Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (Owner, deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) and Matthew Banever (Owner, Bards Clothing)

Summary:

Welcome to another episode of “The Fabric of America,” where we dive deep into the world of wedding fashion, exploring the latest trends, timeless classics, and everything in between. In this episode, hosts Melissa and Matt discuss the evolving landscape of bridal fashion and share their unique perspectives on the current trends in wedding attire. From the rise of non-traditional wedding dresses to the importance of having a day-of stylist, we cover it all. But first, they share their starts in the fashion industries. 

Outfits:

Melissa –

• Duster – Alice & Olivia
• T-shirt – Marshalls
• Jeans – Pistola Denim
• Necklace – Grandmother’s 

Matt –

• Brushed twill shirt – Bards Clothing
• Corduroys – Bards Clothing
• Belt – Boutique shop in West Hartford
• Underwear – Flint & Tinder

Key Topics Discussed:

The Suit vs. The Dress: Matt & Melissa discuss the differences in the life of a wedding garment

By the Numbers: Melissa shares current wedding industry statistics and trends

The Anti-Wedding Trend: Discover why more couples are opting for non-traditional, individualized wedding experiences and how brands like Muse Bridal and Lovebird Bridal Shop are leading the way with mix-and-match options.

Outfit Changes: We explore the growing trend of multiple outfit changes throughout the wedding festivities and the practicalities of repurposing family dresses.

The Day-Of Stylist: Learn why hiring a stylist for the wedding day is becoming a must-have service to ensure everything goes smoothly and looks perfect.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Hear Melissa’s riveting stories from the field, including last-minute wardrobe fixes and the real value of having a stylist on hand.

Links:

• Alice & Olivia: Stacey Bendet pulls inspiration from her love of vintage and all things feminine to design clothing that juxtaposes the whimsical and flirty with the sexy and sophisticated. 
• Pistola Denim: Clothing for women going places. Los Angeles-based womenswear brand founded in 2013 by Grace Na offering everyday premium pieces with street-smart and utilitarian sensibility.
• Flint & Tinder: Flint and Tinder makes quality clothing that’s simple but significant—hardwearing, American-inspired staples, designed to do exactly what it says on the tin. We’re talking world-class fit and comfort. Rugged and refined style. And best of all, top-notch construction you can depend on wear after wear.
• Cookshop Plus: Cookshop Plus is a family owned and operated independent Gourmet Kitchenware, Homewares business. West Hartford, CT.
• Bridal Bomber: deMelis Atelier’s signature item remade from your wedding dress or heirloom bridal gown.
• Baystate Textiles: Reuse, repurpose, recycle. Clothing recycling for Massachusetts and Connecticut. 
• Something Borrowed Blooms: Own the memories, Rent the flowers. Our flowers look real, smell amazing and are always picture perfect, no matter where or when you tie the knot. 
• Muse Bridal Shop: Bridal for the bold. Designed and ethically made in North America. Branford, CT.
• Love Bird Bridal: Your dream dress, stress free. Designer owned and operated. Mystic, CT.
• Wood and Word Blooms: Wedding flowers that are forever. Based in Connecticut.
• Lastrina Girls Bridal: We are a bridal boutique showcasing designer wedding gowns, special-occasion dresses and accessories. At Lastrina Girls our main goal is that each customer feels their most beautiful and has a very special experience. Middletown, CT.
• Beth Chapman Styling: Full-service bridal styling company specializing in on-site wedding day dressing for chic couples around the globe. 
• Francesca Dispirito Styling: Whether you don’t know where to start or have a dream vision in mind, my personalized service begins with understanding who you are in your everyday life as I guide you to finding your ideal bridal style.
• The Lucky Share: Event and wedding content creation. Your go-to wedding media disruptor. Helping you capture and share your love. Connecticut and beyond.