Bustle Bridal Gowns and Accessories

Hairstyles

2010-07-13T06:51:00.002-05:00

I couldn't help but share this resource with our fabulous brides. It's hard to find a hairstyle that you love, but this website makes it a little easier. Browse through over 15,000 (yes!) hairstyles to find one that suits you best!

Project Wedding Hairstyles

Augusta Jones Design Preview Weekend!

2010-06-22T08:49:00.003-05:00

Join us for a preview of Augusta Jones' Fall 2010 collection and be among the first in the country to select one of these beautiful gowns! As if having a brand-new unique gown isn't good enough, we offering 10% off to brides who purchase their Augusta Jones gown during this special weekend!

Appointments are filling up fast, so book yours early!

Lea-Ann Belter Trunk Show

2010-05-28T07:24:00.002-05:00

Update from New York Bridal Fashion Week!

2010-04-11T06:26:00.008-05:00

So now that I've finally had time gather my thoughts about all we have seen for the past two days, I thought it was more than time to update the blog!

First up yesterday was Augusta Jones who was, as usual, beyond fabulous. All the things we love about Augusta Jones, brought to a new level! Gorgeous lace, expertly placed ruching, clever details and beautiful fit.

While we were there, TheKnot.com came by to shoot a video

The ever-amazing Lea-Ann Belter did not disappoint us! This season's gowns are simple, chic, and ready to accessorize. Her gorgeous, light, silk dupioni gowns are embellished with sweet feminine details and our favorite laces.

Also, we're bringing in Filippa Scott accessories that you are sure to love. Gorgeous hair pieces and veils that are to die for! "Mr. Bustle" (my husband and Bustle co-owner) tagged along for the trip, and when he saw these hand-beaded rhinestone encrusted veils, even he did a double-take! Can't wait for them to get into the store. Clearly, TheKnot.com has the same taste as we do, because they ended up here to do a video as well!

Next, on to Grace shoes!

The long-loved classic Grace collection will now be at Bustle! Shoes should arrive within the next month or two. Love 'em!

Also, I'm not really sure where we're going to display all the jewelry we found while we were here! Stop in after Tuesday to see all the gorgeous sparklies I found! It's been a great weekend in NYC!

Bustle welcomes Nina Shoes!

2010-02-13T07:30:00.004-06:00

How adorable are these?

So adorable you may want to changes shoes 3 times during the wedding!

Nina shoes now available at Bustle!

New Plus-Sized Gowns Now Available!

2010-01-28T08:07:00.007-06:00

Bustle is proud to unveil our newest selection of gowns - select samples now available in sizes 18-22! We have selected some of our most popular and most flattering gowns for the bride with some curve. Hand-picked to flatter your shape and bring out how truly beautiful you are!

Here are just a few of the new gowns we have in this collection:

Because shopping for a couture wedding gown should be for everyone!

Lea-Ann Belter Trunk Show This Weekend!

2010-01-25T07:59:00.005-06:00

We are so excited to host a Lea-Ann Belter trunk show this weekend, January 29th and 30th.
We'll have lots of extra Lea-Ann Belter gowns to see and try on, and will be offering a special incentive! Purchase your Lea-Ann Belter gown during the trunk show and receive 10% off!

Book your appointment early!

Augusta Jones this weekend!

2010-01-13T07:14:00.004-06:00

This weekend we are hosting an Augusta Jones design preview event! Augusta Jones is sending us 28 gowns that are not normally in the store! Beautiful new designs available to view and try on during this special weekend event.

Make your appointment now to view and try on these gorgeous new gowns!

Gown advice from the best in the business

2009-12-28T11:12:00.000-06:00

I recently ran across a collection of quotes from the best couture bridal designers - including some great advice for selecting your perfect gown.

These designers know a thing or two about dressing brides for their big day, so I love the tips they gave!

Here's what I read:

"Don't be too hard on yourself when trying in wedding gowns. Focus on what you love and play up those parts."
- Reem Acra

"I only have one fashion rule: When in doubt, don't."
- Oscar de la Renta

"Start by experimenting with different silhouettes. Once you find the right cut, you can begin thinking about details."
- Amsale Aberra

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Holiday Hours

2009-12-21T05:54:00.001-06:00

Bustle will have special holiday hours:

We will be closed:

12/23/09 - 12/27/09

and

12/31/09 - 01/01/10

Happy holidays!!

New Angela Nuran style now available!

