jumpsuit? From the waist up, this look is bridal all the way. But when the skirt splits into two, does it become a bit too much for even the most modern bride?

shoe blooms are like tiny bouquets for your feet

The latest obsession in wedding attire comes in a rainbow of colors. Shoes! You hardly see a pair of white wedding feet anymore and with so many bright and beautiful options, why would you? New to the scene are these Shoe Blooms, a "corsage for your feet" and a brilliant way to add even more pop to your peds. These would look wild peeping out from under a wedding gown and can be clipped onto your favorite pair of platforms, peep toes or pumps. Check out New High (M)art for details.

{photo credits: New High (M)art}

nicole miller, priscilla of boston, kate spade, and more at sample sale prices

The Wedding Atelier is offering 25 to 60 percent off gowns from Nicole Miller (above), Priscilla of Boston, La Sposa, and more at their spectacular bridal sample sale. Prices start at just $495.

103 Fifth Ave., near 18th St., second floor,
Appointments Neccessary 626-638-3263
M (10–7), T–Th (10–8), F–S (10–6), Su (10–5)

After you snag yourself a gown, head over to Clothingline where Kate Spade where handbags, small accessories, apparel, and footwear are hugely discounted for today only.

261 W. 36th Street, near Seventh Avenue, second floor
M–T (11–7), W–Th (10–7)

jimmy choo at h&m prices? 2 good 2 b true!

Sit down. On November 14th, H&M will unveil their newest and most exciting collaboration to date. Jimmy Choo! As in, Jimmy Choo!

200 H&M stores nationwide will carry the collection which will include men's and women's shoes and bags as well as a women's clothing line to match. When can we expect the line to start forming in anticipation of the fashion meltdown that is sure to happen? Let's just say I'm clearing my calendar starting now.

{photo credit: refinery29}

introducing the design sponge queens design guide

Check out the newest city guide to land on Design Sponge--Queens! I put together a list of my favorite shops, restaurants, coffee spots, parks & museums for the Queens Design Guide which you can check out here. Putting together the guide was only half the fun. The "research" part was my favorite. If you are a Queens resident or have a can't-be-missed spot that didn't make the list, feel free to add it. Or if you've never been to Queens, use this guide as your starting point and uncover the borough on your own! Enjoy.

{photo credit: design sponge}

candy colored tracy reese dresses for your bridesmaids now on sale

Tracy Reese is having a sample sale where floral skirts, strapless tops and dresses are more than 50% off. Shown here is the Chantale dress in peachy pink (left) and cherry. It goes without saying that the blue and yellow shoes are pure genius. Raise your hand if you see a happy bridesmaid in your future!

For more sample sales and further details, check out my Style page.

{photo credits: tracy reese}

vera wang to join the cast of dancing with the stars

E! News is reporting that Vera Wang will join the next round of Dancing With The Stars, a show that is not know for classic ballgowns or floor-length hemlines. However, sources tells E! News that the iconic designer will soon be dancing the tango! Although Vera Wang designed costumes for Nancy Kerrigan, Michelle Kwan and Kristi Yamaguchi the idea her getting down on the dance floor is still something I need to get used to.

shop my sponsors: the beautiful garden boutique

Now I understand why over-accessorizing can be so tempting! There are too many sparkling and elegant pieces in The Beautiful Garden Boutique collection to try and limit yourself to just one. Thankfully, Trisha Fay of The Beautiful Garden Boutique is celebrating her two year on Etsy by offering 20% off all orders of 2 items or more. Over-accessorize to your heart's content!

The Beautiful Garden Boutique is filled with sophisticated handmade bridal jewelry as well as everyday pieces that will lighten up your look. Trisha's pieces have an old world quality accentuated with soft color and surprising details. Favorites include the Natasha Necklace ($47), the Victoria Necklace ($65), and the Marilyn Earrings ($37 and shown at top.) Check out my other favorites in today's Daily Inspiration and don't forget to take advantage of Trisha's 20% discount good only thru the month of June.

over-accessorizing your wedding day look

I finally got around to watching the final episode of The Hills and caught up with all the Heidi and Spencer wedding gossip for myself. The best part of the episode was, of course, the gown. Heidi wore a lightweight, strapless, feathery gown custom designed by Monique Lhuillier. was given only three and a half weeks to make the dress, which required 250 hours of work. And as if all those layers and details weren't enough, Heidi topped it all off with ivory LhuillierChristian Louboutin Bow T Dorcet heels and over $2 million in borrowed platinum and diamonds from Neil Lane jewellery. Do you think she over did it?

