Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle - The Stylish Bride

We are delighted to welcome Shayna, the editorial and social media manager for Over the Moon, as our guest.

Shayna joins us today to dive into the New York Bridal Fashion Week, one of the most exciting times of the year that is just around the corner!

Starting in the Bridal Industry

Shayna began her career in the bridal industry in 2019 through an internship at Over the Moon. While finishing her degree at The New School, she cold-emailed Alex, the brand founder, offering to work for free in exchange for the experience. That initiative led to her full-time role, where she now manages weddings, blogs, Instagram, and overall social media presence for the company.

Wedding Industry Dynamics

Shayna enjoys the wedding industry for its blend of pressure and personal storytelling. She is fascinated by how societal pressure influences couples' decisions and the image they project. She also loves hearing their stories and how they infuse personal details into their weddings.

Bridal Fashion Week and Trends

Bridal Fashion Week is held twice annually and sets the tone for bridal trends. Shayna has seen how social media speeds up the spread of trends, with new collections influencing weddings through 2025. Her team prepares for Bridal Fashion Week meticulously, scheduling content and attending shows that reflect the interests of their followers.

Bridal Market Insights

Shayna advises brides following Fashion Week to understand the timeline of the bridal industry. She explains that the collections shown during Fashion Week are typically for the following year, so brides should track trunk shows and stockists to access new collections. Instagram is also an excellent resource for following bridal accounts and seeing real brides wearing the latest trends.

Wedding Trends to Watch

Shayna feels we have seen too many bows, so she will not mind them going out of style. She loves Watteau trains, and pearl detailing has always been her favorite choice.

Advice for 2025 Brides

Shayna advises brides planning for 2025 to stay true to their style. She recommends testing new trends in everyday life to see if they work, ensuring that their wedding outfits highlight their true selves rather than trying to meet societal expectations.

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Over the Moon

Even though getting married again is more common than you might think, most wedding advice tends to focus on first-time brides.

So, today, we explore ways to find the ideal dress for your next walk down the aisle, regardless of how many times you may have done it before.

Join us for tips and guidance for finding the perfect dress for your next big day.

Dressing for Remarriage

With nearly half of all marriages ending in divorce, the chance of walking down the aisle again is high. However, there is little guidance for brides not getting married for the first time.

Wearing White for a Second Wedding

Whether or not to wear white again is a personal choice for the bride. Even though white is more traditional for first marriages, there are no hard and fast rules. The freedom of choice increases with a second wedding but could lead to decision fatigue. So, focus on whatever makes you feel best, whether traditional white or something bold and unique.

Wedding Dress vs. Ready-to-Wear

Many second-time brides opt for ready-to-wear outfits instead of traditional wedding dresses. Age and personal style play a role, with younger brides sometimes leaning more towards classic bridal gowns, while older brides might prefer something that feels more authentic to them, like a colorful, stylish, ready-to-wear dress. The key is finding something that resonates with your particular style and the atmosphere of your celebration.

Exploring Non-Traditional Colors

Wearing colors other than white is a growing trend, especially for second marriages. Historically, brides wore their best dress, often in colors like black, which was once considered luxurious. Today, however, brides can choose colors or bold patterns that reflect their personality and style while maintaining a sense of bridal elegance.

To Veil or Not to Veil?

Wearing a veil for a second wedding is entirely optional. While some brides may still enjoy the tradition of a veil, others prefer alternative accessories like a sheer cape or a chic fascinator. It is all about what feels authentic and complements your look.

Alternatives to Veils

For those who don’t want a traditional veil, capes, fascinators, or birdcage veils can add a touch of drama and elegance. Those alternatives allow brides the flair and flexibility to have a bridal moment without following conventional trends.

Favorite Second-Wedding Looks

Second weddings often allow for more creativity and personal expression. Brides have rocked everything from a stunning, colorful Oscar de la Renta gown at a Brooklyn disco-themed wedding to elegant, understated dresses that could feature on the red carpet. The focus has shifted from tradition to whatever feels comfortable for the bride and suits the mood of the occasion.

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Is someone you know getting married this fall?

