Your Bridal Fitting: How to Prepare, What to Bring…

The wedding planning process is an exciting time; it's the coming together of ideas and precious moments when you start to see your wedding day look come together! 

While you’re so busy planning other aspects of your wedding, make sure to pay attention to the importance of being prepared for your bridal fitting. Make sure your bridal fitting is as successful as possible with these tips on how best to prepare and what to bring: 

  1. Bring Your Bridal Undergarments

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If you are trying on wedding dresses for the first time, make sure to bring a nude bra with removable straps. When you are ready for your last stages of bridal fitting, bring along your actual wedding day undergarments. Wear the bra you plan on wearing on your wedding day, as well as your corset if you've purchased one. And don't forget your slip or petticoat since this can also make a difference to the length of your dress. 

2. Bring Your Wedding Day Shoes

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Don't forget to bring your wedding day shoes for your dress fittings! These can match the color of your dress, or of a bold accent that are fun and flirtatious! The right shoes help the tailor see the height that you'll be so she can adjust the length of your dress accordingly. If your heels are brand new, be sure to wear them around the house a bit before your wedding day to break them in. It's also a good time to see if you'll need any shoe inserts to help make them more comfortable.

3. Bring Your Veil

St. Pucchi style 501

St. Pucchi style 501

Toward your last fitting, you'll want to bring your wedding veil and any hair-pieces you may be wearing so you can see how the complete look comes together. Make sure your veil complements your wedding dress and your personal style. 

 4. Bring Your Accessories

Your bridal fitting is the perfect opportunity to preview your entire wedding day look so be sure to bring along the accessories you plan on wearing, too! Bring your necklace, earrings and bracelet you plan on wearing to make sure you like the entire look together. 

 

5. Book one of your bridal fittings on the same day as your hair and makeup trial so you can really envision your wedding day look. 

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Have your maid of honor or mother snap a few photos for you, so you can be sure it's everything you dreamed of. 

 

For your entire wedding planning and shopping tips, to learn about the best styles for your body type, the bridal fitting process and the do’s and don’ts while planning your dream wedding, pick up the #1 bestseller, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams. 

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type ; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

 

Pantone 2018 Wedding Inspiration: Ultra Violet

St. Pucchi Couture style 9345

St. Pucchi Couture style 9345

When Pantone announced the 2018 color of the year was Ultra Violet, many people in the fashion industry were disappointed. But here at St. Pucchi, we knew right away the gorgeous possibilities for an elegant, ultra violet wedding. After all, designer Rani St. Pucchi was the first one to introduce the violet/lilac color into the bridal world when she designed the corset wedding dress, style 6208, that ‘Phoebe’ wore on the hit TV sitcom, Friends. 

St. Pucchi Couture style 6208

St. Pucchi Couture style 6208

The violet color oozes romance, and pairs well with glamorous gold, soft and pretty pinks, whites, greens and even navy. The possibilities are practically endless, so we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite ways to incorporate ultra violet into your wedding day. 

Ultra Violet Florals

Ultra Violet Florals

Violet flowers and wedding gowns are such a merry pair, the result is a beautiful romantic feel. A solid-color bouquet of deep violet-colored orchids can be simple yet sophisticated. You can also integrate cream and blush flowers for a softer look. When used in floral arrangements, violet truly bursts with beauty. 

Ultra Violet Accents

Sposa by St. Pucchi style Z195

Sposa by St. Pucchi style Z195

Your groom’s tie, your wedding shoes, flowers on your dress, and even your wedding cake are great places to incorporate a little lilac into your wedding day. Don’t forget to incorporate violets into other places like your wedding invitations, place cards or even your wedding favors. 

 

 

Ultra Violet Beauty

When thinking about your wedding colors, don’t forget to consider how your beauty look complements your wedding dress and the day’s decor! A bold ultra violet nails or even a dramatic violet eye are gorgeous ways to use the color on yourself. Just remember, less is more! Go for a bold lip or eye, but never both. 

What do you think of violet as a wedding day color? 

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type ; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

 

 

What the Smartest Women Pack When They Travel

What the Smartest Women Pack When They Travel

 Designer and author of Your Body, Your Style Rani St. Pucchi, shares the ideal wardrobe you need to pack as you head out for your trip.

 By Rani St. Pucchi

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Ask any adventure virtuoso, backpacker, or business traveler what is the most time-consuming (and confusing) part of planning for a trip, and invariably they will all say packing.

So, how can you get this process down to a science so you don’t have any regrets and spoil your trip wishing, even blaming someone else for your choices? How much to bring? 

Several days before the trip, check the weather to determine what you will need. List all the items you will need, and keep the list where you can see it often. Each time you remember something, add it to the list. 

The list should be divided into: clothes, shoes, undergarments, workout clothes (if needed), swimwear, nightclothes, toiletries, camera items, and any other necessities that are part of your daily regiment. 

WHAT TO PACK 

FOR A BUSINESS TRIP 

Classics and neutrals work best. A black pantsuit, a well-tailored herringbone sheath, a classic trench, a white shirt, and a sleek jacket are some basic pieces that will keep you looking sharp. Pack a couple of scarves to add color and some jewelry to dress up your outfit for evenings out. 

FOR A SHORT OVERNIGHT TRIP 

You need one pair of bottoms with two interchangeable tops; make one dressy and the other casual. Add a cardigan, sweater, or jacket. 

FOR A LONG WEEKEND 

Think in terms of mix-and-match pieces. Three tops, two bottoms, and one dress will give you more than six different outfits. Add a pair of yoga pants that can double as pajamas. And a swimsuit. 

FOR A LONGER TRIP OF A WEEK OR MORE 

Get six days right. Plot them from head to toe. Add to the mix some camisoles and underpinnings and at least two jackets and a couple of scarves. Now you’re comfortably prepared for twelve to sixteen outfits that can be interchangeable by rotating the tops and bottoms, switching camisoles, and changing accessories. Add to the mix two yoga pants and a swimsuit. 

This excerpt was taken from Your Body, Your Style by Rani St. Pucchi Copyright 2016. All rights reserved.

 

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body TypeThe SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

 

What is a Bustle?

