Posted on 7 Comments

9 Real Rules of engagement ring shopping

engagement proposal

Getting engaged is a celebratory event in every couple’s life. It is a historical milestone in your relationship, that makes your commitment to each other binding and official. So, everything about the proposal will be etched in your memories forever. And the engagement ring, being the symbolic icon that seals your relationship status, should be just perfect in every way.

In this day and age, a marriage proposal without an engagement ring is almost unheard of. So, how did this tradition originate? After a little digging, I found all the answer on this article on Psychology Today which explores the origins of this ritual. It so happens that the ring is not just a sentimental icon, but also an economic promise from a man. The exchange of the ring means the man is committed to stay loyal to the woman. This leads to the secondary custom of the woman keeping the ring, even if the man bailed.

Thus history asserts the importance of the engagement ring as a symbol of commitment and trust. Apart from the traditional aspect, there is also the aesthetic factor that makes it important. It is a ring that the lady will wear all her life. It is also an expensive piece of jewelry. Hence, it is natural for any woman to desire a ring that appeals to her and looks flattering on her finger.

If you are at that stage in your relationship where you are ready to propose, and your girlfriend is dropping hints, it is likely that she has a good idea of how her dazzling engagement ring should be. So, it is wise to do your research first and only then buy the ring for this special occasion.

Follow these rules of engagement ring shopping, and you will not go wrong.

1.Set your budget first

This is one area where you shouldn’t be thrifty. Consider the engagement ring to be a lifetime investment, and pay accordingly. Calculate the affordable limit by factoring in your salary and other relevant factors. It is wise to do your research before you step into a store, as you can scan and compare options, re-analyze your priorities and figure out your personal budget before actually meeting a sales person. The budget will also help you narrow down your choices. Since engagement rings come in a variety of styles, sizes and designs, you can avoid confusion by shortlisting the most cost-effective choices.

2.Do your research diligently

Remember that your girlfriend should love the ring, more than anyone else. And women can be rather particular about what they like to wear and what they don’t. So, be serious with your research and identify a ring style that will appeal to her. You could even consult your girl friend to learn what she exactly wants. However, if you want to keep the proposal a surprise, make sure you choose a ring based on her taste. There will be several options in metal, color, stone setting and designs. Each choice will yield entirely different results. So, it can be a daunting task.

If you are serious about getting the perfect engagement ring that will sweep her off her feet, take notes on what she likes and doesn’t like in jewelry. Or rope in a close friend who can help understand her preferences discretely, and go with the clues she gives.

3.Study the basics of ring shopping

Every expensive shopping decision should involve preparation and planning. Only then can you avoid regret. Since most engagement rings feature diamonds, it is a good idea to understand how to determine diamond quality before you embark on shopping.

Diamond quality is determined by the 4 all-important C’s—Carat, color, clarity and cut. These factors are universally used to determine a diamond’s worth. Here is what each of these stand for:

Carat:This refers to the overall weight of diamonds in a piece of jewelry.

Color: Colorless diamonds are most expensive, and the stone becomes progressively yellow or brown as we go down the scale.

Clarity: This factor measures the amount of blemishes or imperfections that are inherent in the stone. The more flawless a stone, the higher its price.

Cut: This depends on how the stone is cut to adjust its shine, hide imperfections and reflect light. The cut has a direct bearing on the appearance and beauty of a diamond.

Each of these C’s further has its own grading scale to determine the final quality level of the stone. So, it is a good idea to understand these standards and what they mean. This will help you establish the value of the diamond you are about to purchase. You can then make a suitable decision that gives you the best deal for your budget. It will also allow you to choose one diamond over another, based on your unique preferences.

When you compare the information available to you and use the Cs to your advantage, you may be able to get a larger diamond or a lower-weight diamond that is radiant and looks more than its actual worth.

4.Never compromise on quality

In the world of fine jewelry, if a deal sounds too good to be true it probably is. Hence, don’t fall for unrealistic claims when it comes to engagement ring shopping. Always shop at accredited and reliable jewelers to ensure you get what you pay for. Established names in the diamond industry are bound to do credible business and are hence less risky. So, visit only known jewelers. There are several international certifications awarded to jewelry organizations that allow you to check for genuineness of the product. Find out whether your chosen piece comes with all the required certifications and guarantees, to ensure it is a quality product. If you intend to get the ring during a sale period, check what the return policy is. If the ring size isn’t correct or you decide to exchange it for another one, you should have enough time after the purchase.