With September weddings starting to happen almost as regularly as those in June, this is the perfect time for us to explore ways for you to turn heads as a wedding guest this season.

Join us for some stylish tips!

With September quickly becoming the new June for weddings, it is the perfect time to dress to impress as a guest this fall.

This fall is about embracing rich, moody styles, like dark florals that bring a touch of elegance, making a statement with bold reds, and using classic black and white combinations that never go out of style. Velvet is perfect for adding a luxury feel to your outfit, and animal prints that are more exciting than ever are back to bring a fun edge to your look.

The quiet luxury trend of this fall focuses on timeless, high-quality pieces that speak for themselves without the need for flashy logos. Quiet luxury is more about how well something fits and feels than the brand name, making it an understated way to express yourself fashionably.

Many people prefer fall and winter fashion more than summer outfits, and this fall, you get to bring out your more polished and sophisticated side. So, consider boots, dark colors, and a more structured look.

Dressing for fall weddings is all about putting in the effort to bring your A-game. Show respect for the couple by skipping the white and not wearing anything too revealing. Instead, create a classy look that fits the season, venue, and dress code.

Fall weather can be unpredictable, so layering is the answer. Rich fabrics and colors are perfect for the season, and you can complete your look with the right accessories to nail the fall vibe. Whether attending a wedding or updating your fall wardrobe, embrace this fall season confidently. Always remember that a well-chosen outfit can make any occasion feel special.

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Have you ever considered breaking away from the classic white bridal gown?

Today, we are discussing the non-traditional wedding dress, a trend that has been gaining more and more attention lately.

So, if you are a bride looking to stand out, this discussion is just for you!

A non-traditional wedding dress can be anything that is not from a wedding dress designer or dresses made by bridal designers that are not white. Historically, brides wore their best dresses, which were not necessarily white, and a shift is happening back to this mindset.

Non-traditional dresses can be more budget-friendly, allowing brides more freedom to expresstheir personalities uniquely.  Vintage dresses are growing in popularity due to their versatility and accessibility and the influence of social media trends.

Colors other than white, such as blush, silver, prints, and florals, are becoming more popular lately. Choosing a different color can make a bold statement that reflects the bride's personality.

The wedding dress color can influence the entire color palette of the wedding, making it a crucial decision. Brides should start with a shade that flatters their complexion while considering the wedding setting and overall vibe.

Brides can elevate a non-traditional wedding look with accessories that blend modern elements with timeless bridal touches. A well-chosen veil can instantly bring a bridal essence to any outfit. Gloves are making a stylish comeback. They add alayer of sophistication and a nod to classic bridal fashion. Statement jewelrycan also enhance the overall look, bridging the gap between unconventional attire and the traditional bridal aesthetic.

When brides choose to wear a non-traditional dress, it can be overwhelming as there are so many different options. When they opt for a non-traditional outfit, brides must be prepared for differing opinions from family and friends and stay confident in their choices.

The bride's opinion is the most important, especially if she pays for the dress. However, if someone else is financing the dress, the bride should consider their preferences. Crowdfunding could offer a different yet practical solution for making the dream dress affordable.

Julie loves the idea of a sleek, modern jumpsuit paired with classic accessories like a veil and gloves to create a unique bridal feel. Dee is drawn to colored gowns that break away from the classic white, especially when paired with bold, statement jewelry to make the look truly stand out.

Understand yourself and what makes you feel great. Explore what resonates with you while avoiding choices that might lead to regret. Find a dress that speaks to you, ensuring you feel confident and beautiful.

Consider non-traditional wedding dresses to reflect your true self. Explore unique options, stay confident in your choices, and use accessories to create a bridal look that is uniquely yours.

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Today, we explore a trend that has recently been causing a lot of excitement in the wedding fashion world.

Long-sleeved wedding gowns are making big waves among brides everywhere lately. From traditional lace to sleek contemporary looks, long-sleeved wedding dresses are a perfect mix of sophisticated elegance and charm, suitable for any season. Stay tuned to discover why long-sleeved wedding gowns are a timeless choice for any bride.

