sparkling new website updates

Websites are like paintings - no matter how much you work on them, they are never quite "finished" ... there is always more you want to add, change, improve or tinker with (perhaps the same goes for blogs, too...)

So, after several weeks of writing, editing, collecting wedding photos from my recent clients, and defining exactly what my label Culture Shock is all about, i am very pleased to announce my website is now fully updated, and that i am really, really excited about it!

i have revamped my PHOTO GALLERY section, with lots of fab new examples of our most recent "Couture Bridal" Gowns, and added a whole new gallery of "Inspirational Themes" which i hope will assist in inspiring brides to think outside the square, and step away from the outdated big white meringue look! Within these sections, I've added new photos from 2 recent photo shoots i did with Nicole Ritchie (awesome photographer!) and my latest obsession- fabulous bespoke hats made by the talented milliner Sandie Bizys, which complete the look with a dash of fun and old-school Hollywood glam.

in my NEWS section, i've added some "Testimonials" from a diverse range of my bridal clients over the past 6 odd years, with photos to show just who is saying what about Culture Shock... Also in NEWS, i have offered a group of downloadable PDF's, with articles i have written myself, containing loads of helpful tips and advice from the perspective of an excitable Sydney wedding gown designer who loves to share her knowledge and passion about all things bridal fashion!

so, if you haven't done so already, check out my website, and feel free to email or comment on it... i love to hear feedback! http://www.culture-shock.com.au/
xx lisa

Dreamtime dinner with a President

OK, so i am going to brag a little... sorry, i just can't help myself, it's so exciting!?!!

Tonight, my dear friend and former Miss World Australia, the lovely Caroline Pemberton, is off to the Opera House in Sydney to attend a gala black tie function... dressed in a fabulous couture Culture Shock gown!

Due to her wonderful and very dedicated fund-raising work in East Timor during the 2007 Miss World competition, Caroline met and befriended a very famous East Timorese leader, the Nobel Peace Laureate President José Ramos-Horta. Tonight Caroline will be accompanying Mr Ramos-Horta to a special dinner at the famous Sydney Opera House, and she'll be proudly wearing our black silk "Dreamtime Gown", as pictured.

My team and i created this one-off couture gown last year especially for Caroline to wear to the Miss World finals in China. The authentic Aboriginal dot painting was meticulously handpainted onto the silk by a very talented indigenous artist, Yarramunua. This gown has also been worn by Caroline at the Melbourne Grande Prix last year, and always grabs attention due to the colourful artwork, her gorgeously curvey figure, and of course the "spirit of reconciliation" in modern Australia, which i think this gown helps to represent. Yarramunua is having an art exhibition in Melbourne of his work in September, and this stunning creation will be travelling to the exhibition to be displayed as part of his body of work - i'll be heading down there to say G'day to him with dress in hand! xxx lisa

White Wedding Gown….the Ultimate Choice!

"white wedding gown"

"white wedding gown"

The focal point of any wedding ceremony is the bride and as she walks down the aisle, all eyes turn to her and her wedding gown. It is the dream of every bride to get the most beautiful and elegant wedding gown available in the market and this is why all brides take extra care while purchasing their wedding gowns.

Although given the market conditions prevailing nowadays, most brides hunt for affordable wedding gowns rather than splurging on something very expensive. Yet, the first thing that a bride selects in her bridal gown is the color and then the design. Color plays a very important role in buying a wedding gown for any bride, whether she is buying in a retail shop or in an online store.

"white wedding gown"

"white wedding gown"

In the western culture, popularity of white wedding gown is such that very few brides think of walking down the aisle in any other color. Even though the color white needs a lot of maintenance, the overall demand for white wedding gowns still surpasses that of other colored wedding gowns.

Basically there are three fundamental concepts upon which this beautiful tradition of wearing a white wedding dress is based.

Tradition

Brides haven’t always been getting married in white. It is believed that the tradition of the white wedding dress was started by the English Monarchy. It was the wedding of Queen Victoria to the Albert of Saxe in 1840 that actually popularized these white wedding dresses as we know them today.

The Queen wore a beautiful pure white wedding gown which was elegant and extravagant. During those days a white wedding dress was a way to show off your status in the society. Getting married in a white bridal gown was a symbol of superior class, extravagance, affluence and style.

Symbolism

Over the course of time, a white wedding gown began to signify purity rather than wealth as it used to earlier. White or a variation of white symbolizes virginity and it is believed that white brings happiness to the married couple. Moreover, it also guarantees the fertility of a bride.

When a bride takes the vows in a white bridal gown, it carries a strong symbolism that the bride is marrying with purity of mind and heart and is committed to her groom. In a broader sense, white refers to the purity of the marriage and the marriage vows.

