Local creators tweak bridal accessories

Two designers with Triangle ties have been busy lately creating ways to improve the bride's big day.

The first is Tracey Asai, a 1987 design graduate from N.C. State University, who designed a line of bridal flip-flops perfect for beach or destination weddings.

But if you think they're just a another pair of gussied up white plastic shoes, think again.

These flip-flops are works of art, worthy of being worn under any expensive bridal gown. Each pair is covered in moire taffeta fabric, has a foam cushion sole and is edged in a grosgrain ribbon with a bow on the back.

Get a pair with pearl beading, bows with Swarovski crystals or a trio of faux diamonds.

Like the idea of fancy flip-flops but don't have a wedding aisle to march down? Asai also has a variety of black-tie flip flops in black and a selection of flip-flops for bridesmaids.

Prices range from $45 to $50 and are available at www.traceyasaidesigns.com. At the site, also check out Asai's hand painted shoes, which are being raffled off through Nov. 15 to raise money to fight breast cancer.

If you're not getting married somewhere sandy and sunny, there's Christina Joannou Wight's WetKnot, a bridal gown raincoat inspired by Wight's own rainy day wedding ceremony.

Wight -- who lives in Chatham County and studied textiles and design at N.C. State and Meredith College -- has patented the design, which has an oversized hood to accommodate veils, tiaras and hairsprayed updos. The coat wraps under the gown and gathers so the dress isn't ruined by wet grass or walkways. A satin cord and rhinestone snaps add a touch of elegance.

The best part is the clear plastic fabric so no one has to miss the bride in her pretty white dress just because of a few raindrops.

The WetKnot comes in two sizes and costs $75 at www.rainydaybridalwear.com.