Michelle Rago, Ltd.—Blog

I guess it is only natural during times of change to harken back to earlier times and that is exactly what I am seeing in trends for the fall. Take fabrics for instance. Many of the fabrics used on both the runways and in weddings are the beautiful elegant fabrics reminiscent of an earlier time.  Fabrics with weight, sheen, and texture are being used in fresh new ways. 

 

 

Satin has always been known for its gloss and sheen and has been the choice of European royalty since the Middle Ages. First made in China, the fabric was brought to Italy in the 12th century. While satin was originally made from silk, it is now also made with polyester, acetate, nylon, and rayon, providing less expensive alternatives to achieve a similar effect. The heaviness of satin makes it perfect for table linens, and the high gloss and rich colors found in the fabric adds a dramatic quality to any table setting.

LACE

Lace has been in and out of vogue during its 500-year history and also has been experiencing a type of renaissance of late.  The wonderful thing about lace is that there are so many patterns from which to choose and so many ways you can integrate it into your design. Below are 2 lace patterns, a traditional black and white veil by Carolina Herrera & a more modern pattern by Oscar de la Renta train as a design element throughout the wedding weekend, including having the design painted on the dance floor. 

  

 

 

RUFFLES

And I love having fun with ruffles – which by the way are all over the fashion pages this fall. Ruffles can be used to form a delicate edge of a dinner napkin or added as an extra detail on a chair covering. Ruffles are both feminine and romantic.

Mark Ingram, founder and owner of the prestigious Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier in Manhattan, has seen the same trend in gowns. “Brides want old fashion comfort from a different time. It’s all about embroidery and couture dress maker details.” Ingram says. The embroidered applique on this exquisite Badgley Mischka gown is a perfect example.  

COLOR

As far as trends in color, the color purple has also come back with a vengeance. Purple is one of the strongest colors, but you need to be careful not to let it overpower your design. When used thoughtfully it can result in a very dramatic and beautiful setting. I find that mixing purple with white can be a more modern look. My personal preference is to mix purple with warmer colors to achieve a softer tone. Mixing purple flowers with bronze metallic candles makes a stunning centerpiece. Or combine purple (flowers, linens, etc.) with shades of lavender to soften it a bit.  Consider using reversible napkins with your table setting with purple on one side and a warmer color on the other. Below is a combination of purple hydrangea, lisianthus, bronze cymbidiums, hanging amaranthus and echinacea.

 

FLOWERS

And even trends in flowers look to the past for new inspiration. While Baby’s Breath has never gone away it has gotten a bad rap over the years. Traditionally Baby’s Breath has been used as filler, but it’s a beautiful flower and deserves to take more of a prominent role in arrangements and floral decorations. Small bouquets of Baby’s Breath combined with more modern elements like china berry and a chartreuse and linen ribbon can be quite lovely. I think the bouquet below is adorable!