Welcome to Working It, where Racked follows street style into the office. Forget pedestrian khakis and button-downs—these fashionable professionals take dress codes to a whole new dimension. Quick, somebody call HR!
Photos by Driely S. for Racked
BHLDN is Anthropologie's nod to the world of bridal. Like anything URBN Inc.-backed, the assortment goes well beyond the expected white dresses—which fall reasonably from $500 to $2,000—with a holistic approach to merchandising, offering lingerie, party décor, even gifts. And in true Anthro fashion, just about everything BHLDN stocks is guaranteed to set girly hearts aflutter.
In honor of Weddings Week, we crashed the BHLDN offices in the Philadelphia Navy Yard to see what the girls behind one of the most exciting bridal brands on the market right now wear to work (and had a good laugh at the group photo when the girls realized they almost all were wearing white and/or lace). Click through for a better look at their office style, plus the wedding myths they want to bust, what's worth splurging versus saving on when it comes to the big day, and the ceremonies that have blown them away.
Amy Miller, Stylist wears a Tracy Reese dress, Sweedish Hasbeens shoes, 'love' ring via Overstock.com, and Essie 'Adore-A-Ball' manicure.
How did you get into bridal?
As the unofficial social chair of my friend group, I eventually moved from planning our parties to planning weddings for a firm. After years of planning every little detail for weddings, I found that the most rewarding moments were being with my brides when they tried on their gowns (and of course playing with all the fun accessories!).
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
Hands down, Kate Moss'! It was boho-luxe perfection. And that guest list, I mean…
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
Your dress can still be 'the one' even if it doesn't bring you to tears.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on your honeymoon. Save on favors and DIY 'em instead. It saves you money and it feels really heartfelt.
What have you learned at BHLDN about the wedding industry that you wouldn't have known otherwise?
It's not just about the wedding! Your engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party—they all matter.
Christina Frederick, Senior Personal Styling Manager, wears a Zimmermann jumpsuit, J.Crew sandals, necklace from Moon + Arrow, rings from Madewell and grandpa, vintage bracelet, and OPI 'Kiss Me I'm Brazilian' nails.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
Vintage jewelry, leopard pumps, and my metallic backpack (my life is in there!). I am an accessory girl at heart.
How did you get into bridal?
I also work for Anthropologie managing personal styling services, so joining BHLDN was a natural progression. I am very lucky that I get to outfit our customer not only for her everyday life now but also for her most special day! I love getting to work with brides beyond the 'big day' with all of their styling needs throughout the busy engagement cycle, from bridal shower to rehearsal dinner.
Comfort or glamour on the big day? Defend your case.
These don't have to be mutually exclusive, especially now more than ever. The most stylish women are always the ones most comfortable in what they are wearing. Comfort and ease allow the bride to look—and more importantly, feel—beautiful so she can focus on taking in the memorable occasion, rather than fussing with her dress. Glamour will naturally transcend when wearing the right dress (one that is comfortable and best highlights her unique beauty) and, of course, the right accessories.
What trend in bridal do you really like and which would you never let near your nuptials?
Love the freedom to make it your own and not have to follow traditions so closely. Hate matching bridesmaids—same dress, shoes, everything. I like a mix!
What's the best piece of wedding planning advice you've heard?
Register early on, this way it's off your plate before things get busier, and will serve as an available resource for all of the occasions leading up to your wedding, allowing loved ones to be self-sufficient rather than asking you more questions.
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
That you have to wear white.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on music, either a great band or DJ. Save on frivolous décor details and favors.
What have you learned at BHLDN about the wedding industry that you wouldn't have known otherwise?
How down to earth and non-diva most brides are—often I've noticed our bride is thinking just as much about her mother feeling beautiful on her big day as she is her own gown. Our bride is very thoughtful!
