Stylist Emily Dawson curates engagement photo looks for every personality.
Growing up, Emily Dawson’s style always stood out from the crowd. While her peers were rocking Stuart Weitzman 5050 boots, Emily was rummaging through her parents’ closet for beat-up jean jackets and vintage blazers. “I’ve just never liked to dress like other people,” she says.
When it came time for her to say “I do,” it was no surprise that Emily’s trousseau was one-of-a-kind. Encouraged by her planner, she founded Emily by Design, a wardrobe styling venture that focuses on vintage-leaning looks. In addition to everyday attire, she helps brides find just the right ensembles for all post-engagement affairs—showers, bachelorette parties, and the like. Her dream client? One that’s willing to be pushed outside the typical bridal box. “You’re not going to come to me if you want trendy stuff,” she laughs. “I want you to feel comfortable and like the most stylish version of yourself.” Here, she curates engagement photo looks for three types of brides and shares tips on how to wear them. @emily_bydesign
Laid-Back Bride
“Start with worn-in vintage denim and pair with a simple tee (this is my favorite—medium weight, slightly fitted) or a strapless top. Finish with crocheted leather slippers.”
Easy Breezy: Flore Flore tee ($86/flore-flore.com); Anni Lu hoop ($140/Nordstrom); TOTEME tube top ($360/Neiman Marcus); “The Pouch” bag ($250/porto-studio.com); Moussy Vintage jeans ($350/Neiman Marcus); Officine Creative “Nappa” slippers ($527/officinecreative.store)
Glam Bride
“To me, an elegant textured slip—sourced easily at your favorite thrift shop—under an oversized blazer is the definition of relaxed glamour. Roll up the sleeves a few times and pair with a simple shoe that won’t compete with the detail in the dress.”
Glam Squad: SIR the label “Esther” blazer ($600/MARKET); Rain Drop Boucle d’Oreill earrings ($290/Isabel Marant); rhinestone lace dress ($169/Zara); Westman Atelier Baby cheeks blush stick in “Minette” ($169/Cos Bar); Neous geometric sandal ($600/The Conservatory)
Out-of-the-Box Bride
“I love to pair black and white in bridal looks—it’s relaxed with an edge. Get creative with tailored pieces in unexpected patterns. Continue the color palette with playful hair accessories.”
Bold & Beautiful: vintage Hermès scrunchie ($449/One Kings Lane); MERIT mascara ($26/Sephora) Lizzie Fortunato “Albers” necklace ($320/Ann Mashburn); KALLMEYER silk vest ($395/kallmeyer.nyc); Christopher John Rogers pants ($1,025/Saks Fifth Avenue); By Far mules ($429/Tootsie’s)
Emily’s Top Dallas Vintage Digs
Vintage Martini
Best for: Vintage couture dresses, outerwear, jewelry, belts
“This is my first stop when I’m shopping for anything vintage.”
To Be Continued
Best for: shoes, designer bags
“A fantastic resource for luxury consignment. New items come in every day so make sure you check back often!”
Dolly Python
Best for: cowboy boots, vintage denim, chemises
“A true thrift store with lots of quirk, but you’ll always find something unique.”
Clothes Circuit
Best for: bags, jewelry, shoes
“I’ve found a ton of great pieces here—you just have to be willing to go through the racks.”
