ESB's Top Picks: Versatile Wedding Looks For Any Ceremony

This year has been anything but predictable especially for the wedding industry. We’ve seen brides go from planning their all-out- 250+ wedding-extravaganzas to creating on-the-fly backyard, city-park, or even in-home ceremonies.

For that reason, we have found that providing versatile wedding gown options is a MUST for the modern bride! Below Team Elite has compiled our top favorite wedding looks a bride can use for a “mini-mony”, future grand-celebration and everything in between! We were sure to include the not-so-traditional looks for every bridal style! Enjoy!

The Bridal Separates. This trend has grown in popularity, especially for the COVID bride as many couples are choosing to get married this year in smaller, more intimate ceremonies with the plans to host a larger event when it is safe for all their guests to attend! We LOVE a detachable skirt-giving the creative bride the option to wear a wedding gown in two very different ways! One for her ceremony and a totally new look for a future event or her reception! 

. The Bridal Jumpsuit. We have seen a growing demand for the bridal jumpsuit for the bride who is laid back, creative and fashion forward! We don’t think this trend is going anywhere especially as we see more brides creatively tie-the-knot! From backyard, destination, to a second wedding look, The Bridal Jumpsuit is SO what we needed this year! And YES a bride can wear black, hunny! It’s 2020!

The “Must Travel” Destination Gown. Planning weddings has become an adventurous affair as more brides are opting to travel to safe, far-off destinations with their significant others to intimately celebrate their union. That’s why we’ve been LOVING the versatility in the design of these stunning gowns that can be easily packed in a suitcase and worn on a mountain top or beach!

The Wedding Cape. Last but not least, let’s talk about the wedding cape! Brides are switching it up this year and opting for a cape to gracefully drape their frames instead of the traditional, sometimes heavy veil. We can’t get enough of this look as it is paired here with our favorite jumpsuit or traditional gown! The sky’s the limit on this chic and dramatic accessory

Want more wedding style advice? Book an appointment with Elite Secrets Bridal today. We have experienced bridal stylists in our showroom ready to assist you.

EDITH ÉLAN RETURNS TO ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

We heard you, and now we’re delivering. After many requests, we’re bringing Edith Élan back to Elite Secrets Bridal for a heavily requested encore trunk show—just for you!

Clear your calendar Baltimore Bride, rally your tribe, and prepare to be wowed by a well-curated selection of gowns from your favorite designer. It’s time to say “Yassss” to the dress!

For two weeks, we will be celebrating Edith Élan so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, August 24th through September 8th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think timeless gowns, sassy, elegant sheaths, and fit and flare styles with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.

Edith Élan gowns are a reflection of the creative soul: the right amount of modern sophistication and vintage charm blended in perfect harmony. We are so excited for this encore trunk show and can’t wait for you to see these gorgeous gowns.

No Elite Secrets Bridal Trunk Show would be complete without a special treat. When you purchase your dress during the trunk show, you will receive $50 towards our bridal styling service.*

With an Elite Secrets Bridal stylist to help you select the perfect dress, assist you bustling and pinning on your Big Day, and coordinate your bridal party, you can relax and enjoy the days leading up to your wedding. Our team will:

• Help find “the” dress, as well as the perfect, sought-after accessories.

• Join on the Big Day to dress, bustle, button, and pin you to perfection.

• Guide the choice and coordination of all bridesmaids and groomsmen attire.

• Assist in honeymoon wardrobe, registry, and gift shopping.

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Edith Élan wedding dress:

1.     Book your appointment between August 24th and September 8th online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000.

2.     Grab your bride tribe. We’ll bring the champagne!

3.     Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

Allure Trunk Show at Elite Secrets Bridal, March 1-3

The options of breathtaking wedding gowns are endless. There’s no doubt as to why dress shopping is every bride’s favorite part of the wedding planning process. Whether your style is modern and sleek, or romantic with all the frills, you can find the most gorgeous gowns at Baltimore’s finest wedding dress boutique, Elite Secrets Bridal.