Lindsey Robers, Apparel Buyer, wears a Sophie Hulme dress with attached necklace, Dolce Vita sandals, Amrapali ring, vintage cuff, Marida bracelet, and Essie 'St. Tropez' pedicure.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
Easy: A vintage suede vest pulled from the bins of Portobello Road Market, my black fur vest I can't get through winter without, and as many handbags as I can fit over one arm.
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
Poppy Delevingne part deux. The scene: Marrakech. The guest list: Beyond. The vibe: Relaxed glamour amazingness. Who doesn't love to party in the desert? The bride wore the loveliest bohemian creation custom designed by Peter Dundas for Emilio Pucci: Subtle color, immense 3D embroidery, and a glamorous deep-V effused romance. Everything about this wedding weekend in the desert was marvelous, from a disco pool party, boozy dinners, tons of dancing, and camels to boot!
What's the best piece of wedding planning advice you've heard?
Taking some time for yourselves on the big day. Step away, spend time with your partner, and really soak up the moment.
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
'Maids dresses do not have to be a nightmare! Not only are there gorgeous, sophisticated, and romantic bridesmaid choices in the market, but brides can also get creative with mixing and matching. The key is to keep focused: Find colors and textures that build off one another rather than compete. Lace in soft, tonal hues and touches of metallic are a good start.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on the music (let's party!), and save on flowers by selecting only those in season. It's not a sacrifice—you'll get the freshest look without the import fees.
Alexa Egeck, Assistant Buyer, Lingerie & Accessories, wears a J.Crew top, Kimchi Blue shorts, Seychelles sandals, BHLDN halo, gifted necklace, bracelets by Hermés and Les Néréides, earrings by Augustine, rings by Alex Monroe and Catbird, Sephora 'Sparktacular' manicure, and Essie 'Status Symbol' pedicure.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
The Chanel I was gifted for my 21st birthday, the cable knit fisherman's sweater that I purchased on my first buying trip to Paris, and my high school prom dress! I loved it so much that I had it shortened to cocktail length so that I could wear it again.
How did you get into bridal?
I've been oddly obsessed with bridal from a young age. I begged my parents to let me buy bridal magazines during family trips to the grocery store and on my first day of high school when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up I confidently told the other 14-year-olds that I wanted to be "a wedding gown designer," despite having no idea what that even entailed. When I heard that one of my favorite retailers, Anthropologie, was launching a wedding brand it just seemed like fate!
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
One of my closest friends—who is a designer at Free People—just got married in one of the coolest, most unique weddings I've ever experienced. Their day was distinctly "them." To give you an idea, they asked their guests to wear as much color and as many sequins as possible to help celebrate their big day—her now-husband jokingly referred to the dress code as "Tina Turner." The ceremony was in an outdoor rose garden and the reception took place in a white tent filled with twinkling lights and sparkling rosé. The bride wore a vintage lace gown and then changed into full-length sequins for dancing. It was one of the most special evenings that I've ever been a part of, and something I'll remember forever!
Comfort or glamour on the big day? Defend your case.
Comfort. I plan to do a LOT of dancing at my wedding.
What trend in bridal do you really like and which would you never let near your nuptials?
I'm all about a fresh flower crown on your day. I'd like to think that I've felt that way since before they were a "trend," but I'm happy that the industry is embracing them right now. Sadly, I'm going to have to say no to the garter toss. While I'm not opposed to garters (I'm actually very pro-garter), I am opposed to removing them in front of large crowds.
What's the best piece of wedding planning advice you've heard?
You're not going to be able to please everyone, so don't try to!
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Videographer is worth splurging on, fancy sit down dinner is worth saving on—more time for dancing!
Claire Elliott, Associate Buyer, Apparel, wears a Leifsdottir dress, Cynthia Vincent shoes, Cartier watch, Forever21 ring, Essie 'Waltz' layered with 'Natural Cotton' manicure, and Essie 'Find Me An Oasis' pedicure.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
I save my Dries Van Noten sequin pumps, my Georgetown 1984 NCAA basketball t-shirt, and my mom's vintage Gucci bags (because she'd be pretty upset with me if I left those behind).