5.Always go shopping with a friend

Just like with wedding dress shopping, engagement ring shopping can become confusing if you aren’t sure of what you want. A second pair of eyes will help you stay objective and steer clear or confusion. So, ask a friend or family member to join you when you visit the shops.

It is a good idea to invite a friend who shares common tastes with your girlfriend, or knows her preferences well enough to help you make the right decision. If your girl friend has a best pal or sister, she should be the right person for the job. Just ensure that this person can keep it a secret, for you do not want them to ruin the surprise of the proposal for you. Or if you would prefer, you could also ask your fiance to join you. Involve your girlfriend in the process, and there is no way you could possibly make a wrong decision.

6.Think of how you can make it unique

Few men make an effort to find a ring that is truly unique. However, when they do this, the proposal becomes very meaningful. Make a statement with a designer engagement ring that is a cut above the common designs we see everywhere. This sounds exciting, but you may be worried about how to go about it. Fortunately, finding such a ring or even having one custom-created is not difficult. Simply seek the services of an expert diamond jeweler like Whiteflash, and choose from breathtaking designer engagement ring collections that are sure to impress. Take this route and surprise your soon-to-be-bride with a special ring that nobody other than her will have.

You can also choose the stone separately, and pick a unique setting for it. This gives you the flexibility to have it set in the metal of your choice. You can also add details like filigree work, engravings or extra side stones for more opulence. This is a great idea if you are an artistic person and your girlfriend is fond of custom pieces. Antique rings are also a good idea, as they come with a romantic history and are usually one-of-a-kind.

7.Make sure you get the size right

Don’t disappoint your girlfriend by choosing the perfect ring, but the wrong size. Although most jewelers offer a resize option, it is always best to get the ring in the right size at the beginning itself. You can always ask your girl friend directly for her ring size. If she doesn’t know, either use a plastic ring sizer to find the size, or have a jeweler measure her finger.

However, if your proposal is a surprise, finding out the ring size without asking may not be easy. Nonetheless, it is likely that her family or friends will have this information already. Check with them to find out, but ensure they don’t break the surprise. Or you could simply grab a ring of hers without her noticing and use it for reference. Just make sure that she wears it on a similar sized finger, to avoid a mistake. If you cannot sneak it away without her noticing, you can always trace the outline of a ring and use that to get the right size. This way, it is less likely for her to notice a ring is missing.

8.Don’t forget to ask about post-purchase care

When you choose the ring, you should also be concerned about how easy it is to maintain and care for. The ring will require regular polishing, cleaning and tightening, as it is constantly subjected to wear and tear. So, discuss these factors with the jeweler before the purchase. Find out whether the stone offers restoration and repair services, or if they can recommend someone for the job. Also ask about the cost for such services. Find out about the frequency at which they recommend polishing. Also inquire if the ring you have chosen needs any special handling or care. Not all women approve of rings that are very delicate and high maintenance. So, it is a practical factor to consider when making your decision.

9.Prepare to wait and get the documentation right

You may not always be able to walk out of a store with the ring you like. The design you like may not be available in the right size, or the jeweler may need time to engrave the ring. If you want a designer ring and have it custom-created from scratch, you should put aside several days for it. Plan for this timeline when you go shopping. Everything depends on your order, and you do not want to make a hasty decision. Plan in advance, do your research, visit the store and get a feel of the entire process before you commit to a choice. If there is a particular date on which you wish to propose, plan sufficient buffer time to get your ring beforehand and not miss it.

Also, ensure that you collect the relevant inspection documents and certifications for the product. This should include the diamond grading report, after-purchase instructions and insurance if any.

Buying an engagement ring is a tedious process. Nevertheless, it is inevitable and fun. It is in fact, the first step in your wedding planning. So, enjoy the process and your fiance will always appreciate the effort you put into making a wise decision.

