We can not be more excited that LulaKate has brought back their ready-to-wear clothing line! The classic, sleek lines that we have all fallen in love with in the bridal collection will be fabulous in tops, skirts and dresses. It will be wonderful to pop in and grab the perfect outfit for an upcoming event. Everyone looks good in the ruffle neckline and a-line skirts which we hope is a staple in the new collection. We look forward to the reveal of the new line and spending way too much money!
Okay, maybe I shouldn’t have used the word bootcamp, its kind of scary. But, I can assure you, its not scary and I think its safe to say that pretty much every bride dreams of being in tip-top shape on their wedding day! Thats where our wonderful friend Ryan, a certified strength and conditioning specialist, comes in…
Ryan is an in-home personal trainer (you may have also seen him at the Gold’s Gym on James Island) who is young, energetic and fun! Most importantly, he understands that brides want to look good on their special day, and they want to have fun in the process of getting there. As a result, he is offering packages that include personal training, nutrition guidelines and just about whatever it takes to look good on your wedding day!
How fun would this be to do with your bridesmaids or even with your fiance so that everyone is looking smashing on the big day? ; ) If you are interested all you have to do is e-mail us here at Southern Protocol and we can send you one of Ryan’s packages. We’re so excited we may have to throw on our cute work out clothes (perfect excuse to work out those lululemons) and do it, even if we’re not getting married any time soon…
Second of all, have you guys seen these YouTube videos? I assure you we have been working very diligently in the office. However, in between furiously typing on the computer, making phone calls and eating all of Lizz’s FUDGE covered Ritz crackers (ummmm, holy yum) that aren’t helping the future bathing suit bod (TLI?), we find ourselves taking “bathroom” breaks (more like watching-youtube-videos-breaks) from drinking too much tea, coffee and diet coke.
If you haven’t watched them, the links are below, they are a must. The videos started with Graydon Sheppard. He started a twitter, tweeted some funny things girls say and then coerced his boyfriend to make videos with him. Hes the best.
Sh*t Girls Say is a video making fun of the things us girls say all the time like, “I can’t believe I just ate all that”, “SHUT.UP.” and “First of all, ew.”. We didn’t think it could get funnier than that, then Sh*t Girls Don’t Say came along. We’re pretty sure its even more hilarious. Our faves are, “Can I get a copy of your Nickelback CD?”, “I am SO glad I ate 6 chalupas” and “Does anyone know how to make Papyrus my default font?”.
p.s. we are so turning in our iphones for boost mobiles…
Happy Sunday! We hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather in Charleston this weekend; I dont think you can beat 70 degree weather in January!
Now that we are getting well into January, we figured we would do a blog on the top wedding trends for 2012. While every bride’s wedding is tailored to their own taste, the overall main trend for weddings in 2012 is a more formal, elegant and romantic wedding. Since the debut of the Royal Wedding, every bride has been dreaming of a romantic, elegant and feminine wedding filled with lace and sparkles. Here are a few that we think we will be seeing a lot of!
Gold. A white wedding gown will always be a symbol of tradition and elegance. However, in 2012, non-white dresses with hints of gold, nude, and champagne are going to be in. Vera Wang and Monique Lhuiller both have amazing Spring 2012 collections with golden-eque gowns that can be found at our very own local Bridal Chic Boutique, Maddison Row.
Sparkles. Okay, I know this sounds horribly tacky. But, the “sparkle” that I am talking about is far from that. It is, in fact, absolutely stunning. Adding sparkle to table accessories, flowers, cakes, invitations, dresses and even drink accessories is very “in” for 2012 and makes for a lavish, elegant wedding!
Lace. Another trend pulled from the Royal Wedding, Lace Wedding Gowns. Honestly, who didn’t love Kate’s Gown? Lace is also lovely atop table linens and any place where you want a simple, pretty detail.
Burlap. Burlap is a big trend for 2012, and for a southern, charming, rustic wedding it does wonders. It can be used as a table runner, tied around chairs, used on hors d’oeuvres trays, bouquets and even invitations.
Colors. Bright, charming colors are very in, especially for bridesmaids dresses. A simple, all white and neutral wedding can also be given a bit of southern, classy attitude with a small pop of color.
We can’t wait for all of the gracious, charming, stylish and southern weddings to come in 2012!
