Clockwise from top: Darling Collection watch with diamond-surrounded face from Charriol in La Jolla

Diamonds and pink sapphires in a pendant suspended from a sheer platinum chain, with matching
drop earrings from Tiffany & Co. in Fashion Valley

Necklace and earrings featuring three rows of dazzling diamonds set in white gold from Chopard
at South Coast Plaza

Grace white silk sandals and pearl and jeweled tiara from The Tiara Room in the Cedros Design District

Textured woven bracelet in 18-karat gold from Tiffany & Co. in Fashion Valley

La Chica Chic beaded bag from The Shoe Lounge in Fairbanks Ranch

Simply Charming organza white and sequin garter and Sherry Et Cie silk pearl thong from
Jolie Femme in Del Mar

Say "I Do" In Style
It could be argued that a bride’s best wedding day accessory is a radiant glow, beaming smile, or even her new hubby. But a tasteful selection of diamonds and gems doesn’t hurt. These selected accessories are sure to make that special day unforgettable. — Mia Stefanko



Left to right: hand-tied rose bouquet by My Fair Lady Flowers in Encinitas, loose spring cluster bouquet with tulips, freesia, bouvardiam and peach blossom by Adelaide’s in La Jolla, and Hydrangea and fragrant spring flowers bouquet with heirloom brooch by Bella Fiore in Rancho Santa Fe

To Have And To Hold
After the dress, the wedding bouquet is probably the most important accessory a bride-to-be must choose. While hand-tied designs — with stems wrapped in decorative ribbon — are still popular, modern brides are taking a step back in time by choosing cascading floral bouquets of yesterday for something a little different, says Gina Phillips of Adelaide’s Flowers in La Jolla. Other trends include monochromatic color schemes and bouquets made up of only one kind of flower to showcase each bud’s individual beauty. Take a peek at this season’s most romantic arrangements. — Tanja Kern



Mabel’s In The Ranch
Grandma Mabel may have been the original inspiration for this upscale boutique, but it’s her granddaughter Lisa Ketchum who’s behind the store’s latest opening in Rancho Bernardo’s brand-new 4S Ranch. "It’s in her backyard," laughs her sister and co-owner Leah Cassidy. "Our business is such a community thing for us, and our North County locations are in the rest of the family’s neighborhood. Now it’s her turn." Following the same concept as its Carlsbad store, the new Mabel’s will feature designer women’s, children’s, and maternity fashions from names like Michael Stars and Citizens for Humanity. Customers, whose kids Mabel’s has clothed since they were born (or before), will be happy to note that the new store will now carry junior sizes as well, proving that Mabel’s is committed to growing along with its devoted clientele. (760/753-3000, www.babymabels.com)
— Lois Alter Mark

Model showcasing a dress from Zac Posen’s Spring Collection

Nordstrom Designer Spring Preview
Approximately 300 fashionistas recently gathered at the San Diego Museum of Art for the Nordstrom Designer Preview. The full runway show and cocktail event provided a first look at some of spring’s most exciting day and evening designs from Andrew GN, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan, Dries Van Noten, John Paul Gaultier, Marni, Peter Som, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, and Zac Posen. In addition, on-site shopping in a specially-designed boutique tempted guests with expanded collections. "Nordstrom created Designer Preview 29 years ago as a way to bring collections from runways around the world directly to our customers," says Jennifer Wheeler, Nordstrom vice president of designer apparel. — Mia Stefanko, photo by Robert Rooks Photography




Belle Moda Goes Online
If you find yourself pining to shop Bella Moda, Encinitas or Bella Moda Too, Carlsbad in the middle of the night or while on vacation, your pining days are over. Bella Moda has gone online with their trendy styles and a commitment to attentive customer service. "We have something for everyone," says owner Heidi Moran. "That adorable piece you’ve seen on your favorite celebrity or in your favorite magazine, we probably have it. Or can special order it for you." With fabulous fashions only a click away, you can now shop 24 hours a day. (760/729-9877, www.shopbellamoda.com)
— E.S. Magill




Junko Yoshioka At M Bride
Junko Yoshioka, bridal and eveningwear designer to the stars, recently previewed her spring 2007 collection at M Bride in La Jolla. The two-day fashion event began with a private reception where guests mingled with models showcasing Yoshioka’s newest evening gowns, and enjoyed apple martinis, Chardonnay, and delectable hors d’oeuvres from chef Barry Layne. Among the guests in attendance were several members of Las Patronas. Yoshioka’s stunning collections fuse creative contemporary design with the timeless elegance of haute couture. M Bride carries Yoshioka’s bridal collection year-round. This event marked the debut of her eveningwear collection to the store. (858/551-1718, www.mbridesalon.com)
— Jane Shiomi

 


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