From Fiji to Fashion

Paradise Found

I can hardly believe that it’s already October 21st! This entire month has been a whirlwind. Just two weeks ago, I flew back from an amazing trip to the Namale Resort in Fiji. It was the ultimate in total relaxation and getting away from it all. For the first time, I was completely unplugged with no e-mail access on my BlackBerry, no phone, radio, TV or newspapers…and I loved it!

Fiji is a tropical paradise, and the Namale Resort is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen—lush, peaceful and the perfect spot for honeymooners. I met a few honeymooning couples while there, and they loved every minute of their week at Namale. They were a bit fatigued after all their wedding festivities, and Namale’s laid-back, easy vibe; scenic, tucked-away accommodations; and super-friendly staff worked their magic. I fell in love with Fiji, the Namale Resort and the Fijian people, and I'll show you some of my photos from this incredible experience next week. It was truly heaven on earth!

   New York Bridal Market 2012

And this past week, as you may already know if you’ve been following the tweets of Fashion Editor Naima DiFranco and Assistant Fashion Editor Brittany Robins, was the New York Bridal Fashion Week. We saw hundreds of gowns at venues all over Manhattan (lots of cab rides!) and will be featuring these new collections in upcoming issues of BG.

The shows were fun, the gowns gorgeous, and even though there were days when we survived on nothing but Trail Mix, water and chocolate, we were thrilled to see so many glorious designs.

So, if you haven’t yet chosen your gown, check out our Fashion & Beauty blog, plus our Facebook and Twitter pages, for a sneak peek of Spring 2012.

Overall, the look was ultra-feminine and romantic with lots of soft, flowing fabrics (chiffon, tulle, organza) and beautiful beading and draping. Laces, floral details, and beautiful backs dominated the runways. There was a definite 20s and 30s vibe happening with models sporting soft waves and ruby lips wearing slinky, georgette gowns with deep cowl backs. (Very Gatsby-esque!). We also noted feathers and fringe, high front and side slits on skirts (show off those gams!) and interesting necklines: halter, bateau and deep V. There were also gowns featuring more structured, architectural shapes with intricate folds of fabric on the bodice or skirt. The mermaid silhouette was everywhere along with ballgowns and short dresses for all of those rehearsal dinners and after-parties. I also noticed more cap sleeves and ¾ sleeves on dresses. And the capelet was the cover-up of choice looking especially chic on lace sheaths and sexy fit ‘n flair gowns.

So, you lucky brides, you have your choice of beautiful   bridal gowns in a fantastic array of fabrics and styles. The hardest part will be deciding on which one to choose! If you can’t make up your mind, let us know and we’ll be glad to help.

—Diane Forden