BRIDESMAID TRENDS FOR SUMMER 2013

Bridesmaid dresses are always a hot topic. Often the object of ridicule, the bridesmaid dress is an easy target.  Don't believe me? Watch the movie 27 Dresses.  They are something people love to hate. However, the trends for Summer 2013 bridesmaid dresses might just be pretty, fresh and modern enough, to turn it all around. 

Trend #1 An Illusion: Dramatic, sexy and very popular, illusion necklines add intrigue to these new looks for bridesmaids.

Trend #2 One-Shoulder Winners: Hardly a brand new trend, the one-shoulder look is particularly popular this year.  

Trend #3 Razzle Dazzle Red:  Fire engine red is not just for the bride this year.  Cute cherry colored dresses add a pop to any wedding and bolder hues are dramatic and daring.

Trend #4 Pretty Peplums:  Hugely popular for bridal gowns this year.  Pretty peplums add both oomph and poise to bridesmaid dresses.

Trend #5 Gray Day:  There's nothing gloomy about gorgeous gray dresses for summer.

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: THE WHITE ROOM

Mr Burch Formal Wear has the distinct privilege of working with some of Birmingham’s best wedding vendors and and venues.  We would like to take this opportunity to spotlight:  The White Room.

 

 

 

Carolyn  Kelley, founder and owner, is the driving force behind The White Room.  Carolyn drove by a building in Helena in October 2004 and saw it was for rent.  She called her daughter Cathy to share her thoughts about opening a bridal salon.  January 2, 2005,  The White Room opened with dresses in the store.  Cathy continued her corporate day job for a while and worked with Carolyn nights and weekends.  The two worked side by side seeing brides every Saturday.  Eventually, Cathy transitioned to work at the bridal salon full time and became the customer service expert while Carolyn remained the talented seamstress who makes ALL the alterations.    The two have a  unique relationship and love working together.  

 

 

What makes you different?

 

The White Room is all about the bride.  They invest profit back into the shop in order to give their brides more options and a greater quantity to choose from.  Carolyn is the alterations department and constantly gives so bride will feel extra special and really love what she has.

 

 

How / when should a bride select a dress?
Most girls get engaged and then the best friend calls 6 shops to schedule appointments  The bride might not be ready and  you shouldn't force her.   The bride will get to the dress in her time, usually after she has selected a venue.

 

 

If you haven't had the opportunity, you might want to check out the new Sale Room.  It's for any bride who wants a couture dress but doesn't have $7,000 to spend.  The Sale Room is open Tuesday - Saturday from 10am-6pm with no appointment needed.  If a bride is willing to buy a dress off rack and have alteration, she can save thousands of dollars.

KIDS AT WEDDINGS: PROS VS. CONS

Now is the height of wedding season.  The weather is beautiful, flowers are blooming and brides are getting ready to walk down the aisle. You might be considering having a child or children in your wedding party.  An adorable round face might be hard to resist.  Before you go shopping for that mini tuxedo, take a look at some of the pros and cons of having a child in your wedding party.

Pros

Children are adorable in their cute little outfits. 

People love seeing their children participate in the wedding ceremony.

No one will be offended their child was invited.

Family photo’s look great with funny kid pictures.

Children make people laugh during ceremonies.

It makes memories for the children and is a great way to include them.

Weddings are family celebrations and having young and old makes for wonderful memories.

Cons

If you don’t invite children, you might upset family members who disagree with your “adult only wedding”

Children cry, scream and throw tantrums. It's not so cute when it happens during your vows.

Children get bored and sitting still during first dances, speeches and dinner isn’t always easy.

Some parents feel letting their child run around the dance floor while guests are dancing is okay.  But is that ok with you and your other guests?

Guests might leave early because “little Johnny needs to go to bed”.  You spent a lot of money on your big day so it might be nice if your guests to stay until the end.