In fact, marrying in other colors like black and green was considered inauspicious.

"white wedding gown"

Beauty

Without any doubt, a resplendent white wedding gown looks fabulous at any point of time. There is something stylish and classy about white that makes it a favorite color amongst brides. White is a very glamorous shade that looks good on anyone and also helps accentuate a slim figure.

For every bride, it is an experience in itself to shop for a wedding gown, either in the market or online. Nowadays, it is easier to buy affordable wedding gowns online in various shades although white is still predominantly the most sought after shade. You will find a wide selection on affordable bridal gowns in shades of white, cream, ivory, off white and other such chaste shades in reputed online bridal shops as well.

Colorful Trends in Bridal Gowns

More and more brides are daring to think beyond the traditional when it comes to their wedding gowns. This will be even easier for 2010 brides, due to the abundance of colorful accents on the newest bridal gowns. This is a look at the colorful trends in bridal gowns, from the subtle to the daring.

One thing we can say for sure is that black is back. The bold combination of black and white was a smash hit on the runways this season. For brides who want to look chic not funeral, the idea is to use a bit of black as an accent on a white gown. This trend was especially prevalent at Vera Wang, where it seemed like almost every wedding dress had a piece of black ribbon wrapped around the waist, bodice, or shoulders.

One way to keep this trend from being too harsh is to choose a sheer black ribbon. Another option is to wear the gown as all-white for the ceremony, and then layer over a black waist sash for a chic reception look.

Some of the designers were going for all out color, like the pale green gown at Romona Keveza. If that is too much color for you, try a soft blush gown, especially one in the hottest fabric for 2010, tulle. The effect is pure romance, and the color is subtle enough to set you apart from the pack while still retaining the look of a true bride. Accent your colored bridal gown with custom jewelry in either clear crystals or a subtly contrasting hue of Swarovski pearls.

Gold is another color that is being shown in full force for the latest wedding gowns. Forget tiny gold embroidery; these gold embellishments are meant to be seen at a distance. Large gold motifs on full skirted gowns are ideal for the bride who is seeking a truly luxurious bridal gown. Pair the gold with ivory, white, or even pale blue.

Thinking pink? Then try a wedding dress with a pink sash at the waist, or even a large cluster of pink fabric flowers. It is a lovely way to add a touch of color to your wedding gown without making too bold a statement. Finish it off with coordinating custom bridal jewelry in a gentle rose hue and a big bouquet of pink flowers, such as peonies or hydrangeas.

The most bold and dramatic color for a wedding gown would have to be red. Not one that you see much in mainstream bridal collections, red wedding gowns are nonetheless one of the most sought after unique styles. Not sure how to go about finding a red dress? You have several options. See if your favorite bridal gown can be custom ordered in red (choose a style that is grand enough that it won't come across like a bridesmaid dress). Another idea is to have a seamstress add a red sash or red beading to your favorite traditional white gown. This will allow you to have exactly what you want for your bridal gown.

Finally, keep in mind the transformative power of accessories. If you love the concept of a wedding dress with a bit of color but are unsure about straying so far from tradition, wear a white gown and punch it up with colorful accessories, like a special pair of blue Swarovski crystal earrings (for your "something blue") or a fabulous purple pair of shoes. Whether you prefer to wear a colorful gown or simply layer in a touch of color, you will be sure to have fun creating a wedding day look that expresses your personal style.

Why Wear A Worn Wedding Dress?

A wedding is one of the most important days in someone’s life and for a bride, the wedding is sometimes the most important day. So because of the importance of this day, why would a bride wear a used wedding dress? For a lot of wonderful reasons. What is important is that the dress make the bride feel her most beautiful. Wedding dresses have a magical quality, as they are the fabric that covers the love of the groom’s life. As the wedding continues on as planned, no one will be thinking "that wedding dress is worn." Everyone will simply be thinking "how beautiful she looks."

So what are other reasons why a bride might choose to wear a worn wedding dress?

1. Economic reasons

Clearly, anything that is bought used is going to be cheaper than anything bought new. But purchasing a wedding dress used also gives the bride the opportunity to purchase a more beautiful wedding gown… the wedding gown that the bride truly wants. Also, by saving money, the bride and the groom will have more money both for the honeymoon and for their new life together.

Besides being great for the newlyweds, selling a used wedding gown is great for the former bride. Times are tough and many couples can ease their finances by selling those things that they no longer feel that they need. Wedding gowns have an enormous amount of sentimental value for some. But for others, a wedding gown is merely an object that played a role in something far more important: the marriage. Since financial disputes are often one of the biggest wreckers of marriage, the marriage should be looked after more than the gown.

