Does my wedding dress HAVE to be white?

Ok so we all grew up to believed that the white wedding dress represented a virtuous woman, symbolizing her innocence and purity. It has always been the traditional color of brides. Or has it? During the medieval time brides who were in the upper social class wore rich colors and fabric like velvet and fur and would often decorate it with colored jewels. Before the Victorian era the average bride wore their best dress, often their church dress, which they would wear again. In fact, in 18th century France, white was the color of mourning, so if a bride had recently lost a relative that was the color dress she would have worn. The color white became popular with the marriage of Queen Victoria  in 1840. Edwardian women thought it to be extravagant and stylish and since it was worn by the affluent monarch herself, it became a trend for brides.

WW I changed the bridal attire. Small ceremonies replaced extravagant celebrations  and simple designs like Coco Chanel’s knee length wedding dress with train was favored over embellished ball gowns. WW II only signified the importance of being frugal. Women were sent out to work in factories to help the war efforts and the focus was placed on national patriotism rather than individuality. 

However, there was a resurgence of the white wedding dress in the 1950’s. After WW II  America’s social climate was changing. The soldiers were coming back and marriage ceremonies were booming with the economy. Weddings again were viewed as an important social gathering and the Victorian style of high colllars, long trains and puffy big gowns were the trend. 

Fast forward, today women still dream of that perfect fairy tale white wedding dress.  But what if you don’t want to wear white? Why not wear a soft pink, lavendar or even a smoked colored dress to your wedding? Many cultural traditions have often swayed brides into making bold statements. For instance, cultures like India, the Middle East and Asia have had beautiful wedding gowns created of rich fabrics and designs. Designers like Vera Wang, Alfred Angelo and Reem Acra have all design colored wedding dresses for the modern bride. 

If you do decide on a colored wedding dress keep in mind that it has to fit YOUR personality and style. If you think you might not be comfortable or care what others may say, then don’t do it. You will be the focus of the event and if you are not confident it will show. However, if a blood red wedding dress screams Carrie, then opt for subdued colors like lilac, light taupe or misty grey. Whatever you decide, it is YOUR wedding day! You should not be influenced by tradition or trend, but what you will feel beautiful in. Brides Fashion Director Rachel Leonard, noted, “You don’t have to wear a white dress anymore, but it still has to look like a wedding dress. The trick is to find a color that’s flattering to your skin tone, and not everyone looks great in white.” Amen. (go to the video tab to see some examples) 

 
January 5th, 2017   |   Permalink   |  

Should I go for a Soft or Dramatic look for my wedding makeup?

I think that brides who wear a more natural, but finished look, can never go wrong. If you look at bridal photos, the most classic looks are those that actually resemble the bride herself, only prettier. Enhancing your own beauty is the key, not covering it up with a rainbow of colors. Consider the style of your dress, your hair as well as your personality. Check the lighting, is it an indoor or outdoor wedding? Day or evening? Where are you going to to be taking your wedding pictures? If you love sparkle, try using a shimmer instead of a glittery eyeshadow. Shimmers are softer while glitter may have you looking like a disco ball. Everything needs to be balanced. So if you want a little drama, a strong lip color goes great with softer colors on the eyes and a smokey eye with  a nude lip is gorgeous. Playing up the apple of your cheeks with a pop of bright color is so pretty with a tight bold eyeliner.  In the end you want to keep consistent with your own personality. If its 80' punk or gothic glam that you want to rock on your wedding day then go for it! It’s your day and feeling comfortable and confident is so important! However, keep in mind you will have these pictures as memories forever. As a test, go back and look at old photos of yourself and see if it brings back fond memories or "what was I thinking!" Go on the internet and look at various wedding makeup. You may see something you like but aren't quite sure if it will look good on you. Take these pictures and bring it to your trial session. You and your makeup artist can look through some of the ideas and she/he may have some of their own which they can incorporate and personalize. Then decide what look is right for you, you may be pleasantly surprised.  (go to the video tab to see a natural look)

 
October 5th, 2015   |   Permalink   |  

Sparkle Makeup Artistry publishes new website

Aloha! Thank you so much for visiting! I'm Berta Bagor and I'm so glad to be finally setting up a website. In all my years as a MUA, I didn't think it was necessary to have one. But being socially connected is important for family, friends and a career. So I finally gave in and created this very humble website. Its just a simple way to reach out to brides, models or anyone needing makeup artistry services for special ocassions. Please be patient as I continue to build my site. I have so much still to do but I'm looking forward to my journey ahead and I hope we someday cross paths... 

 
October 7th, 2012   |   Permalink   |