Wedding Wednesdays: One Dress, Three Glam Brides

Happy Wedding Wednesday! Today's post features a beautiful, simple yet versatile gown from Anthropologie's sister brand, BHLDN. This dress is called the Dakota Gown and was designed by Nicole Miller. The site states that as "a timeless piece, this curve-hugging creation has carefully crafted folds in back and a strapless, sweetheart neckline that sets the stage for a statement necklace and earrings. Back zip. Silk, cotton; acetate, nylon tulle lining." I couldn't agree more but I've taken it to the next level, creating three looks for three different wedding themes that brides often gravitate towards; bohemian, vintage and princess. Of course as a glam stylist, I'll show you the glam bride version of each. Let me know which one's your favorite and as always, I'll make links available for each item in case you'd like it for yourself. Enjoy.

Boho Glam Bride

A bohemian glam bride is somewhat whimsical and goes with her own flow while keeping cool and sexy. The Dakota is fitted but the added cape with the embellished neckline add to the playfulness of the floral crown. The floral sash and lace shoes also play up the theme along with the chunky glam earrings. This boho-glam bride is ready to walk down the forest trailed aisle, into her lover's arms.

Floral headpiece - Urban Outfitters Cape - David's Bridal Sash - David's Bridal Earrings - Nordstrom Shoes - Mod Cloth

Vintage Glam Bride

This look is one of my favorites, hence why I did it at my own wedding. There's just something so romantic about a vintage look. I've given this bride a birdcage veil, vintage sash and matching bracelet. Her neck piece extends to her shoulder in draping pearls and crystals as any glamorous bride might do. The shoes are a peep-toe slip on with a brooch to bejewel even her feet. This vintage glam bride is ready to woo her mate into a promise of forever.

Birdcage veil - Mariell Veils Sash - Nordstrom Jewelry - Etsy Shoes - DSW Bracelet - David's Bridal

Princess Glam Bride

The princess bride often presents herself with a fuller a-line dress so my modern glam bride gets an add-on tulle skirt that will be removed later at the reception. To create the regal look, I've added a button down lace bolero with a bateau neckline that will serve as a beautiful background to the draping diamond and sapphire earrings. Her crown of jewels couldn't be more befitting and her secret lies at her feet, adorned in blue Manolo Blahnik shoes. With the full length Vera Wang veil creating a cloud of love around her, this princess is ready to wed her handsome prince.

Veil - Vera Wang Tiara - Light in the Box Tulle skirt - BLDHN Lace bolero - Justin Alexander Earrings - Macy's Shoes - Manolo Blahnik

Good luck to all brides!

Love,

Luxe LeBlanc

Glam Feature: Rumah Kaftan Citra

I've never really considered wearing a kaftan until I found Kaftan Citra on Instagram. Growing up in the melting pot called Brooklyn, I went to school with people of many cultures and faiths. The closest I'd ever been to a kaftan were my Indian or Muslim friends who would show me pictures from special occasions.

A Little History

According to my research, kaftans have been around since ancient Mesopotamia and have been worn by both eastern and western cultures. Initially they were worn by men and in some countries and beliefs still are but I think the female version knocks the competition out of the park.

While I imagine this garment often serves as a modest piece, I can't help but drool over the sleek fit, leg slits and beautiful Moroccan beading. See for yourself.

Rumah Kaftan Citra

Kaftan Citra is based in Jakarta, Indonesia. Though they've only been around since 2011, they've managed to build an Instagram following of about thirty thousand with customers worldwide. Kaftan Citra has a little bit for everyone from pop culture versions like the Rihanna to the more traditional fully covered Aurora Princess style. If you wanted to go for a "mommy and me" look, they have the cutest children's kaftans to match yours, (minus the cleavage and slits of course). Kaftan Citra uses what they call a "high quality of spandex ( yes, its stretchy and will follow your body shape ) with Premium hand beaded of moroccan beads." I am not big on spandex all over but I've seen enough of their dresses on various body types from different angles to know that it's not cheap. Oh yeah! I almost forgot. These beautiful dresses are under $100! Plus they offer promotions on their site. For a custom made (they ask for your height and size), hand beaded garment, that price is incredible!