It’s not uncommon for the cute little flower girl to break into tears at the top of the aisle and refuse to walk.

Kids break things.  How much did that centerpiece cost?

Children fight with each other - yes even at weddings.

Photos can be difficult with a tired child that you're trying to keep clean.

Of course, it's your wedding so it comes down to your own personal preference.  You might consider letting your younger (under the age of 3) children stay home.  There are always other options for those children you really want to involve.  Instead of participating in the ceremony, why not have the little girls hand out bird seed or bubbles for your departure?  This involves them and gives them something to do during the reception.  Ready to rent that mini tuxedo?  Give us a call at (205) 252-3600 and let us help with your wedding.

WEDDING BOUTONNIERE TRENDS FOR 2013

Wedding season 2013 is in full swing, and trends abound this year as much as they did last year. This year, one of the trends that stands out the most are different boutonnieres on whatever the guys are wearing. Whether a casual beach wedding or an elegant affair at church, all grooms, groomsmen, and special male family members are usually outfitted with boutonnieres to denote their importance to the event.

Traditionally, a groom has worn a flower on his lapel to match the colors of his bride's bouquet and her overall décor. However, boutineers like all other wedding elements are changing to include more of the groom's desires as he becomes more and more involved in the wedding planning process.

Wedding season 2013 brings lots more wearable flowers for men and women alike. Brides are seen wearing flowers in their hair and flower girls may have special skirt or sash flowers. Exotic blossoms and non-traditional foliage are paired with the usual suspects this season to create visual interest and defined lines. We are seeing all these trends for boutonniere as well.

Floral designers have been challenged and have succeded in “manning up” personal flowers for the guys. Boutonniere can represent personality by showcasing the groom's hobbies and intertests. Elements like suede, bark, brass and animal feathers are used to ground the pieces with more masculine tones. Earthy substances like pinecones, acorns, and cotton are used in the same way. Thistle, succulents and herbs still set the men's flowers apart while blending with the ladies.

Boutonniere are worn to set these special men apart from other wedding participants, and this year's floral trends do a great job in representing a man's point of view.

HOW TO BUY A TUXEDO

Now that you've weighed all your options and you know you’ll be using a tuxedo on at least a yearly basis, buying is definitely in your best interest. Here are some tips that will help you purchase a tuxyou’ll actually enjoy wearing.

1. It should be dark. Yes, you could creative and get the purple tuxedo, but black is a much more widely accepted tuxedo color. If not black, you might go with charcoal grey or midnight blue. 
2. Keep it light. Dancing and tuxedos go hand in hand. Consider wearing a  heavy tux that’ll have you sweating by the second song.
3. Come see a professional (Mr. Burch of course) As with any major purchase, you’re going to want to look around. Even if you fall in love with the first tux you see, try others. Of course our professional staff will there to help.
4. Consider buying a former rental tux. We take great care of of our rental tuxes.  Just be sure to try it on first and closely examine it for wear and tear.
5. Go for something simple. Tails and vests and other accessories can complicate a tux. Go for the simple but stylish bow tie plus cummerbund combination and you’ll never look out of place.
6. Buy the whole set together. The coat and trousers should come from the same designer and match each other perfectly. You’ll probably want to buy the shirt in the same place so you can make sure it goes well with the rest of the outfit.

Okay men, don't complain about buying a buying a tuxedo. After all, women need to buy formal dresses too, and they can’t get away with wearing the same one to every event as easily as you can with the same tux. So if you have lots of formal events in your future, take a day to do a bit of shopping and you’ll be ready for for any fancy shindig on a moment’s notice and for a lot less money than your rental-only friends.  For more information on buying a tuxedo, contact Mr. Burch at (205) 252-3602.

SHOULD YOU BUY OR RENT YOUR TUXEDO?

Most men will have the occasion to wear a tuxedo at least once in his life.  Maybe it was his high school prom or his wedding or the time you played James Bond’s for Halloween.  Buying a tuxedo when you’re still young and growing might not make financial sense, especially if you’re only going to need to wear one every few years or so.