And you’re in luck, Maryland brides, ESB is hosting an Allure Trunk Show in just a few weeks (March 1-3). You don’t want to miss this opportunity to say, “Yes” to jaw-droppingly gorgeous gowns from Allure’s spring and fall 2019 collections!

Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, Elite Secrets Bridal’s Allure Trunk Show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.

Beyond extraordinary gowns, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales of the bridal trunk shows will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

“For 3 Sisters’ commitment to men and women affected by breast cancer is unparalleled,” said LaTonya Turnage, bridal expert, and owner of Elite Secrets. “The organization's core program, Road to Resources, provides resources for everyday needs so those affected can focus on fighting, surviving, and healing. Working with For 3 Sisters and knowing that our dresses are making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer is everything to me.”

What would an Elite Secrets Bridal Trunk Show be without surprises for you? Since we’re celebrating our fourth anniversary, the first four brides who say “yes to the dress” will receive a $100 gift toward her wedding bouquet from our friends at Roni’s Roses Floral Design.

And, there’s more…

EVERY bride will receive 10% off her dress purchased during the trunk show weekend. Now, how’s that for ELITE service?

Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Allure wedding dress:

1. Book your appointment TODAY online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000 (appointment slots fill up quickly).

2. Grab your bride tribe. We’ll supply the champagne!

3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

Top 5 Things Every Bride Must Do to Look Amazing on The Big Day

How to look great on my wedding day is a thought that runs through the mind of many brides. The truth is, it is not rocket science - and it all boils down to a couple of important wedding day makeup, hair and dress tips you need to follow.

Speaking of which, we are outlining the best ones for making your look flawless - below.

1. STRIKE A POSE IN FRONT OF YOUR MIRROR

Knowing where your hands are at all times during your wedding, and what your pose is, can be helpful. The best way to practice it is in front of the mirror, by trying a few of your favorite celebrity runway poses.

Oh, and did you know that some poses can make you 10 pounds lighter in front of the camera? Grab a friend and have them help you out!

2. HAVE A PROFESSIONAL APPLY YOUR MAKEUP

Just because you have a bridesmaid who knows how to apply makeup, that doesn't mean that she will do a great job on your wedding day makeup. Most likely she will have a lot going on and things to do that day to get herself ready. You won't be her center of attention, and your makeup may suffer because of it. A professional makeup artist makes it their job to make sure that the bride is the most important face of the day!

3. LEARN HOW TO WORK YOUR FACE FOR THE CAMERA

Double chins are the enemy of every bride. In case you don't know what it is, it's the pose when you are looking down, and your chin is doubling and colliding with your neck. They can make even the slimmest of women look bad in pictures.

The best way to prevent a double chin from happening on your wedding photos and videos is always to move your head forward. Just make sure you are not looking at the ceiling or making awkward poses, right?

4. EMBRACE THE BEAUTY OF LAUGHTER

Sometimes, the best wedding photos are the ones where you and your friends laugh. Fake smiles are not flattering for sure - however, the same cannot be said for fake laughs. So, next time when you want to relax - let out a forced 'Ha! Ha!' - and do it again, again and again. The results? Natural photos that everyone loves!

5. BUY THE DRESS, THE SHOES, AND THE ACCESSORIES

Be sure to purchase your attire in the right order. First buy the dress, next select the shoes, and lastly the accessories. That way is the easiest to follow and the most hassle-free choice. And remember - always choose your wardrobe wisely. Try not to get caught up in the trend of the moment, but instead focus on your style and what flatters you most.

Want to look flawless on your wedding day? We’ve got you covered. Make your appointment today! Bridal hair and makeup trials are half off.

8 Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping at a Bridal Trunk Show

Wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming.

Not only are there so many choices (so many gorgeous dresses!) but the pressure is on to find a dress you love, look and feel fabulous in, and comes in (ideally!) under budget.

Add a sample sale or trunk show into the mix, and we’re officially bewildered. But fear not, we’re here to help!

What is a Bridal Trunk Show?

A trunk show is a special event in a bridal boutique where they invite a designer to showcase their collection. Sometimes it’s a one-day event, but for particularly popular collections, it could last for multiple days. Often the designers themselves, or stylists from the fashion house will be on hand to help you find the right dress.