St. Pucchi Couture Style 9264 

St. Pucchi Couture Style 9264

 

If you’re just starting out on your wedding dress shopping and deciding what to wear for your walk down the aisle - whether to opt for a dress with a train or no train, how exactly one is supposed to handle so much fabric trailing behind and yet be able to move and dance, then you probably have no clue what a bustle is, or what to do with a dress that has a long train. 

St. Pucchi style 501

St. Pucchi style 501

An excerpt from Rani St. Pucchi’s latest book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams explains what a bustle is: 

 

By the end of the 1870s, hooped skirts were no longer stylish, and fashionable women opted instead for gowns with elaborate bustles. 

A bustle is the name given to the art of drawing up the train so that the gown can become floor-length and allow the bride to move around after the ceremony with ease and avoid tripping. It also ensures that the gown does not drag around on the ground after the ceremony and get soiled. To accomplish this, the train can be pinned up and secured by hidden hooks on the back of the dress. 

A bustle is useful when the bride chooses a dress with a train. Many brides love the formality of a wedding gown with a long train, but it can be cumbersome at the reception. 

Assuming that the bridal gown you have purchased has a train, it will need to be bustled after the ceremony and before the reception, resulting in a floor-length dress that is easier to walk and dance in. 

All dresses with trains from the smallest sweep to the grandest cathedral can benefit from a proper bustle. Depending on the length of the train, a dress can be bustled by lifting and tucking the extra fabric underneath or over the skirt. Larger trains may need to be folded up using a system of hooks. 

A bustle is a unique and amazing creation that not only serves a practical purpose, but also adds tremendous style and interest to the bridal gown. 

There are two basic types of bustles: the traditional bustle, and the French bustle. Each look is a little different, but both serve the same purpose, and work well with all types of trains.

For detailed explanation of the different types of bustles and more wedding ideas, pick up your copy of Your Bridal Style here: goo.gl/FDNwbF

 St. Pucchi style 468© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

 

St. Pucchi style 468

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type ; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit http://www.ranistpucchi.com

 

 

 

 

 

Online Purchase – Steps to Take

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Today, an ocean of choices has become available online, which can often overwhelm and cause confusion. 

Here are steps you can take to make your choice easier: 

* Make a list of the features you wish for in a dress that would look good on your body type such as silhouette, neckline, sleeves, and fabric. Also list what you would like to avoid (read Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams Chapter 5: Lines That Flatter: Choosing a Style for Your Figure and Chapter 6: Wedding Dress Silhouettes).

* Filter by price to make sure you’re staying within your dress budget.

* Pin your favorites on your online inspiration board or print them out so you can lay them all out and compare them. 

* Eliminate the dresses that do not match your needs. 

* Pay attention to details on the chosen dresses: note the fabric, construction, and how it drapes on the model. 

* Check the manufacturer’s measurement chart and determine the optimal size. 

* Place your order. 

* Find a good seamstress who has experience working with complicated gowns. Once your dress arrives, you will more than likely need some alterations. 

Unfortunately, in this day and age, the Internet is flooded with websites selling cheap imitations and fake goods, some even bold enough to use other designers’ original images to lure you into believing that you are, in fact, receiving an authentic designer dress. So, beware of some sites that offer bargain dresses. Sometimes a cheap dress can just end up being a headache and cost more than you bargained for. 

It is best to order directly from a designer’s website than from third-party vendors or those who pose as representatives. When a designer puts their name on a piece, it is a symbol of pride, and they are putting their reputation on the line. Investing in a reputable designer’s piece ensures that you are receiving a well-made garment of the best quality, an heirloom that you can pass on to generations. 

For unique, one-of-a-kind St. Pucchi gowns on sale now visit www.stpucchi.com

Learn more about planning your dream wedding in Rani’s bestselling book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams. From picking a wedding date to learning what styles suit your figure most, to divvying up your budget and sidestepping sticky social situation, Rani St. Pucchi has you covered.  

For direct help and guidance from Rani St. Pucchi so she may help you realize and match your vision to the wedding of your dreams forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

 

 

For the Budget Savvy Bride – Online Purchase

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Just a few short years ago, finding a beautiful and elegant wedding dress would have required an all-hands-on-deck manhunt and a considerable amount of spare time and some change. 

Not so today. 

And seeing that time and money are very precious commodities, luxuries not everyone can afford, there are quite a few options for you to consider when looking for an incredibly memorable wedding dress. 

Whether you’re looking for an unfussy gown for your beach wedding, trying to find a lace-adorned midi dress to wear to City Hall, or you’re going all out but still want something spectacular, there are so many options for you today to realize your dream. 

St. Pucchi Couture 9416

St. Pucchi Couture 9416

Mila by St. Pucchi - 702 and 703

Mila by St. Pucchi - 702 and 703

St. Pucchi style 9453

St. Pucchi style 9453

Like the rest of the fashion industry, the bridal world, too, is experiencing change. Like many other reputable couture designers, St. Pucchi has adopted the digital trend and is now offering unique, mostly one-of-a-kind designs online. 

St. Pucchi style 9401 

St. Pucchi style 9401

 

Can you really get a wedding gown delivered to your doorstep? Yes, absolutely. 

For many brides, the ability to purchase designer gowns in this most effortless way is a dream come true. Often the prices offered online are considerably lower than the dresses sold in stores due to lower overhead costs to designers, which affords savings to you, the bride. 

Learn more about planning your dream wedding in Rani’s bestselling book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams. From picking a wedding date to learning what styles suit your figure most, to divvying up your budget and sidestepping sticky social situation, Rani St. Pucchi has you covered.  

For direct help and guidance from Rani St. Pucchi so she may help you realize and match your vision to the wedding of your dreams forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

 

 

 

 

 

What Your Engagement Ring Says About You…

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Congratulations, you said “YES” to the Love of your life!

Laughing, crying, grinning till your cheeks are sore, you’ve become that wonderful cliché: The Happiest Woman in the World. 

If you were involved in deciding which type of ring you received, then you know the process was somewhat agonizing, yes? After all, a diamond is very personal and very precious. Besides, it’s the longest style commitment you will ever make. 

Did you know that each one of the seven most common diamond cuts reflects your personality? 

Here are a few as shared from Rani St. Pucchi’s book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams 

In "Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams", award-winning bridal designer Rani St. Pucchi of the world-renowned bridal house St. Pucchi, shares her expert advice on everything a bride needs to create a truly unforgettable day.