Heidi told Neil Lane she was going for an Elizabeth Taylor look and loaded up her wrists with diamond bracelets totaling of approximately 350 karats in diamonds. Thankfully she decided against a tiara because she thought it would be "too much." Meanwhile, Sandra Bullock also piled on the bling at The Proposal premiere in LA. The star wore a mix of "chains, pearls, charms, and underwater influences" that drew almost as much attention as her Glamour cover shoot. In fact, her bubbling assortment reminds me of the bridal lariat worn featured in yesterday's real wedding. Any of these options, neck or wrist, make for a fun wedding day look. Check out my Style page for how to multi-layer your look without overdoing it.
Above: Mena Sorvino, Naomi Watts, Mary Kate Olsen, Sarah Jessica Parker and Blake Lively all pile on the layers.

{photo credits: people style watch, harpers bazaar; copy credits, the Insider, fab sugar; daily inspiration: polyvore}

jeffrey marcus weddings

Today I'm delighted to introduce to you another perfect bound sponsor and friend, Jeffrey Marcus of Jeffrey Marcus Weddings. Jeffrey was kind enough to share one of his recent weddings with us and fill us in on every jaw-droppingly beautiful detail. As an events and floral designer, Jeffrey often draws inspiration from the runway as well as the garden. As a New York designer, Jeffrey has worked with some of the most respected and admired industry professionals. His brides include New York City's most fashionable and fabulous. Enjoy this gorgeous wedding as Jeffrey narrates every glorious detail and redefines what it means to be a New York City bride.

The edgy Lower East Side in New York City was the perfect setting for a unique May wedding at the Angel Orensanz Foundation. Based on the bride’s magnificent dress--a gold-toned Oscar de la Renta full-length gown inspired by the work of Gustav Klimt—the bride and event designer Jeffrey Marcus developed a look that was reminiscent of fin-de-siècle Vienna.

The Jewish ceremony, performed in Hebrew and English, was the perfect blend of traditional and personal elements. Jeffrey Marcus created a simple, hand held chuppah of muslin and bamboo. The bride and groom selected short pieces from contemporary literature and favorite poems to make sure that their voices were present in the ceremony. The classically-trained cellist and violinist played an instrumental version of the couples’ song, “All I Want is You” by U2, for the bride’s entrance and the couple’s recessional, then transitioned into rock standards for the cocktail hour.

Mary Giuliani Catering put on a true feast for the senses. The cocktail hour featured such unique passed fare as tuna tartare tacos, mini cheeseburgers with fries and mini grilled cheese with truffle oil. The reception featured a Tuscan station with charcuterie and artisan cheeses as well as a carving station. Passed sweets during coffee hour included mini molten chocolate cakes and limoncello and lavender curd tartlets. The bride and groom’s favorite New York carrot cake came from Billy’s Bakery in Chelsea. Jeffrey Marcus worked closely with Mary Giuliani Catering to incorporate their three-tiered focaccia displays into the decor, giving the tabletops a tactile and earthy quality. To complete the tabletops, Marcus created lush centerpieces of peonies, yellow skyline roses and viburnum along with organic elements such as maidenhair ferns, lady apples and champagne grapes. Each centerpiece was different, giving each tabletop a unique feel.

Instead of a traditional bouquet, Jeffrey Marcus collaborated with fashion designer James Coviello, of Anna Sui fame, to create a bridal lariat of vintage chains, amethyst, pearls and Swarovski crystals, finished with a vintage satin bow and a single gardenia.(Check out more from James Coviello in today's Daily Inspiration Gallery.)

