Bridal Trousseau: Romantic or Trendy?

Romantic or trendy? That is the question. For some, the word peignoir set conjures up images of a hideous, out-dated, lace up to your neck number that will mortify the blushing Bride-to-be at her shower. She will stow it away in the attic where it is never to be seen again. Not true. Pretty underthings don't necessarily have to be uncomfortable, unsightly and "old fashioned".

So what's a Bride to do? Actually the Mother-of-the-Bride, which is our typical shopper, will be the judge of that. The traditional "romantic" peignoir set, which is a favorite of many, is usually a long beautiful gown accompanied by a relatively sheer matching robe (lingerie by Jonquil, picture, left). It is a very special gift presented by mom to her soon to be wed daughter at the bridal shower. A beautiful wedding garter, luxurious silk panties or satin covered low-heeled slippers may also be included in this traditional ensemble.

The tradition of the Bridal TROUSSEAU (French word: pronounced "true so") dates back to the Middle Ages. The trousseau originally included the Bridal gown, lingerie, clothing and other linens a Bride prepared for her marriage. These items symbolized a new beginning. The French word PEIGNOIR (pronoun "pen war") is more commonly used today to describe the Bride's wedding night lingerie.

Very often as well, we have the Mother-of-the-Groom that wishes to purchase something special for her future daughter in law. In my experience, it is probably more appropriate to select a cute bridal Pj or pretty camisole and panty set (camisole set by Arianne, picture, left). In most cases, it is best to leave the more elaborate and formal peignoir set to the bride's mother (unless the bridal shower is hosted by the Mother-of-the-Groom for HER family or the Bride's mother is deceased).

We carry styles that are elegant and feminine with exquisite lace and hand-sewn pearl details as well as the much more simple pieces that are preferred by girls who are not the "frilly" type (sweet and simple peignoir set by Oscar de la Renta, picture, left). Some mothers come in and say, "my daughter wants to wear her woolly socks!" Even for the girls who are not comfortable with the lacy or "frou-frou" lingerie, we carry a comfy and cute cotton nightshirt with the word bride embroidered on the front. We need to talk about those woolly socks though! Shorter versions of the more formal peignoir sets are the matching chemise or babydoll sets which styles range from gracefully refined, to pieces that are girly and a bit more flirtatious (flirty babydoll by Betsey Johnson, picture, above).

We are a perfect fit for a customer looking for an alternative to the Fredericks of Hollywood look. Most moms are not going down that road! If the bride wants something a little spicier she probably will go to buy it herself:-) OR, her more adventurous girlfriends will find the most outrageous pieces and present it to her at her shower or bachelorette party!!

For the girls who tend to be a bit more trendy,we offer matching camisole sets and Pjs with the word "Bride", "Mrs." or "Just Married" emblazoned with Swarovski crystals. Our tanks are one of the best selling items in our boutique. They are hip, chic and alot of fun!!! Personalized "I love" panties with her Wedding date are intimate choices for blushing Bride-to-be (pictured below) We didn't forget the Groom, we have matching boxers for him as well. These contemporary pieces are very hot sellers and are nice for the Honeymoon. They are a great gift for the Bride's sister, bridesmaids or extended family to give at the shower.

So, whatever the style of the Bride-to-be, make sure her bridal lingerie fits her personality and makes her feel beautiful on a very special night. Can you think of a better time to splurge on feminine beauty and luxury than for your Wedding and Honeymoon?

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