So, what does your diamond say about you? 

Oval: One of the most popular diamond shapes and great for the bride who loves an elegant yet classic aesthetic.  

Round: For the woman who wants a traditional look that will be timeless and classic and maximum sparkle, this is the diamond for you. 

Marquise: For the bride who knows her mind and moves to the beat of her own drum, who wishes to create the illusion of elegant, long hands, this pear-shaped diamond is perfect. 

Emerald: For the discerning bride who wishes to exude elegance and refinement, somewhat understated yet classic with an edge, the elongated shape and step-cut faceting of this diamond is perfect. 

Want to learn about other diamond cuts? From picking a wedding date to planning your wedding, to divvying up your budget and sidestepping sticky social situation Rani St. Pucchi has you covered as she shares her expertise about all these and more in her new book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams 

For direct help and guidance from Rani St. Pucchi so she may help you realize and match your vision to the wedding of your dreams forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

 

CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’RE ENGAGED!

image-bridal proposal-shutterstock_366613448.jpeg

One question, one simple answer, and your life has forever changed. You said “Yes” to the man of your dreams. 

Congratulations! 

How excited you must be as you start thinking of your upcoming wedding! So much to do, so many decisions to make . . . 

Perhaps you are a little confused, somewhat overwhelmed. Fret not. Award-winning Designer, Rani St. Pucchi can help you get there. 

But first things first . . .
You will want to share the wonderful news with your most important family members and friends before the rest of the world finds out. People can be sensitive, especially if they find out secondhand about your big decision. This way, you’re showing them how much you care. 

The days when everyone else discovered your big news via the announcement section in the Sunday edition of the local paper are behind us. Social media is most definitely the new platform. So, go ahead and share ring selfies and hashtags to communicate your new relationship status. Make sure to include your significant other when sharing your joy. 

Next, you may want to plan an engagement party. An engagement party is a great way to gather together to celebrate, and is especially nice to have if your families don’t know each other well so they can get better acquainted. 

Think of the engagement party as a kickoff to all the wedding events that will happen on your way to the altar. It can be as simple as having a cocktail party at your or someone’s home or as extravagant as renting a club or your favorite restaurant. 

Usually only family and close friends are invited to the engagement party, so don’t feel like you have to invite a ton of people. It’s totally fine to keep it intimate. Just make sure not to invite anyone who won’t be on the wedding guest list. 

You may want to have a small registry ready since guests might want to give you an engagement present. Remember, though, that people are not obligated to bring gifts, so don’t be upset if guests arrive empty-handed. 

What you’ll wear depends on the formality of the event and the venue. If you are going formal, then an evening gown would be appropriate and help you stand out. 

St. Pucchi Style 6202 

St. Pucchi Style 6202

 

Shorter dresses with interesting details, perhaps with lace trimmings, are a good choice for a casual outdoor affair. 

St. Pucchi Short Story – Style 350 

St. Pucchi Short Story – Style 350

 

Once the initial excitement has settled down, you’ll want to lay some groundwork for your wedding. If you’re like most women, while you may have envisioned the man you will eventually marry, you probably don’t have the vaguest idea of how to go about planning a wedding and where to start. 

To learn more about the morass of details involved in planning a wedding, from picking a wedding date to planning and divvying up your budget to sidestepping sticky social situation pick up Rani St. Pucchi’s new book,

Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams 

Or better still seek direct guidance from Rani as you design your unique wedding. Rani can help you realize and match your vision to the wedding of your dreams! Forward your inquiries to Style@StPucchi.com

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2018

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her recent TEDx talk: Is Your Body Image Holding You Back has received worldwide acclaim. Rani’s #1 International Bestselling Books: Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type; The SoulMate Checklist: Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner; and Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit ranistpucchi.com

Gorgeous New Year’s Eve Wedding Ideas

With the holidays quickly approaching, what better way to kick off the New Year than with a new marriage? A New Year's Eve wedding is the perfect time to celebrate your love. 

 

Here are a few ideas to make the day uniquely yours… 

Why save the Champagne toast solely for the reception? Have a toast ready for partygoers when the ball drops, and with a dress that is sure to be the center of any extravagant party. 

New Year's Eve is the perfect time to try something out of the ordinary, like a blush dress for the ceremony. Then, for the reception, slip into something short and sassy to dance the night away! The occasion calls for something fun and different.  

A New Year's Eve wedding is a great time to embrace classic colors, like a black and white theme. A beautiful black and white wedding dress will wow guests and makes a statement.

St. Pucchi 9457; Mask

St. Pucchi 9457; Mask

There's no better occasion for something truly glamorous like a New Year's Eve wedding. We love the drama of this St. Pucchi couture gown. Don’t you? 

 

And if you’ve just got your ring and said “I Do” and “I Will”, then our designer Rani St. Pucchi is here to hold your hand thru the entire process of planning your wedding in her upcoming book, Your Bridal Style: Everything You Need to Know to Design the Wedding of Your Dreams. You will be pleasantly thrilled with the advice offered in this 350 page, full color book - a treasure trove for every bride planning to design the wedding of her dreams. 

On Amazon: goo.gl/FDNwbF

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Are you ready?

What New Year's Eve wedding trends will you try?

Success Is A Journey - Not A Destination...

Our job is not to figure out the how. The how will show up out of the commitment and the belief in the what.”

~ Jack Canfield in The Secret

Related: Part 1 – Every Success Story Starts With A Dream

Related: Part 2 – Recipe For Success – Set A Goal

Related: Part 3 – Action Is The Key To All Success

It was the end of the third day of the Bridal Fashion Week and I was exhausted. 

It had been a long day. I had not had a moment’s reprieve as I served one buyer after another. I looked at the pile of paperwork laying on the little wooden desk in the corner of my showroom. I picked them up now and glanced thru them in disbelief, thanking God for the turn of events that day. 

I had the orders in my hand but I was lost as to how I was going to produce and deliver my dresses given my limited resources, and within the time frame I had promised…

As a novice in the fashion industry I had never thought of asking clients for a deposit to help with my production. I started to panic now, and picking up the phone I started to make several calls, reaching for help from near and dear ones, but none was forthcoming. 

