Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Gown in Focus - Rebecca

With a corseted bodice, the ‘Rebecca’ gown helps to create a perfectly placed bust that is both completely secure and looks absolutely fabulous.



The boning in ‘Rebecca’ works to cinch the waist, helping give a wonderful, womanly curve through the torso and highlight the definitive waistline.

An A-line skirt, showcased in the ‘Rebecca’ gown, gently skims over the hips, without hugging, which is great for girls trying to conceal this problem area, without drowning in a full skirt.

The asymmetrical draping seen here on the ‘Rebecca’ helps to draw the eye down, instead of straight across. This is important as it creates the illusion of a longer, leaner body.

The 100% silk contessa is the lightweight, crisp fabric of the ‘Rebecca’ gown and is a great option for brides who are looking for a low maintenance gown – it has enough structure to hold its shape, but is still soft allowing plenty of movement and mobility.

‘Rebecca’ is normally cut with a very slight train to give the gown that real special feel, however the train is easily concealed and upon request* can be cut without the train.

A strapless gown, such as ‘Rebecca’ can help to showcase beautifully soft shoulders and dellocatage, however for brides who want to steer away from strapless gowns, cap sleeves can be added* to the gown. Or for a gorgeous feminine look, opt for a one shoulder flower corsage such as the one below which we have available in our stores* and it will completely transform the overall look of the gown.

A gorgeous handmade silk shoulder corsage

The simple design of ‘Rebecca’ creates the perfect canvas for any bride to put her signature on the gown and make it her own. Ribbons, jewels, bows, beading, flowers – the options are endless… You can even go for a different colour*, like our real bride Fleur, who chose silver to create a modern show-stopping look.

  
* Extra costs may be associated with this work, please speak to our staff for more information.


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Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Body shapes – how to choose the best gown for you


Today’s post – Inverted triangle

The “Inverted triangle”… Women with an “Inverted triangle” shape body generally have wider shoulders and narrow hips.

Our favourite “Inverted triangle” celebrities are the amazing Angelina Jolie, the drop-dead gorgeous Charlize Theron and the radiant Demi Moore.

The “Inverted triangle” shape, has a fit athletic type figure, similar to “Athletic (aka rectangle)” shapes, which we will feature next week.

These body shapes are best flattered in slim fitting, flowing gowns.

The “Inverted triangle” shaped celebrities pictured below all opt for slim gowns that accentuate their enviable figures. With either a one-shouldered look, like Charlize, or a crossover strap, like Demi, you can divert the attention away from your shoulder area, which you may be more conscious about. Or, go for a v-neckline or a dipped neckline, like Angelina, to draw the eye in and down. 

Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Demi Moore


So, do you have an “Inverted triangle” shaped figure? Below we have just a few of the many choices available to the “Inverted triangle” shaped bride.

Karen Willis Holmes Ashley and Kimberley gowns (L-R)



‘Ashley’ is a stunning silk georgette gown, with georgette twisted and ruched on the bodice, finished with a v-shape strap to draw the eye in. With a soft flowing skirt, it is perfect when accessorised with a sash or belt to cinch the waist. For something a little different, why not try a silver ribbon like we have, and add a diamante brooch for some sparkle?

‘Kimberley’ is a fabulous asymmetrical design gown, with a one-shouldered strap, and asymmetrical draping on the bodice, and the skirt. Tie the one-shouldered strap into a big bow for a feminine sophisticated look and to add another feature to the gown. To really bring it to the next level, finish it off with something special, like the 3D flower belt we have opted for here.

‘Ashley’ and ‘Kimberley’ are two perfect choices that would show off your “Inverted triangle” shape. With such a striking, statuesque figure, it’s not hard to find a gown that will show off all of your beautiful features. Go for interesting straps and detail to redirect some attention from your shoulders, and you will be comfortable and confident like our favourite “Inverted triangle” celebs.