Long-sleeved wedding gowns are a big hit in the wedding fashion world. If you are considering this style, it is worth noting that these gowns offer a classic elegance that is making a comeback lately. Historically, long-sleeved dresses have always been a staple in bridal fashion, with timeless inspirations like Grace Kelly leading the way. Their renewed popularity is influenced by modern celebrities, bringing this sophisticated style back into the spotlight.

Recent celebrity weddings, like Olivia Culpo’s custom Dolce and Gabbana long-sleeved dress, highlight how this style makes waves. The key is to focus on what makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. Remember, it is your wedding day, so prioritize your preferences and block out external noise. Celebrity styles can inspire, but your choice should always reflect your taste.

When selecting accessories and veils to complement long-sleeved gowns, consider the type of sleeve you will wear. Heavier, opaque fabrics may require different accessory choices than sheer or embroidered styles. For example, sheer long sleeves, like those seen on Paris Hilton, offer a lighter, more versatile look that can influence how you choose your veil and other accessories.

Always align trends with your style. Before committing to a long-sleeved gown, try on different styles to see what resonates with you. Consider the weather and venue, and ensure the dress fits comfortably throughout your wedding day. Versatile options, like detachable sleeves or overlays, can allow you to adapt your look for comfort and weather conditions.

If you are worried about comfort or temperature, consider gowns with versatile elements like removable layers or accessories that can change your look. For instance, a lace overlay or a bolero can add long sleeves you can remove for a different appearance. That allows you to manage your style and comfort effectively throughout your wedding day.

Prioritize your comfort and personal style when choosing a long-sleeved gown. Consider how your everyday wardrobe preferences might influence your choice. Remember that adding fabric can sometimes create a bulkier look, so ensure the gown enhances your confidence. Remember, if you have any doubts, it is okay to explore other options to find what truly feels right for you.

If you are unsure about long sleeves, consider more versatile options, like sheer fabrics or detachable components. This way, you can adapt to different conditions while maintaining your desired look. Always remember to have a plan for comfort and style, and make sure your final choice makes you feel stunning and confident on your special day.

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We are delighted to welcome Christine Lindebak as our special guest today!

Christine is an American designer and fashion industry veteran who has worked for Emilio Pucci, Mulberry, and Alexis Bittar. She is the visionary designer behind Sewing in the City and the founder of Lindy Lindy, a brand whose premier collection redefines bridal fashion, featuring exquisite robes and two-piece loungewear sets crafted from vintage linens sourced in Spain.

Not only are her creations breathtakingly beautiful, but they are also sustainable. Join us for the insights and inspirations she shares with us today.

Passion for Vintage Linens

Christine's passion for vintage linens began during her childhood visits to antique stores with her mother. She developed a deep appreciation for the intricate embroidery and craftsmanship found in those timeless pieces, sparking her interest in embroidery techniques from a young age. Her love for vintage linens grew as she honed her skills as an embroiderer and designer, eventually leading her to explore their potential in creating unique bridal pieces.

Embroidery Mastery and Restoration Challenges

Discussing her expertise in restoring vintage linens and handling challenges like stains and tears, Christine highlights the delicate balance required between preserving the history of each piece of linen and incorporating creative solutions into her designs. She also shares how beautifully crafted hand embroidery adds charm to each piece she designs.

Design Process and Personalization

Christine elaborates on her design process, emphasizing her approach of letting the linens inspire the creation of new pieces. She blends traditional designs with modern adaptations, creating bridalwear exuding timeless elegance. She also explains how she adds personalized monograms or integrates vintage elements into her bespoke wedding attire for a touch of nostalgia.

Slow Fashion Advocacy and Sustainable Bridalwear

Christine advocates for slow fashion and sustainable bridalwear. She shares her vision of creating meaningful garments that brides can cherish beyond their wedding day, focusing on natural fibers and eco-friendly practices.

Empowering Local Seamstresses and Collaboration

Reflecting on her collaboration with sewers in Valencia, Spain, Christine highlights the empowering dynamic of women supporting women in her business. She shares stories of working closely with skilled artisans, learning from their expertise, fostering a sense of community within her brand, and how she loves seeing their collaborative efforts come to life in beautifully crafted bridal pieces.