If you're an adult, it might be time to consider if you should buy a tuxedo. The decision to buy a tuxedo should not be made lightly. After all, a tuxedo is likely to be one of the most expensive items a man will ever add to his wardrobe. When deciding if the time is right for you to buy a tuxedo, consider the following:

1. Will you need to use it at least three times in the next decade? Plan to make your tux last for a good 10 years or more. If you know you’ll need one at least three times in that period, you might be able to save money buying instead of renting.
2. Is it likely that I’ll grow significantly in the next 10 years? I would say that the mid-20s is a great time to buy a tuxedo. You’ve had your major growth spurts, you’re probably at a weight you can maintain easily, and the risk that you’ll outgrow the tuxedo is at a minimum.
3. Do I take good care of my clothes? If you’re the type of guy who doesn’t like to wash his clothes, iron, or even put them on a freaking hanger, you might still be better off renting a tux instead of buying one that will just be abused before you wear it for a second time.

Once you've taken a look at both options, you can make a better decision on buying versus renting.  No matter what you decide, Mr. Burch is here for you.  We're happy to help if you want to rent or buy. For more information on buying a tuxedo, contact Mr. Burch at (205) 252-3602

HOW TO PACK FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING

Destination weddings have become increasingly popular for all types of couples.  Whether it's your first-time wedding, your're renewing your vows or getting married for the second time, if you're considering the destination decision please read on for our list of 10 helpful tips on what to bring and how to pack.

1. Carry On Essentials

If you're getting married in a wedding dress, be sure to carry it with you.  Don't trust your dress to checked luggage.  Most airplanes have coat closets and will allow travelers to hang garment bags. Check with your airline.

Grooms should also carry the clothing needed for the ceremony.  You won't find many tuxedo rental shops in the islands. It is easiest to bring clothes with you. If you're traveling to another part of the country, check out our National Fit Network program.  It allows you to find a local retailer close to you to be fitted and then pick up your tuxedo when you get to your destination.  What could be easier than that?

Don't Forget the Documentation

Make sure that all the paperwork you'll need, including birth certificates and passports, if applicable — are in your hand luggage. Don't pack these in checked luggage!

2.  Looking Your Best

Many resorts have on-site beauty salons, so you can make sure your hair is perfect for your wedding day.  If you plan to do your own hair, be sure to check first on the electrical current and plugs at your destination. You may need to bring converters for hot rollers and other appliances. Many resorts also have on-site spas which can pamper you with a massage to work out the kinks from your flight.

3.  What Goes In The Suitcase?

Make sure you have wedding dress with the special undergarments that will be used for the big day. You should also pack the right type of shoes and you should consider the conditions that prevail at the place where you are going to have your wedding.

The grooms wedding attire, shoes and address book should also be part of the important destination wedding luggage. 

If you're heading to a tropical place, please understand your feet can be puffy as a result of the weather and after the long flight.

Don't forget to pack the rings and the guest book. This will be the center of attention and you may feel embarrassed to realize that your expensive ring has been left at home.

Whether your traveling to a special destination or getting married down the street, Mr. Burch is always proud to be included in the plans for your big day.  Come see us for your wedding tuxedo needs.

TOP 10 BEST PROM MOVIES

9.  ROMY AND MICHELE'S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION

8.  FOOTLOOSE

A city teenager moves to a small town where rock music and dancing have been banned, and his rebellious spirit shakes up the populace.

7.  GREASE

Good girl Sandy and greaser Danny fell in love over the summer. But when they unexpectedly discover they're now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance?

6.  PROM

A group of teenagers get ready for their high school prom.

5.  AMERICAN PIE

Four teenage boys enter a pact about prom night.

4.  NEVER BEEN KISSED

A journalist enrolls in her old highschool as part of her research for a story.