Keep an eye out for next week’s body shapes post – Athletic (aka rectangle)



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Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Body shapes - how to choose the best gown for you



Today’s post – Triangle (aka Pear)

The “Triangle” aka “Pear”… Women with a “Pear” shape body generally have a lean torso with a smaller bust and waist, then tend to be larger in their hips, thighs and bottom.

Some classic “Pear” shaped celebrities are the bootylicious Beyone, curvaceous Jennifer Lopez and the sweet and demure Kristin Davis.
The “Pear” shape, like the “Hourglass” we covered last week, has a sexy curvy figure. As you can see “Pear” shaped celebrities, Beyonce, Jennifer and Kristin, all opt for gowns that accentuate their busts and tiny waists, their dresses then have a flowing shape to cover their larger bottom half, which is usually the area “Pear” girls are more self-conscious about.  


Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Kristin Davis

So, think you have a “Pear” shaped figure? Trying to find gowns that work for you? Below we have just a few of the many choices available to the “Pear” shaped bride.




Karen Willis Holmes Betsy, Bethany and Chelsea gowns (L-R)
  
‘Betsy’ with its ruched bodice and full tulle skirt is a fantastic gown for a “Pear” shaped girl. The sweetheart neckline with the soft cap sleeves frames your face and highlights your upper frame. The corseted lower line bodice is great for accentuating your waist, and the full skirt hides your hips and thighs. Covered in spot tulle, ‘Betsy’ gives you a very sweet, 50’s-fun look.

‘Bethany’ is a pretty option for a “Pear” shape. With adorable lace cap sleeves and a slimming sash around the waist, ‘Bethany’ emphasises your waist and encases your beautifully shaped torso and bust. An a-line skirt skims your thighs and hips to create a flattering look that enhances your beautiful shape.

With such gorgeous shoulders and bust, a strapless sweetheart neckline is also a fantastic choice for a “Pear” body shape. ‘Chelsea’ has a corseted bodice to highlight your waist, then carries through to a fuller skirt and dramatic train detail. The full tulle skirt covers your bottom half, while the gathered layered trains, create drama giving you a confidence boost knowing you are showing off your best assets.

These are just three gown choices from our collection, but with choices like these, as a “Pear” shaped girl, you know you have it covered! Go for gowns that really accentuate the features you are most confident with, and you can’t go wrong for your big day.


Keep an eye out for next week’s body shapes post – Inverted Triangle




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Friday, July 30, 2010

A Little Bit of Luxury...


A little bit of luxury…
The Luxury Weddings Yearbook second annual edition

A special media review to share today – it is exciting to reveal the second annual edition of the ‘Luxury Weddings Yearbook’ is on newsstands and ready for every bride-to-be to take hold of and never let go.

The yearbook works to provide a summary of the best of the best for every aspect of the wedding, including everything from fashion and jewels, to photographers and receptions and even destination weddings and honeymoons.



We are very flattered for Victoria Black and the Luxury Weddings team to have included Karen Willis Holmes in their bridal Haute Couture section of the publication.

The stunning ‘Satine’ gown holds pride of place at the opening page of the section, with its combination of contrasting textures, the gown looks simply fabulous on such a sparse page layout.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Satine’ gown

The Karen Willis Holmes advertorial showcases some of our favourite gowns here at Karen Willis Holmes. All true to Karen’s signature style with simple lines and a hint of drama, these gowns show all the different elements that can take a gown to the next level.


Karen Willis Holmes ‘Angelica’ (top left, and bottom left), ‘Alisha’ (second from top left), ‘Maddison’ (third and fourth from top left), ‘Gabriella’ (full right page) gowns


Karen Willis Holmes ‘Sophia’ (left) and ‘Angelica’ (right) gowns

We love these photographs, especially the way the soft tulle of the Sophia gown is scattered up the stairs and then the shot of fiery red hair of the model, just enhances the crispness of the ivory in the gown.

And Karen Willis Holmes is keeping good company in this edition, with Cartier, Wills Quills and Studio Impressions also being featured, each of them offering brides the best possible service and product for their sector.