Where Would I Wear It?

You might be thinking, well all that's good and dandy but where the heck am I wearing this too? Step outside of your comfort zone and wear the Kimmy on a fine night out. Make an appearance this winter in the Elena. There's a shorter version available called the Elena Tunic, absolutely gorgeous. Rock the Clarissa to your own baby shower or a gift a mom-to-be. Wear the Lydia to your bridal shower or rehearsal dinner. My all time favorite that I'd wear even if I had nowhere to go is the Velove kaftan in violet. Such a regal piece! I love it and can't wait to get mine. Yes, of course I'll show you when I do but in the mean time, do me a favor; follow Kaftan Citra on IG @rumahkaftancitra and spread the love. Thank you, xo.

Love,

Luxe LeBlanc

Glam Guide: How to Build an All Black Wardrobe for Work

This post is dedicated to those who are mandated to have an all black wardrobe for work. If you didn't know they existed, take a closer look at the associates the next time you walk into Macy's or Mac. If you've just been hired at an establishment with these requirements, (congratulations) here's a guide to begin building your wardrobe with just 7 core pieces, 4 accessories and 1 pair of shoes. Believe it or not, this package will get you through your first month of work without repetition.

7 Core Pieces

1. Dress 2. Pencil skirt 3. Trousers 4. Cami 5. Blouse/ vest 6. Cardigan 7. Blazer

When you're just starting out, I'd advise that you begin with clean lines and simple material. I love my cutouts, lace, studs, and crazy fabrics as much as the next girl but a novelty piece will scream "she wore me two days ago" so, let's start with the basics. I chose this French Connection dress and pencil skirt by Reiss to give you the option of fit or flare. You could do the reverse, a pencil dress and a flare skirt, as long as the choices are there. Next are the Reiss trousers to give you pants as an option. A cami is fitted while a blouse or vest is loose, also giving you an interchangeable look when worn with the skirt or pants. The blazer from Mango and cardigan from Old Navy are two layering pieces that create a totally different ensemble. So, whether you wear the dress by itself today or with the blazer two days later, (much like men with suits, ties and handkerchiefs), no one will notice, unless they're just plain nosey.

4 Accessories

1. Chunky necklace 2. Layered necklace 3. Pendant necklace 4. Metallic belt

Ok so now this is where you can really get creative and fool everyone. Here's an example; on the left I've paired the black dress with the blazer and the layered Tory Burch necklace. On the other side, I matched the same black dress with the cardigan, wrapped the thin gold belt on the outside and added the chunky Vince Camuto necklace. Can you see how different the same dress looks even side by side? Don't think so hard, just do it! Mix and match everything including the Top Shop pendant for a more conservative look. Accessories are a great way to play up an all black wardrobe. Feel free to add any color gem or metallic that your work place permits. I just so happened to use a lot of gold for the sole purpose of showing variety within uniformity.

1 Pair of Shoes

Wearing black flats kind of reminds me of when I went to catholic school as a kid. Mom bought me one pair to last the whole school year, but of course I was growing so fast that I needed a new one mid year. If I could make it halfway through the school year, one pair of these Mod Cloth black shoes will definitely last you a month until you can afford to add some variety.

Shop

I hope I've alleviated your worries and inspired you to start putting your pieces together. Good luck with everything! Shop for your all black wardrobe below:

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Feature: The New Miss Westchester and Miss Hudson Valley 2015 Queens

This past Saturday, August 16, 2014 marked the five year anniversary of the Miss Westchester/ Hudson Valley pageant competition. Congratulations to the team and the new queens! Meet the lovely ladies below.

The new titleholders (from left to right) are Jordan Rose Decker, 18, Pleasantville, Miss Westchester Teen 2015; Nadia Manginelli, 21, Peekskill, Miss Westchester 2015; April Maroshick, 21, Valley Stream, Miss Hudson Valley 2015; Sophia D’Ambrosio, 16, Duanesburg, Miss Hudson Valley Teen 2015.

With an all red theme for the Miss and a silver/white theme for the teens, each beauty queen allowed her personality to shine through her gown choice. I couldn't ask for a better variety. If you like their looks as much as I did, I've pulled some pieces for your own shopping experience. Simply click on your favorite(s) to look like the queen of your choice.