Innovative Ventures and Bridal Fashion

Christine discusses her entrepreneurial journey, explaining how it began with her first business, Sewing in the City, culminating in her current venture with Lindy Lindy.

Teaching and Empowering Others

Christine is passionate about teaching and empowering others through her online sewing classes and tutorials. That prompted her to create a global community of sewing enthusiasts.

Collaborations Between Designers, Artisans, and Local Communities

Collaborations between designers, artisans, and local communities foster a sense of connection and empowerment. Christine integrates vintage linens and hand embroidery to add a timeless charm to her bridal collections, promising a future where tradition meets innovation. With a growing emphasis on sustainability and conscious consumerism, the bridal fashion industry is poised for transformative growth, offering brides choices that reflect their values, style, and stories.

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Contact Christine Lindebak:

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Email Christine at [email protected]

Today, we have a special episode dedicated to all our listeners who sent questions about the best-selling book Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle: Becoming a Stylish Bride.

In this episode, we dive into many things, from expert advice on crafting your perfect wedding fashion story to the fascinating journey of how Julie wrote her book. We even get into what the future holds for Julie and her team.

Stay tuned. This episode is one you will not want to miss!

For Julie, writing the book involved keeping notes, scrapbooking, and leveraging her vast experience. Her idea for the book began years ago, early in her career, when a publisher approached her. Over time, she accumulated knowledge and insights that built upon each other, which she meticulously documented and applied to her work.

Julie found the writing process personally rewarding, especially with the help of a colleague who refined her ideas. Overcoming her doubts and struggles with writing, she loved seeing the book completed and successful. Every chapter felt like a breakthrough for her entire team.

Her project manager advised Julie that the book would never feel fully completed. That guidance helped her finally submit the manuscript despite her perfectionistic tendencies. She felt relieved and satisfied after completing and releasing the book.

The book provides a comprehensive, in-depth guide from a unique perspective beyond most articles and posts.

Her extensive experience in the wedding fashion industry has given Julie a unique perspective on the psychological aspects of choosing a wedding dress. In her years of working closely with brides, she observed the emotional and mental processes that women go through when making wedding decisions, as selecting a wedding dress is not just about the dress itself but also how it makes the bride feel, reflecting her personality and dreams. Her book covers the impact of those psychological nuances, offering insights regarding shopping habits, decision-making styles, and body image perceptions.

The book is often gifted to newly engaged brides as it is an excellent resource for wedding planning. The book could get passed down, making it an enduring gift.

Julie has plans to create a course for brides, expanding on the content with more personalized guidance. This course will help brides requiring more interaction and detailed advice without opting for virtual styling services.

Julie hopes her book will promote inclusivity in the wedding industry, addressing issues like sizing and representation. She aspires for the industry to consider the psychological impact of their practices on brides, advocating for a more supportive and diverse approach.

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Did you know there is no inherent reason to avoid wearing red to weddings?

Red is a bold and beautiful color. However, there are several things to consider when wearing it to weddings. So, in this episode, we dive into the most suitable ways to wear red appropriately and tastefully when going to a wedding.

Wearing Red to a Wedding

When considering wearing something red to a wedding, it is essential to keep a few guidelines in mind to ensure it will be appropriate for the event.

Cultural Sensitivity

You may need to avoid wearing red to a wedding if it may conflict with cultural norms. So, before choosing to wear red to a wedding, especially one where your cultural traditions may differ, it is crucial to research and understand the significance of red within that culture. (For example, in the Chinese culture, red is traditionally reserved for the bride.)

Respect the Preferences of the Couple

Always consider the preferences of the couple getting married. If you are unsure about wearing red, it is always best to reach out and inquire first. Some couples may welcome bold fashion choices, while others may prefer guests to adhere to a more traditional dress code to maintain the atmosphere of the wedding.

Dress Appropriateness

Opt for a red dress that aligns with the formality and style of the wedding. Avoid overly revealing or casual attire. Choose well-tailored, sophisticated outfits in quality fabrics to maintain elegance and ensure that your attire complements rather than distracts from the wedding celebration.