The only problem we find with the ‘Luxury Weddings Yearbook’ is that it only comes out once a year – if only we could have it quarterly with all the other publications, we would be living the life of luxury.






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Monday, June 28, 2010

Gothic Glamour

With such a fabulously bright sunny start to another week in our gorgeous city, we thought it would be the perfect time to share with you some fantastic new images we have, courtesy of the brilliant photographer, Josie Lee and very talented stylist Jam Baylon.
With what can only be described as “goth glamour”, this photo shoot has taken the soft beauty that is often associated with bridal gowns and twisted and contorted it with striking results, creating some truly beautiful images. 


Karen Willis Holmes 'Gabriella' couture gown



Karen Willis Holmes 'Maddison' couture gown



Karen Willis Holmes 'Margot' skirt (with hoop underneath)

We love this new take on our gowns, especially when you consider that each of these looks are still very wearable for your wedding day. At Karen Willis Holmes we have always loved the black and white combination – it is such a simple way to lift a traditional gown and give it a more modern and sexy look. You can see that even dramatic costume jewellery can totally transform your whole gown’s look and feel.

Thank you to Josie and Jam for sharing their beautiful images with us. To see more of their amazing work, view their portfolios at the links below.


Photographer: Josie Lee

Stylist: Jam Baylon


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Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Sex and the City 2


Sex and the City 2

Friendships, Cosmopolitans, Love, Shoes and Fashion… what else but ‘Sex and The City’?

The highly anticipated release of the second movie instalment is finally here, and along with many girls (and boys) around the globe, the team here at Karen Willis Holmes are very excited to see what the girls are up to.

When we hear ‘Sex and the City’ we can’t help but think of fashion! Over the course of the six season series and film duo, there has been plenty of memorable fashion. There have been a few wedding gowns throughout time and then there have been some simply inspirational frocks that can be translated to the perfect dress to walk down the aisle in. To celebrate the release of ‘Sex and the City 2’, we thought we might share with you some of our favourites along with ideas on how you can recreate the look for your big day.




Carrie has always been the risk taker when it comes to fashion. She can work any outfit to make it look like a million dollars, no matter how much of a jumble of fabric, texture and style it may be.
While it isn’t a wedding gown, this gorgeous frock adorned by Carrie in season 2 is simply gorgeous. If you love this look, try our ‘Keisha’ gown. With an all-over muted sequin fabric, there is a gorgeous shimmer and the corseted bodice will give you a figure as enviable as one Ms Bradshaw!




Season 6 saw Carrie head to Paris where she wore some truly amazing pieces and this one is no exception. With circular ruffles, tulle and lace cap sleeves and bodice, this gown is simply perfection.
Love it? Opt for something like our couture gown Carrine with its layers of circles, and matching bolero to create the kind of drama that comes with an ‘it’ gown.



The eternal debate – are you Team Big or Team Aidan? Whoever you feel Carrie belongs with, you simply can’t not love Aidan! There were plenty of girls who thought Carrie to be mad when Aidan tried to convince Carrie to elope with him and she turned him down. It was picture perfect – Aidan looking swish in his tux and Carrie looks simply fabulous in this stunning white, fishtail gown that fits her like a glove. For a simple, slim-fitting fish-tail look, ‘Sharon’ is our recommendation.

 


Some of the best bridal fashion was showcased in the first ‘Sex and the City’ film. Carrie lived every girl’s dream, donning some amazing couture gowns for a Vogue photo shoot.
This simple style made of gorgeous lace can be matched here with the ‘Georgie’ gown.



Carrie looks gorgeous in an adorable, short, layered number. ‘Gina’ is a suitable modern option with layered ruffles on the bodice, but a simple skirt to keep with tradition.



A strapless asymmetrical silk gown is a classic look that suits most figures. Opt for ‘Rebecca’, with an asymmetrical skirt and draping on the bodice – it is oh so flattering.  





