Best Dresses for a Summer Wedding

Summer brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and...wedding season! If you're like us you have at least one wedding to go to this summer and most likely a lot more than that! With bridal showers, bachelorette parties and gifts, wedding season can really eat in to your savings! We have a few key rules (well two) when it comes to what to wear for a summer wedding - 1) Get one new look for a day/casual wedding, 2) Get one new look for an evening/formal wedding.  It's that simple! You do not need a new dress for each wedding, we promise you! Choose one great dress and then alter the hair and accessories to give it a different feel with every new 'I Do' you attend! here are some of our absolute FAVORITES!

This is one of our FAVORITES! It's actually one of our two dresses we bought for wedding season! By Nicole Miller it can be used for both a formal and a casual wedding.  Dress it up with heels and statement jewelry, dress it down with cute sandals, hair down and minimal jewelry.

This dress by BCBG Generation is perfect for a more casual wedding or a less formal evening wedding!  We love this look because the front is simple and clean, and then the back adds a little flair!

The back of the BCBG Generation dress - because every fashion statement needs an exclamation!

A great day wedding dress is this gorgeous ruffle bloom dress by Jessica Simpson. We like it because you will not only look fantastic in it for the wedding, but you can also wear it to brunch with friends, on a fun date, etc.  It's versatile so adding it to your closet serves a lot of purposes!

Maxi Dresses: Still a Trend and We Couldn’t be Happier!

If there’s one piece that you must have in your wardrobe this spring and summer, it’s the maxi dress. Long, flowy and oh so comfortable, these dresses continue to be a season favorite year after year!

There are so many looks to choose from so whatever shape or size you are, you’re bound to find something that fits your style and personality! 

A long, brightly patterned dress is a perfect look for those sunny days. Stand out from the crowd with abstract designs.

You can’t go wrong pairing these dresses with gladiator sandals either!

Celebs have been spotted rocking various versions of this spring favorite!  Dressed up or down, it works for almost every occasion...even if that occasion is the red carpet!

Rihanna Wears Asos Jersey Maxi Dress

And the absolute best part about maxi dresses? They’re so budget-friendly!  Grab more than one while you have the chance!

Wet Seal - $24.50

Forever 21 - $14.90

Trend Alert: Color of the Season - Orange! Wear it loud, Wear it proud!

What's hot this summer? Orange! And we don't mean the fruit!!  The color of the season is bright Orange in any of its many variations - coral, melon, cantaloupe, or papaya - no matter how it's labeled this is the shade of the season!

If wearing the color most associated with Halloween outside of October has you turning your nose up, keep reading on because we're about to expand your thinking of this underrated and fashion statement of a color!

First, stop thinking pumpkin orange, we're talking about shades of this vibrant color that work on almost everyone.  They can add a pop of color under a black business suit, jazz up feet with a colorful pair of espadrilles, or go bold with a gorgeous coral dress paired with gold jewelry and a freshly sun kissed tan! However you wear it, wear it loud and proud this summer!

Fly The Skies In Style!

We've all been there.  Delayed flights, long layovers and sold out seats. Traveling can be a real pain; but things are changing!  Check out what some airlines are doing to give us the VIP treatment!

Virgin America
First, we LOVE Sir Richard Branson,  CEO of the Virgin Group.  For years we looked forward to international trips to Europe, just so we could fly Virgin Atlantic - we actually looked forward to traveling!!  And then a few years ago he was kind enough to bring the amazing airline that is his empire, stateside, and a new thought in travel emerged for all Americans - one that is enjoyable and where you are actually treated well.... Oh Sir Richard Branson, why can't all airlines be yours...

Here are some of the reasons why we love Virgin America!

Internet
You’re living in the 21st century. Isn’t it time to fly like it? Hop on a brand new Virgin America plane, discover that the future is now, and stay connected with in–flight WiFi!
 
Open Tab
Planning on having a few drinks or snacks or watching a few premium TV shows, and don’t want to swipe that card each time? When you purchase your first item you can open a tab, order as much as you want, and close it when you want!  And no having to ring a call bell to get the attention of the Steward, you place the order right from the screen in front of you!  Peruse snacks, meals, drinks - it's all there and literally at your finger tips!