Today marks the final day of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week up in New York – amidst the beginnings of a busy wedding season fall here in Charleston, we’ve been doing our best to keep up with our favorite designers’ shows that have been rocking Lincoln Center all week. How ah-mazing is it that you can watch half of these shows live now?! I’ll be the first to admit that I’d obviously rather be sitting front row in between editors and Rachel Zoes, but to be able to see the collections simultaneously with all the fashion industry bigwigs is pretty fabulous. Thank you, technology!
Of course the show i was most anxiously anticipating was Milly, who took to the tents yesterday afternoon. Michelle Smith’s twists on preppy-chic and lovely patterns never disappoint… so imagine how thrilled I was to see that the first looks down the runway had colors that perfectly match some of our spring weddings! While whites, champagnes, pale pinks and greens will forever be wedding staples, we’re seeing a lot of bright spots next year – browns with deep and pale blues, bright pinks with oranges and yellows.. so how wonderful to see it all in a wardrobe, along with some great geometric patterns that are sure to be used as inspiration for many a-table runner.
Just like we always say – a bride’s color pallet should take a cue from her wardrobe; it’s what you’re most comfortable with, and what looks best with you and your personality! Needless to say we have a lot of Milly-esque brides for the coming year.. lucky us! Check out the full collection on Style.com!
Do you love to sew but get frustrated with the apparel fabric selection in Charleston? Or do you want to learn to sew? There is now the perfect store in Charleston to solve both of these problems! Five-Eighth Seams recently opened this past June on Ashley River Road in West Ashley, and they carry a variety of GORGEOUS apparel fabrics. From the likes of Amy Butler, be inspired to create a new late-summer outfit or a new tote for school!
Five-Eighth Seams began when owners, Brooke and Laura, met while teaching and soon after they discovered a common love for sewing. They were both frustrated that there was not a store in the Charleston area that carried unique, fine apparel fabrics. So they just decided to open their own fabric store that had exactly what they wanted! These ladies are amazing! They are so happy to help you and talk with you about your latest crafty project. Brooke and Laura have created an environment to enhance the love of sewing for all age groups. They offer sewing classes for all levels, and in addition they rent spaces and machines for you to complete your project! Please visit the ladies at Five-Eighth Seams! You won’t be disappointed!
Five-Eighth Seams, 1901 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC
Naturally I’ve been up since 5:00 this morning, drinking in every incredible, blissful moment of the Royal Wedding (I DIE over that Alexander McQueen dress… the Grace Kelly sleeves, the breathtaking back.. way to go, Sarah Burton!) – as if we don’t get our wedding fill here at Southern Protocol!
To make it truly festive, upon awaking this morning friends and I indulged in mimosas and scones; scones that I just have to share with y’all. They are beyond simple, and SO delicious! I tend to think of scones as a bit dry, and these couldn’t be more moist. Perfect for your next brunch, and fit for a princess
Strawberry and Rosemary Scones (makes around 10, recipe courtesy of Giada de Laurentiis)
Scones:
-2 cups all purpose flour, plus more for dusting
-1/2 cup sugar
-2 teaspoons baking powder
-1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
-1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
-6 tablespoons unsweetened butter, cut into 1/2″ pieces
-1 cup heavy cream
-1/3 cup strawberry jam
Glaze:
-1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, from 1 large lemon
-2 cups powdered sugar
-1-2 tablespoons water
-Special equipment: 3″ heart-shaped cookie cutter
For the scones: Place an oven rack in the middle of the oven and pre-heat to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and set aside.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, baking powder, fresh rosemary, sea salt, and butter until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Gradually stir in the cream until the mixture becomes a dough. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough to into a 1/2″-thick, 10″ wide circle. Using a 3″ heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out heart shaped pieces of dough and place on the baking sheet. Gently knead together any leftover pieces of dough and roll out to 1/2″-thick. Cut the dough into more heart shapes and add to the sheet. Using an index finger or small, round measuring spoon, gently make an indentation in the center of each heart. Spoon a heaped 1/2 teaspoon of jam into each indentation. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Transfer the cooked scones to a wire rack and let cool for 30 minutes.
For the glaze: In a medium bowl, mix together the lemon juice and powdered sugar until smooth. Gradually add the water until mixture is thin enough to spread. Using a spoon, drizzle the glaze over the scones. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes. Serve or store in airtight plastic container for 2 days.
*Note: this makes a whole lotta glaze; if you want to make a little less, just use the juice of one lemon, then add a bit more than a cup of powdered sugar. Play it by ear!