But the Universe was looking out for me, and sent me an Angel. She was the owner of the most prestigious bridal salon in Brooklyn, New York at the time. I remember her like it was yesterday. 

The beautiful, gray-haired woman had taken a chance on me, and I recalled how she sat at the table in my showroom, going thru the bowl of Hershey’s kisses with gusto, making mental notes but not saying much while she proceeded to write a generous order. On the last day of the show she came back and invited me to dine with her. I was surprised and humbled. 

At dinner Ms. Hedda Kleinfeld took me by the hand and said: “Child, you need help I can see. You have a great eye for design and craftsmanship and a wonderful future ahead of you. I want to help St. Pucchi succeed. Here, take this…” As she handed me a check for her entire order, tears filled my eyes. How could she have known??

Not only that, but within a week I received a package from her with a note “Learn from this piece how to make beautiful trains for your beautiful bridal gowns”. The package contained an old sample wedding dress. 

Again I thought how did she know? Wedding dresses worn by those in Asia at the time were all floor-length, and I soon learnt that the American bride wanted three feet long trains! I was clueless on how to make patterns that would flow well.

If I was convinced before that I had a gift to share with the world, I was even more committed now to not letting Ms. Hedda down. I vowed there and then that I would be hailed as the best designer in America one day. 

I took immediate action and flew back to Bangkok, bought two sewing machines and set up my first “factory” in my little home. 

And I reached out diligently to buyers and media alike. I called every store across the U.S, and all the national and international bridal publications. 

I lived and breathed St. Pucchi

The most prestigious Bridal magazines gave me free editorials and it seemed I was the talk of the town. Buyers started to pay attention and my business took off… 

Yes, the Universe had my back and nothing could stop me. 

Within a year of seeing the amazing results of my hard work, I made a firm decision and set a goal to be recognized as the best bridal designer within 5 years. 

I wrote my goal down in my journal.

I visualized going up on the stage in front of thousands of people, press and buyers alike, and receiving my award. 

I wrote down affirmations around my visualization and played that image again and again in my mind. It was a tape loop that I never let go.

Within 18 months of setting my goal and visualizing, I was nominated as the Best Bridal Designer in Dallas.

At the same time I designed eveningwear and special occasion dresses. Buyers and press welcomed the novelty and the unique concepts in my designs. 

I continued to receive nominations in this and many other categories, finally receiving the highest honor in the U.S. 

My first DEBI (Distinctive Excellence in the Bridal Industry) award as the Best Bridal Designer in October of 1990, was received just a few months shy of my 5 year goal.

Since then my designs have been recognized globally and I have since received numerous awards. 

Today St. Pucchi dresses have been shown on every major catwalk across the world, featured in every major magazine and media, been on numerous TV shows, most notably on the hit TV sitcom Friends

I have personally worked with more than 15,000 brides and women of distinction, dressed numerous celebrities, artists, singer-songwriters and sports personalities. 

All this would have never been realized had I not followed my dream, visualized and taken massive action!

So visualizing, and then taking action, are key to your success. 

Because I embraced my vision and took action, I turned one dress into a bridal empire.

If I could do it, you can do it. 

But that was not the end of my journey. There was so much more for me to learn, and many more mountains to climb… 

There was still work to be done. 

You see: Success is a journey, not a destination

Now I want to ask you this: What is YOUR dream? 

If you have one that you would have realized, then I implore you to own your dream and move heaven and earth to make that dream come true for you. 

Imagine that it’s five years from today. Just imagine…

As you stand looking back over the last few years, you find yourself completely AWESTRUCK.

Your confidence has skyrocketed. 

You’re able to make the “right” decisions quickly and easily, and you’re able to accomplish way more in less time, and with greater ease.

As a result of all of this, your career or business has meteorically taken off…

And you’re enjoying more financial abundance, success and fulfillment than ever before!

Would you love to be standing in this place, just five years from today?

Visualize as if your dreams have already been realized. 

And then, take massive ACTION!

The world is waiting for you to show up.

Hold onto your dream with fierce determination. 

One day the people that didn’t believe in you will tell everyone how they met you.

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2017

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Success Coach and Trainer. Her #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type and The SoulMate Checklist : Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner are now available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

https://youtu.be/O2lt5fIpJ7k

Action is the Key to All Success

“Vision is not enough, it must be combined with venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps, we must step up the stairs” ~ Vaclav Havel

If you’re anything like me, you have BIG DREAMS for your business and for your life.

The problem is, dreams alone lead nowhere and will never make your business wildly successful.

Your visions, ideas and dreams must be paired with the most important secret for success… how you show up in the world - and the actions you take. 

I had a dream. I was consumed by it day and night and I visualized it as having already been achieved. 

Did I ever doubt myself? 

Yes. Absolutely. On more occasions than I care to recall. 

Who was I to think, let alone believe, that I could make my mark in the American Bridal Industry? 

I had so much going against me:  I had absolutely no academic design background - I was an English major; I had no money except for the one green American Express card that I had already maxed out; No one in my family supported my dream - in fact they only laughed at my lofty aspirations. And I did not know anyone in this foreign land. 

As I write this I am reminded of so many obstacles I was confronted with… never more so than during my recent visit to Bangkok. 

To my surprise I ran into one of the people I’d known for years but had not seen ever since I had moved to Dallas.  

It’s always exciting to catch up and trade stories on how much we’ve all grown and where life has taken us.

In fact I recalled that she was among those, who, 32 years ago, scoffed at my dreams, letting me know that my goals were totally unrealistic. She told me I was surely setting myself up for a disappointment, that I should lower my expectations, and that I should live within my means. 

Even though I felt deflated initially by her comments putting it down to some jealousy perhaps, to be fair her feedback was sound and I believe now that she delivered her perspective with some compassion, and genuine concern. 

I recall so clearly stepping back and reexamining my dream and lofty goals then, realizing that YES they were indeed pretty outrageous, but that was exactly the kind of outrageous that would fire me up and motivate me to work harder just so I could prove everyone wrong. 

If you're like me and you tend to dream big dreams, there’s a good chance you’ll face voices of dissent. And most of these will be from well-meaning family, friends, even strangers. 

Tragically though, the most damaging voice of dissent often comes from within us. It’s our self-talk that we don't have what it takes to succeed, that we just don't have the right ‘stuff’ to be victorious. It’s this self-doubt that stops us in our tracks. 