Travel Plans Change?

Like everything they do, Virgin America makes it very easy if your travel plans suddenly change.  You can go directly to the website and change your flight!  The only fee is the difference in the price of the flights, it's simple, painless, and no waiting on hold forever or crazy charges.  Life happens....


Chat
Debrief with travel companions in other rows, mingle in a chat room, or wing it and strike up a chat with someone new. Go ahead; you know you want to.

Yes, the actual interior of a Virgin America plane...now you get where we're going with it - A-MA-ZING!!

Jet Blue
Pre-Virgin America, there was JetBlue, and they still hold a special place in our travel hearts for the following reasons:

Even More Legroom
For an extra $10, JetBlue now offers you the opportunity to purchase a seat with even more legroom. These seats are offered on the Airbus A320 fleet, and are located at the front of the airplane. The seats provide you with approximately 38 inches of legroom doesn't seem like much but it really makes a whole lot of difference!


Plus TV Plus TV is JetBlue's brand new TV network that features top rated shows and news programs. Jetblue is known for offering individual TV monitors to each traveler on board the plane. You can watch movies, play games and even interact with other people on board your flight!

Unlimited Snacks

Jet Blue gives out real snacks, like blue tortilla chips or animal crackers, and they don't care if you take one of five!  Hungry?  Just pop up and ask a flight attendant for another bag!  Thirsty? No problem! Flying can be very dehydrating so JetBlue has little bottles of water available throughout the flight!

Terminal 5
JetBlue's main hub is Terminal 5 at JFK airport in New York and holy...awesomeness...Incredible restaurants and ability to just relax and get work done from one of many work stations throughout the terminal where waiters bring food and drinks directly to your gate!  The best part of your trip may actually just be the time spent at the airport!

Another way airlines are making sure your travel is a little easier?

GOING MOBILE!
Mobile apps allow passengers to check fares, receive sale alerts, and get updated flight information which makes getting to and from the airport easier for everyone!  Most airlines have mobile features so check their websites and make sure you sign up for text alerts!  Go Green by having your boarding pass electronically - show your phone and get waived through - no need to print anything out!

Now are you ready to hit the clear blue skies? Get going!

Mother's Day: Remembering All the Women in Your Life!

Mother’s Day celebrates all the women in your life who have impacted you and, in turn, helped you become the Woman you are today!  Grandmothers, Godmothers, and even close female family friends are all remembered and celebrated on Mother’s Day!

Godmothers play a very important role in a child’s life. They serve as role models and children look up to them as a representation of how to live in faith. They not only support the child, but the parents as well. With that said, being a Godparent is an enormous responsibility!  This Mother’s Day, keep in mind all that your Godmother has done and probably continues to do for you and let her know you care!

Grandmothers are a source of knowledge. A source of healing. A source of strength. Especially when it comes to raising grandchildren. Remember when you had your first child? Who was at your side as you tried to keep your young family on track? And who gave up all of their work so that they could look after the children while you and your significant other were busy at work? Grandmothers are cool-headed, and supportive, and deserve all the celebration in the world!

At the end of the day, any female family member or close friend that is helpful with advice or helping others should be celebrated this Mother's Day! If they’ve made a positive difference in your life, why not show your appreciation? It’s tough being a woman, but somebody’s got to do it!  Celebrate all those 'body's' this Mother's Day!!

Mother's Day: Remembering Mom

Mark your calendars… May 8th is Mother’s Day! We know… it almost slipped your mind. Well, that’s what we’re here for!

So what do you get that special lady in your life? With Mother’s Day a few weeks away, we don’t want you scrambling at the last minute! Being a Mom is a full-time job, and it  is one of the hardest jobs to hold. Show your love and appreciation with something she will cherish forever and ever. Here are a few great gift ideas that are sure to make Mom’s day a little bit brighter!

1 Carat Ruby Sterling Silver Heart Pendant with Chain from www.Ice.com

Jewelry:  You can’t go wrong if you decide to get a piece of jewelry as a Mothers Day gift. Necklace and earring sets are perfect! Pearl sets are a favorite as well! You may also choose to go with a piece of fashion jewelry which is trendy and is easy on the pockets!

