Frederick's of Hollywood Blog

With wedding season kicking into high gear, chances are if you’re not a bride, you’ll probably be invited to at least one wedding in the coming months. Refinery29 has three hairstyle D.I.Y’s ranging from simple to complex that will help to get you to the party in tip-top condition. Read on for pictures and links and once you’ve found your favorite, get the full step-by-step tutorial here.

Photo via refinery29.com.

A retro updo that channels the classic chignon with a fresh spin, this ‘do strikes us as utterly gorgeous for an evening event. Elegant, polished and relatively simple, this would even work as a bridesmaid’s look for your big day. See the back view here.

Photo via refinery29.com.

This style deserved to be seen from the back! With intricate weaving, braids and incredible texture, this look is begging for a casual reception or beach wedding. We may even steal this for summer weekends when we’re feeling more inspired than a simple ponytail. Head here to see the front and to find out how to recreate this stunning updo.

Photo via refinery29.com.

Sweet, cute and completely charming: There are not enough adjectives to describe how much we love this! It’s pretty universally agreed upon around the office that sometimes having shorter hair can be a drag when it comes to getting gussied up (though having long hair has pitfalls as well). A shaggy bob may be the perfect cut for every day, but we’ve definitely felt the envy that comes from watching our girlfriends throw their hair up in a sleek topknot. Luckily this style is quick and easy, even for the most hair-challenged among us!

What’s your go-to gala hairdo?

It’s the third week of our wedding series and we’re getting a little crafty. For the bride who’s into D.I.Y. planning a wedding can be an exciting time. Even if handmade isn’t really your thing, creating your own bouquet can be a great way to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Photo via abeautfulmess.typepad.com

While making your own seems easy, there are some tips and tricks to getting it right. TheKnot has a pretty straight forward tutorial on creating a classic domed bouquet that will compliment most gowns. If you’re less of a traditional bride and want more fun options, Elsie from abeautifulmess, has created probably the easiest (and sweetest) set of instructions to make the most darling bouquet.  And if you’re feeling particularly inspired, you can check her D.I.Y. boutenierres here.

Photo via abeautifulmess.typepad.com

The basic supplies you will need:

*Variety of flowers in your color story

*Scissors

*Floral Wire

*Floral Tape

*Ribbon

*Glue Gun

1. Cut the flower stems to a 45 degree angle and begin to strip all the leaves or thorns from the stems and wrap each one in floral tape.
2. Pick your center flower and slowly work your way around the bouquet, adding one flower at a time until you’re satisfied with the size.
3. Wrap the stems in floral tape. Cover it the ribbon or lace of your choice.
4. Add any accents you’ve picked out like feathers, vintage brooches or other pieces that match your theme
5. The base of your bouquet is now ready to be wrapped in floral tape to finish it off. At this point you can add streamers of ribbon or lace if you’d like.

Of course, depending on how comfortable you are with crafting you don’t have to add any accents at all. It’s totally up to you and your comfort level!

Photo via abeautifulmess.typepad.com

It’s important to store your bouquet properly. Wrap the stems in tissue and keep it in the refrigerator to keep the flowers looking beautiful. Or, do a few practice runs until you feel at ease and make it the morning of your wedding for the absolute freshest bouquet.

Even though it might seem intimidating, there is nothing that could make your big day more you than a few personal touches. And nothing is lovelier than a beaming bride holding a bouquet of fresh flowers!

Welcome to the first installment of our wedding series! We’re going to be offering tips for brides-to-be, DIY ideas, picking out the perfect shapewear and of course, what to wear on the honeymoon. Today we’re going to explore how to showcase your unique style through accessories. Once you’ve picked out your dress it’s time to start thinking of the accents to make your look complete. Whether you are going the more traditional route and want to stick with something simple or if you want a little more glitz, Frederick’s has amazing options starting well below $50.

Clockwise from left: Wrapround Gemstone Sandal, Rhinestone Teardrop Sandal, Rhinestone T Strap Sandal, and our Crisscross Glitter Stiletto.

One of the hot bridal trends for 2012 is a touch of glitter. Adding a pair of sparkling shoes can be a glamorous addition to a classic gown—and it’s the perfect way to give a nod to contemporary style without losing the timeless appeal. Another big trend seen at trade shows this year is the return of red-carpet worthy jewels. If your dress is relatively unembellished, use it as an opportunity don a pair shoulder grazing rhinestone earrings or go bolder with a statement-making necklace. If you’ve picked a Full-Skirt or a Princess gown with lots of detailing, keep it simple with a sparkling anklet or cocktail ring.

Clockwise from left: Rhinestone Double Heart Anklet, Rhinestone & Chain Heart Duster Earring and our Rhinestone Loop Necklace .

The key here is to find a way to incorporate you + fashion-forward aspects without completely overwhelming the look. A helpful way to ensure that doesn’t happen is to ask yourself—would I wear this again? Imagine your shoes or jewelry with a pair of jeans or fancy little cocktail dress—are they your style? It’s a great way to avoid falling into the pitfall of buying items simply because you feel you must. Being true to what you love when you buy and the confidence you feel will shine forth on your big day.

Share your tips on shopping for wedding accessories in the comments below!