Carolyn Bessette Kennedy

Before her untimely death in the plane crash that also killed her husband, John.F. Kennedy Jr., and her sister Lauren, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy was well on her way to becoming a serious international trendsetter. She was spotted all over Manhattan sporting the most stylish looks of the 1990′s while walking her dog, fetching a sunday morning coffee or lounging in Central Park. However, her most iconic outfit was, by far, her wedding gown: a snow-white, bias cut Narcisco Rodriguez creation. She kept the accessories light, choosing only wrap and a pair of gloves made of the same gauzy material to compliment her classic sleek bun and ruby red lipstick. The overall effect was one of classic understatement that was chic enough to equal the aesthetic genius of her mother-in-law, Jackie Onassis. This look is not only easy to copy, but can also be relatively inexpensive. As far as wedding-day looks go, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Elizabeth Taylor

Ah, Liz Taylor, Hollywood’s original glamour girl. It is only natural that she would wind up on this list, considering she’s been married seven times. The gown we are discussing is the one she wore to her first wedding to Conrad Hilton (Paris Hilton’s grandfather). Elizabeth’s wedding gown was made for her by MGM’s designer, Helen Rose. The white satin gown featured a sweetheart neckline, which was covered with a chiffon overlay to conceal her cleavage, a fitted bodice with boning and a full skirt. A three-quarter length veil was attached to a cap sewn with seed pearls and topped with a small tiara. Of course, these days, this would be virginal 1950′s overkill; however, taken separately, each of these elements can create a beautiful bridal look. For example, small caps with attached net veils are very of the moment in 2010 bridal trends, chiffon overlay is one of the major trends for the 2010/2011 wedding season and boning is every bride’s best friend (just look at that tiny waist!). If you want to achieve a timeless look that is also demure and nostalgic, then take lessons from Liz. She is, after all, quite an experienced bride.

Yoko Ono

True, Yoko’s bridal style isn’t what you would call conventional, but these days there are so many brides who want to do something different. Yoko’s short, ruffled, three quarter length sleeve dress (very flattering for any woman who doesn’t have Madonna’s biceps), floppy hat and knee socks are cute and fun. Of course, she was only able to pull this off because A. It was the 70′s and B. She and John Lennon were basically king and queen of New York bohemia. That’s not to say that an audacious bride with an artsy side couldn’t do the same. A piece of good news for brides getting married in 2011: ruffles are a big upcoming bridal trend, even on shorter, more informal dresses.  A piece of advice: don’t attempt the knee socks- unless you’re really brave.

Stay tuned this week as we sift through more celebrity bridal looks to help you find your perfect style. While you’re here, feel free to take a look at the Jason Matlo Collection for more inspiration.

Chignon

Easy to achieve (although not by yourself), the chignon is the pinnacle of bridal hair chic. Many brides wear this hairstyle when they don’t want anything to compete with their wedding gown or accessories. The best part about this hairstyle is that it is extremely low-maintenance, so you won’t be popping in and out of the ladies’ room for hairspray touch-ups when you would rather be on the dance floor with your guests.

Loose Chunky Braid

For a bride who wants something uncomplicated but slightly avant-garde, this hairstyle is a perfect choice. It is at once pretty and daring, so even if it is a little unorthodox, most people will be able to find something they like about it. If nothing else, it is quite the individual style statement and everyone knows that Vancouver brides are all about individuality.

Long Waves

What bride doesn’t want to look like Venus emerging from the half-shell on her wedding day? If that’s your goal, then this is most likely the hairstyle for you. With a trumpet style dress, this flowing ‘do makes any bride look runway ready. Evoking playfulness and nonchalance, loose waves are a bride’s best friend even in the most formal setting.

Finger Curls/Waves

Haven’t seen this one yet? Well, maybe you’ll be the first bride you know to rock this 1920′s favourite. Finger curls are making a big-time comeback with brides who really want to wow the jaded wedding fashion set at their nuptials. There is a formula you can follow if you want to make this look screen siren sexy: Jason Matlo dress, baby doll eye make-up and a cupid’s bow mouth. Get ready to hear gasps of admiration as you float down the aisle. Ideal for the bride who has always fancied herself somewhat of a tastemaker. Make sure you  get an expert to help you with this style, it’s impossible to perfect unless you’ve had training. Luckily, the beauty team at La Novia is here to help.