World's Freshet Flowers from www.KaBloom.com

Flowers:  No matter the distance that exists between you and your mother, the flowers you send will definitely find their way to her.  Choose the perfect flowers for your Mom and let her know where she lies in your heart.
 

Photo Frames: Gather the family and take a nice picture with your mother.  Then present it to her in a lovely frame on Mother's Day!  She'll love it so much that she will immediately find a spot on her wall to hang it up!  Better yet, get her a digital photo frame and you can constantly update a slideshow of photos for Mom to enjoy!

Digital Photo Frame

Personalized Gifts:  A customized piece of jewelry is unique and very special. Maybe a pendant with the names of her children engraved on them? Or a locket with a picture of her grandchildren. Is your Mom a fan of stationary?  Personalize writing pads with a poem or a picture.  Do remember that unlike cards and chocolate, personalized items will need a little bit more time to be delivered for the big day so plan accordingly!

Have we got the creative wheels churning?  GOOD!  Now get out and show Mom just how much you appreciate her!

Lady Di: The Princess. The Mom. The Icon.

Princess Diana has been, and is continuously looked at as the ultimate portrayal of class and grace. The “People’s Princess” was nothing short of a fashion icon and World humanitarian.  As we approach the wedding of her eldest son, Prince William, to Kate Middleton, we take a look back at the World's 'Candle in the Wind'.

As a fashion icon, Princess Diana gave a new look to royalty!  While married to Prince Charles, she was placed on the International Best Dressed List for two consecutive years (1991-1992)! Surprisingly, her fashion sense has not always been lauded. In 1982, she was listed as one of the “10 Worst Dressed Women” by a London newspaper. It’s even said that in the beginning, the royal family was so embarrassed by her fashion know-how, or lack thereof, that they sent people over from Vogue to help mold the Princess into a fashionista! She obviously took what she wanted from those “lessons” and made it all her own!

Combining young fashion with international glamour, Princess Di became an idol for many women around the world. Who didn’t want her hairstyle? And even if you never cared for hats, seeing the flair she brought to hat wear made you want to grab the most elaborate one you could find!  Even the soon-to-be Princess seems to still be channeling this tricky fashion trend.

With Prince William and Kate Middleton preparing to tie the knot very soon, the media has been comparing the styles of Lady Di and Kate. Will she be able to measure up to her late mother-in-law? Only time will tell, but the soon to be Princess of Wales is definitely on the right track. Kate was listed in The Daily Telegraph’s “Most Promising Newcomer” in 2006. She was also featured in People Magazine’s “Best Dressed List” for 2007 and 2010, and in 2008, Style.com selected her as its monthly beauty icon! In the same year, she was also included in Vanity Fair’s International Best Dressed List.

Who do you think is more of a trendsetter? Is Kate on her way to becoming a fashion icon?  Or are Princess Diana's shoes just too big to fill...

DvF: The Perfect Dress

Her iconic wrap dress is one of her greatest fashion accomplishments. It has become the uniform for many women around the world. Her philosophy? “To make life elegant and easy for women”; still rings true today.

The Diane von Furstenburg wrap dress swirled onto the scene in the 1970s. What a sensation! Every woman’s closet had at least one; weather a maternity wrap dress or an evening wrap dress. Nothing short of a classic, the dress evolved and won the hearts of many women due to its versatility and practicality. With a range of designs, it was, and still is, EVERY woman’s “dream” dress.

DvF Evening Wrap Dress

DvF Leopard Print Wrap Dress

DvF Maternity Wrap Dress

Perfect for all occasions, the DvF wrap dress can go from work to dinner to a night out! Slip into one and you immediately feel very feminine, chic and stylish. And the best part about Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress designs is that they are still wearable as women get older. The dress, just as is the Designer, is a true style icon!

It's Wedding Season!

Here comes the bride, all dressed in white, or pink, or maybe even red or yellow! Spring has sprung! And that means the beginning of wedding season and all that comes with it. You’ve finally received your invite; besides feeling oh so special for making the cut, what now?!