2009-12-21T05:49:00.002-06:00

Astoria, the new style from Angela Nuran Shoes is now available at Bustle!

A cute, updated heel shape; new vintage style brooch on the toe strap; now in dyeable satin!!

Available in 2.5" and 3.5" heel. Stop in and try them on - your feet will thank you!

Upcoming Trunk Shows!

2009-11-21T07:26:00.004-06:00

Get ready for trunk show season! Trunk shows are when designers send to us a large selection from their current collection, allowing our brides to have a much larger selection for that particular weekend. Also, brides who purchase during a trunk show receive 10% off any gown from that weekend's featured designer!

Mark your calendars for these fun events!:

Martina Liana and Essense of Australia

December 4-5, 2009

Augusta Jones

January 15 - 16, 2010

Lea-Ann Belter

January 29 - 30, 2010

Make your appointment early!

In Our Window 11-20-2009

2009-11-21T07:21:00.002-06:00

"Jemma" the new beauty from Lea-Ann Belter

"Duchess", new from Augusta Jones,

and a precious After Six bridesmaid dress.

And a quick snapshot of how full and gorgeous our store looks right now!

In Our Window 11-12-2009

2009-11-13T06:36:00.002-06:00

"Louisa" from Augusta Jones, the newest addition to our collection at Bustle:

New from Lea-Ann Belter: "Annabelle"

Beautiful French Alencon lace along the side of this classic mermaid silhouette.

A closer look at the lovely Annabelle:

Make your appointment today to try on these gorgeous gowns!

In Our Window: 11-05-2009

2009-11-05T20:28:00.006-06:00

Here are the beauties gracing our window display for the week of 11-05-2009:

"Zoe" by Lea-Ann Belter

"Zoe" front

"Zoe" (awesome) back

New from Martina Liana

Wait for it....

Yes! Another 2-piece dress!

Augusta Jones now at Bustle!

2009-10-29T08:23:00.002-05:00

So thrilled to welcome our newest designer - Augusta Jones!

These gowns are absolutely gorgeous, down to the smallest detail. Also, super customizable! There's pretty much nothing the designer won't do to change the gown and make it your own!

Stop by to see the selection we currently have in store. You won't be able to resist trying them on!

2009-10-29T08:16:00.002-05:00

New from Lea-Ann Belter

(This one might be my favorite from Lea-Ann this season!)

(This one is my mom's favorite)

Spring 2010 Will Knock Your Socks Off!

2009-10-29T07:51:00.009-05:00

If there's one thing we noticed while at market in NYC last weekend, it's that most bridal designers have completely stepped it up this season and brought us beautiful gowns that are updated, new, and exciting!

The previous seasons have been gorgeous, of course, but there's nothing like seeing an across-the-board revival of beautiful design concepts, and creative ideas. The result can be summed up simply: Yay!

Now the hard part of waiting for these gowns to arrive!

Here's a sneak peak of what we chose for Bustle this new season:

New from Jewel by Priscilla of Boston:

Reverie by Melissa Sweet:

From Vineyard Collection by Priscilla of Boston:

Gown Shopping Checklist

2009-10-09T06:06:00.005-05:00

Getting engaged is so exciting, and you've got one thing on your mind:

The Perfect Dress!

But where do you begin? What should you expect?

We've put together a checklist to make the search for your perfect gown easy and fun!

Before You Start Shopping:

1. Visualize your wedding.

When? Where? How many guests? What's your budget?

Knowing where your wedding will be, and what mood you'd like to create will help in finding your dress. Even if you don't have the exact location booked, a good idea of the atmosphere will help your bridal consultant at Bustle know what gowns will suit your idea of the perfect wedding.

What's your budget?
A beautiful wedding gown can be purchased for any price, but it is a good idea to know what you are comfortable spending before going into the appointment. Gowns at Bustle range from $1,000 - $4,500 with most gowns falling into the $1,500 - $2,900 range.

2. Start your search 9-12 months before the wedding.
Some gowns take as long as 7-8 months to arrive!
Are you taking bridal portraits? If you are, your gown must arrive 2 months before your bridal portraits, which are typically 6-8 weeks before the wedding. Keep this in mind when deciding when you will order your gown. At Bustle, we have found that our brides who are the most laid-back, the least stressed-out, are those who order at least 10 months before their wedding date.
Don't have the luxury of time?
Depending on the designer, rush options may be available. Your consultant at Bustle will discuss your options and help you decide what will be the best choice for you and your wedding date.