I have the BIGGEST crush on True Grit actress Hailee Steinfeld. She has been hands down the standout red carpet star this awards season – she nailed it every time! Sunday’s Academy Awards carpet was no different; and she even helped design her flirty, age-appropriate Marchesa gown. She was sensational in True Grit (obvi, since she was nominated for awards at every show), becoming a no-nonsense, 14-going-on-40 girl on a mission; so to see her in reality looking so cute and happy was absolutely heartwarming. I can’t believe they kept calling her character ugly in the movie!
Honestly, make that a straight sweetheart neckline with no rhinestone mesh, and add a fashion forward belt around the center, and I would wear that in a HEARTBEAT! Now where I even have to wear it is a different question all together… but she was without a doubt my favorite from Sunday night. In a sea of “eh” and dull looks, she really stood out.
Can’t wait to see where the limelight takes this darling actress… I’m crossing my fingers we have a new Dakota Fanning on our hands!
It was only a matter of time before the aesthetic masterminds at Anthropologie introduced a collection of all things bridal – and starting yesterday, the holiday of love, it’s available online!
BHLDN is the line’s namesake, the Dutch verb for “to keep” (pronounced “beholden” – why do Dutch words have no vowels?!), and it is ethereally pretty in every way you’d expect an Anthro bridal line to be. The collection includes shoes, hair pieces, lingerie, handmade decor items, and stationary among other big-day items, but obviously the most exciting element are the dresses. They’re definitely not for the uber-traditional, but we didn’t expect them to be! They all have something wonderfully unique, whether it’s a different hemline, interesting textural detail, or fun silhouette.
The dresses also come in different colors, so don’t think you’re limited to wearing one just as the bride! They’re great for bridesmaids, guests, or even the bride’s rehearsal dinner ensemble. And while it would take a very distinct type of bride to wear the Tiered Tulip dress with the gorgeous big, black bow above – and that distinct bride is not me – I can’t stop going back to the site to look at it!
Again, the online store opened yesterday; I can’t wait for actual boutiques to start opening… rumor has it an Anthro is opening in Town Center… maybe Charleston will be one of the lucky cities to receive one!
It’s that wonderful time again.. time for a Cynthia Rowley sample sale at their King Street boutique! Y’all – last go around I got the most fabulous top that elicits me numerous compliments every time I wear it out. Yet another reason that I’m yearning for warm weather, so I can wear it again! CR’s sample sales always include seriously one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories samples (my top is SO sample that it didn’t even have any kind of tag stitched in), as well as up to 80% off their fall merchandise.
Join them at the dates below, and see if you can snag yourself something squeal-worthy:
Thursday, Feb 3 – Friday, Feb 5 from 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, Feb 6 from 12 pm – 6 pm
We’re always up for a good fashion show here at Southern Protocol, especially ones that highlight up and coming designers from right here in Charleston! Which is why were were SO thrilled to get an email invite from The Rose Knot (a great little spot on King that offers both alterations and sewing classes) for A Fashion Show at The City Gallery on Saturday, March 5th from 6:00 -8:30.
The show will highlight six different designers, and their take on a “non-traditional show that challenges the audience to consider what it means to adorn oneself.” Very philisophical, indeed! But seriously, wouldn’t you rather see a show that has a unique artistic purpose? Love it!
Tickets, $10 each, will go on sale February 1st at ticketleap.com. Be sure to get yours and do something fashionably fabulous (then head to Food and Wine’s Bubbles + Sweets after )
I realize that every blog, TV show, website and neighborhood watering hole has already moved past the “who I loved at the Golden Globes red carpet” conversation, so I’m a little behind the 8-ball… but I just can’t stop thinking about how much I loved, loved, loved both Emma Stone and Claire Danes.
That they were my favorites quite surprised and delighted me, because normally I’m all about the glitz and glamour – and both of these girls played it so minimalist, wearing the KING of understated chic, Calvin Klein.
I’m all about a great back – a fun little way to leave a good impression when you walk away from your conversations – and Emma Stone’s huge keyhole backless look was at the top of my list. Not to mention that the gorgeous (and somewhat unexpected) coral color seems so simple and happy, that it lessens the “scandal” of a missing back. And as much as I think she looks stunning with her platinum blonde hair… I miss that gorgeous auburn red! Stop trying to blend in, Emma! (Note: I realize it’s for Spider Man. I just want it to go back.)