Not everyone is familiar with the do’s and don’ts of wedding etiquette so Friends and Family Circle wants to give you a few pointers. Grab a pen and pad! We’ll be covering when you should and shouldn't bring a date, engagement party gift-giving, and actual wedding appropriateness! Let’s get started!

GIFTS FOR ENGAGEMENT PARTIES
Do you or do you not bring a gift to the engagement party? Hmmm. Well the answer to this depends on a couple of things including how close you are to the couple and your budget. As far as engagement party “etiquette” goes, a gift isn’t expected. This is the first of many gift-giving opportunities to follow. However, if you’re, say, the aunt of the bride, giving a simple gift like a bottle of wine to celebrate the occasion is fine. Nothing too over-the-top!


BRINGING A DATE TO THE WEDDING
Make sure to check the invitation! Was it addressed to ‘G. Whiz and Guest’? If so, you’re in the clear for bringing someone with you. Just know that it’s not an obligation! The last thing the happy couple wants is uninvited guests. More than likely, they’re paying by the head, so if you do decide to have someone tag along, RSVP accordingly. As for whom you should bring, make sure it’s someone who’s in good graces with the bridal party, of course. Someone who had a falling out with the groom just months ago would not be the best candidate. It may be water under the bridge for them, but don’t take any chances!


WEDDING ETIQUETTE BASICS

• Répondez s’il vous plait! That’s fancy (or French) for “please respond”. This is probably one of the most important things you MUST do. Whether you are able, or unfortunately unable to attend to the union, let your hosts know.
• Read the invitation! We know you’re excited and all but there is very important information on your invite. This includes the date, time, location, whether you were invited with a guest, if the event is kid-friendly, your deadline for confirming/declining your attendance and possibly much more. Your hosts have enough on their plate so try to avoid calling them to ask questions that may already be answered on your invite.
• Give a little!  Whether you are able to attend or not, send a gift! How much should you spend? There’s no set rule, but in general, the closer you are to the couple, the more you should probably spend. Also, if at all possible, send your gift to the couple BEFORE or AFTER the event. It’s difficult for family members to transport all of their gifts after the wedding.
• HAVE FUN… but not too much! Remember to be respectful. It’s not about you; it’s about the bride and groom, so act accordingly.

Answers to the Burning Questions: Is This Week's Deal Too Delicious to be True...

So we normally don't dedicate any of our blogs to our weekly deals, but with so many questions and forums that are coming up regarding this week's incredible $8 for $100 Restaurant.com eGift Card, we thought it's be a good idea to clarify some points so no one misses out!  We promise not to make this a habit!

Q: Why does the Value say $40 but it is for a $100 eGift Card, is this a mistake?

A: This is actually quite confusing.  You are purchasing a $100 Restaurant.com eGift Card but these are normally sold by the business for $40.  So even though they get you $100 worth of food at various local eateries (18,000 nationwide to be exact), the normal cost to purchase is usually only $40.  Our deal gets you it for $8 though so that's a 80% savings!!  Savvy shopper...savvy diner....

Q: So I take in my Friends and Family Voucher to any of the restaurants I want to eat at?  

A:  No, you actually need to redeem your Restaurant.com eGift Card at Restaurant.com!  You'll choose REDEEM GIFT (it's the 4th tab at the top) and you'll be prompted to enter your eGift Card number which is found next to the words REDEMPTION CODE on your Friends and Family Circle voucher.  Once you redeem you'll search for restaurants in a specific area - near your home, office, maybe you're going on vacation and want to look there - it's up to you, enter a zipcode or City/State and Restaurant.com will pull up the participating locations near your destination of choice!

Q: Do I have to use it all at once?  

A: No, that's what is so great!  You can choose to buy a full $100 dining certificate to your favorite restaurant, or you may want to try a few places and decide to purchase just a $25 dining certificate.  Come back and use the rest later!  Maybe you've got a birthday party you need to grab pizza for next month - your certificate will still be valid so save it, divide it up, use it all at once!  It's up to you!!

Q: I see a lot of deals from Restaurant.com, why would I buy from Friends and Family Circle and not just directly from them?