There were various lounge areas created to offer a variety of spaces for intimate gathering. The venue’s intelligent lighting system created an earthy yet dreamlike color palette, creating both spectacular moments and natural cues to segue from one portion of the evening to another. Reflecting the elegant but informal feel of the celebration, the lounge situated next to DJ Marlon B was the location of the toasts by the bridal party and best man as well as the cake cutting.

{photo credits: jeffrey marcus; daily inspiration: instyle weddings}

how to submit your event to perfect bound

I'd like to think I have my finger on the pulse of all things hot and happening but with so many cool events on the calender, it's easy to let one slip away. If you have a wedding, fashion or fabulous event you'd like posted on perfect bound, shoot me an email at annemarie (at) perfectboundblog (dot) com. I keep a running list of sample sales and fashion events on my Style page while wedding events are listed on my Bridal page.


Meanwhile, if you live in the Philadelphia area, head over to a great free event, Wedding Inspirations 2009 at Liberty Walk. Brooklyn bound? The Renegade Craft Fair is in full swing today from 11-7pm.

At top: Sweet Revenge—a cupcake and wine bar at 62 Carmine Street in the West Village—will be hosting a recession-friendly wedding planning event on June 13 and 14 from 10-1pm.

get a free digital copy of wedding style guide

Wedding Style Guide, the most beautiful and delicate wedding magazine you've ever downloaded, is now giving you one digital copy for free! That's right. Click here to and set your coffee down. You'll need two hands to virtually thumb through this much wedding goodness.

From the editor of Wedding Style Guide, "Our super-simple easy-view digital magazine lets you flip through the pages as if you were reading a printed version, check the list of contents to find the exact page you’re looking for or zoom in to read all our tips and tricks. Best of all you can select any one of our gorgeous images – or even entire pages – and email them to friends (your working day just got a whole lot more interesting!).

Print out as many pages as you need – cut them up for your scrapbook – no need to chop up your printed versions ever again. Look out for links to our free online downloads – a simple click of your mouse takes you straight there.

The magazine is timeless but the free offer is only good for 10 days so start downloading now!

{photo credits: wedding style guide}

like the running of the brides but with shoes

Barneys is having a major shoe sale. We're talking blowout! This article from the New York Times, and this paragraph in particular, made me happy that my wallet is already empty for the week. (For more samples sales, click here.)

Husbands were few. Most know better than to get caught in this frenzy. I did catch one luckless wretch, wholly abandoned, sitting in the middle of a blast zone of discards. In a daze, he fingered a strappy orange Givenchy platform lying next to him, tipped it over to squint at the price, then shook his head in existential bewilderment, as if this, finally, was the cracking point of his spirit.

{photo credits: Donna Alberico for The New York Times}

"the worst wedding traditions ever" do you agree?

In the spirit of wedding season, Shine posted this list of The Worst Wedding Traditions. (BTW, standing on your head is not one of them. Phew!) A bit harsh if you've already got your heart set on matching bridesmaid dresses, throwing the bouquet and so on but I thought it was good for a laugh. To read the logic behind each of these so-called "worst traditions," head over to Foxy Festivities on Yahoo Shine! Also, check out and this list of 6 Never-Been Done Destination Weddings and 34 Things Your Wedding Guests Are Thinking at YourTango.

The Worst Wedding Traditions

Big Bridal Parties

Matching Bridesmaids

Long Vows

Throwing Rice

Assigned Seating

Expensive Wedding Favors

Throwing the Bouquet

Removing the Garter

Drunken Toasts

Leaving For the Honeymoon the Morning After

{photo credit: mel barlow}

rita and roman: an "i heart ny" real wedding

No woman should wait until her wedding day to wear couture. But if ever there was an occasion to call in the best in "high dressmaking", you wedding is the place to do it. Showing us how it's done is none other than Vera Wang who designed this one of a kind wedding dress for Rita. (Rita promptly paired gown with a gorgeous pair of Jimmy Choo platform heels!) Jason from Jason Groupp Photography was kind enough to send this fashion fabulous wedding my way, as he knows how much we love Jimmy Choo around here.

