BRIDAL FASHION WEEK: Front Row Access

AS REPORTED BY CONTRIBUTING WRITER, ANTONIA SARDONE

Bridal fashion week fell early this year and it was a hot and balmy October in New York City as editors and retailers ran all over town getting to their shows, presentations and appointments on time – and usually, in a sweaty mess - but in the end, the beauty of bridal was all worth it. The biggest surprise of the season was at Galia Lahav’s show, as designers Galia Lahav and Sharon Sever elevated their collection to another level, say goodbye to their seductive and sexy fairs as they ushered in a new look full of whimsical romance and ethereal beauty. The response was overwhelmingly positive for both retailers and editors. 

Young designer, Gracy Accad held her first New York Bridal Fashion Week show. She hosted a lovely breakfast at Jean Georges for editors and retailers. It was a lovely way to start off the season. Monique Lhuiller showed off her delicate gowns at the Academy Mansion. Along with her signature collection, Lhuillier also showcased her Pottery Barn collaboration with pretty tabletop settings and bedding – it’s everything a girly-girl would want for her home.

Naeem Khan put everyone in a festive mood as he ended his gorgeous runway show with a nod to disco – disco balls and all – as models danced around the runway in intricately beaded mini dresses – after all, who doesn’t want to party on a Friday afternoon. Bridal retailer Kleinfeld’s held Dennis Basso and Pnina Tornai’s shows, both collections have exclusive collections for Kleinfeld.

Additional highlights of the week included Reem Acra’s beautiful collection at the New York Public Library; Vera Wang’s artful video shot by Patrick Demarchelier in the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris; Lakum presented a modern and architectural approach to bridal that felt fresh and young; Claire Pettibone held a presentation filled with her signature vintage inspired bohemian gowns.

There was so much to see this bridal market between the runway shows, the presentations, the Knot Couture Show which has basically become a trade show in two separate locations, and let’s not forget about all the hotel appointments that were scattered all over the city. It was all to much to see and not enough time to see everyone.