What is the best piece of shopping advice you have gotten?
Elle Woods, Legally Blonde 2: "If the fabric doesn't work with you, don't work with it!" Seriously, it makes sense—if the dress doesn't fit your body, if the fabric pulls or feels cheap, if doesn't make you feel fabulous, do NOT buy.
How did you get into bridal?
I was working in the Anthropologie women's division, and I heard rumors of a possible "wedding brand" developing. My heart skipped a beat. I immediately asked for my boss's blessing to apply, interviewed, slaved over a huge branding project for ten days, got the job, and the rest is beautiful bridal history.
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
Poppy Delevigne and James Cook's wedding, part one! Poppy is one of my ultimate style crushes, and she really knocked it out of the park here—ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral, Kensington Palace Gardens reception under the stars. Intimate, chic city wedding? Check. Soft, bohemian hair and makeup? Check. Understated bouquet of white roses? Check. Handsome husband sporting a morning coat? Check. Spice Girl (Geri Halliwell) bridesmaid? Check.
Comfort or glamour on the big day? Defend your case.
I am of the glamour persuasion, 100%. I feel very comfortable getting dressed up! Your wedding is the one day where you should go all out and feel your most beautiful. When I get married, I will absolutely be dancing all night long in some fabulous high heels and sparkly accessories.
What trend in bridal do you really like and which would you never let near your nuptials?
I have always been a huge fan of tonal, mix and match bridesmaids' dresses with each girl wearing her own style. I am strongly opposed to "I do" shoe sole decals.
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
You do not have to wear a white gown. I just saw a wedding where the bride wore an insanely beautiful Carolina Herrera China blue, floral-printed ball gown! There are no rules, as long as the gown showcases your personal style.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Having my dance floor packed would be my biggest wedding goal, so I think splurging on an amazing band is worth it. You can save a bit on flowers—pick ones that are in season, and if you can't afford ones you really want, ask your florist to suggest "lookalike" options that provide the same overall aesthetic.
Jess Neil, Senior Designer, wears a Dolce Vita top, Free People bra, AG jeans, Corso Como shoes, an Anthropologie necklace, a ring from her grandmother, and Essie 'Lilacism' manicure.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
A kimono-inspired floral robe my Mom wore in the '80s, rose gold heels (my favorite alternative to a nude shoe), and my vegan leather jacket.
What is the best piece of shopping advice you have gotten?
Take the price of the item you are debating on and divide by the number of times you can see yourself wearing it. I love being able to justify an item that might be a bit of a splurge!
How did you get into bridal?
I just loved the idea of designing around such a significant and special time in someone's life. I also just LOVE love (mushy, I know).
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
One of my co-workerss had their reception set up with long family style tables, rustic décor, and touches of gold; it looked so warm and approachable, and her guests had a great time celebrating so closely together.
Comfort or glamour on the big day? Defend your case.
It is my daily fashion goal to find comfy things that make me feel glamorous so I truly believe this is a situation where you CAN have both.
Plus, BHLDN has shown me that there are gowns in the world that can scream glamour on the outside but feel like pajamas on the inside.
What trend in bridal do you really like and which would you never let near your nuptials?
I am obsessed with the trend of photo booths! You walk away with photos of all of your friends in family and really get to capture the energy of the night. And while I love mixing in a little boho into my style, but I can't get on board with crochet gowns with long bell sleeves.
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
I don't think you need to have a formal dinner during your reception. A cocktail hour that allows you to mix and mingle with all the guests over a bunch of light bites is one of my favorite parts of a reception.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on food and drinks. A killer specialty cocktail and slightly out-of-the-box menu goes a long way with guests. You can easily save on flowers.
What have you learned at BHLDN about the wedding industry that you wouldn't have known otherwise?
When you have your first try-on session go outside of your comfort zone and pick a few gowns opposite of what you envisioned wearing. I have seen future brides pick a gown that is completely different from what they originally saw themselves wearing and they looked amazing!