3.  SHE'S ALL THAT

A high school jock makes a bet that he can turn an unattractive girl into the school's prom queen.

2.  PRETTY IN PINK

A poor girl must choose between the affections of her doting childhood sweetheart and a rich but sensitive playboy.

1.  10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU

A new kid must find a guy to date the meanest girl in school, the older sister of the girl he has a crush on, who cannot date until her older sister does.

SOCK GUIDE FOR FORMAL WEAR

Mr. Burch knows that different types of socks exist by the dozen, in a variety of fibers, cuts, colors, and patterns. This overwhelming selection of styles and colors might explain why so many men have a hard time picking socks that match what we're wearing. In addition, matching socks is often perceived as a trivial part of the whole grooming process. But the reality is improper coordination of socks can easily spoil your look, no matter how handsome and well-dressed you are.

MATCHING 101

As a general rule, you should match your socks to your shoes in order to create a flawless look from cuff to toe. It's all about ensuring a smooth transition between your pants, socks and shoes.

For example, if you're wearing beige pants with brown shoes, you should wear a pair of regular brown, light brown or dark beige socks, or even a pair of patterned socks that blends any combination of these colors. Wearing socks in shades that complement your trousers and shoes will avoid any stark contrast between them and enhance your overall look.

Note: Unless you're going to the gym or wearing white patent leather shoes with a white tux, there's no reason for you to wear white socks ever again. Following this rule alone will keep the fashion police off your tail more often than not.

FINISHING TOUCHES

How can you make your socks flow with the rest of your attire without sticking to more conservative solids?

The key is to mix up the color schemes in your socks and match them to the rest of your outfit without making a fashion blunder. You can do that by simply matching the colors in your socks' pattern to another article of clothing you're wearing.

Dressy
Match the pattern in your socks to your shirt, tie or even the pinstripes in your suit. For example, if you're wearing a black suit with a red tie and black shoes, you can wear black socks that feature a subtle red argyle pattern or polka dots. As long as the background color of your socks matches your shoes, this rule is always a safe bet.

In more formal settings, black over-the-calf stretch nylon cotton or wool socks are fitting. You should also know socks should extend over your calves any time you're wearing a tie. This prevents any part of your bare leg from being exposed while seated and puts an end to occasional tugging, which is inexcusable.

Casual
The same matching rule applies for casual attire.  Pair the colors of your socks' pattern to another part of your outfit. For example, if you're wearing classic blue jeans, black shoes and a white T-shirt, then opt for solid black socks or a black pair that features a subtle blue pattern. Remember, you can match the patterns in your socks to your top, belt or jacket, so long as the background matches your shoes.

Sporty
Finally, when it comes to athletic socks, white is fine but you can add a cool touch to your look by matching the lines or logo featured on your socks to your shorts or T-shirt. Gray socks are also a safe and stylish option for sportswear.

Mr. Burch Formal Wear is always ready to help.  If you're still in doubt about your footwear selection, just contact us.

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: COATS CLASSIC CARS

Mr Burch Formal Wear has the distinct privilege to work with some of Birmingham’s best wedding vendors and venues.  We would like to take this opportunity to spotlight:  Coats Classic Cars.

 Caroline

From the time he was old enough to grab a steering wheel, James Coats was fascinated with cars. During high school, he worked for a retired gentlemen who restored old cars and airplanes and he was hooked.  At 16 James bought first antique car and got into the business of fixing up, buying, selling and restoring cars for others.  In 2000, the day before his 18th birthday, James drove his first wedding.  

Quickly, 10 weddings per year turned into 25, 25 into 50, and 50 into 150. James closed the restoration shop and focused on weddings.  Coats Classic Cars is now the largest vintage limousine service in the Southeast, and the only full-time, fully-professional vintage limousine service in Alabama.  They had over 150 weddings last year, plus photo displays and antique car events.

 Catherine

Jack

Eleanor