The Anti Bridezilla!

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Stand Out Brides with The Atelier

Not every bride wants to follow the trends. So, it's always nice to include a designer or two who zigs when everyone else zags.

The Atelier Couture, helmed by Jimmy Choo bucked trends this market by focusing on true princess ball gowns that are guaranteed to have your wedding dress break the internet.

Inspired by the Shakespearian era, this Elizabethan gown features fan-shaped beaded appliques throughout the skirt.

Florals are the star of this show with a gown featuring an oversized floral accent in the bustle.

A gown fit for a queen featuring a monarch train, an accented bustle and a gorgeous beaded skirt.

A structured overlap bodice with an open back is paired with a full skirt and train, and a pop of design in the front.

For more images from this collection visit www.theateliercouture.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Dramatic Sleeves with Savannah Miller

By now you've probably figured out that bold sleeves were one of the main trends for next Spring's bridal collections. And Savannah Miller took it to the next level with these ultra dramatic sleeves that took simple silhouettes to the next level.

A daring plunging open back sheath design is all business in the front and accented with floor sweeping sleeves.

Detached sleeves up the ante for this classic strapless sweetheart neckline sheath featuring a silk panel in the skirt.

For more looks from this collection visit www.savannahmiller.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Modern Brides with Romona Keveza Collection Bride

Romona Keveza is another one of my faves who's presentations I love to attend. While she didn't offer in-person showings this market, she did release both her Collection Bride and Legends collection images.

Her Collection Bride vignette featured wearable modern designs perfect for the fashion forward bride.

An asymmetrical off the shoulder neckline and optional sleeves creates a stunning effect for this classic sheath silhouette.

Puffed structured sleeves combine with a sleek sheath for the perfect blend of vintage and modern style.

For more images from this collection visit www.romonakeveza.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Structured Shoulders with Reem Acra

Sleeves absolutely dominated bridal looks this season. And there was a definite '80s influence in many collections thanks to bold buffed sleeves and structured shoulders.

Reem Acra fully committed to creating a modern iteration of this iconic '80s trend to make it more wearable and less over the top.

A strategically draped structured bodice is paired with puffed off the shoulder sleeves. An a-line silhouette and a dramatic cathedral overskirt train complete this look.

Modest brides don't have to be boring with these structured floral shoulders.

A fully floral a-line gown lets you channel your inner '80s girl with a floral applique puff structured shoulder.

For more looks from this collection visit www.reemacra.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: One Shoulder Fantasies with Mira Zwillinger

Every bridal market there are always a few trends that you see grace every collection you see. And this year, the focus was on sleeves and one shoulder necklines.

Mira Zwillinger's S/S '23 collection featured plenty of one shoulder numbers that are perfect for a bride who wants to break out from the traditional strapless sweetheart neckline.

Soft shell fabric appliques and a drapey one shoulder overlay make a traditional sweetheart neckline modern when paired with an a-line silhouette.

Large tonal floral appliques and a sheer long sleeve one shoulder bodice create an eye-catching design that's perfect for destination brides.

A simple a-line silhouette gets the modern treatment with a 3D one shoulder bodice and a soft overlay layer throughout the skirt.

For more from this S/S '23 collection visit www.mirazwillinger.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Convertible Brides & Bold Sleeves with Justin Alexander

Convertible wedding dresses have been trending for quite some time, but they're still a fan favorite for a reason — because they let you get more mileage out of your bridal fashion investment.

Meanwhile, this season detachable — as well as more stylized — sleeves continued to be a trending theme featured in nearly every designer's collection who presented during NYBFW.

This classic sweetheart neckline ballgown gets a 2023 update with these detached puff sleeves.

One dress worn two ways. A frothy overskirt makes this a great option for a more traditional bridal style during your ceremony. Meanwhile, the sleek main trumpet silhouette creates a more wearable style with a modern illusion lace bodice that you won't mind rocking during the reception.

For more S/S'23 from this collection, visit www.justinalexander.com

For more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage visit Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Minimalist Modern Brides with Justin Alexander

Justin Alexander is one of my faves who's runway show I normally attend in a pre-pandemic market. While he didn't do a presentation or runway show this season, he did release a new collection which was equal parts modern minimalist and floaty classic bride.

A thigh-high split, draped one shoulder neckline, and a smooth silhouette combine for a modern bridal look that's timeless.

This sleek a-line ballgown features a wide bow accent in the back, and a structured waist — all in a gorgeous mikado silk fabric.

Illusion lace creates a dramatic back wrapped in a bow, complete with a faux plunging neckline in the front.

If you prefer Old Hollywood vibes, this faux backless long sleeved fit & flare gown features a chapel train, structured bodice, and a smooth silhouette.

