6 Wedding Day Tips from Celebrity Stylist Petra Flannery

VRAI | July 15, 2021

Petra Flannery, named one of the “Top 25 Most Powerful Stylists in Hollywood,” is known for her flawless and fresh approach to dressing. Her twenty year styling career spans from Elite Models to Harpers Bazaar, InStyle and more. Petra is one of the most sought-after stylists in Hollywood. She has created memorable red carpet moments for her clients, named “Best Look of the Year” and “Best Look of the Decade” by The Hollywood Reporter. One lucky couple is going to win the opportunity to consult with her on their own wedding-day look by entering our Summer Bridal Experience. But we couldn’t resist asking celebrity stylist Petra for 6 wedding day tips that all couples can utilize on their big day.

What do you love about being a stylist? What is exciting about creating a look for a wedding day or special event?

“I love the creativity of being a stylist. I adore clothes and accessories. Styling is a way for me to express my admiration for fashion.

Creating a look for a wedding or a special event is always exciting. Stylistically, they are an expression of the person’s fashion persona. Weddings are probably the most remembered and photographed occasion in a couple’s life, so I always try to apply their vision into what they wear.”

What is non-negotiable when it comes to dressing for a wedding day?

“When it comes to dressing for a wedding, just settling on a dress or look is non-negotiable. Couples must feel confident and look their best. The number one rule is wearing something that feels true to you and that you will look back on and be proud of. Even if the look doesn’t stand the test of time in terms of style, it should stand the test of time for what you remember about that day.”

Do you find that it’s important to experiment with new styles and silhouettes for a wedding or special occasion? Do you try to stick to what a client asks for or introduce new looks?

“When it comes to experimenting with new styles, I would personally stay away from it on the wedding day. Trends come and go but this occasion should be looked back on as a timeless moment.

Typically, I do love to introduce new ideas. A client may only see themselves in one way, so it is nice to show them a new style perspective, especially when it comes to silhouettes. I definitely use the tool of listening to clients. As much as you see a vision for them, it is really important to hear and understand theirs. Style constantly evolves, and we spend a lifetime creating our style. It doesn’t happen overnight.”

What are wedding looks that never go out of style and what are some trends you are seeing?

“Wedding looks that never go out of style are ones that I like to title as the decades.

There are: The 90’s - silhouette, a straight or square neckline. The 50’s - sweetheart bust line and defined waist. The 60’s - column straight style gowns, I love these, I find them so chic.

All of these I would consider to be the classics. As for trends, I would try to stay away from them, especially on your wedding day. I say stick with a classic style, it's timeless.”

When it comes to jewelry, what do you recommend for brides and grooms? What looks do you love for bridesmaids, groomsmen, or the mother of the bride, as well?

“With jewelry, it really enhances the look. On this special day, it is all about clarity, and so should your gems be. A beautiful stud earring for the bride (cushion or pear cut for me) is perfect. The ring should really be the stand out. For the groom, again keep it simple, unless it is black tie, shirt studs and cufflinks are always a nice touch. For the mother of the bride or groom, it is a very special day for them as well, they should feel that, too. They can express themselves through various styles that suit them. With their jewelry, I feel there are no boundaries.”

What are some great ways to incorporate sustainability into your wedding style?

“You can incorporate sustainability into your wedding style through your “something old” or “something borrowed” — whether it be a piece of jewelry, a veil ,or even the wedding dress, it is a long standing tradition and promotes the culture of reuse.”

Summer Bridal Experience

Summer Bridal Experience

Enter our Summer Bridal Experience before July 30th, 2021, and win your chance to virtually meet Petra, as well as celebrity wedding planner Colin Cowie, and our team of diamond experts, to plan the perfect wedding.

Enter to win