Trunk shows are a particularly good opportunity to check out a visiting designer whose full collections aren’t stocked in your city.

8 Expert Tips for Shopping at Sample Sales and Trunk Shows

So, now you know what bridal trunk shows are, how do you get the most out of shopping at one? Here’s where bridal beauty expert LaTonya of Elite Secrets Bridal steps in.

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. The pedigree of founder LaTonya Turnage, bridal beauty expert, has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides!

1. What Lies Beneath

Feel your best underneath your wedding dress. The appropriate undergarments will not only help you feel your best; they will help your dress look the best. Opt for nude-colored underwear and a great strapless bra.

2. Bring a Companion

Take a trusted friend—someone you trust that will give you sound advice. Honest encouragement and constructive feedback can be extremely helpful and great company can up the factor for your bridal dress appointment.

Leave the whole entourage though. Too many conflicting opinions can leave you confused and stressed.

3. Mind Your Budget

Know your budget! Bridal trunk shows often offer a discretionary discount (usually 10%) off gowns ordered over that weekend.

It’s a great way to spend a little less in the event you find your dream wedding dress.

4. Do Your Homework

Research the designer first – for a trunk show the boutique will primarily present the featured designer only.

Make sure you are interested in their styles and silhouettes to get the most from your experience.

5. Necklines, Shape, and Silhouettes Oh My

There are so many variations to a wedding dress. Have an idea of what neckline, shape and silhouette you like best. Research the different styles, so you’re familiar will the lingo, too.

You will soon find you have narrowed down your style and what is flattering for your figure.

6. How High?

Bear in mind the height of your heels you plan to wear on your wedding day when you begin your dress shopping.

Keep in mind that hems cannot be lengthened, only shortened, so it’s a good idea to take the maximum heel height with you.

7. Ask the Expert

At a trunk show, if you are lucky the designer or stylist may be there in person, take full advantage of expert availability and ask for styling advice.

With their experience and knowledge, you are likely to find that they know what suits you—sometimes better than you! Check out Elite Secrets Bridal’s upcoming trunk shows here.

8. Consider Your Timing

Know your time frame. Some designer dresses need up to eight months to be completed and altered.

Learn beforehand, how long the designer needs for your dress and let your stylist know if you’re in a time crunch.

Put your new trunk show knowledge to the test and join us for the Pronovias show Sept. 27th - 30th. Affordable designer gown for every type of bride. Book your appointment to say yes to the dress. We look forward to serving you!

ELITE SECRETS TAKES ON NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK

ELITE SECRETS TAKES ON NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK

From rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s top bridal designers and getting up close with (and trying on!) some of most amazing wedding dresses and accessories—our trip to New York Bridal Fashion Week was all kinds of epic.

We hit the trail to the Big Apple early Tuesday morning and headed straight to Metropolitan Pavilion for The Knot’s show. The Knot Couture Show is the leading forum for bridal designers, buyers and press to connect and discover the latest trends in bridal fashion. Powered by The Knot, Couture has served the needs of this vibrant industry for over 20 years.

Check out the photo journey of our trip!

Want to say yes to your New York Bridal Fashion Week dress? Book an appointment today with Elite Secrets Bridal. We're waiting for you!

8 Expert Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping at a Bridal Trunk Show

Wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming. Not only are there so many choices (so many gorgeous dresses!) but the pressure is on to find a dress you love, look and feel fabulous in, and comes in (ideally!) under budget. Add a sample sale or trunk show into the mix, and we’re officially bewildered. But fear not, we’re here to help!

What is a Bridal Trunk Show?

A trunk show is a special event in a bridal boutique where they invite a designer to showcase their collection. Sometimes it’s a one-day event, but for particularly popular collections, it could last for multiple days. Often the designers themselves, or stylists from the fashion house will be on hand to help you find the right dress.

Trunk shows are a particularly good opportunity to check out a visiting designer whose full collections aren’t stocked in your city.