For the full S/S '23 collection visit www.justinalexander.com

Check out my full coverage of NYBFW S/S '23 on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Soft Silhouettes with Dana Harel

While some brides love a structured look, you're just as likely to see soft silhouettes dominate this fashion category. Dana Harel's S/S '23 collection offers plenty of frothy styles that are perfect for a bride that wants a softer look.

Soft feathered beading and a plunging v-neck on this sheath with a chapel train creates plenty of visual interest to take a classic silhouette to the next level.

A strappy molded bodice combines with a layered and frothy skirt to create curves and a floaty visage.

Lace appliques and a structured bodice combine to create an ethereal effect with this strapless gentle sweetheart neckline fit & flare gown.

For more from the S/S '23 collection visit www.danahareldesign.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

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NYBFW S/S '23: Return of the Boho Bride with Costarellos

If we're being totally honest, boho brides have never really gone anywhere as long as there's a bride-to-be who wants to create a whimsical theme for her wedding.

But structured and siren song bridal fashion has been having a moment the last few seasons. If this style didn't speak to you, you'll love the softer look of these boho-inspired gowns from Costarellos.

A soft balance between the thigh-high slits and plunging necklines that dominated most bridal collections this season and a soft silhouette that's often seen in bohemian bridal fashion.

A classic laid back bridal boho look complete with lace detailing, dreamy draping, and soft silhouettes.

A floating gown, bell sleeves, and lace overlay combine to create a boho interpretation of Victorian inspired style.

For more looks from this S/S '23 collection, visit www.costarellos.com

See more of my NYBFW S/S '23 coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Bold Trains & Ballgowns at Ines Di Santo

One thing I can always expect when I go to an Ines Di Santo runway show or presentation is are voluminous ballgowns and extended trains that will have heads turning. Below are some of my favorite looks from her S/S '23 presentation.

Bell sleeves combine with a princess-style ballgown and are balanced by a crossbody off-the-shoulder neckline.

A sleek sweetheart neckline mermaid with a tonal floral print is paired with a gathered cathedral train.

Delicate frothy tiers, a cathedral train, and a modern one-shoulder sweetheart neckline combine for an unforgettably bold ballgown.

A tiered and pleated floral overskirt helps this classic sweetheart neckline ballgown give you plenty of back appeal for the ceremony.

For more of the S/S '23 collection visit www.inesdisanto.com

See more of my NYBFW coverage on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: A Touch of Color with Ines Di Santo

While I didn't attend as many shows and appointments as I normally do for a non-pandemic NYBFW market, I did decide to attend my faves this season. And I loved that I got to kick off my first day at Ines Di Santo — one of my favorite couture bridal designers. I can always rest assured that this mother-daughter duo will bring the drama with their collection and always infuse it with plenty of color.

Loving the 3D floral appliques on this gorgeous off the shoulder ballgown.

A hand-painted floral pattern in the overskirt is paired with a cute above-the-knee style with a plunging neckline. See this dress in action here.

Check out the full S/S '23 collection at www.inesdisanto.com

And see more of my coverage of NYBFW on Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Trending Styles with Yumi Katsura

Only a few appointments into market I could tell that there were going to be a few main trends for the S/S '23 bridal season — bold sleeves and thigh-high slits. And Yumi Katsura didn't disappoint in that department!

This is such a cute sweetheart neckline mermaid gown. Better still, those dreamy sleeves are optional and take this wedding dress to a whole new level.

A soft A-line gown creates the perfect balance between a sleek off the shoulder boat neckline and a racy front slit.

A bold color print combines with off the shoulder sleeves, a subtle v-neck, and romantic sleeves for a show stopping gown. This was definitely one of my favorites from this collection.

I loved the combination of the wide-set pleating in the bodice, the overlapping slit in the skirt, and the soft a-line style makes this a gown that will definitely tun heads.

For more looks from the Yumi Katsura S/S '23 collection, visit www.yumikatsuracouture.com.

And for more of my NYBFW coverage, check out my Instagram @theantibridezilla.

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Sophisticated Brides with Yumi Katsura

Yumi Katsura has always been one of my favorite bridal designers since I first started The Anti Bridezilla back in 2013. This season they created a curated collection that featured timeless designs with modern touches that can easily take you from the wedding aisle to the reception.

Like this gorgeous convertible gown with a removable overskirt. And P.S.: check out that adorable crystal bow belt which can be paired with other Yumi Katsura gowns as well.

A classic sweetheart neckline mermaid gown with a tiered train that pairs perfectly with a floral veil.

A sleek trumpet gown that looks perfect with this caped twist on a classic veil.

