Here’s Part II of my review of the JLM Couture collections with gowns from Alvina Valenta, Tara Keely and Lazaro:

Tara Keely – You don’t see many ball gowns with box pleats these days.  I think when I started working in bridal you saw a lot more of them.  This mikado satin ball gown has a pleated bodice with sweetheart neckline, a crystal belt for just a touch of sparkle and a full ball gown skirt with a chapel train and pockets, which I’ll discuss next.

(Style #2152)

Tara Keely – There were a lot of fabrics with texture or the illusion of texture shown at market.  This ball gown is made from a brocade that gives a little dimension to the dress.  It also features box pleats and pockets.

A little advice:  If your dress comes with pockets the only thing you should use them for is a handkerchief or tissues.  A cell phone will weigh down that area of the dress, makeup may run and you don’t need to carry a wallet with you on your wedding day.

(Style #2154)

Lazaro – This organza ball gown features a ballerina sweetheart bodice with spaghetti straps.  The neckline comes a little lower than a traditional sweetheart neckline.  The waist is accented with a beaded floral cummerbund.

(Style #3165)

Lazaro – There were two versions of this dress and I decided to pull this one.  The sheer jewel encrusted bodice is over alencon lace and is accented with a beaded belt at the waist.  The skirt is made from ivory organza set in a spiral wave-like pattern.  The other version I mentioned has a similar bodice but it’s a dropped waist silhouette and the organza skirt has layers on top of one another in a tiered pattern.

(Style #3153)

Alvina Valenta – This formal duchess satin gown is very elegant.  I like the “V” notch on the strapless neckline and the satin ribbon detail at the dropped waist.  Accessorize with a pair of chandelier earrings and maybe a fabulous bracelet.

Jewelry Tip:  If you wear a bracelet on your wedding day, make sure that it can’t catch and snag your dress.

**All Images in the Blog Post are Copyrighted by Dan Lecca and cannot be used without permission**

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Anne Chertoff | Wedding Blogger

Anne Chertoff has earned her reputation as a wedding authority over the course of her 10 years in the bridal industry. WeddingWire and Chertoff have partnered to provide comprehensive Spring 2011 Bridal Market coverage from New York City.