This summer I had the pleasure to visit Chicago and attend the Luxury Bridal Expo and Fashion Show held at the Marriott on Michigan Ave. I was completely enchanted! Talk about Chicago City Chic!

The presentation was stunning and the appreciation for high-end craftsmanship was prevalent. It was a formal affair where participants walked trough beautifully designed corridors of booths while enjoying samples and refreshments.  Following, there was a fashion show presentation of several local bridal boutiques and designers.  The couture collections presented were so moving and I found that I was truly inspired.

One of the trends I recognized and I taught would be great to share with you is the detachable skirt. It is an added piece, usually attached with snaps on the sides giving the bride a chance to have both a really full skirt for part of the ceremony and a more relaxed and slender dress for the reception. I love this idea, as it is a great alternative to creating bustles in order to hold up a very full dress. You simply detach part of the skirt when you are ready to dance!

I fell in love with Bella Bianca Bridal Couture Boutique.  The owners were so friendly, welcoming, and warm as I found most Chicagoans are. Their selection is impeccable; it really embodies the modern Chicago bride. I later visited the store located in the Gold Coast part of Chicago and it was just as beautiful.

My experience was also an incredible opportunity to really connect with the Chicago market and the Chicago bride who I found is charming, elegant, and authentic...