As for Claire Danes… I may or may not be completely biased towards the beautiful and intelligent actress ever since I saw Brokedown Palace when I was in middle school. Nothing to scare a tween into never venturing to Thailand with a bestie and befriending a gorgeous guy who ends up being a drug mule so you end up in a scary prison and have to cut off all your hair but sacrifice your freedom so your friend can be set free..like a Hollywood film. Those were the days. That being said, this hot pink color is stunning on Claire; and her simple, classic styling makes the color seem so chic instead of “look at me”. People were complaining that it made her look to thin… but unless I’m mistaken half the girls on that red carpet are scary waifish. So I say you strut your stuff, Claire Danes!
Can’t wait to see what the rest of awards season has in store… I hope Helena Bonham Carter wears different shoes to every event.
Which is why we’re SO excited for their upcoming January events – mark your calendars now! We swooned over Belle Couture this past March after their amazing vintage-chic runway show, and every time I walk by their cute little shop south of Broad, it just makes me smile. Hope to see you there this month!
“Pick the Price” Sample Sale, January 22nd
You didn’t misread that – the (crazy!) girls of Belle Couture are letting the brides pick the price for their dress at this January 22nd sample sale. You’ll be told the selling price of the dress, and then will be able to decide what you think is a fair price. !!!. What a unique idea for a bridal boutique. The sale will take place from 10 am – 5 pm; no appointment required.
Kenneth Pool Trunk Show, January 28th
You do have to have an appointment to view these gorgeous wedding gowns – Kenneth Pool is not only new to Charleston, but also to the entire state… and exclusive to Belle Couture, so you don’t want to miss out! I’ve been told the styles are something a little “different” for the Charleston bride, but that means for all you girls on the hunt for something to make you stand out, you’ve found your match. Check out some of the designer’s designs at his website - I absolutely LOVE the Amour dress, pictured above.
Sparkle and Shine Party, January 28th
From 6-8 pm at Belle Couture’s Church Street boutique, the glam party is to kick off Kenneth Pool’s arrival to the Lowcountry! Pretty dresses, drinks, and little tasty bites? Oh fine, twist our arm – we’ll be there
Belle Couture Bridal is located at 100 Church Street. Appointment only. Call 843.881.3449.
Every year, no matter how many wonderful pieces I have in my closet, I feel like I just MUST buy something new for the last night of the year. Something glamorous and sparkly – but obviously that you’ll be able to wear again. If you’re in the same boat as me, then head on over to Cynthia Rowley’s King Street boutique this week for a huge steal!
All across the country, Cynthia Rowley is offering a sweet late Christmas present: buy one dress, get 50% off another! Not a chance you can go in there and walk out empty-handed. Don’t need two dresses all for yourself? (You’re so self-controlled!) Grab a friend and go splitskies.
Either way, be sure to pop in between today and Saturday to check it out! All of our Charleston gals know the address of CR’s boutique here is 341 King Street… but for all you out of towners, see below for the closest Cynthia Rowley location!
376 Bleecker Street, New York
164 Newbury Street, Boston
810 West Armitage Ave, Chicago
1653 North Damen Drive, Chicago
Just when I thought reality TV had dipped lower than anyone ever imagined when they innocently started watching Survivor, I was quite literally caught mid-sentence when a commercial for the most horrifying concept of a “reality” program flashed on the screen: Bridal Plasty, on my beloved E! Network.
Let’s face it, any kind of media with the tagline, “The only competition where the winner gets cut” is awful on principle, yes? While “Bridal-plasty” truly is a (sadly) growing trend in plastic surgery, there is no need to endorse it. Will people be intrigued and watch it? Absolutely. Will it start to make all brides think, “well, if there ever were a time to fix everything I think I hate about myself, I guess my wedding is it”? No question, which is heartbreaking – not to mention pushing the boundaries for medical ethics (getting women to COMPETE for plastic surgery? Yikes..)
So for all you brides out there contemplating making your “something new” about half of the features on your body, think twice: do you want your groom to not even recognize the woman walking down the aisle? He fell in love with you for a reason!
And for all you reality TV junkies out there who are counting down the days til the show’s premiere in a few weeks: totally understand.. this stuff is addicting. But be sure to come back and calm us all down that all of the contestants are crazy people anyway (seriously – have you seen the previews? Thank goodness those aren’t our brides!)
