After visiting the new Sposabella Lace...

Did you know? Sposabella Lace has moved, and on Saturday, I visited with Frank and the gang while they were both open for business and setting up in their new space.

Brightly lit and just lovely, I was greeted with the same wonderful kindness I have grown to love there.

But... get this... there is now a bridal salon at the deep end of the store.  And now, in addition to custom headpieces, they also do alterations.  Can you believe it?

This store is directed at the high-end customer, or the extremely skilled and quality-oriented creative, and it is EXACTLY what the garment district needs.

The beautiful laces are suspended on headers near the front of the store, and some are displayed in cases, to be taken out by staff members if requested.  Don't be intimidated, and be ready to talk budget, if that is a strong consideration for you.

My personal favorite thing about Sposabella are the headpieces.  I bought my own headpiece for my wedding nearly 18 years ago from them.  It was gorgeous, and absolutely unforgettable.  See their current offerings here.

For your truly special events, Sposabella has always been, and will continue to be a fabulous place to go!

NYC Garment District Service Provider Review: M&S Schmalberg

M&S Schmalberg
242 W 36th St. 7th Fl.
New York, NY 10018
212-244-2090


90 years. That's a long time. I'm a sucker for a family business. I also love tools, and long, technical explanations about how they would go about creating your piece.  You bring the fabric, and then you look at their walls, website, or something else you've seen to give them an idea of what you want.  They tell you if it is possible, talk about the process, and quote you a price. Then, you decide.

How about a bridal bouquet you can keep? Forever?  How about a large rosette to be used on a curtain tieback or pillow for home dec use?  How about a beautiful floral embellishment for your garment, your keepsake wedding journal, your hat, your hair, your... well, anything, really? Be sure to visit their website for ideas you didn't even know were possible.

Going to their office is a truly delightful experience.  Beautiful and comfortable to wander around in, you are encouraged to make yourself at home. You are greeted with enthusiasm, courtesy and respect, by people so passionate about what they do, you'll eventually have to tear yourself away.  Today I spoke with Warren (one of the owners), but the personality of the business is extremely customer-friendly.  I overheard customer conversations during the time I spent there, and am confident that the same level of kind guidance is offered to everyone who approaches them with an idea.

And boy, do they have examples to show off just how great the work is!  Floral topiaries, leaves, flowers ideal for window decorations, and LEATHER.... ahhhh... LEATHER!

Wanna know more?  Read this Wall Street Journal article.

And sculptural custom flowers are just the thing to take your project to the next level.  You don't need to go there to do business.  You can call or email, instead!

If you will be at the

City Source Expo
Tuesday, July 17

10am to 5pm

Fashion Institute of Technology

The Great Hall

Enter on 28th Street (between 7th and 8th)

so will they!

Engaged? Shopping for Bridal Fabrics and Trims in the Garment District

Vogue Pattern 1163

Judging by the number of emails I've received lately asking where to shop for bridal fabrics, the holidays still remain a prime time for couples to get engaged. My standard answer to this question is Mood, B&J, Lace Star and Sposabella, plus M&J Trimming's bridal department, but I have to confess I haven't actively looked for or thought about bridal fabrics and trims in a long time. So readers, help me out here: Have you shopped for bridal fabrics or trims in NYC recently? If so, where do you recommend brides-to-be head first? If you have any photos of your bridal gown or bridesmaids gowns that were made from fabric purchased in the Garment District, email them to me and I may post them here. Thanks!