For more looks from the Yumi Katsura S/S '23 collection, visit www.yumikatsuracouture.com

And for more TAB coverage of NYBFW S/S '23 follow my Instagram @theantibridezilla

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S '23: Classic Brides with Anne Barge

One thing I always love about Anne Barge is that she always channels a classic bridal look. And this season didn't disappoint. There were quite a few beautiful vintage-inspired looks that graced the presentation at her show.

To check out the full Anne Barge collection, visit her website.

For more NYBFW S/S '23 coverage, be sure to check out my Instagram @theantibridezilla.

[theantibridezilla]

NYBFW S/S ‘23: Convertible Brides with Anne Barge

It feels so good to have in-person bridal market back after two years of digital-only “showings! And yes, I’m officially back as well after a very long hiatus! I kicked off market with a presentation at Anne Barge for her Spring/Summer ‘23 collection. And a definite style that continues to delight is the convertible wedding dress. 

These gowns are perfect for brides that want to create a dramatic entrance during their ceremony but still want a wearable gown for their reception. 

For the full S/S ‘23 collection visit Anne Barge.

For more highlights and coverage from NYBFW check out my Instagram @theantibridezilla. 

[theantibridezilla]

SmileDirectClub Updates: Refinements Part 2

It’s been a while since I came to you guys with a written update about my SDC process. But if you’ve been following me on Instagram, and specifically IGTV, I’ve been giving updates. 

The Refinement Plan Progress

When I last wrote an update, I had just received my sets of refinement trays and was starting on Month 1/Week 1 of a 2 month plan. Unfortunately, as I got towards the end of my plan in February, it looked like there had been no movement in my upper teeth to close that final gap. Instead, most of the movement was happening in my lower row as the trays worked to correct a tooth that had been over-corrected in the original smile plan. 

Back to the Drawing Board

So I made an appointment, and went to a Smile Shop in Hoboken on February 27th for another scan. But this time, I decided to be smart and I coordinated with the PR team so that I wouldn’t be left on an indefinite wait. I was approved for additional refinements and on March 2nd I got my recommended smile plan. Again, it was going to be a 2 month process. However this time, thanks to coordinating with the PR team, I received my aligners on March 9th. But I ended up catching the flu that week and was so sick that I didn’t start my refinement plan until March 13th. 

The Second Refinement Plan

So as of today (March 27th), I am going to start my Month 1 Week 3/4 aligners. Just like with my previous smile plan, this will also be a 1 / 1 / 2 format where I have a set for each of the first two weeks, and then one set for the final two weeks of the month. At the end of the Week 3/4 set, I’ll be halfway through my plan. And by May 8th, I’ll hopefully be done for good, and only need retainers to keep my new smile! 

Results So Far

Now that I’m halfway through the first month, I can clearly see movement. While I do still have a very tiny gap, it’s shrunk significantly. So, I’m very optimistic that by May my smile will be perfect. 

To see the full progression of my SDC Smile Journey, click here.

And if you’re thinking of doing SmileDirectClub and want to save money, use code TABSMILES and you can choose between a free Smile Shop Scan or 50% off the cost of an Impression Kit, and save $100 on aligners. Head on over to www.smiledirectclub.com to start your smile journey!  

My SDC smile journey is part of an influencer campaign where I received complimentary teeth straightening in exchange for my reviews. 

[theantibridezilla]

Protect Your Eyes with These Blue Light Blocking Must Haves

Unless you’re living a true simple life, you probably spend a lot of time in front of a screen. And before you think this is a post where I admonish you for not “really living life”, that’s not what this article is about. Instead, this is an admonishment to focus on your eye health. Whether you spend all day staring at your mobile phone or you work in front of a computer or tablet, your eyes and face are suffering from a constant assault of blue light.

What’s Blue Light?

Without getting into a science lesson, let’s just say that blue light is literally everywhere, and is even emitted by the sun. While moderate amounts of blue light are beneficial (much like how sunlight can provide Vitamin D), getting too much blue light can be especially bad for your eyes and encourage eye problems like eye strain or macular degeneration.

Avoiding Blue Light Backlash

If you spend a lot of time in front of screens (like most of us do), you should prioritize protecting your eye health. So, something I recently did was pick up a few blue light blocking glasses. These are non-prescription frames that have a protective blue-light blocking layer. As someone who already underwent LASIK several years ago, I don’t need prescription frames. But I noticed recently that my eyes were feeling strained — especially because I spend hours in front of my laptop to write articles for my bylined work.

But then a few weeks ago, the team at Derma’e sent me their Blue Light Shield Spray and Serum. I love these products because they’re designed with blue green algae extract, activated charcoal, and ginseng root extract to protect your skin from free radicals and to help detoxify your skin. The shield spray and concentrated serum are both infused with hyaluronic acid to also give you a hydration boost.