2. Environmentally friendly

By buying a used gown, one less gown has to be created. This means that less resources have to go into creating a gown. Also, all gowns are inevitably disposed of, which is far sadder than having your wedding gown live on with someone else who is about to experience the same magical experience that you are.

Where do I buy used wedding gowns?

One of the best wedding gown markets can be found at http://www.weddingdressmarket.com/search.php?c=2. In addition to wedding dresses, this website includes a blog that provides useful posts on choosing a wedding dress, losing weight and various other topics. Not only does wedding dress market have wedding gowns, but they also sell bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses and prom dresses. Don’t forget to tune into their news section.

Top Wedding Dress Trends for 2009 and 2010

"wedding dresses 2010"

Want to ensure a fashion-forward look for your upcoming 2009 or 2010 wedding? From sleek silhouettes to mini-dresses and tiered gowns, these latest looks for wedding gowns will help you put your best fashion foot forward to get you down the aisle in style.

"wedding dresses 2010"

"wedding dresses 2010"

"wedding dresses 2010"

Sleek Silhouettes

Slim is the silhouette of choice for the modern wedding dress - as sheaths, trumpets, and column wedding dresses ruled the runways. Don´t fret if you´ve always dreamed of donning a billowy ball gown, however, as this traditional style never goes out of style.

Colorful Details

Modern brides are experimenting with color to tie their ensembles into the color scheme. Adding a splash of color to the basic white gown remains popular through colorful sashes and appliqué details, or more dramatically through two-toned wedding gowns with a colored bodice against a white or off-white skirt.

"red bridal gowns"

"colored bridal gowns"

High Hemlines

Not afraid to show a little leg, today´s brides are embracing the tea-length and mini shift dresses that have become de rigueur in nearly every wedding dress designer´s latest collections. The trend makes sense for destination weddings calling for laid back attire and brides opting to don a second dress for dancing the night away at the reception.

"tea length wedding dresses"

airy wedding dresses 2010

Tiered Skirts

Whether chiffon, tulle, organza, or even feathers – layers of fabric are the newest major detail designers are playing with to create soft, yet dramatic gowns. This flowing style is perfect for the bride who is a romantic at heart.

Floaty Fabrics

Dresses weighted down by heavy crepes, matte satins and silks are lightening up to fabrics like taffeta and organza. These airy fabrics are easy to layer and more comfortable for a gown worn for up to 10 hours. And for brides having a summer wedding, donning a lighter fabric will ensure they´re glowing – not sweaty and red-faced - on their wedding day.

winter wedding dresses 2010

One Shoulder

This asymmetrical look is a hot fashion trend that has crossed over into the bridal world to update the basic strapless gown. Carrying a simple, no fuss vibe, the one shoulder gown is a great option for a destination wedding. Bonus points for those blessed with toned limbs, as this neckline shows off the upper arms and shoulders.

Practical Pockets

Having graced gowns for a few seasons, pockets remain hot in 2009. The style lends a casual vibe for relaxed events, and – perhaps best of all – it´s practical too, allowing brides to keep essentials like lip gloss or tissues on hand throughout the day.

Deciding On The Perfect "Beach Wedding Dresses"

Once you decided a beach wedding party theme you will absolutely will fall into a panic how to pick the suitable beach wedding dresses for you. If you give a little attention that would not have to be panic, so can not step inside the wedding stores and grab wedding dresses because there many steps that you should take it under your consideration.

"beach wedding dresses"

"beach wedding dresses"

Just because its a beach wedding doesn't meant you gown should be in more informal because the formal wedding dresses also allowing to be wore for an outdoor wedding.

"summer beach wedding dresses"

"beach wedding dresses"

Many brides are prefer to wear something casual for their wedding dresses and if you have the same taste please do not tied down to the traditional wedding dresses, just have an another style like summer wedding dresses which has best design and very suitable on your body shape, a less formal bridal shoes also needed and many brides prefer flip flops or barefoot for their fashionable beach bridal shoes.

That would be allowed also for your bridesmaid dresses. You will find many that are in white, cream or any other color you might like for the beach. They'll also be much cheaper than traditional dresses.

"beach bridesmaid dresses"

"summer beach bridesmaid dresses"

You may want to wear a sarong dress or a traditional Hawaiian wedding dress. Either of these would be beautiful at the beach and would be great informal choices.

Most wedding dress designers now have lines to cater specifically to destination wedding brides. These lines are usually less formal than their other lines and offer some great choices. Many of them are less expensive, as well.