3. Gather pictures of styles you may like.
Yes, we love seeing pictures torn from magazines and printed from websites! Use our Designers page to research the styles offered by our unique designers. (Keep in mind we do not have every gown from each of our designers, but we do have a very good representation!)

4. Make an appointment at Bustle!

At Your Appointment:

1. Who should you bring?

You will probably want to bring your mom and/or 1 or 2 trusted friends.

We know that lots of your family and friends are anxious to share this exciting time with you - and they absolutely have your best intentions at heart. But, finding your wedding gown is truly a personal event - you'll really need to be able to hear yourself and your own thoughts.

Our advice is to bring only those who will be honest, positive, and most of all, supportive.

2. What to wear to your appointment:

You may need help getting in and out of our gowns - make sure you wear pretty undies so there are no awkward moments in the dressing room. Also bring with you a comfortable, well-fitting strapless bra. If you do not have one, we can provide one for you.

It is a good idea to wear your hair in a similar style to what you envision wearing for your wedding day. We'll also provide you with a pair of heels to wear while trying on gowns. This will help you to get a more accurate picture of the "whole look."

We do ask that you wear a minimal amount of makeup as we try our best to keep our sample gowns as pristine as possible.

3. The fun part - getting your hands on those gorgeous gowns!

One of our consultants will help you browse the racks and answer questions about the gowns you see. When something catches your eye, your consultant will flag it and pull it for you to try on. It may not be your size, but your consultant is knowledgeable on how to fit it to you so you can see the true shape of the gown. Typically, you will be allowed to flag up to 10 gowns that immediately appeal to you. After you start trying some of those gowns, your consultant will get a much better idea of what styles you are drawn to, and what styles will look good on you. She will probably return to the rack and pull gowns that we feel may suit your taste and style.

4. Narrow it down.

The sad part is that you can only wear one!

If you're like most of our brides, you'll end up with at least 2 favorites by the end of your appointment. This is the hard part. When trying to decide, look at them and ask yourself:

"Is this the gown I want to wear when I say my vows?"
You will drive yourself insane trying to decide which gown is more beautiful. That may be an un-answerable question! They are both beautiful in their own unique way, but ultimately there's only one of them that you would feel truly comfortable wearing on your wedding day!

You've Found the Gown!

1. Ordering the right size.

Your consultant will take your measurements and compare them to the designer's size chart. If your measurements fall between two sizes, we advise to order up. Gowns can always be taken in if they are a little too large, but it is often harder to let them out if they are too small.

Note: Bridal gown sizes are completely different from regular clothing sizes, so don't be surprised if the size you end up ordering is a higher number than what you typically purchase off the rack.

2. Arranging payment for the gown:

Bustle offers different payment options for ordering your gown. Incentives are given for paying for the gown in full at the time of purchase, but there is also a deposit/balance option. Your consultant will discuss this with you so you can choose your best option.

3. When your gown arrives:

Someone will call you as soon as your gown arrives. We ask that you make an appointment as soon as you are able to come in and try on the gown. You are more than welcome to come in on a Saturday, but please make an appointment at least a week in advance. Saturdays can be slightly hectic, and we want to be prepared for you!

4. Having the gown altered:

Alterations are not done at Bustle - we interviewed several seamstresses and tailors in the area searching for someone to do alterations in our store. The result was - we could not find anyone we liked anywhere near as much as the independent tailor we currently refer to. We understand that bringing your gown to a second location may be slightly inconvenient, but we feel this tailor's years of experience and knowledge in bridal alterations, and incredibly reasonable pricing more than compensates for it!

Remember - we are here to help! We welcome any questions you may have at any point throughout the ordering process. We are at your service whenever you need us! And congratulations on your engagement!

Couture for a Cause

2009-10-04T15:21:00.003-05:00

Join us for the first event of its kind in Baton Rouge:

The Pink Ribbon Gala!

Wednesday, October 14
6:00pm - 9:00pm

The Louisiana State Museum and Brides For the Cure are hosting a fantastic wedding and special occasion planning cocktail party where all money raised goes to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

View the flyer:

Bring your friends for a fun night of wedding and holiday planning!

View some of the finest vendors in the Baton Rouge area
Participate in the silent auction for excellent items including (but not limited to), 15 wedding gowns courtesy of your favorite bridal store!
Sample delicious catering provided by Heirloom Cuisine and Bayou Bistro

Keep a look-out for pictures and descriptions of the beautiful gowns we'll have up for auction. Lots of different styles, sizes, and colors. Get a great gown at a great price, or a great cause!

