Jason Matlo's 2012 Bridal Collection

The Vancouver Designer Showcases His New Vintage-Inspired Wedding Gowns

Talk about a perfect marriage. When celebrated Vancouver designer Jason Matlo unveiled his 2012 bridal collection on Tuesday, he partnered with legendary jeweller Tiffany & Co. and the historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia for his spectacular runway show.

Tiffany provided the gorgeous accessories for Matlo’s gowns and the recently restored 1920s hotel offered the elegant and luxurious setting. No wonder they called the exclusive event “The Art of Romance.”

A long, lean look with deep V neckline

Loads of pretty lace detailing

Along with a select list of bridal buyers and local media, we were thrilled to be among the first to take in Matlo’s brand new bridal collection. Big fans of retro looks, we loved the vintage-inspired gowns that ranged from slinky form-fitting elegance to romantic ball gowns befitting a fairy-tale princess.

Sexy in ecru

Romantic inspiration from the 1950s

“Classic couture shapes and details are inspired by 1950s silhouettes with retreated waistlines and gathered full skirts,” said Matlo of his new collection. “The textures, beading, prints and lace are reminiscent of Art Deco prints. Dove grey, champagne, ecru and black tones create a modern bridal look that although vintage in concept is opulent, chic and modern.”

Classic mermaid silhouette

Elaborate beading in eye-catching silver

Matlo told the crowd it had taken him eight weeks to complete the designs. To that, we can only say, “wow.” For some of us, it takes more than eight weeks just to get around to restitching a missing button!

Enjoy browsing the gowns here, and good luck choosing a favourite!

Twobirds Bridesmaid dress in Aubergine worn four different ways

New York’s Twobirds Bridesmaid Holds a Vancouver Trunk Show March 2 to 4

It isn’t easy being a bride and trying to keep everyone around you happy. Such as your bridesmaids, who likely aren’t thrilled they all have to wear the same unflattering dress — before stuffing it into the back of the closet, never to be seen again.

Twobirds Bridesmaid feels your pain. The New York-based line of bridesmaid dresses was created by a Manhattan bride for her own wedding party. Each Twobirds dress can be wrapped in multiple ways, creating 15 different looks so you can wear it again and again.

Twobirds Bridesmaid Dress in Slate

Whether you want a halter, sweetheart or plunging neckline, cap sleeves, one-shoulder or sleeveless style, each bridesmaid can create her own look with just a few twists of fabric. No alterations required!

Twobirds Bridesmaid dresses are available in a rainbow of solid colours or two-tone, and a variety of lengths. For a pretty touch, choose the Rosette style embellished with rows of sweet chiffon rosettes.

Now you can check out the dresses in person at a special Twobirds Bridesmaid trunk show from March 2 to 4, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Vancouver’s Loden Hotel. Make your appointment today by emailing danielle@twobirdsbridesmaid.com

Style Editor: Catherine Dunwoody
Photographer: Alan Kaplanas

Mix and match the old with the new to create an original and unforgettable table setting. Pretty glass and mirrors reflect the colours you choose to style your event.

Inspired by the colours of spring and a multitude of pretty finds, stylist Heather Cameron combined the old with the new for an intimate table setting. Vintage plates and Moroccan tea glasses are accessorized with beautiful mirrored frames (these make the perfect wedding favour) and delicate glass cloches (bells).

Other favour ideas are the pretty lavender cake candles or jewelled floral name holders. Mauve hyacinths combined with the green viburnum in our champagne flutes complement the colour of the room and bring the table alive. Simple mixtures of one to three kinds of flowers make a stronger statement than a big jumble of colours.

If you are not lucky enough to find the perfect mauve room, bring in a centrepiece of pretty lilacs, add a coloured overlay to your table or start collecting the perfect mixture of coloured dishes. These ideas could easily apply to the wedding tables, the shower or a luncheon with the bridesmaids. Use one of these ideas or use them all but be creative and have fun.

Plates, Cloverdale Antique Mall 106- 17780, Highway 10, Cloverdale, B.C. 604 576-2263

Glass Cloche (bell) and mirrored frames, Roseberry Topping 131-1959 152nd Street, South Surrey, B.C. 604 536-0310

Cake candles and jewelled floral name holders, Wedding Things – #117-408 East Kent Avenue South, Vancouver, 604 681-8399

Champagne flutes with flowers, Hilary Miles 1-1854 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver, 604 737-2782