Notes from Rina di Montella, bridal and special occasion designer

Italian born, my mother was one of the best tailors I have ever known. No one else could have taught me as much as I know today about garment design as her. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to work in the wholesale industry designing mother of the bride dresses, bridal gowns and now, also short social occasion suits.

I also have over ten years of retail experience in women’s apparel, working one-on-one with customers. Excited brides and mothers have always inspired me to create wearable, figure-flattering gowns. I love to see a women put on a gown that makes her feel beautiful and confident. Besides my family, dress design is a huge part of my life. When you love something this much, it’s always reflected on others.

Bridal Trends

The trend in bridal this season is definitely more of a fitted look. Strapless gowns are still very important. Brides want to look sensual with a touch of romance on their big day. Flowers and lace appliqués with hints of beading are also very popular with today’s brides.

How to Select the Perfect Wedding Dress

A bride should visit a well-respected bridal salon known for its wide selection of gowns. With the help of a good, seasoned salesperson, any woman can be guided towards a style that is suitable for her figure. When you have on a dress that comfortably enhances your figure and makes you feel beautiful, most likely it is the right dress for you. Trust your instincts.

Tips for the Mother of the Bride

Your child’s wedding is a special, proud day so naturally, you want to look your best.  In order to avoid looking overdone, shop for a gown that flatters your figure. How do you know what flatters your figure?  Don’t be afraid to try on different styles until you find the right one. If you need to hide your tummy area, try on a gown that looks like two pieces, a “mocked two-piece” look. Also, don’t be afraid of ruched fabric. Ruching around the waistline and hips will actually make you look slender. Not comfortable exposing your upper arms?  Look for a style that includes a matching bolero jacket or shawl.

After you try a gown on, look at yourself in the mirror. If you feel pretty, elegant and comfortable, that may just be your gown. When shopping, bring along a daughter, close relative or a very honest friend, someone who can objectively help you make your final decision. A few other rules to remember: Out of respect, let the mother of the bride shop for her gown first so you can choose an appropriate coordinating color. You should also shop at least three to four months prior to the wedding date. The salon may need to special order your dress, which often takes some time. And don’t wait until the last minute to shop, hoping to lose another five pounds.  This will only add to your stress. Remember – wedding preparations should be fun!

Planning Elegance would like to thank Mon Cheri Bridal Collections for contributing this informative article to our loyal readers. This is just one of many featured vendor articles on the Planning Elegance blog, check out this article to get advice for your wedding invitations.

Biography of Designer, Rina di Montella

An Italian born emigrant, Rina di Montella has spent the last twenty years as a designer and manufacturer of high fashion eveningwear, bridal gowns and accessories. In 1979, Rina began designing in her own factory and showroom in New York. Specializing in social occasion fashion, she sold to specialty and major department stores including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales. In April 2000, Rina opened a New York showroom for wholesale trade as well as a retail store in King of Prussia, PA, the Rina di Montella Studio. Throughout her career, Rina has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Liberty Bell Award given by the Mayor of Philadelphia during the “Who Dresses Philadelphia” ceremony. Many celebrities and dignitaries, including Hillary Rodham Clinton, have been graced by her designs.

With a focus in fashion for the mother of the bride, Rina joined Mon Cheri in 2004 to create a new upscale special occasion line, the Rina di Montella collection. With top quality fabrics, intricate beadwork and stylish silhouettes, this exclusive social occasion collection is essential to any well-dressed woman’s wardrobe. The Rina di Montella collection is designed in the tradition of classic elegance.

Rina premiered her bridal designs in Spring 2007, a gorgeous collection with European silhouettes, luxurious fabrications and elaborate beading patterns. This bellissima bridal gown collection has since become a world-wide success. A true reflection of the woman herself, the Rina di Montella bridal collection exudes romance with a haute couture flair.