Ruffles ruffles ruffles – the fashion forward Carrie (and stylist Patricia Field) honed in early on the current trend with this choice of gown. The ‘Ribbon corset’ and ‘Full Petal skirt’ is a fabulous and fun option for ruffles in a bridal gown.




Ruffles again – but slightly more subtle this time round. For those who love the idea of ruffles, but not keen on the all-over look, go for ruffles on the skirt like ‘Roberta’ for a more sharp and sexy look.



What a dramatic vintage look! We love structured jackets, and if you are the same, go for a full skirt and bodice like ‘Chantilly bodice’ and ‘Margot skirt’ to create Carrie’s full skirted look, and finish it off with a structured silk jacket like ‘Megan’.



‘The Dress’ – what every girl is searching for, and Carrie found her true love (in bridal fashion) in the form of this amazing gown that helped bring the full-gown look back into fashion. ‘Sophia’ is a fabulous choice – right on trend, with plenty of soft layers to create that striking look!


But the fashion isn’t always just Carrie – the other girls all had their moments in the limelight too, each channelling their own personalities through their fashion choices.



When she got the marriage right with the lovable Harry she also wore the right dress for her beautiful, understated Jewish ceremony. If you love this look then ‘Collette’, with its soft silk georgette and lace cap sleeves is the perfect wedding dress beautiful candidate.



When marrying Trey, Charlotte wore an amazing dress with a fuller skirt. A beautiful combination is the ‘Annabelle bodice’ with its beaded lace and the ‘Margot skirt’, which when put together create a simply gorgeous, strapless look.

Spoiler alert!



In the latest movie, will Samantha get hitched? With photos like these emerging, we can only hold our breath and wait and see.
Samantha’s amazing figure is perfect in this gown (centre). For the same shape with all over lace, go for ‘Georgie’. Love the shape but not the lace? Stunning ‘Evaline’ would be the best choice for you.



We loved Miranda’s original choice of gown and colour here with the rich red velvet working fabulously with her red locks.
‘Scarlett bodice’ and ‘Camellia skirt’, shot previously by Bride to Be magazine, is a bold option for unconventional brides.



Want to wear a different colour to ivory but not feeling as daring as Miranda?
Follow the lead of our real bride Fleur, and go for either a metallic tone such as silver, also seen in our ‘Sharon’ gown. For a softer look, an ice blue like our real bride Anna is also a pretty option.

Bridal gowns can look really fabulous in colours other than that found on the ivory/white palette, so if you are wanting some kind of colour on your big day, there are many different options that we can help you explore – just ask!


So there you have it ladies, proof that you can channel any of the four girls in your wedding gown selection for the big day! So looking forward to the movie tonight!!















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Thursday, May 27, 2010

Winter Wonderful… Cosmopolitan Bride Winter 2010 Issue

Given that bridal publications generally only come out four times a year at most, it doesn’t get much more exciting than when a fresh copy of Cosmopolitan Bride hits the news stands. Guaranteed to provide every bride-to-be with a wealth of information, including inspiration for all elements of the wedding such as invitations, cakes, cars, then there is the advice on dealing with all the tricky wedding politics, and all of this is surrounded by a sea of stunning gowns for every bride. Ladies (and gents) take it from us, the Winter 2010 issue of Cosmopolitan Bride does not disappoint.



First off Franki Hobson, the Cosmopolitan Bride Queen-Bee (also referred to as the lovely editor), kicks us off with her letter to the readers offering honest, helpful advice that every bride should consider and keep in mind during her planning journey. Two key points that we would reiterate here at Karen Willis Holmes are as follows:

1. ‘The Dress’ may not actually be ‘The Dress’ 
Franki wisely discloses the fact that many girls when going to try on gowns have a particular style in mind, but often find that there is a completely different style that is actually more flattering for their body shape. Like Franki, we advise that you definitely try on a few different styles to find the right match for your figure, because no two gowns ever look the same on any two people, so please trust us when we offer you a few extra options to try – you never know what you might find!