For more tips on planning your wedding, shopping for your wedding attire and all wedding-related tasks, keep visiting us here on the Best for Bride blog page.

Posted on 32 Comments

Sparkling Selections: 10 Essential Tips to Keep in Mind When Picking Your Wedding Jewelry!

wedding jewelry

While a wedding dress can transform you into a beautiful bride, wedding jewelry is quintessential to add the finishing touches to your bridal look. Your choice of accessories impacts your wedding day look to considerable extent, and hence what you choose to wear with your wedding gown is very important. Here are ten smart tips to keep in mind when you, the pretty bride, have to choose your wedding day jewelry.

Always buy your wedding dress first

Your wedding dress should be first on your shopping list, and not something you buy after choosing your accessories. It is easier to find accessories that match the dress, than the reverse. The only exception is when you will be wearing heirloom jewelry. Heirloom jewelry usually features designs that go well with classic wedding gown designs. Since the wedding dress aisles are chock full of classic collections, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a dress that works with this jewelry. This may however, not be the case with modern designs. Since modern jewelry are usually very specific in nature, you may end up on a wild goose chase, to find a gown that matches the style of your chosen accessory. So, if your theme is something unusual, (like a peacock theme or rainbow theme), and you wish to find accessories like belts or headbands that match this theme, first buy your dress and then go shopping for the accessories. This will be easier to match.

Balance is key

Simple is elegant. The more details you use, the more chances of the finer ones getting lost in the jumble. When you choose your wedding jewelry, you should balance it out with the details on your dress. Keep the jewelry simple if your wedding gown is elaborate with intricate beading, embroidery, or other details. If you have chosen a minimalist wedding gown, or one with few details, it is fine to choose bigger and bolder jewelry. Similarly, pay attention to how the jewelry comes together with the details on your dress. If the wedding dress has an elaborate neckline, go easy on the necklace. Or if the dress has long sleeves, you can skip wearing a bracelet. If there is a motif of significant size on the bust, neckline or waist, your jewelry should not clash with it. Balancing your total look is tricky, but it can be achieved if you try to focus on what you really need. Your guests will not think much of your fashion sense if you look like a disco ball. So, stay away from the temptation to choose more sparkles than is really necessary.

You need not wear several jewelry pieces

Whether you buy a jewelry set, or choose each piece separately, you do not have to wear everything on the list. This can again clutter up the overall look, and take away the impact that can be achieved by just one statement piece. Wear small studs or leave out earrings entirely if your necklace is flashy and big. You must also tie the overall look to any statement motifs or embellishments on your wedding gown. If your dress features a beaded sash or waistband, go easy with the bling in your necklace. A single statement jewelry piece like tanzanite earrings is very fashionable. When no other pieces compete for attention, all eyes will be on this single piece of jewelry, making it effective.

The metal colors should match the dress

This is because some colors look good together, while other combinations may clash against each other and ruin the effect of both. When choosing jewelry, you have choices like white, gold and pink. Jewelry made from metals like silver, palladium, platinum and white gold look good with stark white dresses or those with silver embellishments and beading. Jewelry in shades of yellow and gold look better with creamy white wedding dresses. Rose gold goes with white and silver. Also if the embellishments in your dress are silver, stick to the same color or gemstones that are set in a white base, so they match. If the embellishments are with pearls and beads, you could wear a string of pearls and other matching accessories. Colorful details on the dress, like sashes and waistbands should also be considered when choosing the color of the accessories. Certain shades like navy and gray look better with white than with gold or rose gold.

Don’t forget your hair

You may not be a big fan of wearing a tiara on your wedding day, but there is no harm if you do. Nevertheless, there are many fascinating options in hair accessories, like combs and head pieces that can make you look very pretty. Whether you tie your hair up or leave it down, you should consider decorating it with a headpiece that matches your dress and adds more impact to your overall look on the day. Choose big or small hair accessories, depending on the color and texture of your hair and the size of your face. If you have thick curls, you may need bigger accessories for it to be noticeable. For fine and thin hair, elaborate accessories may look too heavy. Also, your accessories need not be metal. For brides who love flowers, you can weave flowers into your hair for a natural but classic look. Flower crowns are another interesting accessory to consider. Also remember that varying the position of the accessory on your head, can help you achieve different looks. So, try out different options to find the best placement location. Finally, don’t pick out your hair accessories before deciding your wedding day’s hairstyle. This is because some hair accessories do not look good with specific styles. So, you may have to reconsider your choice if they do not go well when you try them together.