But I digress…

Now I would like to take you back to that stress filled day in April of 1985. To the time I felt I had really messed up. 

Related:  Part 1 – Every Success Story Starts With A Dream 

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/every-success-story-starts-with-a-dream_us_58f060fbe4b048372700d725

Related: Part 2 – Recipe For Success – Set A Goal

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/recipe-for-success-set-a-goal_us_58fabdc2e4b0f420ad99c7a7

It was already the end of the second day of the Bridal Fashion Week and I had not taken a single order. I was starting to get seriously concerned…

I kept looking at the showrooms around me and the buying frenzy that was going on.  Every showroom was filled to the brim with people writing orders and shaking hands and laughing.

And here I was, across the hall from them, with no action except for the press taking notes frantically and photographers snapping pictures with their cameras.

I would look wistfully at my beautiful babies - my creations, the luxurious colorful wedding dresses all waiting to be touched and admired. 

In my heart I knew this was the most beautiful collection I had ever designed in my life. And I knew it was only a matter of time before buyers would take notice. 

They say ignorance is bliss… 

Because lo and behold, the next morning as I walked into the glass building making my way to my showroom, a stack of The Dallas Apparel News piled up on the front desk at the foot of the elevators stopped me in my tracks. 

My heart skipped a beat as I looked at my face staring back at me from the front page of the Bridal industry’s most revered paper.

The headline read: “ST. PUCCHI DESIGNS DREAM-LIKE GOWNS!”

The media wrote about my courage and daring in upsetting the industry norm. And hailed me as the pioneer for introducing color and silk fabrics to the U.S. Bridal scene. 

The American bridal industry as we knew it, had changed forever…

I could not believe my eyes and was so encouraged and humbled by the recognition. I wanted to shout from the rooftops! But kept my composure and headed to my showroom. 

There was a line of buyers waiting for me to open the doors.

And I wrote orders…

But now would come the biggest test of all… 

Next week: Part 4 - Success Is A Journey – Not A Destination

Now I would like to suggest something, if I may...

If you're not happy with the success in your business, then you owe it to yourself to do something about it.

If you choose to do nothing, then don't expect your business, and your life, to get any better, as it’s doubtful that they ever will…

If you're ready to finally do something about your level of success (except complaining about it or just wishing it gets better on its own), then take action, however small it may be. 

Every day do a little something that will move you toward your goal. 

Consistency is key. 

Know that there's a big difference between dreaming and doing.

And while no one can deny the power of positive thinking, far too many people neglect to act on those thoughts to make their dreams a reality.

Just do it!

To be continued…

Next week: Part 4 - Success Is A Journey – Not A Destination

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2017

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Success Coach and a Trainer. Her #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type http://amzn.to/2eRcOb6 and The SoulMate Checklist : Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner http://amzn.to/2gXiHFz are now available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

 

Recipe for Success - Set a Goal

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There seems to be a lack of content out there that describes this pivotal time when we have more ‘I don’t knows’ to offer than certainties.

I realize that life has a way of figuring itself out, and no matter how hard I try to make sense of what happens, I can’t recall a single time when worry or fear aided the progression of my life.

As someone who had spent years dreaming about one day living in Dallas, I was totally convinced that the opportunity given me was short of nothing less than a Divine intervention.

Related: Every Success Story Starts With A Dream

I had a unique fire in my heart and a calling on my life that I trusted would play out. I had more questions than answers right then. When I had the dream of one day living in Dallas, I had no clue as to what career I would follow, nor how I would be lead there. All I knew was that perhaps if I stopped mulling and stressing over the ‘how’ and just followed that small tug on my heart, then it would lead me right where I needed to be.

And so here I was. Saying ‘yes’ to my dream.

This was a time of celebration…

I had been fortunate enough to manifest the first step. Now came the hard part. It was time to be real. Time to set a clear goal of what exactly this life in Dallas was going to be about.

How was I going to not only make a living but also be a success at my craft?

Having accepted the offer to show my Bridal Collection at the Dallas Apparel Mart, I prayed that the Universe would back me up.

There was no time to waste. I had only six months to put together my collection. My goal was very clear: to be a success and to make my mark in an industry that I was pretty clueless about, in the city of my dreams, and in a country that I knew without a doubt I would be adopting as my “home” one day.

I wrote down a detailed list of everything I would need: the funds required, the types of fabrics and laces, jewels and notions, and the biggest challenge of all at the time: to come up with creative and unique ideas for my first bridal collection.

“Your dreams are only your dreams until you write them down

…then they become Goals”

I set myself small steps on my way to completing the bigger goal so that I would not feel so overwhelmed.

And I visualized…

I visualized every dress.

I designed it first in my mind.

I saw the embroidery details.

I started sketching feverishly and ideas started pouring out.

I worked with fabrics and notions, colors and patterns.

Designing bridal gowns was a spiritual experience for me. Although the designs flowed through me, I knew it was really the Divine doing the work. I was as if in a trance.

I visualized the success of my first bridal show, and in my mind’s eye I saw the press and buyers loving each creation. I saw orders pouring in.

The collection now ready, I flew from Bangkok to Dallas, Texas.

On April 15th, 1985, the day before my first Bridal Show, I registered my company ‘St. Pucchi’ on a wing and a prayer.

I decorated my showroom at the Dallas Apparel Mart with much anticipation and excitement. I had no clue as to what other designers would be showing since every showroom window was shrouded with opaque sheets of paper so that no one could peer in.

This was the very first show for me and I designed and decorated the showroom the best way I knew how, mostly based on what I had seen on the TV screen, especially on the series ‘Dallas’.

Sixteen mannequins on raised platforms of differing heights, clad in my handiwork, decorated the 600 square foot showroom, with one form behind each glass window on either side of the entrance.

This was the collection I was called to design, the one that I prayed would launch me as a “Bridal Designer” in America.

The day the show opened, I looked at the displays in all the other showrooms around me and my heart skipped a beat.

OMG!! What had I done?

All around me was a sea of white.

White in every window, in every showroom, on every floor of the building.

And my sixteen piece St. Pucchi bridal collection was entirely in color.

Blush, butterscotch and even pale blue…

I had not designed a single white dress.

I felt I had really messed up!