Shot against the hustle and bustle of New York City, this bride's gown could surely stop traffic anywhere! Although a ball gown isn't for the faint of heart, if you're having a black tie affair, only a ball gown will do.

I love this little trio of glam (below.) Jason Groupp does a great job of making every bride feel like a cover girl. Check out more of his "I heart NY" series and check out today's Daily Inspiration for my favorite Vera Wang gown from the 2010 collection.



The wedding was held at The Pierre Hotel, a landmark hotel overlooking Central Park. Aramat Events made sure that the ballroom was dripping in flowers while Guy Smith Lighting Design brought the lights from NYC inside. Christy Bareijsza from Red Carpet Events helped to coordinate the affair while the music of Yuhan Express Enterprise filled the room.





{photo credits: Jason Groupp Photography}

couture wedding details that will make your inner carrie bradshaw go crazy

Wait until you see the shoes! More coming soon...

{photo credits: jason group}

luisa beccaria lilac inspired weddings

I've written many, many times about my love for Italian fashion designer Luisa Beccaria. There's nothing she designs that doesn't thrill me. In addition to featuring her Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear collection in today's Daily Inspiration gallery, I've designed a Luisa Beccaria lilac inspired wedding with invitations and accessories from the Purple Border collection by MagnetStreet Weddings. And because I'm equally enamored with Polyvore, here are a few more Luisa Beccaria boards to get swept up in as well!
Above, from left: Luisa Beccaria Camel georgette long dress with satin details; Sunset Strip Bangles available at Bees; Prada Spuntate Raso Chic Pump,$490.00. Below: Luisa Beccaria Abito bustier in satin duchesse fragola gown, 14K White Gold & Diamond Heart & Arrow Necklace at Jewelry Adviser, HOLLYWOULD Fuchsia Franes high heels.

Photo credits: magnetstreet weddings and polyvore}

shop my sponsors: magnetstreet weddings

Last year I had the pleasure of opening hundreds of Fashion Week invitations on behalf of a few editors. The thrill was nothing short of euphoric as I ripped ope envelope upon envelope and discovered that fashion designers are every bit as obsessed with fine paper and letterpress printing as brides are!

I'm happy to introduce one of my favorite sponsors, MagnetStreet Weddings, and share with you my favorite runway inspired items from their seemingly endless collection of save-the-dates, thank you notes and reception accessories. What I love about MagnetStreet Weddings is that they make coordinating your wedding oh-so easy. While every bride may not have the time to make sure her envelope liners match her menus, MagnetStreet Weddings does. They make sure that your entire wedding is complimented with little details that support your particular theme, color palette personal story. From envelope seals to save-the-date magnets, Magnet Street puts a designer touch on every detail.


Pictured here, Magnet Street Weddings Classic Allure collection mirrors the same level of sophistication and style found in the Armani Privé Spring Couture collection. The Pocket Invitation shown on the left includes the following: Pocket Invitation, Vellum, Label and Invitation Seal. Select related items such as escort cards, table numbers, and favor notepads to complete your invitation ensemble.

{photo credits: style.com and magnetstreet weddings}

dripping in gold goodness

Can you tell which necklace is the designer's version and which is the steal of the century?Saving money is so much fun. To see how Martin Grant styled this look for his Fall 2009 RTW collection, click here.

At left: Braided Necklace from Banana Republic, $58. At right: Plated gold Katrina necklace from Martin Grant Fall 2009 Ready-To-Wear (via style.com Accessories Report)

saks fifth avenue is having a bridal sample sale

Saks Fifth Avenue bridal sample sale

Now- June 6th

Monday–Saturday 10–8pm, Sunday 12–7pm
Hundres of gowns from designers like Vera Wang, Reem Acra, Amsale, Monique Lhuillier, Melissa Sweet and more are 70% off

Saks Fifth Avenue

611 Fifth Avenue, near 49th Street

New York

Call for an appointment 212-753-4000

For more sample sales and some of my favorite gowns in the collection, check out the Style section of perfect bound. Curious about what buying your gown at a sample sale means, check out how I found my dream gown at the Birnbaum & Bullock sample sale.

{photo credits: reem acra, daily inspiration photo credits: brides.com}