Miss Westchester Teen

Jordan Decker wore a sleek gown with dazzling gems from top to bottom. Here are two glamorous options to look like Miss Westchester Teen.

Miss Westchester 2015

Nadia Manginelli rocked a high-neck, full lace gown. The inner sweetheart neckline and knee length lining took this dress up a notch in a sexy way. Here are two ways to look like Miss Westchester.

Miss Hudson Valley 2015

April Maroshick chose a gorgeous crystal-decorated high neck line, attached sweetheart and low back gown. To achieve Miss Hudson Valley's look, try one of these.

Miss Hudson Valley Teen 2015

Last but not least, Sophia D’Ambrosio was adorned in a sweet white floral-embroider, illusion, a-line gown that flowed like a goddess at the bottom. Here's how to look like Miss Hudson Valley Teen.

Once again congratulations everyone! I can't wait to see their fashion picks this season and most importantly, the positive impact these ladies will make in many lives this year.

Love,

Luxe LeBlanc

Glam Guide: How to Avoid a Nip Slip

Considering the effect it's had on live broadcasting, it's hard to believe that the nip slip is still an issue today. Then again, anything to make a statement, right? Wrong. If you have an honest battle with keeping your nipples in from time to time, here are some solutions to avoid a nip slip.

First, Take the Nip Slip Test

Stand in front of a mirror, preferably full length. Can you see your nipple(s) when you:

A. Pose sideways for a pic (add selfie arm) B. Bend forward to pick something up C. Let your posture sink as your would while laughing (add clapping or clasp hands) D. Raise your hands sky high E. Stand straight

If your nipple(s) caught some extra air or stole your shine in the mirror during any of these moves, you're prone to a nip slip. You may need to...

Use Double Stick Tape

When I competed in pageants with swimsuit fitness categories, you better believe I used double stick tape. While I consider myself a member of the IBTC (Itty Bitty Titty Committee), I'm not exempt from a nipple slip. I use fashion double stick tape from Victoria's Secret to hold my bikini bra AND panties (no wedgies allowed) in place. I had no worries when strutting the stage and you shouldn't either when stepping out of your home. It's recommended that you don't wear any lotion or oils because the tape won't stick. From experience I'd say to apply very little lotion (absolutely no oil) to prevent the tape from fusing to your skin and ripping it off. My skin didn't peel but it was red when it lacked any moisture at all under the tape. Overall, it does the trick!

Wear a Backless Bra

One reason we might choose not to wear a bra is because the straps would ruin the look of our beautiful backless garment. That's no excuse anymore because everybody and their mother are making backless bras. Seems like we're all on the "avoid a nip slip" bandwagon. This bra is constructed like a bustier up front and sticks to the skin on the side of your ribs. Please be sure to get fitted for your proper size as this is the main culprit for boob spillage and underflow. The exact opposite happens when a woman with smaller breasts gets a cup size that's too big, exposing her when she relaxes her posture or bends over.

Wear Nipple Covers

Everyone knows about pasties or nipple covers. They don't keep your breasts from falling out but they do prevent them from being exposed if they happen to. There are flat skin-toned patches that cover the areola and nipple or silicone versions. One option I've explored is the silicone bra. It's backless and strapless. My only reserves are that the adhesive part attracts dirt (no dirty boobs please) and that it doesn't provide support because gravity pulls it down along with your bust. I found myself squeezing them in place, looking like I was groping myself in public. The cleaning process requires mild soap and water but can you really scrub an adhesive? I prefer to wear them under an empire waist dress or blouse for the lift. Nonetheless, cover up!

Get Another Size

When shopping, I know how hard it is to leave that one thing at the store that we love so much but we have to draw a line in the sand. Unwanted exposure should be that line. If it's too big, try a smaller size or get it tailored. If it's too small and you're busting out, don't do it to yourself. Go up a size and have the areas that may be too big, taken in. Besides, you'll never be able to receive something better if you're holding on to whats in front of you. I'm a firm believer that there's always another option, so in the words of Elsa from Frozen "let it go!"

Shop Nip Slip Solutions

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Love,

Your Glamour Stylist Luxe LeBlanc