Think beyond the wedding ceremony

Unlike your wedding dress, you can get more than just one use out of your wedding jewelry. Keep this factor in mind when you choose accessories. This actually makes it worthwhile to spend a little more on your jewelry. Rather than choose accessories that are apt just for the day, or pieces that go well with the wedding theme, invest in jewelry that you like, and can see yourself using again in the future. If there is a gemstone that you are fond of, or there are certain designs that you have fallen in love with, this may be the time to seriously consider buying it. This could even be your something new. It is also a fact that jewelry is a good investment, as you can pass it on as an heirlooom to your children. They are more likely to use it than they are to use your wedding dress.

Consider renting if it is too expensive

If you are on a tight budget, investing too much money in your wedding accessories may not be possible. However, you do not want this factor to lessen the impact of your wedding day look. In such a case, you can have what you want for a reasonable budget, when you rent your accessories. At Best for Bride, we offer all bridal accessories on rent, just like we rent out wedding dresses. Since these pieces of jewelry are well-cared for, and look brand new, nobody is going to know that you aren’t wearing stuff that belongs to you. This is also an affordable option to have bigger and more beautiful and expensive pieces that you may not be able to consider otherwise. Choose jewelry that matches your wedding dress style, and collect it a day or two before your wedding after signing the required paperwork. All you now have to do is take good care of them while they are in your custody, and enjoy dressing up like a princess on the biggest day of your life; without a hefty fee, that is!

The necklace can make or break your look

If there is one thing that your jewelry should match, it is the neckline of your dress. Finding the right adornment for your neckline style can instantly add extra points to your look. For a low-cut neckline like a sweetheart or strapless, almost any style of necklace would look good. This can be a string of pearls, a bold necklace or even a simple necklace with a pendant. The dress will usually feature an ornate neck area for the illusion neckline. This eliminates the need for a necklace, and you can wear a small one if absolutely necessary. A thin chain with a pendant would go well with a V-neckline. For halter dresses, it is best to skip the necklace altogether and focus on the hair and ear accessories instead.

Strive to stick to how you normally look

If you have always been big on the bling, your wedding day needs not be different. However, if you have always worn simple accessories, then you will feel and look drastically different on your wedding day if you were to drown yourself in jewelry. Whatever you wear should be an extension of your personality. Only then will it bode well with your overall look. So, don’t try something that you have never done before, for the first time on your wedding day. Look to your best-looking moments from the past to decide what kind of jewelry will suit you the most. Think of the one piece of jewelry that everyone has appreciated on you, in the past. This design most likely complements your style and enhances your beauty. Try to find wedding jewelry in a similar style, and you are likely to find the best one for your natural features. As with your hairstyle and makeup, your accessories should also enhance your natural beauty and add that extra dose of glamour to you—not change you into a whole other person who nobody can recognize.

Mix and match jewelry sensibly

Your wedding day is not the occasion to bring out all the expensive stuff that you own. As with mixing metals in your accessories, mix the gemstones also with care. Too much variation in color, style and design can do more harm than good in making you look your best. Stick with one colored stone throughout your accessories and choose jewelry that follows a similar pattern. Mixing up pink and white pearls in different parts of your ensemble, or wearing rhinestones on your neck and pearls in your bracelet can make you look like a fashion disaster. Also, don’t forget to match your watch to the rest of your jewelry in terms of color and finish. If you have difficulty finding one that goes well with the rest of your accessories, there is no harm in skipping it.

It is absolutely essential to try on your wedding jewelry, along with your wedding dress, before your wedding day. You can take your accessories to one of your fitting appointments when you will try on your wedding dress. If you do your hair also in the style that you will be wearing on your wedding day, you can have a fair idea of how you will look on your big day. This will also allow you to modify the look, if you want to.

