Friday Frocks: Dolly Couture's Derby Collection

So today's Friday Frock is really more of a bridesmaid's dress, or engagement party dress, but I couldn't resist.

Dolly Couture, beloved by tea-length brides for her reasonably-priced custom dresses in tons of fun, vintage-inspired designs, just released the Derby Collection. It's a collection of vintage-inspired dresses in a selection of fun fabrics that could be worn for special occasions, or just when the mood strikes. Best of all, they're priced right around the $200 mark! They're available in a wide range of sizes, from a 24" to a 40" waist, and the classic silhouette looks like it will be flattering to a variety shapes.

I'm loving the "Desiree"as an idea for bridesmaid dresses. I was watching a morning news segment being shot at our local bridal fair, and amidst all the very classic, 2-colour table settings, there was one that really stood out to me--a bold, patterned tablecloth. It was fun and modern, and it made me wonder why patterns aren't used at more weddings. I suppose it carries the risk of becoming too busy, and everything screaming "LOOK AT ME!". But I think a well-placed pattern (or two) could be darling without being over the top.

What do you think? Are you using patterns in your wedding decor planning?

Friday Frocks: Ouma Clothing

Another Etsy find for you gals--Ouma Clothing. A nice selection of floaty, romantic tea-length wedding dresses and party dresses that are reasonably priced. I love the flower fascinator with the french netting as an alternative to a full bridal veil.

When I was planning my wedding, I had a lot of luck finding some great stuff on Etsy--from our wedding bands to our table cards, and even the supplies I needed to make my felt and button bouquets. I'm planning a post with some advice for getting custom-made wedding stuff on Etsy soon!

Until then, happy dress shopping!

Modern Vintage Bride Introduces Me to BHLDN

Check out this sweetly romantic inspiration board featured on Modern Vintage Bride last week!

I confess, I hadn't come across BHLDN before. Very bohemian and a nice mix of modern and fancy. Lots of gorgeous gowns and dresses, including a few tea length wedding dresses.

Like this little number...

Isn't it just stunning? This one is priced at $2600, but the one featured on Modern Vintage Bride is a mere $600 and is utterly adorable.

Friday Frocks: Ellana Couture

I'm back again, after a brief interlude. I'm hoping to feature different dresses and designers regularly for Friday Frocks, so if you've come across a dress that other tea-length brides should know about, please send me the details at tealengthweddingdress@gmail.com !

I was browsing for short wedding dresses on Etsy, when I came across Ellana Couture. She not only makes wedding dresses, but vintage-inspired cocktail dresses (which would be terrific bridesmaid dresses) too. She also has a selection of adorable retro-inspired bridal veils for anyone looking to complete their outfit, as well as delicious-looking crinolines.

According to the shop profile, Ellana Couture is a small group of designers "dedicated to creating unique, elegant, and interesting ladies apparel". As well, many of their garments are made in small quantities, or only once. You can find their Facebook page here.

I was really taken by the darling bow on the front of the "Rosette" dress pictured above, but there were quite a few dresses and veils that fit the bill for cute and sassy.

As always, when making a big purchase online, you do want to evaluate the feedback, how comfortable you are with the seller's communications, and how much shipping/customs fees would be to deliver to where you are. And you should always, always expect to have to take the dress to a seamstress for minor fitting alterations-- it's pretty rare that something fits you like a glove sight unseen!

I had really good luck shopping for wedding accessories and stationery online, how do you feel about buying online for your wedding?

Until next week, happy shopping!