I had not taken the time to study the US bridal market and had not known what was the accepted norm in the American Bridal world.

How could I know?

Growing up in Thailand I saw only colored wedding dresses, mainly blush colored ones. Weddings were a celebration- in color. White was mostly worn during mourning.

Buyers would walk past my showroom, stop and gasp. The press would swarm around and flashes would go off as they eagerly photographed away.

People were flabbergasted by such a controversial concept and I could hear their thoughts loud and clear: Who was this designer? How could she even think that America would embrace color in bridal wear??

You see… it didn’t matter what others said. What mattered was that I believed in what I was doing. I felt passionate about my work and felt so deeply in my heart that I had finally found my calling.

This audience didn’t really understand me yet.

Or perhaps the audience I was seeking didn’t live at this address…

Designing was my passion, and fashion my calling. I knew that now. I felt as if I was the witness hovering above and watching as things unfolded.

Curious and breathless…

Next week: Action is the Key to All Success…

Now I would like to ask you this:

Do you have a goal?

Is your goal aligned with your dream and your passion?

What is your true passion?

What makes your heart sing?

If you’re not clear on what that is yet, may I suggest that you live in a constant state of curiosity, and be open to possibilities?

You’ll be pleasantly surprised that this curiosity may well lead you to find your passion one day.

And when you do, don’t let anyone talk you out of it.

Hold on to your dream. Set a goal. Visualize.

And Believe…

To Be Continued…

Next week: Action is the Key to All Success

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2017

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type and The SoulMate Checklist : Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner are now available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

Success Starts With A Dream…

There’s something so powerful about going back in time and reliving the key moments of your life. Memories about events you had not thought about in a long time, what you have been through and where you have come from, a history of your successes, if you will.

And it begins with a dream…

For me, it all started with the hit television soap opera Dallas.

Friday nights were my favorite. I was hooked to the show, and in such awe of the glamorous clothes and the big hair the women wore, their lifestyle, the tall glass buildings, just about everything that Dallas stood for, and I visualized moving there one day.

I was living in Bangkok at the time running a tailoring business at a prestigious hotel. Although I had no design experience I became quite proficient in designing women’s ready-to-wear just because of my intense love of fashion, and all things beautiful.

Dallas was my inspiration. I studied the extravagant fashion shown on the screen, and would sketch for hours. It helped that I grew up around fine fabrics and laces, my family being the largest purveyors of fine lace in Thailand. Aside from my love of books, I had always lived and breathed fashion.

Among the affluent clientele I attracted in my tailoring salon, was a woman from San Antonio who visited me often. I would help her with her wardrobe and design extravagant evening wear and suits for her to wear. During one of her visits in 1984, she asked if I would support her charity event with my designs.

I couldn't believe it. Wasn’t San Antonio close to Dallas?

I was excited beyond words could express, and before I knew it I was on a flight to San Antonio with my 52 piece ready-to-wear collection.

As I was preparing the collection and planning the order in which each outfit would appear, I thought it would be wonderful to have a wedding dress as the finale of the show. So I whipped up a blush colored Thai Silk, hand-embroidered dress, and hand beaded it with Swarovski crystals.

Little did I know that the one dress that I had designed as an afterthought would forever change my life. The show was a huge success, but more importantly the roar that sounded when the finale dress came out on the runway was deafening!

The Universe works in mysterious ways. As luck would have it the leasing agent of The Dallas Apparel Mart happened to be in the audience and invited me to bring my “BRIDAL” collection to showcase at the Mart’s Bridal fashion week that was happening in 6 months.

Wait! Did she not know that my “BRIDAL” collection consisted of just this ONE dress?

The ONLY bridal dress I had ever designed in my life…

But of course she didn't need to know that? And I wasn’t about to tell her!

For someone who had no design background, and was clueless about wedding dresses, it was a daunting thought.

My heart was beating so fast…

Dallas??? This was a dream come true.

I hesitated only for a brief second, wondering if I had the talent, and more importantly, the money and the resources to honor such a huge commitment. But that thought only lasted a split second as I found myself saying, “Yes, of course! I would be honored”.

That was 32 years ago. Had I not said yes then St. Pucchi would not have been born. And I would not be celebrating its success today…

What is your dream?

What is it that you desire for yourself?

Visualize it.

Believe it is possible for you.

Believe it is already so.

The Universe is waiting…

To be continued…

Next week: Success Starts With A Goal

 

© Rani St. Pucchi, 2017

Rani St. Pucchi is an award-winning Couture Fashion Designer, a Style & Image Consultant, and a Relationship Expert. She is a Bestselling Author, a Speaker, an Inspirational Coach and a Trainer. Her #1 International Bestselling Books, Your Body, Your Style: Simple Tips on Dressing to Flatter Your Body Type http://amzn.to/2eRcOb6 and The SoulMate Checklist : Keys to Finding Your Perfect Partner http://amzn.to/2gXiHFz are now available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles.

For more information on Rani please visit www.ranistpucchi.com

 

2017 Wedding Dress Trends

2017 Wedding Dress Trends

The new year is almost here! What better time than now to take a peek at some of the upcoming 2017 wedding dress trends. If you’re shopping for your wedding gown, keep these gorgeous 2017 wedding dress trends in mind. 

Shoulder Show

Baring a bit of shoulder is subtle yet sexy, and it’s a big 2017 wedding dress trend. Like many bridal trends, this one started out as a fashion trend and ended up trickling into bridal wear as well. It’s so stunning that we’re hardly surprised.

There are many ways to try the off-the-shoulder wedding dress trend, like with this St. Pucchi couture wedding gown, which features an off-the-shoulder look and sheer, lace-up back. 

Another off-the-shoulder favorite is this St. Pucchi Mila gown currently part of the sample sale. This wedding gown is actually a two-piece wedding dress and features a detachable chapel train and detachable taffeta skirt. Underneath is a gorgeous off-the-shoulder sheath dress with a sweetheart neckline and gorgeous embellishments at the bust. 

St. Pucchi 9188

St. Pucchi 9188

Bell sleeves are another popular fashion trend this season, and this off-the-shoulder bell sleeve wedding gown is quite fashion-forward. This St. Pucchi couture wedding gown is currently on sample sale (Shop the rest of the sample sale here) and features beautiful gold details throughout the dress and a chapel train. 