At Best for Bride, you can buy or rent a range of wedding accessories. This includes tiaras, earrings, headpieces, bracelets, rings, necklaces and much more. Visit our online shop to find out the various designs we feature. You can also shop from our extensive collection of wedding gowns and dresses for the rest of the wedding party, including flower girls and mother-of-the-bride party favors and décor items. We pride ourselves on being a unique and one-stop destination for everything bridal and are sure that you will find all you need for your dream wedding in our store. Visit us today to find out how we can help you.

Posted on 2 Comments

10 new and exciting bridesmaids dress ideas

Bridesmaids in matching outfits, and resembling big balls of cotton candy! These belong to the past. Today’s brides are smart and sensible, and want their bridesmaids to look and feel great on their big day. For this to happen, it is quintessential to toss the old rule book and make way for new rules for dressing up your bridesmaids.

So, here are few ideas that will help you dress your handpicked girls to look fabulous and add extra drama and excitement to your wedding scenery. Enjoy!

Rule 1: Mix up the textures

Here is an interesting way to give each of your bridesmaids their unique style, while keeping the look cohesive–Choose dresses in the same shade but different fabrics. With this simple switch in fabric choices, you change the overall look, but with subtlety. This option also helps brides who aren’t very sure of how to do the mix ‘n’ match concept to get it right. Dresses in the same shade but using different fabrics will easily go together, and the difference in texture will add an extra dimension of fun. Most designer collections give you plenty of colors for each design, and this allows your bridesmaids enough choices. They can choose from lace and tulle, to satin and charmeuse. Another factor is that as the fabric changes, so does the price of the dress. So, this allows your bridesmaids to choose a dress for their budget, as long as the desired color is chosen. As long as there aren’t too many accessories, it is bound to bring all the bridesmaids together. Just make sure you confirm that the dresses are of the same shade, before you give a thumbs up.

We have an example here to illustrate this idea.

Our first pick is the vintage style 8622L from the Alfred Angelo collection, in a gray color and created in soft net.

We have paired it with the 7342L from the same collection, which is an organza gown in a similar shade. Notice how the different fabrics give either dress a distinct personality, even while they come together beautifully!

Rule 2: Color block with one constant

Color blocking is an easy and uncomplicated way to bring more than one color into your bridesmaids outfits. Dressing up your bridesmaids in the same colors can resemble the original pattern of having all matching bridesmaids. This doesn’t do justice to allowing your bridesmaids shine individually. The better option is to mix up color block dresses, with different colors. However, keep one color constant throughout, so that there is a unifying factor that brings their looks together.

Let us demonstrate this with an example. Take a look at the 7344S from the Alfred Angelo bridesmaids collection.  It features color blocking with a black bodice and a gray skirt.

A dress that will work well with it is the 7345S from the same collection with a black bodice and soft beige skirt.  Although distinct from the first, the black bodices are strikingly similar, and this will bind the two looks together. These dresses can be chosen in any color shade in the skirt, and so make a perfect choice to play with color blocking.

Rule 3: Neutral color dresses with accessories that pop

There are two advantages to choosing bridesmaids dresses in neutral shades—your bridesmaids are more likely to use the dress again and the colors are usually easy to mix into any color palette. White, black, brown, gray and navy are neutrals that are easy to work with and form great pairings with most color palettes. These are also shades that look good on almost every skin tone. So, your bridesmaids will not have to worry about how the color clashes with their complexion.

The result is that everyone is happy, except for one small issue; not all neutral colored dresses can make that strong presence you require for your wedding. The solution—dress it up a notch with accessories in bold colors that will not go unnoticed. Choose shoes, belts or jewelry, and it will instantly add the necessary punch of color to your bridesmaids outfits. It will certainly be a better idea than having your girls dressed in unusual colors that they may not appreciate. Since they are paired with a neutral, there is no chance of the accessories going overboard. And, how about making these your bridesmaids gifts? That way, they get to use it on your wedding day and show it off. So, you now no how to add peach, sunset yellow or bubblegum pink to your bridesmaids outfits without making your girls cringe.

Take a look at this picture to see what we mean. Here, the bridesmaids dresses are a sober beige, and a bright dose of color is added through colorful heels and bouquets. By mixing up the colors, the result is interesting and lively.