A: Because you can't get this deal directly from them!  This is the best deal out there for Restaurant.com dining certificates!  So while you will find Restaurant.com running other promotions on their eGift Cards, you'll never find one like this!  And let's be honest, this is a BIG savings!  Since they don't expire for a year, I stocked up!  There is no limit to the number you can buy, so while you can only use one dining certificate at a time, a year is a long time with lots of dining out excursions so... Be smart, buy several and eat for less for the next 365 days!

Still have questions?  Contact out Customer support hotline at 1-866-316-3001 or via email at help@friendsandfamilycircle.com. 

Worst Red Carpet Looks!

The best part of awards show for us is the Red Carpet! Who’s wearing what and paired up with who? We’re ready to dish on what caught our eye, and what made us want to gouge them out! Time to play Joan Rivers (who could use a little fashion policing herself, but we digress) and list our worst dressed of the awards season so far!

We’re all for being “eclectic” and standing out… but this is out of control!

Helena Bonham Carter - Golden Globes '11

Sometimes you want to play it safe, but Jenna didn't get the memo.  We're not at 'the office'.  Turn your fancy up, and let your hair (and neckline) down!

Jenna Fischer - SAG Awards '11

Very Victorian.  But it looks like Flo borrowed this from her high school's costume department!

Florence Welch - Academy Awards '11

Extra short and extra tight.
For the club, this may have been alright.

Business on top, a party on the bottom.  He's living la vida loca!

Ricky Martin - Grammy Awards '11

Have you come across any fashion faux-pas on the red carpet? Let us know!

Tracking The Trend: Stripes Are In For Spring!

Year in and year out, we see a resurgence of this trend: STRIPES! They're classic, clean and they're bound to be everywhere this Spring and Summer so get ready to rock them!  But not before we lay down some ground rules.

The "sailor" look is always cute!  They give a nautical feel, reminiscent of resort wear. Show off your sailor stripes with plain shorts or a skirt!









Some of us would like a little help in the height department.  Vertically striped dresses or skirts can make you look taller.  Pair that with with a solid-colored blazer and it makes for a very stylish outfit!

 

 What else should you know?

• If you want to wear a belt over your stripes, make sure it's wider than the stripes.
• Do not try to go for a head-to-toe striped look.  That could end up being a head-to-toe disaster!
• If you're new to the trend, start with pinstripes, then work your way up! Wider stripes make for a bolder look! 
• Have fun and go beyond just tops and bottoms - try striped summer hats, striped wedge heels and even striped jewelry... just not all at the same time!

Sticking To Your Resolutions!

Time sure flies doesn't it?!  Just the other day you were wrapping gifts for the holidays; now, the snow is clearing up and the sun has been staying out a little longer with each passing day.  But let's not forget those plans we made just a couple of months ago.  You know, that long list of New Year's resolutions you promised you'd stick to this time around?  Some of us have managed to follow through so far. I myself have been Latte-free since January 1st, and it feels pretty good to have followed through with it!  Other resolutions, like my drink less, workout more, haven't been so easy to stick to.  So, like many of you, I have some catching up to do to get back on track! 

Here are a few ways to make sure we all keep our eyes on the prize!

Write It Down
Get a journal so you can record your successes.  When you need a little extra motivation, you can refer back to your entries to see how you felt about them!

Be Specific
We were are a bit vague when we made our resolutions the first time around.  This makes it easier for us to go around them.  Instead of saying, "I plan to work out more",  say "I plan to work out for 30-45 minutes every morning".

Reward Yourself

Are you setting short term goals for yourself?  If you plan ahead, you have milestones to look forward to.  But remember, don't reward yourself with something counterproductive.  For example, don't splurge on an expensive pair of shoes as a reward for paying off a credit card bill on time. 

You Can Do It! 
Keep the fact that you didn't follow through the first time around behind you!  It's a new day, and this time you WILL be consistent. Keep a positive attitude and you will be well on your way to achieving whatever goal you have put in front of you!  And we all slip up every now and again, if you fall off once or twice, don't concentrate on the negative, brush it off and just get right back at it!

Finding The Best Travel Deals!

For those of you looking to get away and feel the sand in between your toes, what better time than now! Get away from the routine of the daily grind and spend some long overdue quality time with yourself or loved ones at a place you've been yearning to visit! And you don't need to break the bank to do so!  Here are some budget travel trips to help you take a few long weekends this season! 