Look for halter, strapless, empire waist and a-line dresses. These will be great to catch the breezes and the rays. If your wedding will be in the evening, you may want a light wrap for your shoulders.

Remember since you are at the beach, you will get sand and water on your dress. You can go with a dress that doesn't have a train or is a shorter style to keep it clean. But, if you want a train, choose a fabric that will clean easily after the wedding.

Last advice here is don't let looking a beach wedding dress intimidate you most just go more creative because there ain't any rules that you should follow just choose whatever you feel good and look best on you because behind all this the day is faithfully yours.

Tips For Cleaning Your "Wedding Dresses"

Wedding dresses are not cheap mostly brides spend pounds and hundreds dollars of their money to spend it on wedding dresses which they prefer most and its obviously that traditionally majority brides are prefer to use white or beige wedding dresses hence any marks or dirt will show up more readily.

"white wedding dresses"

"strapless pick up wedding dresses"

"elegant wedding dresses"

During the wedding procession sometimes you will get dirt on your gown no matter how care enough you are trying to be. Panic not as you can always clean your dress. You can always try and clean the dress yourself but this is not recommended! There are professional dry cleaners who specialize in cleaning wedding dresses.

Wedding dresses are usually substantial garments and therefore cleaning them is a a task in itself. Not only that, the value of wedding dresses means that the dry cleaners do need to cover themselves with insurance in case anything goes wrong. Due to these factors, having your dress dry cleaned is an expensive business. It can cost a couple of hundred pounds and in some cases can cost a percentage of the cost of your dress. I have come across people who were charged 10% of the cost of the dress! A large proportion of this goes towards the insurance.

After you get your wedding dresses cleaned, you need a proper dress storage box which the right size and pH is more important for it. This means that there is no acidity or alkalinity within the material of the box. This is important because over time, any acidity or alkalinity can over time degrade the fabric of the dress or discolor it. So, when you have your dress boxed, store it somewhere at room temperature so you avoid wide temperature fluctuations.

"informal wedding dresses"

"informal bridal gown"

The main piece of advice on this site is to invest in getting your dress professionally dry cleaned rather than doing it yourself. Once cleaned, store it properly in a pH neutral dress box.

celebrity wedding on vintage wedding dress

Bridal wedding celebrity wedding on vintage wedding dress

bravura Collection wedding dres

bravura Collection wedding dress - Pictures - Wedding

Wedding Dresses on weird wedding

Wedding Dresses on weird wedding

Best Wedding Dress at New Years 2010

Best on sale wedding dresses at new years collection with vera wang designer oscar gown wedding

Wedding Gowns - After the Event

"white wedding gown"

So many brides spend literally thousands of dollars on perfect wedding gowns, that it can seem a real shame just to discard their precious wedding gowns, after the day is done. But, let's face it, when else would you actually have the opportunity to wear a wedding dress? So, unfortunately, most wedding gowns simply end up in storage; there must be a better way.

Wedding Gowns Through the Generations

Fashion does come and go, and wedding gowns are no exceptions. You may find that within a couple of decades old wedding gowns come back into fashion and are often of considerable sentimental value. So store your gown wisely and you may get to see your daughter or grand-daughter enjoying the same dress, in years to come.

wedding gowns

romantic wedding dresses

If you have opted for one of the simple wedding gowns that are classical and dateless, the chances of your gown being worn by future generations, is even greater. Don't be embarrassed to mention your stored wedding gown to the younger members of your family; they may be delighted to save some money and to carry on a family tradition.

Altering Wedding Gowns

Another popular choice involves altering wedding gowns, so that they can be used as other dresses or items of clothing. This is a particularly good idea if you have chosen one of the two-piece wedding gowns that are currently very popular. With these types of wedding gowns it is particularly easy to use either the top or bottom of the dress as a separate item of clothing.

modern wedding dresses

women wedding dresses

If you have chosen a one-piece wedding gown, then you can still ask a seamstress to split the bodice from the skirt part of the dress, in order to create two different items of clothing that can be used, on other smart occasions.

Other Ideas for Wedding Gowns

Many wedding gowns end up being sold after the big day. This is a great way to supplement the initial costs of married life; it also provides others with an opportunity to purchase a cheap wedding gown.

bridal gowns

elegant bridal gowns

If you are feeling a little more giving, then why not donate your wedding gown to a local charity? By giving your wedding gown to a charity you can feel that you are really helping out, whilst also clearing some space in your home.

For those who choose to throw away their old wedding gowns, it is advisable that you keep a small section of the material, so that you can put it in your wedding album as part of your wedding memories.

Wedding gowns are such an important part of the wedding day that deciding what to do with your gown after the big event should be a matter of priority.