Gifts for Your Groom...

My own wedding is over a year away, but I've been brainstorming about one very important aspect--the sweet gift I'm gonna get for my groom!

You see, my beloved fiancé is not easy to buy for. If I don't plan ahead, I'll have no idea what to get him when the wedding rolls around.

So here's what I've been thinking...

Dearest Fiancé, I love you but GO AWAY NOW!!

Or you'll lose all back rub privileges for AT LEAST a year! 

Whimsical Wedding Hats, Take 2

By Moire's Millinery, $175, via Brides.com

Apparently the editors over at Brides.com are reading my blog. (I mean, doesn't everybody?) As soon as I posted about wedding hats, they decided to get in on the action. They've featured several to-die-for styles, including this vintage topper:

"Givenchy," by Toni Federici, via Brides.com

Reminiscent of Jackie O, yes? And not overpowering for the bride who doesn't sport large accessories. If you want to see more swoon-worthy wedding hats, head over to Brides.com for the slideshow.

And a quick side note: Did you notice my lovely, new header? A big thanks to my fiancé for all his help in creating it! (He said it looks like a giant bridezilla is taking over city. And now I'm wondering what he was trying to insinuate...)

Anyways, what hair accessories or headpieces are you wearing on your wedding day? Would you rock one of these hats, or are they better left for your Halloween costume?

Trend Alert: Sophisticated Wedding Hats

A few days ago I wrote about three wedding trends I'm tired of, but here's one trend that makes me swoon! The recent rise of wedding hats is undoubtedly due to the influence of the stylish Kate Middleton and her penchant for elaborate headpieces. A great hat makes for a surprising statement piece as well as a fashion-forward alternative to a fascinator or veil.

Bridal "Belle Epoch" Mini Top Hat, price not listed, House of Nine Designs, via Style Me Pretty

Uffie Miniature Top Hat with Veil, Maison Michel, $322.50, net-a-porter.com, via brides.com

Black cocktail hat with French netting and headband, $88, The Left Bank, via Everything But The Dress

It takes a bold bride to wear an eye-catching hat! Would you wear one of these? How about a wide-brim hat like Bianca Jagger? Or are you a veil-and-fascinator kind of gal?

Need Something Old? What About Something Warm?

It's snowing outside, again. In fact, this month is Chicago's third snowiest February on record. All this snow and chilly weather sends me running to my coziest accessories. Right now, that happens to be the thick scarf wrapped snugly around my neck.

If I had a fall or winter wedding (mine will be in July, 2012), I'd simply have to wear a scarf. In fact, I wear scarves constantly. From October to April, I can't live without 'em.

Vintage Fairy Tale Paisley Folk Scarf, via Omnia Vintage Accessory Shop, $25

How about a vintage scarf for a fall wedding? For sure. This one is such a steal for $25.00. And this gorgeous Art Nouveau paisley with a cream dress? Don't mind if I do! I always love the look of a heavy accessory with a breezy gown.

Foundant Tea Dress, via BHLDN, $600

This beauty is from Anthropologie's new wedding line, BHLDN, just launched on February 14. And in case you're wondering, it's pronounced "beholden."

Are you excited about the BHLDN line? I know I am! Would you wear this chunky scarf or a bold accessory with your wedding ensemble?

Three Wedding Trends I'm Totally Over

I thought I had it all figured out when I got engaged. I knew just exactly what kind of wedding I wanted. I thought, "Wow, this is gonna be so easy."

Was I ever naive.

Here are three trends I thought I liked but now (after seeing them over and again at weddings, on blogs, in magazines) I simple can't stand.

The Birdcage Veil

I thought I loved, really LOVED, the birdcage veil. It's the veil for the not-so-traditional bride. It's cute, it's coy, it's chic. And I was certain I'd wear one at my own wedding. But since the return of the birdcage, this trend is everywhere, and I'm tired of it.

The Reception Dress

There's nothing more fun than a short, hot dress, and this little Melissa Sweet number (via Priscilla of Boston, $2000) is as fun as they come. But why do you need two wedding dresses? Why not save the hot LWD for your honeymoon? Or showcase it at your bridal shower?

As for me, I just want one dress that makes me feel like a princess or a movie star—preferably both. Besides, your wedding isn't a fashion show or a photo shoot; costume changes are not necessary.

The French Manicure

Yes, it's pretty and it's classic. It's also hopelessly outdated. Besides, even the tiniest chips on the white tips are noticeable. A bright color is more fun, and a matte nude is more modern.

What trends are you tired of? Which trends are must-haves at your wedding?

So Many Fab Shoes! What Pair Will You Wear to Your City Wedding?

Now that my fiance and I have nailed down the date of our wedding (July 2012!!), I'm starting to think about all the details. I bought a gorgeous dress last weekend, so next up is shoes! The only problem? There are so many to choose from! The wedding will be formal, and our colors are black and ivory, so I need evening shoes.

Since I simply adore high heels, I couldn't stand to wear flats. (No offense if you're wearing flats. I love a cute pair of ballet flats, but I'm only 5'3". I'm wearing a floor-length gown, so I definitely want some extra height!) Here are some of my options...

Glitzy and Glam Platforms

Chinese Laundry Hot Hot, via Lori's Shoes, $64

Something about glittery shoes makes me feel like a rockstar. I've seen this pair in person, and they are showstoppers! The color is a very feminine pink champagne, but they're pale enough that they will match with anything.

Black, Jeweled Sandals

Crystal Jeweled Sandal by Martinez Valero, via Amazon, $99.99

I have soft spot for t-straps (so vintage, so sexy!), and the crystal embellishment will coordinate with the my jewelry. And not only will they go with my black/ivory decor, but I can wear them with a lot of other outfits.

Classic, Ladylike Peeptoes

Neva by Nina, via Zappos, $69.97

Now these are shoes for a modern-day Grace Kelly. The white satin is luxurious but the ruffly, floral detail gives them a bit of kick.

Girly, Colorful Heels

Randee by Badgley Mischka, via 6pm, $129.00

This pair are so pretty I can hardly stand it! They look oh-so-romantic in this wine red, which will give your wedding photos a lovely pop of color. (Also available on Amazon.)

I need help! Which pair should I wear?! Which ones are your favorite? Which would you wear with your wedding gown?