FATHER of the BRIDE [Umit Benan]

Since dad is likely footing the bill for these elaborate wedding events, it's only fitting that he be [nearly] as well fitted as the bride, especially if he's giving her away. Something with very classic bones and a modern fit works best; think traditional, but not dated. Look to designers like Tom Ford and Umit Benan for inspiration. Benan's eponymous brand specializes in updated classics, and the designer recently took the helm at Trussardi 1911. Check out a few looks from his Fall 2011 presentation.

La Luna de Miel [Jumby Bay Island]

MOTHER of the BRIDE [VALENTINO]

As much as we think the wedding is all about the bride, in reality, it is about the entire family; a point the mother of the bride will make, no doubt. With that in mind here are some options for the slightly more mature family member, who wants to stand out, but not upstage the bride. Valentino has been working with a very feminine aesthetic that naturally leans towards matronly and traditional. Normally, matronly is not a compliment, but it has found it's appropriate audience in the bride's mother. On these shoes, the heels are not too high, and the designs are not too youthful, but there is just the right amount of drama to make mom feel comfortable to gloat for just a moment on what a beautiful bride she has raised. Check out the choices below.

The Rehearsal Dinner

As the impending nuptials approach, it is time for the rehearsal dinner. The bride has remained devoted to her white/neutral palette in shameless reference to her title as fiancée. For dinner, she pairs a grecian style satin gown with byzantine jewelry, a snake skin clutch and crystal heeled sandals. Anticipation builds as we await the wedding day ensemble, but our appetites are sated for now...

The Rehearsal Dinner by CazAntonio featuring crystal heels

LOVE is Like the SEA [Elie Saab Fall 2011 Couture]

Embellished gowns and cocktail dress were the look at Elie Saab's couture showing for the fall 2011 season. It's hardly a new look for the seasoned designer, but that is not to say that the collection wasn't fresh. A lightness permeated his dresses, with tons of sheer fabrics and a largely pale color palette; the wind machine made it's contribution as well. There were some obvious wedding worthy pieces for both bridesmaids and brides, though I'm not particularly fond of his wedding dress closer; it's always the same  big overdone princess dress with elaborate vail. In that vein, Saab often comes under fire from critics who cite his work as predictable and static; and while his garments lack the "diversity" you'd find at Marc Jacobs or Louis Vuitton, that certainly does not lower his stock. Saab knows his customer well and he caters to her tirelessly, creating romantic, feminine dresses that will ultimately stand the tests of time. 

You Had Me @ Hello [Alexander McQueen]

Alexander McQueen gives your feet a lesson in whimsy with these cascading resin leaf wedges. Aside from being just plain beautiful, the structural and architectural influences in the design are remarkable. These wedges are the perfect complement for a whimsical wedding look.

 

The Bridal Shower

For her bridal shower look, our bride sticks to a traditional motif, with a strapless tiered organza dress, vintage diamond drop earrings and lace pumps. A chunky bracelet and elaborate clutch round out this look. Make up should be warm, but still light and hair pulled back into a high, loosely-curled ponytail. 

The Bridal Shower by CazAntonio featuring satin pumps

Sheer Genius [Givenchy Fall 2011 Couture]

Givenchy has done it again! Creative director Riccardo Tisci has delivered yet another phenomenal couture collection. With his unwaveringly singular vision, Tisci crafts whimsical, modern gowns using virtually every embellishment available. This season instead of elaborate futuristic headpieces, Tisci accessorizes his masterpieces with decadent clutches. Practicality aside, the clutches are genius. With a nearly exclusively white palette, it is an easy transition to bridal wear, but only the most daring of brides could manage a shameless walk down the aisle in one of these dresses.

You Must Not Know 'Bout Me [Beyoncé's Best Thing I Never Had]

Beyoncé moves on to greener pastures in the new clip for her latest single, Best Thing I Never Had. In the Diane Martel directed video, a scantily clad, pre-wedding Beyoncé reminisces on her failed high school relationship to find that it was the best decision she ever made. Over all the video is pretty underwhelming, but Beyoncé looks absolutely stunning (except for her Princess Laia coif).