2. Prioritise your planning.
Again, pearls of wisdom shared to benefit the bride-to-be, two key elements that have the ability to determine the rest of your wedding are the venue and your dress. Once these have been decided upon, you can really begin to visualize the big picture. We often find it easier if brides know their venue before coming into the store to pick their gown. Some venues have a historic feel that works well with a vintage-looking gown, or a beach venue can sometimes call for a more relaxed style of gown. Whatever your venue, we can help you try and find the perfect dress for you, but the more of an idea you have the better off you are for making decisions and being able to eliminate gowns along the way.

After Franki’s disclosure of wedding expertise it didn’t take long for the pretty pages and informative articles to begin flowing. One of our favourites is ‘Award-winning Dresses’ (page 32), which offers a fabulous double-page spread, showcasing gown matches straight from the red carpet. Four Karen Willis Holmes gowns are featured offering alternatives to a shimmery number adorned by Katy Perry (Claudia), a stunning fishtail gown as rocked by Melissa George (Maddison), the fairy princess look a la Miley Cyrus (Ribbon Corset), and finally a simple strapless style worn by Penelope Cruz (Joy).


Karen Willis Holmes ‘Claudia’, ‘Maddison', ‘Ribbon Corset and ‘Joy gowns.



Cosmopolitan Bride love to feature Real-Brides, which frequently offers the most inspiration to those planning their wedding. To be able to see all the elements come together for the big day can make such a difference and help you to start visualizing your wedding. 

One of our brides has been featured in this issue - Samantha Gibbens with her husband True (page 94) shared their amazing wedding experience with the magazine and its readers. Samantha wore our Joy gown with the Cleo overlay and finished it off with a gorgeous black sash that was hand-beaded by her grandmother – a lovely, sentimental piece on her wedding day.
We have featured Samantha’s wedding photos on our blog before, but this spread really captures all the elements and shows how lovely the wedding was.


Karen Willis Holmes Joy gown with Cleooverlay

“Your Head-to-Toe Bridal Wardrobe sorted” is a bit of a one-stop-shop article. It provides excellent ideas for brides when it comes to finding the perfect gown, underwear, accessories, veils and cover-ups. Karen was able to offer some of her expert advice in this article, with tidbits of information to help brides in their quest for the perfect dress. The Bacall gown from Karen Willis Holmes was featured here as an option for hourglass figures.


Karen Willis Holmes Bacall gown.

The Paris Feather Vest was also featured in the cover-ups section. This piece is an excellent option for brides wanting something with a bit of drama and to save them for the chill of the cool night air. This vest looks fabulous over a simple, streamline gown.


Karen Willis Holmes Paris Feather Vest

The editorial in this issue is simply exquisite with a tennis themed shoot “Love All” (page 120) showing a range of gowns hard at work, including Karen Willis Holmes couture gown Ava.


Karen Willis Holmes ‘Ava gown

Another gorgeous editorial came in the form of ‘Field of Dreams’ (page 62) with a gorgeously soft and romantic feel being channeled with the Karen Willis Holmes Violet gown.  

Karen Willis Holmes Violet gown

In addition to the divine editorials, there are plenty more beautiful pages for us to pore over, including pretty bridesmaid options in ‘Gelato Girls’ and ‘Bright Babes’ (page 28),

Great advice is offered for the woman with plenty on her plate already with ‘The Busy Girl’s Guide to planning a Wedding’ (page 44) – which will assist every bride in keeping her plans in check, especially when utilizing the ‘Wedding Planner’ that is also provided (page 203).

Whether you need help locking down your vows, getting your skin in perfect condition, or finding a fantastic honeymoon to suit your budget, Cosmopolitan Bride has all the help you need in their 258 page Winter issue.

Now we have to contain our excitement and countdown until the release of the Spring issue.






