WHAT'S IN YOUR BAG!?

Happy Bridal Market Week to All!!

It's that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the temperature's dropping, and the bridal industry is gathering in New York City to showcase and view the latest and greatest dresses for 2013 brides and bridesmaids to be!

Be on the lookout for more bridal market updates and pictures throughout the week!

To kick off this week of frocks and fun, we interviewed Maureen Schulte, manager of Bella Bridesmaid Chicago, to see what she packed for the big trip to NYC! 

1.What are the 5 key pieces that you will take with you?

A. My glasses. They are the ‘Denison’ frames from Oliver Peoples and I literally cannot leave home without them. 

B. Day to Night Dress. After an exhausting day of shopping and playing dress up on behalf of future brides everywhere, we usually head right to dinner with a designer or drinks with the other Bella ladies. I try to pack dresses that work for both occasions to save time and space in my suitcase. I am loving my new Alice + Olivia cut out frock with a blazer for day and a chunky necklace and dark red lip for night!

C. Oversized Clutch. Perfect amount of space for papers and a pair of flats. Function and fashion combined!

D. My mom’s Burberry trench from the 80s. Versatile, classic, power suit topper- thanks, mom!

E. Parker combo wool/leather blazer.  Business on top, party on the bottom. Best mullet jacket ever!

2.How will you put your outfits together? Any strategies?

There is always a significant amount of freaking out pre-Bridal Market about what to wear. I try to plan each outfit from head to toe before heading to NYC, which not only helps my bank account (less “investment” pieces purchased in bulk), but also makes it much easier once you arrive and only have 30 minutes before your first meeting to pull it together.

Layers are ideal for the time of year and to add different palettes and textures to your ensemble. I try to keep them neutral so I can mix and match throughout the week.

Relatively comfortable shoes are a must! This year, I am sporting these Ivanka Trump two-tone booties with a nice, chunky heel so I can walk around the city for 4 straight days without crying myself to sleep. Plus, the pair of metallic flats stashed in my clutch to wear ‘in transit’ are a life saver!

3. What piece are you most excited to bring with you?

I recently purchased a T by Alexander Wang neoprene skirt- the material of a scuba suit- from SHOPBOP. It also happens to be incredibly comfortable so I am super excited to buy bridesmaid dresses and possibly go deep sea diving in it next week.

4. Are you wearing any particular designers? If so, who?

My first year going to market, I gathered all of my Bella Bridesmaid dresses and accessories together a la Blake Lively at the Chanel runway show donning a Chanel ensemble personally chosen by Karl Lagerfeld. Very similar, right? However, Erin, one of the franchisors, kindly pointed out to me that since we meet with multiple designers in one day, one should try to avoid mixing labels. When I am not wearing a Bella dress, I love Alice + Olivia, Vince, and Tibi—and if I may include a somewhat mass market retailer under the “designer” category, then yes, please to Zara!

5. What are your beauty essentials that you can’t leave home without?

A. Rosebud Salve or Strawberry- NOT CHERRY- Chap Stick.

B. Benefit ‘Posie Tint’- Works on your cheeks OR your lips.

C. Baby Powder. Perfect for blondes to freshen up a Day 2 blow out or lighten your roots a bit. Plus, they come in mini, travel sized containers!