I received a tip from one Toni this morning stating that Target will soon be carrying actual wedding dresses in its online store. And thank goodness for that tip, as I’m rather late on the uptake on this one. That Mizrahi fellow who is so fond of groping famous boobies on the red carpet has designed a line of simple, classic wedding dresses that will start at a mere $159.99.

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the eight dresses – in ivory, white or black – include a classic tulle princess dress, slinky silk cowl-neck sheath, and a ball gown with a lace shell. The collection also includes a line of bridesmaids dresses, satin peep-toe pumps, lace slingbacks and other shoes for the bride, and cummerbunds and ties for the groomsmen.

These (and the rest of the dresses) are set to debut on May 6 and will be sold exclusively through Target.com, so keep your eyes peeled!

There are weddings coming up soon. And by weddings, I mean my wedding. Possibly also your wedding. One thing that I feel has been conspicuously absent from my wedding planning activities has been the sense of camaraderie that most of us assume will simply be a byproduct of being engaged. My sister, who will stand as my MOH, lives in Florida. My mother is in New York. The Beard’s sister, who will stand as a bridesmaid, is way far away and none too interested in the details. My girlfriends all lead busy lives.

I went to my second gown fitting recently, all by my lonesome, and got a little sappy thinking about how nice it would have been to have been surrounded by loving family and friends while the seamstress poked, prodded, and pulled. So I just wanted to give all you nice folks a big thank you for being there with me by proxy. I love reading your comments and getting your input!

If I could do it all over again, I’d choose ya’ll to be my bridesmaids and outfit you in something sleek, sassy, and re-wearable, like this light-as-air silk charmeuse number from Lynn Lugo:

Here’s a little something pretty from New York designer Cassandra Bromfield. This is the front of her wonderful, summery cocoa satin faced organza gown:

And this is the back:

I like Bromfield’s philosophy because it is one of amalgamation. When she sews a custom gown, she encourages her client to add special touches to the gown that recall special moments or special people. She suggests embellishments such as fabric from a mother’s wedding dress or buttons from a loved ones garment, though she is willing to incorporate just about anything. And, if you so desire, she will craft you a gown that is a one-of-a-kind mix of African, European, and American sensibilities.

As an aside, if you have a minute and a tale of woe, visit Take My Dress. It’s both hilarious and horrifying!