Incorporating Red as an Accent

If you love red but are hesitant about wearing it prominently, consider incorporating it as an accent. Accessories like a red belt, shoes, or jewelry can add a pop of color without dominating your outfit. Combining red with other colors, like pink, can create a balanced and festive look suitable for a wedding.

Seasonal Considerations

Consider the season and setting of the wedding when choosing your red attire. Deeper shades like burgundy are ideal for fall and winter weddings, while lighter fabrics, like linen, can make red more appropriate for summer events. Adjusting the hue and fabric of your outfit can help ensure it harmonizes with the wedding theme.

Confidence and Consideration

Above all, wear your chosen outfit with confidence and consideration for the couple and the occasion. If you are doubtful about your attire drawing too much attention or getting perceived inappropriately, it is best to err on the side of caution. Always aim to celebrate the couple while feeling comfortable and stylish in whatever you choose to wear.

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Happy belated Father's Day to all the dads out there!

We are focusing on wedding fashion for fathers today. Instead of having our usual Q&A with Julie, we're bringing back a past episode where Julie had a fantastic conversation with Michael Andrews, an expert in gentlemen's formal wear, tuxedos, and fabulous suit fabrics. Michael founded Michael Andrews Bespoke in 2006 to help professionals always look their best.

In this episode, we revisit the insightful questions Julie asked Michael a few years back. Their discussion remains a valuable resource for styling all the men in your life, as Julie referenced in Chapter 13 of her book Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle.

Join us for all the tips and tricks you need to ensure that the fathers in your wedding party look their absolute best on the big day!

What an incredible episode this was! We hope it helps anyone navigating wedding fashion for fathers. For more information on grooms and groomsmen, tuxedos, and formal wear, check out Chapter 13 of Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle, now available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

As always, if you have any follow-up questions, send us an email or a DM on Instagram. See you next time!

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Today, we are thrilled to explore the process behind Julie’s new book, Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle: Becoming a Stylish Bride, which has already achieved Amazon Best Seller status.

Join us as we dive into the inspiration, challenges, and insights behind Julie's journey toward creating this essential guide for brides-to-be.

Julie and Dee are super-excited about the release of Dressed, Styled, and Down the Aisle: Becoming a Stylish Bride. Julie finds it quite surreal to finally have the book come to fruition after many years of anticipation and hard work.

Julie is thrilled and humbled by the overwhelming support and pre-orders, which have surpassed all her expectations.

A publisher approached Julie several years ago to write a book, but the project did not get going. Then, about three years ago, as her business grew and she gained more knowledge, the idea of writing the book resurfaced, and Julie felt a strong desire to share her expertise and help as many women as possible.

Julie's decision to start writing the book solidified during her morning walks with her husband, who encouraged her to take action. His support pushed her to keep going, so she began to write earnestly.

Initially, Julie struggled with self-doubt, unsure if anyone would be interested in her work. Her writing process was further complicated by her dyslexia, making spelling and editing particularly difficult. She also had to balance her desire to provide practical, actionable advice with the anxiety of ensuring her words could not get misconstrued. Addressing various body types and sizes in the bridal industry added another layer of difficulty, requiring her to be inclusive and considerate of different experiences. Despite those obstacles, Julie wanted to create a resource to empower and support brides, so she eventually employed a ghostwriter to help her complete the book.

Inclusivity was a key consideration for Julie, who revised the book to address the unique challenges petite women and other body types tend to face. Feedback from colleagues and her commitment to diversity ensured the book catered to all brides.

Julie wanted to ensure her book was actionable and practical, so she included a detailed timeline for fashion-related wedding preparations. She also created resource guides and a fillable timeline on her website to help brides plan effectively.

The core message in the book is that brides are perfect as they are. Julie reminds brides that their partners chose them for who they are and that the wedding is about their love rather than achieving a particular look or standard.

Julie is launching an exciting giveaway on Instagram on June 5th, where listeners can win a signed copy of her book, an emergency care kit, and many other exciting goodies.

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