Style

Style - Ask Hope Robertson

Hi Hope! I'm getting married next October in Tennessee and am shopping for my wedding gown. I've put away about $400 for it. We don't really have a theme, but the flowers will be a mix of daisies, violets, and pink baby roses. I know I want something classic and nothing over the top. I have a pretty athletic build, about 5'4", blonde hair, blue eyes.

Congrats on your impending nuptials.

Choosing your wedding gown is a pretty big deal (duh). You definitely want a dress that's both memorable and unique, so my suggestion is to forego anything strapless. Without exaggeration, every one of my girlfriends who's been married in the last four years has worn a strapless gown. While each one was beautiful, after a while every strapless dress starts to look the same. And since you've got an athletic build, some kind of strap or upper accoutrement will help to accentuate your figure.

There are so many bridal gowns out there, but here a few from David's Bridal that I really hope you love.

I'm loving this satin and organza number (L). Both frilly and feminine, it features subtle spaghetti straps and a pleated v-neckline. A satin band sits at the natural waist, and several tier layers flow out into a A-line skirt. The back is ballerina-style, and dips midway. Gorgeous, right? It's available in both white and ivory, depending on your skin tone.

Another dress that caught my eye is this Galina one-shoulder gown (C). Contemporary but still classy, I love the flower details on the shoulder. They turn into triple spaghetti straps in back and add a bold touch to a gown that's elegant and ethereal. Love, love, love! The one-shouldered style will definitely show off your shoulders. Again, this gown is available in both white and ivory.

If you're looking for something with lace details, check this trumpet-style gown with lace cap-sleeves (R). The lace segues into a keyhole back, and is complemented by a beaded sash. Definitely conjures up images of classic Hollywood beauties like Greta Garbo or Grace Kelly, non? While it would put you a little over budget, if you can save a little more this gown would be worth it. It's also available in white and ivory.

In addition to your dress, I hope you keep accessories in mind. Whether you want to throw in a dash of colour - perhaps in keeping with the old adage "something blue" - in the form of a pashmina, dramatic jewelry/hair accessories, or shoes, remember to really personalize your look. This is your day, so celebrate you!

_{Satin and organza gown, $299, David's Bridal}

_{Chiffon one-shouldered gown, $399, David's Bridal}

_{Cap-sleeve lace gown, $599, David's Bridal}

Style - Beautiful or Bizarre

Seriously, Alice Temperley? Seriously?

Methinks she is.

I'm unsure of whether or not styling this blue tiger print jumpsuit is a fashion step forward, or regression to my five-year-old self be-bopping around the house to NKOTB and playing with Barbies.

I mean, really. Check it out: From the shoulder ties and fabric belt, to the tapered leg and grey-wash pattern, this Alice by Temperley jumpsuit is a throw-back to the eighties. And while cotton is comfortable, we all know that comfort doesn't always equal fashion.

Am I right, or am I right?

_{Alice by Temperley tiger cotton jumpsuit, $395, Net-A-Porter}

Style - Dare to Compare

Designer Rick Owens is known for his sharp cuts and sculptural designs. Case in point? Check his plunge-back crepe jumpsuit (L). A flowing blend of 67 percent rayon, 33 percent silk, this jumpsuit slips on and is sure to make you stand out. With a wide-leg design, v-neck front and plunging back, this is a great alternative to the classic cocktail dress.

Not willing to drop close to 2000 dollars?

Slip into a convertible jumpsuit by Victoria's Secret (R). While it's not silk - VS's jumpsuit is made from a polyester/spandex jersey blend - it's design is certainly comparable (and then some!) to Owens's creation. What I like about VS's jumpsuit is the fact that you can style it more than 10 different ways! From a v-neck front with plunging back, to one-shouldered with a back braid, this one-piece is über-versatile. It features a wide-leg design, and seemingly endless options. Not only is it an excellent alternative to a dress, it's also budget-friendly!

_{Rick Owens jumpsuit, $1700, Net-A-Porter}

_{Victoria's Secret jumpsuit, $109, VS}

Style - Beautiful or Bizarre

Last season, I could stomach the idea of solid black harem pants. They were do-able. But these?

Matthew Williamson delivers a summer 2010 take on the harem pant - check these palm-printed, big-bow-belted, cropped cotton harem pants. Made from cool cotton-voile, these sheer tapered pants feature some bold bird and palm tree graphics.

They're pretty loud, so if you style them, do so with caution - pair with a simple white tank and some gladiator sandals.

The operative word above is 'if'.

_{Matthew Williamson palm-print cotton harem pants, $550, Net-A-Porter}