  

Know Your Budget
First,you should put together a budget and see how you'd like to distribute your money. Then choose a destination. Once you've decided where you'd like to go, it's time to look into flights.

Buy Tickets In Advance
Ticket prices tend to rise as your travel date gets closer. Secure them a few weeks in advance if you're traveling domestically, or a few months in advance if you're traveling internationally.  Use the fare finder found on almost all travel sites. to check dates a few days before or after your desired travel time to see if you can get a better deal by flying out the night before!

If you can't book in advance, Book Last Minute!
This may seem odd considering our previous tip, but if you find yourself with a Monday free and it's the Wednesday before, well it's a  great time to get out of town and find some EXTREMELY low deals.  Hotels and Airlines release rooms at seriously discounted rates right before the date if they aren't filled - they'd rather have someone pay 70% less then just have empty space.

Be Flexible Many airlines release flight listing details on Mondays and Tuesdays. These are the best days to find deals. Weekend prices are the highest. And always avoid peak travel dates if you can!

Comparison Shopping
Shop around!  There are so many sites out there that make it easy for you to find airfare deals.  Once you find the package that works for you, buy it! You might miss out on amazing deals if you don't act quickly!

Here are 5 "private sale" sites that offer great travel deals. They say you have to be invited by a friend, but you can just as easily register on your own! Check them out!

• Vacationist
• Sales are limited-time only, typically lasting between three and seven days, or until sold out!
• JetSetter
• Deals are valid for a limited time only, and offered on a first come, first served basis. Remember, the earlier you log in, the better the selection!
• SniqueAway
• Their limited-time-only sales showcase the sleek, chic, and always unique!
• TripAlertz
• Collective buying power - as bookings go up, prices go down!
• VoyagePrive
• Offers high-end travel deals at prices of up to 75% off! 

Bon Voyage!!

Tracking The Trend: Shoes for Spring 2011

According to Punxsutawney Phil, Spring is around the corner! It sure doesn't seem like it. It's been blizzard after blizzard, slippery streets and freezing weather. We think it's time Phil had a sit-down with Mother Nature because it's clear she didn't get the memo! In the meantime, let's take our minds off the layers of ice that have formed outside our homes, and imagine our "happy place"... out shopping for shoes.

Shoes are one of the pieces that most define a woman's fashion style. It is one of the items that can really make a certain outfit pop! Friends and Family Circle shows you a few fashion trends that you might want to consider for updating your wardrobe.  Peep-toe ankle boots are on their way out, but gladiator sandals are here to stay!

We haven't seen too many celebrities in these yet, but the "flatform" is one of the latest in shoe innovations!

"Flatform" Shoes

Wear a pair of ballet flats or gladiator sandals with your favorite maxi dress!

Gladiator Sandals

"Jesus" Sandals

Ballet Flats

Wedges will continue to be an option for your spring wardrobe, just with a little twist - platforms and scarf-ties!

We're ready for the sun to start shining again! Are you?

Tracking The Trend: What Is Resort Wear?

You may have heard the term ‘resort wear’ used by designers and clothing shops alike. You receive an invite that states 'resort casual' as the dress code.  What is resort wear?  Should you swap out the 3-piece suit for a bathing suit and a wide-brimmed hat?  Is that what you should resort to when you can't figure out what to wear?   Friends and Family Circle is here to demystify the trend and keep you fashionable!

Resort wear is quite unique when you think about it. Initially directed towards a small pocket of people who could afford to whisk themselves away to warmer climates for the holidays, the fashion industry has now deemed 'resort wear' a "season".  What does that mean?  An official collection between the winter and spring seasons!

Here are a few resort wear pieces to include when you're packing!

Maxi Dresses

Beachwear

Guys, let's pass on the Hawaiian shirts this time around, okay?
 

Opt for something more clean cut. Blazers, khakis, shorts, loafers - all GREAT options!

Protect your delicate skin from harmful sun rays!

Wide-Brimmed Sun Hat

Resort wear is relaxed and fun - as should be your time away! So get going!