Nicole Prince, Copywriter, wears a Cory Lynn Calter top, DL 1961 jeans, Sam Edelman sandals, necklaces from BHLDN and Etsy, rings from Anthropologie, Catbird, and vintage, and Essie 'Fiji' pedicure.
Your closet is on fire! What three items do you save from the flames?
My wedding gown since I'm getting married in a few months(!), my cheerleading uniform for sentimental reasons, and some underwear because a bunch of my friends lived in a house that really did catch on fire and that's what they actually needed.
How did you get into bridal?
I've always been really into weddings—in elementary school, I would rent, like, ten copies of Brides from the library before family vacations. In high school, I met with my guidance counselor and told her I NEEDED her to map out a plan for me to become a wedding planner. I worked on the Anthro team for three years, heard about the wedding brand they were starting, and now here I am.
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
Friends of mine married a few years back on a farm in a tiny Michigan town. We did yoga at the beach the morning of and what made it so great was that the day was super down-to-earth and unfussy—a true celebration! They had the biggest smiles and happy tears I've ever witnessed. They're vegan, so their family-style meal catered to vegans and meat-eaters. Still the best meal I've ever had at a wedding.
What trend in bridal do you really like and which would you never let near your nuptials?
May mix-and-match bridesmaids never ever leave us! A trend I wouldn't have? As much as I adore the flower crown trend, I'm actually severely allergic to bees and don't really want to carry an EpiPen around...
What's the best piece of wedding planning advice you've heard?
Map everything out. Then, delegate!
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
Not everyone is going to "just know" with their gown. I've been asked so many times if I "got that feeling" with the gown I chose. I LOVE mine, but it was still a decision, not a magical sign that floated down from above.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on a gown you feel special in and food (say no to dry chicken and soggy rice!). Save on cut flowers. My fiancé designs living walls and green roofs for a living, so he really hates the fact that flowers die so soon after the wedding. We're getting dahlias from a local farm, but are also having potted herbs.
Lindsay Brooks, Associate Buyer, Décor, wears a Vanessa Virginia top, AG jeans, and Seychelles shoes.
What is the best piece of shopping advice you have gotten?
This is shopping advice I eventually gave myself: Shop alone. I drive myself crazy when I go shopping and there's an extra level of anxiety if someone is with me.
How did you get into bridal?
When Anthropologie was in the early discussions about launching a wedding brand, I happened to be planning my own wedding. I was working in Anthropologie Home at the time and jumped on the opportunity to work in buying for wedding décor, especially as it was top of mind in my personal life. My official first day at BHLDN was my first day back from my honeymoon!
Whose wedding has blown you away (can be one you attended, or a high profile celeb wedding) and why?
One of our closest couple friends had a beautiful, intimate wedding on this tiny island in the Caribbean. No glitz or glamour needed—it was just about the two of them in this breathtaking location.
Comfort or glamour on the big day? Defend your case.
Comfort! That doesn't mean you need to sacrifice glamour, though. Being uncomfortable are the times I feel the least glamorous.
If you could bust one wedding or bridal myth for the general public, what would it be?
DIY doesn't always mean cheaper. Once you add up the cost of all the supplies you need, it doesn't always end up being more affordable. Don't forget to account for all the TIME it takes as well. I attempted DIY drink stirrers for my wedding—let's just say I wasn't as crafty as I thought I was and lost a little sanity in the process.
What wedding luxury is worth splurging on, and what's worth saving on?
Splurge on a honeymoon. Our honeymoon was the best time of our lives. We dream about going back but know we won't be able to have a trip like that for years! Even when we do, it won't be the same. There is something magical about your relationship right after you get married—you are on cloud nine.
To save, try keeping your wedding small and intimate if possible. It will feel more personal and special that way, too.
What have you learned at BHLDN about the wedding industry that you wouldn't have known otherwise?
The people I've met in this industry are so passionate about their work. People love "love."
· BHLDN [Official Site]
· All Weddings Week posts [Racked]
· All Working It posts [Racked]