All images have been scanned from Cosmopolitan Bride Winter 2010

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Tuesday, May 4, 2010

The Met Gala - Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala Benefit

The Met Gala – Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala Benefit



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Sophia’ gown
  
Anne Hathaway looked stunning in a strapless high waisted tulle gown. With sequins detailing on the bodice and trailing down her skirt, it was a perfect red carpet choice. With her simple hair and accessories, this is nothing short of a winning combination, and a favourite here at Karen Willis Holmes.

Karen’s Tip – for a dramatic high waisted full gown look on your wedding, ‘Sophia’ ticks all the right boxes. The classic silhouette screams old Hollywood glamour, while still giving a slight princess feel.




Karen Willis Holmes ‘Gina’ gown

Sarah Jessica Parker always shines on the red carpet and this is no exception, with a simple vintage style gown, accessorised with a fabric flower headpiece – we can always count on SJP to think outside the box and channel a bit of quirky, vintage glamour.

Karen’s Tip – the blouson effect of Sarah’s gown is more flattering for girls with smaller busts who want to create a bit more volume. Go for the ‘Gina’ gown – a soft casual version of this style, finished off with a detailed belt to create shape.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Michaela’ gown

From runways to red carpet, the one-shouldered look is definitely on trend at the moment. Camilla Belle, a stunning girl looking absolutely gorgeous in her red, georgette number, which is absolutely captivating. With intricate draping and ruching on the bust, this would look fabulous in a neutral tone as a wedding gown option.

Gwen Stefani, with her unique style, always channels sophistication contorted with a hint of punk-rock. Her gown, with its clean lines, is extremely flattering to the graceful curves of her figure.  

Karen’s Tip – The ‘Michaela’ gown features a number of these elements, but with a more detailed ruched bodice and asymmetrical sleeves, it is a flattering shape and gorgeous design.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Maddison’ gown

Renee Zellweger and Kristin Davis both flaunt their fishtail gowns on the red carpet, showing exactly what this figure hugging design can do to accentuate curves in all the right ways and all the right places. Renee shows that a feature on the lower half of the gown, can really work – loving the bow, such a cute touch!

Karen’s Tip – Fishtail gowns are a sexy classic and brides love them for their flattering bodices and elongating features. Our ‘Maddison’ gown channels this trend with its dramatic lines tulle features.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Victoria’ gown

Kirsten Dunst is radiant in this beautiful white gown, with its simple lace detailed feature, she channels sexy, sophisticated and sweet all in look.

Karen’s Tip – For the lace lovers, there are plenty of options available to you that means lace can be affordable in a number of budgets, but our pick is the ‘Victoria’ gown. With the full lace gown, corseted bodice and drop waist, teamed with a shoulder corsage, you can steal Kristen’s red carpet look with ease.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Gemma’ gown

Jessica Szohr is confident, gorgeous and totally rocking her black and nude fishtail design, with a neat up-do and minimal jewels.

Karen’s Tip – A beautifully detailed bodice with lace and panel lines creates a completely unique look. ‘Gemma’ uses folds and beads to create detail in the bodice, which can work really well for those not into lace.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Veronique’ gown

Jennifer Lopez, one word… stunning! J-Lo is wearing the perfect gown, for both her body and the occasion. A gorgeous long bodice with a full, soft, tulle skirt – elegant, beautiful and
radiant. Loving her hair too!  

Karen’s Tip – If you don’t want a full-embroidered gown, you can opt for a detailed bodice with a tulle skirt. Perfectly exercised here in the ‘Veronique’ gown.



Karen Willis Holmes ‘Ava’ gown

Looking stunning in a simple, column-shaped, gown, Nicole Richie manages to impress again with her glamorous, vintage-esque style.

Karen’s Tip - Heavily embellished fabrics work best in simple designs, allowing the fabric speaks for itself. Try our ‘Ava’ gown if you love this look.  




Bridesmaid Alert!

Jessica Alba oozes sophistication in this sexy, uncomplicated gown. This could be a fantastic bridesmaid option in terms of colour and style. The soft dusty pink is a popular choice for bridesmaid dresses, but this one looks particularly stunning. 

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