8 Expert Tips for Shopping at Sample Sales and Trunk Shows

So, now you know what bridal trunk shows are, how do you get the most out of shopping at one? Here’s where bridal beauty expert LaTonya of Elite Secrets Bridal steps in.

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. The pedigree of founder LaTonya Turnage, bridal beauty expert, has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides!

1. What Lies Beneath

Feel your best underneath your wedding dress. The appropriate undergarments will not only help you feel your best; they will help your dress look the best. Opt for nude-colored underwear and a great strapless bra.

2. Bring a Companion

Take a trusted friend—someone you trust that will give you sound advice. Honest encouragement and constructive feedback can be extremely helpful and great company can up the factor for your bridal dress appointment.

Leave the whole entourage though. Too many conflicting opinions can leave you confused and stressed.

3. Mind Your Budget

Know your budget! Bridal trunk shows often offer a discretionary discount (usually 10%) off gowns ordered over that weekend.

It’s a great way to spend a little less in the event you find your dream wedding dress.

4. Do Your Homework

Research the designer first – for a trunk show the boutique will primarily present the featured designer only.

Make sure you are interested in their styles and silhouettes to get the most from your experience.

5. Necklines, Shape, and Silhouettes Oh My

There are so many variations to a wedding dress. Have an idea of what neckline, shape and silhouette you like best. Research the different styles, so you’re familiar will the lingo, too.

You will soon find you have narrowed down your style and what is flattering for your figure.

6. How High?

Bear in mind the height of your heels you plan to wear on your wedding day when you begin your dress shopping.

Keep in mind that hemlines cannot be lengthened, only shortened, so it’s a good idea to take the maximum heel height with you.

7. Ask the Expert

At a trunk show, if you are lucky the designer or stylist may be there in person, take full advantage of expert availability and ask for styling advice.

With their experience and knowledge, you are likely to find that they know what suits you—sometimes better than you! Check out Elite Secrets Bridal’s upcoming trunk shows here.

8. Consider Your Timing

Know your time frame. Some designer dresses need up to eight months to be completed and altered.

Learn beforehand, how long the designer needs for your dress and let your stylist know if you’re in a time crunch.

Expert Tips for Styling Your Wedding Dress with Accessories

Now that you've found your gown, the next step is choosing the perfect finishing touches. Sure, your wedding dress may be the highlight of your look, but the right accessories can elevate your presentation and add personality. But between head pieces, jewelry, shoes, and other pieces, there can be an overwhelming amount of choices to make. Before you buy anything else, read our top style tips for accessorizing your wedding dress. 

Veils
The veil is the iconic bridal accomplice. From whimsical bird cages to royal cathedral-length veils, there are tons of choices. But there are a few things you should keep in mind as you narrow down the right veil for you:
•    Try to match the exact color of your gown. 
•    If your dress has a lot of details, opt for a simple veil that won't compete with your gown.
•     Consider your stature: Longer veils will lengthen a petite frame while mid-length styles, can visually cut your frame in half. Short styles, like a birdcage, work for most brides.

Headpiece
If you want a unique look or just don't care for veils consider a headpiece, like an ornate hair comb or fascinators.
It's important to choose your hairstyle first! Some accessories pair better with updos than others. A flower crown, for instance, is best with loose curls. 

Sash
Want to add a bit of personality to your wedding dress (and accentuate your curves)? Add a satin belt or shimmery sash. Whether you go with a classic satin sash with a pop of color or a beaded belt, it'll give your dress an instant wow. Here's an insider tip: When selecting the piece always consider your body type. Thin belts are better for brides with short torsos, while thicker belts work well for those with longer ones. 

Discover your perfect accessories at Elite Secrets Bridal

Cover-Up
A cute cover-up is almost a requirement if you're getting married during the fall or winter months and want to stay warm. From jackets to cashmere wraps and fur stoles, the options are infinite. Select a cover-up that compliments your gown in style. Simple styled gowns pair perfectly with more beaded capelet or a bold sequined bolero jacket. For gowns with more detail, go for a more subtle accent. 

Want more wedding style advice? Sign up for Elite List. Get styling advice, beauty tips, and more delivered right to your inbox.