In Living Color     

Wedding dresses that aren’t exactly white are a big 2017 bridal trend as more and more brides embrace stepping outside of the traditional. From wedding gowns with color sprinkled in to completely different colored wedding gowns, there are plenty of ways to embrace this wedding trend.

One colored wedding gown we absolutely love is this lilac St. Pucchi wedding gown. This gown features an open back and beautiful ruffled tiers along the skirt. Complete the look with a sheer veil hand embellished with gorgeous floral details. 

Another popular color for wedding dresses this season is blush. And it’s no surprise since the soft pink hue was one of the top Pantone 2016 colors of the year. This strapless dropped-waist gown is fitted at the bodice and the skirt features layered panels that cascade to the hem. This pink St. Pucchi Mila gown is part of the ongoing sample sale. 

St. Pucchi Sposa 530

St. Pucchi Sposa 530

For just a hint of color, a buttercream wedding gown may be more to your liking and St. Pucchi offers several gorgeous buttercream wedding dresses. This St. Pucchi Sposa wedding dress is part of the ongoing sample sale and features a drop waist bodice with Alençon lace overlay and a tiered skirt. It’s a color that’s flattering on many skin tones. 

Take the Plunge

Plunging V-necklines are another hot 2017 wedding dress trend, with many brides loving this flirty look. The trendy bride will love this St. Pucchi Avine Perucci gown which features a strapless plunging V-neckline, dropped waist and hand-embroidered gold details. The ivory and gold wedding gown has a full silk skirt and Chapel train with layers of pleated organza. 

Another variation of the plunging V-neckline is this St. Pucchi couture wedding gown. The high collar neckline balances out the deep plunge and is hand embroidered. The back of the wedding gown features sheer panels, which is another popular 2017 wedding dress trend. 

For a wedding gown that flatters many body types, try this A-line St. Pucchi couture wedding gown which features a deep V-neck and a completely hand embroidered dress. The bodice is beaded and the gown itself features ivory and gold details.

Which 2017 wedding dress trend would you try? 

 

Our Favorite Tulle Ballgowns

Tulle ballgowns are a fairy tale dream; if you’re looking for the quintessential princess wedding gown, then look no further than a beautiful tulle wedding dress. And these St. Pucchi ballgowns are absolutely stunning. From striking floral details to delicate hand-embroidered motifs, these tulle ballgowns are simply breathtaking. 

Our Favorite Tulle Ballgowns

From the Avine Perucci collection, this St. Pucchi tulle wedding gown features silk hand-embroidered floral appliqués scattered on the skirt and bodice. The strapless top is a classic choice and the waist features a duchess silk satin sash. This gown is currently part of the on-going St. Pucchi sample sale. 

For the bride looking for a wedding dress that isn’t quite white, this St. Pucchi Sposa wedding gown is a gorgeous option. The color is a lovely ivory tone and the tulle ballgown skirt features flirty layers. Flower clusters also adorn the skirt and the strapless corset bodice. This gown is part of the St. Pucchi Sposa sample sale. 

A full tulle skirt can still have movement, which is exactly what you’ll get plenty of in this St. Pucchi Sposa gown. The extra full skirt features beautiful satin flowers on one side that picks up part of the skirt and alençon lace appliqués adorn the back waistline. This tulle ballgown is also another ivory pick and has a satin bodice with boning that beautifully shapes the torso.

St. Pucchi Mila 717 from Sample Sale

St. Pucchi Mila 717 from Sample Sale

For a traditional tulle wedding gown, this Mila St. Pucchi gown is a gorgeous pick. It’s part of the ongoing sample sale and features a heavily-crusted strapless bodice that has a shimmery effect. The sweetheart neckline is flattering for many body types and the multilayered skirt features a sweep train. 

This St. Pucchi couture wedding gown features delicate details like gorgeous flowers that adorn the full tulle skirt and the sweetheart bodice. Complete the look with this handmade mantilla featuring stunning hand-embroidered flowers.

Another St. Pucchi couture wedding gown with a tulle skirt is this gorgeous pick featuring a drop waist. Sheer lace detailing adorns the bodice, which flares out into a dramatic full skirt. (For even more sheer wedding dresses, check out this post). 

What do you think? Would you wear a full skirt wedding gown featuring a tulle skirt? 

Gorgeous Tiered Wedding Dresses

Tiered wedding dresses are made to move--literally. The way they sway on the dance floor and as the bride sashays down the aisle make tiered wedding dresses a breathtaking option for your wedding day. 

This week, we've rounded up our favorite St. Pucchi tiered wedding dresses that are absolute head-turners. From wedding gowns with subtle tiers and gorgeous embellishments to wedding dresses with show stopping tiers, these dresses do not disappoint.

Gorgeous Tiered Wedding Dresses

We love this layered look on this St. Pucchi couture tiered wedding dress. Featuring three beautiful tiers with floral embellishments, this is a classic take on the tiered wedding gown. 

Try a tiered wedding gown with a mermaid silhouette like this St. Pucchi tiered wedding gown. We love the ruffled look on these tiers and the sheer details on the bodice. (For more sheer wedding gowns, check out this post.

Let the tiers take over with this dramatic St. Pucchi tiered wedding gown. This couture wedding dress features layers of white and black for a bold and unforgettable look. 

Like a beautiful wedding cake, this four-tiered St. Pucchi wedding gown screams elegance. We love the cap sleeves and beautiful floral embellishments throughout this couture wedding gown. (Speaking of wedding cakes, see how to match your dress to your wedding cake here.)

Soft tiers paired with gorgeous, intricate embellishments make this St. Pucchi tiered wedding gown truly unforgettable. This spaghetti strap deep-V gown features hand-embellished details throughout the bodice and flares out into romantic tiers.

What do you think of tiered wedding dresses? Would you wear a tiered wedding gown? 

Winter Wedding Gowns

There’s something romantic about a winter wedding. From the warm and cozy feel to soft white snow outside, winter weddings can be just as lovely as a spring or summer wedding. But when it comes to shopping for winter wedding gowns, many brides are stumped. How can you strike the balance between wearing the wedding gown of your dreams and staying warm in the winter weather? Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite St. Pucchi winter wedding gowns to show you how. 

