Bellissima at Prom

 

 

Having finished high school and about to be released into the world, what better way to celebrate that then with a masquerade.  Dressed to the nines to experience what the world has to offer to our beautiful youth.

I couldn't resist, you girlie girls will understand.  First the mani pedi, the updo at the salon but nothing is more important than the gown.  It really is a rite of passage for young women everywhere. The duckling into a swan, the sweet girl transforming into a beautiful young woman. It's official.  It's prom, and what better way to toast the celebration then with the gown to end all gowns.

Now the opportunity to relive my graduation was more then I could handle and promptly set out to find the crème de la crème of prom gown fashions.  Here's a few helpful hints I've learned to make the gown hunt a little less stressful and a lot more fun!

Sequined embellishments is the leader of prom trends.  Under those lights who wouldn't want to twinkle and shine.  However, make sure not to overdo it ... you don't want to look like a side show act.

 
Asymmetrical necklines and unexpected detailing or beading add a pop that pulls the eye and flatters any figure.

 

The leading trend in bridal design has filtered its way into evening wear,  and strapless gowns are thriving. Pairing this style with a bold necklace or a statement pair of earrings will stop this look from being too simple and help to fill this open neckline.

 

Another trend that can add some fashion forward flare to your prom look is the high-low skirt.  What better way to show off those killer stilettos.

The mermaid style gown is perfect for emphasizing and accentuating curves, perfect for those ladies with wanting to create a sexy "Marilyn" silhouette.

For any one of these fabulous gowns and many more, be sure to visit the Bellissima location nearest you!

Spring Trend Alert : LACE

Let yourself devour a fabulous spring trend, despite the snow!  Spotted all over the runways across  various fashion weeks, lace made a bold and luxurious statement as both an accent and as a main feature.  This romantic look is not only for evening wear anymore.

The key to sporting this new trend is to choose a high-quality garment because lace can look cheap if it's not well-made.  Check out some of my favorites, courtesy of Bellissima, exciting ways lace can infuse some romance into your spring wardrobe.

 Expect the unexpected with this cropped pant.  The key to this look is to keep the rest of your outfit neutral and classic.

 

Peak-a-boo lace sleeves put a current spin on a classic blazer.  Add one to a basic tee or camisole to add some punch to your weekend look.

 

Layer it up!  Let peeks of lace detailing show through your favorite cardigan!

If you are looking for some other interesting ways to add a little touch of lace why not pick up a lace handbag or clutch, perhaps try a lace embossed manicure!  What are your thoughts? Do you think the lace trend is overrated or worthy of our love?  Let us know, we'd love to hear from you!

 

 

Behind the Seams with Vivian Wong

In an exclusive interview with the creative mind behind Bellissima's premier private label Vivian Wong talks about style, her fashion processes and beyond...

KC:  Vivian where are you from? What's your educational/ professional background?

VW:   I was born in Hong Kong. After I finished high school  I went to Paris to study fashion design and graduated in 1979. I then worked for a few International companies based in Europe where I learned the world's leading fashion .  When I returned to Hong Kong I was responsible for the whole fashion department, and experienced a wide range of challenges from production all the way to selling.

KC:  Describe the general process you go through to design and realize a collection. What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing? In your mind what are the necessities in the design/construction of your line?

VW:  When designing a collection, it is very important to know what the trends are; in style, fabrics and color, and to closely study the target market that I am aiming for. To make a quality article of clothing, it needs a good design with character, fabric and workmanship so that women wear it with confidence and comfort. I also take pride in manufacturing our garments in Canada.

KC:  What is your favorite part of the process? Least favorite?
   

VW:  My favorite part of the process is the design aspect however it is also the hardest.  When designing, I can fantasize about creating fashion that I like. My  least favorite part is the production, which is at the hands of others and it is not easy to find someone with the same passion towards fashion that I have.

KC:  What are some of your fashion goals for your line?

VW:  My fashion goals are to design clothing welcomed by the general public and recognized by the fashion world.

 KC:  How would you define the style your line exemplifies?

VW:  My fashion designs convey a message of style and comfort.

 KC:  Do you have any favourite fabrics you like to use?

 VW:  My favourite fabrics are silky chiffon and a jersey knit with colorful prints.

KC:  Who are your favourite designers?

 
VW:  My favourite designers are Frida Giannini (Gucci), Donna Karen, Eva & Roberto Cavalli, Yohji Yamamoto, Jil Sander…

 KC:  Where would you recommend someone who wanted to become a designer take their schooling?

 VW:  I would recommend studying in Paris or London simply because Europe is still the fashion leader.

 KC:  Since Bellissima is based in Western Canada do you base your designs on the "West Coast Women"?

VW:  Yes. It is very important to be welcomed by the local Canadian women before seeking recognition from the World.

I can see that the Vivian Wong private label is very well received and definitely growing in popularity with our Bellissima clients. By having a designer work exclusively with Bellissima, it puts this unique company on the map and shows their commitment to bringing the very best in fashion to the market place, not to mention how they stand out amongst the rest.

Thanks Vivian, stay chic!