Trends we love

2009-09-28T08:00:00.004-05:00

Thankfully, bridesmaid dresses are now chic and contemporary. I personally have been lucky enough to be in weddings where the brides were sensitive to how dresses would flatter their loyal bridesmaids. My closet is not crammed full with crimes against fashion.

Your bridesmaids love you, support you, and deserve to look fabulous! Here are some combinations and ideas we're digging right now:

Different dresses, same color:

Choosing the different-dress-same-color option allows your bridesmaids to choose a dress most flattering to them, that they are most likely to actually wear again. This also allows your girls to pick the dress that is most flattering to their pocketbook! Tie the look together with the same bouquet and classic pearl necklace.

Same dress, different colors:

When going for the same-dress-different-colors option, make sure the overall effect is not "rainbow." Choose colors in the same color with varying shades (royal blue, navy, powder blue and frost), or colors with the same hue - very pale pastel versions of different colors, like the picture above.

Make an appointment to speak with a Bustle consultant about planning your bridal party attire, or visit Bella Bridesmaid.

10% Off Sale!

2009-08-18T14:33:00.000-05:00

10% off all Bridal Gown orders!
September 3 - 5, 2009

All bridal gown orders will be 10% off on these three days:

Thursday, September 3, 2009
Friday, September 4, 2009
Saturday, September 5, 2009

The 10% off applies to ALL gowns in the store!
Off-the-rack purchases will receive an additional 15-20% off.
All gown orders paid in full will receive an additional 5% off.

This special sale is by appointment only.
Make your appointment early to reserve your spot!

New Martina Liana gowns are here!

2009-06-26T07:10:00.002-05:00

The 2009/2010 collection from Martina Liana is so chic and clever. Gorgeous classic styling with beautifully made modern detailing like one-shoulder straps, pockets, and rosettes.

This one has a detachable skirt!:

Make an appointment to come try them on!

Love the Priscilla of Boston bridesmaid collections?

2009-05-28T07:49:00.002-05:00

Check out the trunk show going on at Bella Bridesmaid the same weekend as our Jewel trunk show!

Bella Bridesmaid's Website
Priscilla of Boston, Melissa Sweet, and Vineyard Collection Bridesmaid Trunk Show
June 12-13

Make an appointment at Bustle for Jewel!
Jewel, the newest bridal collection from Priscilla of Boston

Introductory Trunk Show!
June 11 - 14

Do you have a survival kit?

2009-05-19T07:26:00.002-05:00

This doesn't apply to you, because everything will be perfect on your day.

But just in case, someone may want to throw a survival kit together:

For That Gorgeous Dress:
Safety pins
Needle and thread (ivory and black)
Hook-and-eyes
Lint brush
Baby wipes, baby powder and cotton balls (Got some makeup on your dress? If your dress is white/diamond white/ivory - Shake some baby powder on top, press it into the fabric with the cotton ball, then wipe it clean with a baby wipe!)
Clear nail polish (will stop a run in tulle - on your dress or veil!)

For the Gorgeous Bride:
Kleenex
Aspirin/Tylenol
Alka-Seltzer
Granola Bar (don't forget to eat a little something!)
Bobby Pins
Deodorant
Breath Mints
Toothbrush/Toothpaste
Hairbrush/Hairspray
Your favorite lipstick (Having your favorite lipstick can solve the worst of problems, can't it?)
and if all else fails
Tiny bottle of Vodka (just in case!)

Enzoani dresses on the way!

2009-05-18T06:54:00.006-05:00

Yay!! Enzoani gowns should be in-store by the end of the week. How exciting!!

Vineyard Trunk Show - upgrade!!!

2009-04-18T07:43:00.010-05:00

For next weekend's trunk show, we have just learned that not only will we have the fabulous Vineyard Fall 2009 gowns,

we'll also have a nice selection of gowns from Reverie (by Melissa Sweet)

and their brand new collection, Jewel!

We are so excited!!
If you haven't already, call us today to make your appointment: 225.769.9455
or make one online: click here.
Yay!

Trends We Love : Cakes that reflect the gown

2009-04-11T05:54:00.008-05:00

So one of our new favorite trends is having your cake mimic the style of your gown. Several of our brides are doing this, and we think it's super fab! Imagine having those cute pleats on the back of your dress flow down the side of your fondant?