The colorful bridesmaids
Image Credits: Ms.Phoenix,via Flickr,CC BY 2.0

 Rule 4: Neutral color dresses with zingy metal and jewel tone accessories

For an ultra-stylish and glamorous look, choose neutral colored dresses and pair it with bright and beautifully designed golden accessories. There are two benefits to this choice—your bridesmaids will most likely use the neutral dress again, and the metallic accessories will also work for them on another occasion. So it is a win-win situation, where they can get the best value for their money.

Here is a beautiful black evening gown, the J4003 from the lovely Jadore collection at Best for Bride.

Featuring a wide cut scoop neckline, sheath silhouette and softly sculpted cap sleeves, the gown is a beauty by itself. However, pairing it with an oversize gold necklace, waistband and bracelet makes it a dress that personifies Hollywood glamour. We are sure your bridesmaids will be excited to have a look like this. With such brilliant accessories, they will have that festive dressy look, perfect for a wedding day. The best part is that the dress being in a neutral shade gives them so many options to dress it up differently on another occasion. So, it’s definitely not a dress that will be exiled to the confines of their closets after your big celebration.

Rule 5: Go to different lengths to vary the style

Of the different ways to keep a consistent look but add drama, one of our favorites is to vary the lengths of the various gowns while keeping the color or print constant. This gives you ample choice to choose dresses in lengths that suit different body shapes and ages. So, if you have bridesmaids from different age groups and looking entirely distinct, you can easily vary the look yet bring it all together with dresses of varying hemlines. We look at dresses from the Mori Lee bridesmaids collection to bring you two examples of dresses that can achieve this look effortlessly.

Our first choice is the navy blue tulle 112 bridesmaid gown from the Mori Lee Tulle Affairs collection.

A full-length gown in tulle, with a sweetheart neckline and interesting criss-cross ruched bodice, this dress is elegant and looks best on both tall and short bridesmaids.

Here, we pair it with the Mori Lee 11100 from the same collection.

This dress has an illusion lace neckline and cap sleeves, and a short and fun skirt that ends a little above the knee. Although the two dresses are entirely different, they make a splendid combination because of the matching color. Hence you have suitable choices both for the women who want to look elegant and the bold and fun-loving bridesmaids in your wedding party.

Rule 6: Go from dark to light in a single color

Choose colors like red or yellow, and ask your bridesmaids to pick dresses in different shades of this color. This will keep the spectrum constant, but with interesting variation. This ombre trend has been in the limelight for a while now, and is an exciting way to dress up your bridesmaids. The only thing you should remember when choosing this option for dressing your bridesmaids, is that you should choose colors that cannot vary too much. Green, purple and blue are colors that can go totally wrong, if this happens. This is because colors like turquoise can fall into both shades, although it may look entirely different from pure shades like navy blue and mint green. So, choose colors that can vary only in the intensity of the black and white they may contain, when you choose this method.

Rule 7: One color with different prints

Printed bridesmaids dresses are interesting and exciting. While you may be tempted to choose the same prints for all your bridesmaids, it is a better idea to look around and find dresses in the same color with different prints instead. This will add a subtle variation to the look, and each bridesmaid will be unique in her own way. The unifying factor will be the color that all the dresses feature, and this is all that is required to bring the overall look together. You can also consider mixing up dresses that have prints all over with those where the prints are limited to chosen areas on the dress, like the yoke or hemline. Here are two dresses from the Jadore collection. The first is the J6013 from the Jadore collection, with black prints on a beige base.

The next is the J5009 from the same collection, with the same combination of colors done entirely different.

Rule 8: Alternate plain and print

In this option, your job is relatively easy. All you have to do is finalize a color and choose one plain and one printed bridesmaid dress in it. Alternate this choice for your bridesmaids, so you have equal numbers wearing the plain colored dress, and the same number wearing printed dresses. By keeping the designs uniform and the hemlines of both styles the same, the entire group looks well coordinated and classy.

Here is a wedding party that has achieved this result with alternate plain and printed purple dresses.