Winter Wedding Gowns

Try a Jacket

If you have your eye on a strapless or sleeveless wedding gown, a custom-made jacket may be just what you need. This topper is not only a stylish complement to your wedding gown, it will also keep you warm for any outdoor pictures. What’s more, a wedding jacket gives you the option of multiple looks, and can be worn again to another soiree, like an anniversary dinner. 

We especially love the look on this gold St. Pucchi gown; the fur-trimmed sleeves are right on trend for winter and create a sophisticated yet cozy look. 

Get Some Gloves

Gloves are still absolutely lovely with wedding gowns and provide a bit of coverage while being fashion-forward, too. You can try 3/4 length, elbow length or even short gloves which can be removed during the reception. Experiment with a variety of different gloves to see what goes best with your winter wedding dress. And if you have a colored wedding dress, like this St. Pucchi 496 gown, gloves can be a great accent. 

Long Sleeve Wedding Gowns

If you’re having an outdoor winter wedding in an especially frosty place, a long sleeve wedding gown may be a great choice. Bell sleeve wedding gowns that flare out are one of the most popular wedding trends of the season. And we absolutely love the dramatic look of these wedding dresses. (For even more long sleeve wedding gowns, check out this post.

Short Sleeve Wedding Gowns

Strapless wedding gowns may be one of the most popular picks, but a wedding gown with adorned shoulders is just as beautiful. We love the intricate look of this St. Pucchi wedding gown, which is perfect for that winter wedding.

All of these St. Pucchi wedding gowns are currently available on the ongoing sample sale! Click here to view even more St. Pucchi sample sale gowns. 

 

What’s your favorite winter wedding gown trend? 

Real Bride: Stephanie and John's Naples, Florida Wedding

From the Bride: 

What drew me to this particular St. Pucchi dress is how intricate and delicate the details on the dress are. The satin fabric and design of the dress speak class and elegance. The delicate hand-sewn flowers are the perfect touch of femininity and romance. It's truly a timeless design with the perfect touch of drama.  St. Pucchi dresses embody this, and I believe this is what makes the brand spectacular. 

My husband John and I got married at the Ritz Carlton of Naples Florida. It was a gorgeous day! My dress was the first item I purchased for the wedding, before planning anything--choosing a venue, colors, etc. What I didn't know at the time was that it was the dress that would bring inspiration for planning and speaking to the look and feel of the celebration.

Romance, class, elegance and femininity were all words I wanted to reflect my wedding celebration, all words that described my St. Pucchi gown. 

Vendors:

Photography: Jason Mize Photography

Wedding Planner: Party Rox Events

Fall 2016 Wedding Dress Trends

From sheer and sexy silhouettes to clean and minimalist designs, this fall’s bridal trends are definitely wow-worthy. If you’re still on the hunt for your dream wedding dress, try one of these fashion-forward frocks, all inspired by the fall 2016 wedding dress trends. 

Fall 2016 Wedding Dress Trends

Sheer Silhouettes

Cutouts and sheer designs are having a major fashion moment, so it’s no surprise the trend has trickled into bridal wear, too. Although wedding dresses tend to be modest in nature, a hint of sheer (in the right place) is quite lovely. This St. Pucchi gown features a slightly sheer corset bodice and a full tulle ballgown, perfect for the fashion-forward fairytale bride. 

3D Florals

Florals on wedding dresses isn’t something new, but this season’s looks takes the trend to a new level with beautiful floral appliqués, which results in a 3-dimensional appearance. This St. Pucchi Avine Perucci gown is a perfect example of the floral appliqué trend, which really brings the dress to life. The tulle ballgown is hand embroidered and features crystal-beaded floral appliqués that scatter from the bodice onto the tulle skirt.  

Modern Minimalist

Sometimes, less is more. And one of the top 2016 wedding dress trends is a modern approach to minimalist design. These two St. Pucchi Mila gowns are sophisticated and elegant, without incorporating over-the-top embellishments. (For even more sleek and sophisticated wedding gowns, check out this post.) 

Tiered Skirts

Big flouncy skirts are a wedding day classic, and this fall we’re loving the tiered wedding skirt trend. Whether you want just a few tiers, like on this Duchess satin St. Pucchi wedding gown, or want a full skirt with tiers all the way down, there are lots of options to embrace this beautiful wedding dress trend.

You can shop any of these St. Pucchi wedding gowns at the ongoing sample sale where you’ll find gorgeous dresses that embrace this season’s hottest wedding trends at a fraction of their retail price. Shop the St. Pucchi sample sale here. 

 

What’s your favorite wedding dress trend of the season? 

Six Elegant & Sophisticated St. Pucchi Wedding Gowns

When it comes to wedding gowns, sometimes less is more. And that's absolutely the case with these gorgeous St. Pucchi wedding gowns. Though wedding dresses full of tulle, tiers and drama tend to take centerstage, we think a simple, elegant and sophisticated wedding gown is just as beautiful. And these six St. Pucchi wedding gowns--which you can find in the sample sale!--are absolutely wow-worthy.

Six Elegant & Sophisticated St. Pucchi Wedding Gowns

Sheath dresses are flattering to most body types, and this pure silk Charmeuse wedding gown does just that. The body skimming sheath features a bateau neckline adorned with French Chantilly lace, delicately beaded with crystals.

Elegant details are what this wedding gown is all about, which features shimmery pearls that adorn the shoulders like jewelry. This St. Pucchi wedding gown features a sheath silhouette and sweep train.

For a romantic wedding gown that's not heavy or full of ruffles, try this St. Pucchi wedding gown. This spaghetti strap dress has an embroidered Ricamo net which flows over the silk charmeuse gown. 

This St. Pucchi wedding dress is all about the sleeves and features a sheer net overlay that's hand-embroidered. (For more longsleeve wedding gowns, check out this post.) 

Absolutely lovely in lace is what this Thai silk and Chantilly lace mermaid dress is all about. The plunging low V-neckline is beaded with Swarovski crystals, while the bodice has a cutout sheer lace panel on one side. Scattered crystals adorn the flared skirt.

This St. Pucchi gown embraces the glitzy Gatsby-era style, perfect for the glamorous bride. The satin duchess wedding dress features a V-neckline that's embellished with crystals that also adorn the waist. 

Will you be wearing a simple yet elegant wedding gown on your wedding day?