This cake and dress seem to complement each other:

Maybe it's the way the fondant wraps around the cake like the bodice of the dress. Then, of course, the bow, though I'd rather see it on the side of the cake. Fabulous.

We're really excited because one of our brides recently purchased this gown and is having her cake made to reflect it. Can't wait to see what that looks like!

My new favorite "First Dance" song

2009-04-07T19:31:00.002-05:00

This song is adorable. Simple, sweet, and to the point. Who wouldn't love the line "Lucky I'm in love with my best friend"??

Take a listen and I think you'll agree!

Lucky - Jason Mraz

Runway envy

2009-04-05T07:18:00.004-05:00

How much do we love Priscilla of Boston?

This year they aired their runway show on Brides.com - live from NYC Bridal Fashion Week! We unfortunately could not attend, but were absolutely thrilled when we learned we could view it from right here in Baton Rouge!

We LOVE the Vineyard Collection - and the new season does not disappoint! All the things we love about the Vineyard Collection, brought to a new level: adorable short dresses; classic, sophisticated silhouettes with subtle modern touches; soft fabrics and luxurious detailing. The hard part will be picking which ones to bring into the store!

While we labor over this decision, enjoy the runway video! Pay close attention to Jewel, the first line up. Thoughts?

Love for Enzoani

2009-03-31T07:53:00.005-05:00

I am so excited to welcome our newest designer - Enzoani! We LOVE their fresh, chic designs. They're the kind of gowns that make you want to have at least, like, 5 weddings.

The hard part is that now we have to wait for the gowns to come in! We'll keep you updated as gowns arrive.

In the meantime, enjoy the runway video on their website (under "press room").

Don't forget Mom!

2009-03-17T07:05:00.002-05:00

Mothers of the wedding often put off finding their gown until everything else for the wedding has been taken care of. If they wait too long, there's not enough time to order a gown before the wedding!

That's why we're hosting a trunk show just for mom! April 3 - 4 we'll have the 2009 collection from Jade by Jasmine in the store! Trunk shows come with special incentives, plus the opportunity to be one of the first moms to purchase and wear these gowns!

Remind your mom that she's the hostess of the wedding, and she deserves to feel and look fabulous as well!

Vineyard Collection Trunk Show

2009-03-12T14:44:00.003-05:00

We have just booked a trunk show for Priscilla of Boston's Vineyard Collection!!

Come and view the brand new Spring 2009 Vineyard Collection gowns! Vineyard is a chic collection from Priscilla of Boston. Classic shapes and vintage silhouettes, updated with fun accents like side pockets and bows! Gowns range from $1,650 - $3,300. Appointments are limited and book quickly. Make your appointment today!

Vintage modern chic - for the bride that wants both!

Book your appointment!

Weekly Indulgence: Splurge or Save?

2009-03-08T20:29:00.004-05:00

Your wedding is a major event, worthy of all your creativity, resources, and energy. But, not necessarily your wallet. There are great ways to save some cash while planning, and still have the wedding of your dreams!

This week's indulgence: fabulous shoes.

Gorgeous, right? Crepe-satin 4" heel from Christian Louboutin with a chic side-bow. It exudes bridal luxury and elegance. It also exudes "$895.00" on the price tag. Yikes.

The savvy bride's alternative?

"Ramona" from Touch Ups. Satin sling-back 3" heel with side bow. Available at Bustle for $65.00. That's a crazy good deal.
Use the extra $830.00 you save for two extra nights at your honeymoon location!
And, we promise that no one at your wedding will say anything other than how unbelievably fabulous you are, as usual.

Lea-Ann Belter Bridal Trunk Show

2009-03-08T19:52:00.003-05:00

Gosh do we love Lea-Ann Belter. Her gowns are so classic and well made. The fit is unbelievable. We are constantly amazed at how beautifully simple her designs are, without being "plain." A Lea-Ann Belter bride is a show-stopper for sure.

March 20 - 21 we're hosting a Lea-Ann Belter trunk show, where we'll have the entire 2009 collection available in-store!

Make your appointment early!

Events and happenings here at Bustle

2009-03-08T19:49:00.001-05:00

Bustle has joined the land of blogs! Here's where we'll post all that we're up to at the store, all the new things we think are really cool, and things of interest in general. Feel free to comment and keep in touch. We love our brides!