@shoopsmoo &#bridesmaids
Image Credits:leesean, via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

The printed purple dresses feature very subtle white floral prints all over the length of the gown. The dresses blend well with the plain purple dresses that the rest of the bridesmaids wear. What we specifically loved about this combination is that the plain dresses are not exactly similar, each one features a different neckline. Thus we can safely conclude that each bridesmaid has her distinct style of dress, and yet gels in with the group seamlessly.

Rule 9: Add variety with infinity dresses

Infinity dresses are basically dresses that can be worn in various different styles. It is the true convertible dress. Here, the fabric left in the neckline and bodice to be wrapped in different ways to yield different looks. By draping the top half of the dress in different ways, you can achieve different necklines like the one-shoulder strap, strapless neckline, cap-sleeve look and more. This dress allows each of your bridesmaids to wear the style that flatters her most. Hence, it is versatile and everyone ends up happy. With this choice, you play it safe by choosing the same color for all. Even so, each has her personal style enhanced with a suitable pattern.

Rule 10: Same style, different prints

We have seen prints and plains as well as textures in the same color and pattern. Now, the only one left to experiment with is prints in the same pattern. This is a fun and exciting way to make your bridesmaids stand out from the rest of the crowd. Printed dresses make them look different from typical bridesmaids, but the unifying design brings the entire party together instantly. Here is a sample.

The Lil' Getting Ready Bridesmaid Dress Styled Shoot.
Image Credits: Plum Pretty Sugar, via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

In this picture, the pretty bridesmaids sport strapless dresses with vibrant prints. The hemline is uniform, and ends at mid-thigh. The dress also features a bow detail at the waistline, making all three dresses unusually cohesive.

Hope you now have enough inspiration to mix and match and perfect your bridesmaids dress looks. For more exciting inputs on styling your wedding, as well as for all your wedding shopping needs, continue visiting us at Best for Bride—your one stop bridal destination.

Posted on 5 Comments

Tips to choose the best engagement ring for your budget

ring-631383_1280

Your love for each other is priceless, but the ring that signifies it can be pricey. Engagement rings are expensive, there is no doubt about that. So, you need to make sure that the money you spend on it is worth every dime. Here are some tips to help you make sure you get the most for your money when you choose an engagement ring.

Find the right metal for your budget

Engagement rings are usually more about the stone, than the metal it is set in. So, save your money for the stone, and go for gold instead of platinum. Platinum may be the best choice in metals, but it is several times more expensive than gold. For the same effect, you can opt for white gold. Yellow gold is stunning too, when you choose a design that looks good in it. So, make your choice wisely, and you won’t have to break the bank buying your engagement ring. Now, if you choose platinum, you can still save some cash by choosing to have the stone set in a prong setting which requires minimum metal.

Choose a ring that can create an impact without a bigger stone

A design which has a circle of smaller stones around the main stone in the center will enhance the overall size of the stone setting and make the center stone stand out vividly. This is called a “halo setting”. Not only will your ring look beautiful with the added design elements, it will turn out to be less expensive too. If the bigger stone is placed within an arrangement of small tiny diamonds, the ring will still sparkle, and you will have a beautiful design that will cost much lesser than a solitaire.

Choose the cut and carat to fit your budget

Anyone who knows diamonds will tell you that the more cuts a diamond has the more expensive it will be. It is these cuts that make a diamond sparkle. Ones with less cuts cost less. These reflect less light, but the stone will look larger. So, if you choose a bigger one it will be worth its size. Another point to remember is the price of a diamond increases when it covers each carat point. By choosing a ring that is 2 carats, you will have to spend more than if you were to buy a ring that is 1.9 carats. Use this factor to your advantage and buy shy of the carat point.

Diamonds needn’t be your best friend! Be bold and choose different

If your lady love is a girl who loves individuality, you are in luck. Pretty rings are available with various other gem stones, and you can get a much bigger and beautiful stone for your budget if you choose stones other than diamonds. You could go with her birthstone, or choose a stone in a color she loves. For an added effect you could even have a design with a stone set with tiny diamonds around it. There are plenty of choices like emerald, amethyst, saphire or topaz, each of which has its distinct signature.

So, now you know what to look for when choosing an engagement ring. For more tips and advice, visit us on Best for Bride.