As Reported by Vicky Lujan, Bridal Fashion Editor and Journalist
From June 25-27, 2021, Sí Sposaitalia Collezioni, the renowned and most important Italian bridal fair, took a step forward after over a year of no face-to-face bridal events.
In an environment of uncertainty, Fiera Milano decided to take a leap of faith. The goal was to boost the bridal industry economy by reuniting bridal fashion brands from Italy and other European countries.
During the three days of the fair, we immersed ourselves in new proposals and trends. Trade and fashion shows displayed an array of local and international brands. This year, the fair took extensive biosecurity measures, starting with booking covid-free flights to get into Italy and displaying temperature scanner stations at entering points of the enclosure. These measures were a huge commitment made by the Organization to offer safety to all attendees.
The “Sí Fashion Shows” brought back in-person runways to the bridal industry.
Elisabetta Polignano opened the bridal runway, which has been the first fashion show with an on-premise audience since 2019. With “Survivor” as the soundtrack, Metamorfosi, the 2022 collection of this Italian designer, was inspired by the evolution the bridal world is undergoing. Bridal gowns in eco-friendly fabrics with avant garde silhouettes and textures gave the initial rebirth of the industry a new way of seeing life.
From Poland, Agnezka Swiatly presented her new wedding gown proposal with a touch of sophisticated sensuality. In this collection, we spotted dresses for brides who are looking for a modern look. Sensual necklines, tight outlines, and glittery fabrics were the main focus.
In our new reality, a digital presentation had to take place. And Antonio Riva Milano was the designated innovator. He showed his latest collection along with a video that transported us to the intimacy of his atelier. The three-dimensional floral appliqués and feminine details like bows and ruffles were appreciated on the big screen, enhancing the cut of his creations designed with elegant fabrics.
For the first day’s closure of Sí Sposaitalia Collezioni, Gino Signore, from Maison Signore, exhibited four lines in a single fashion show: Excellence, Victoria F., Giovanna Sbiroli and Sofía. Each line has its essence bringing different styles for every bride, mixing unique designs with an intriguing variety of Italian fabrics. Maison Signore reinforces the diverse nature of the bridal fashion industry.
Amelia Casablanca opened the second day of the fair with a runway full of emotions. Bridal gowns were abounding with details, glitter, and extravagant silhouettes. The princess cut was taken to perfection, enhanced with crystals, embroideries, and feminine design elements. The breathtaking volume of the adorned gowns highlighted the glamorous collection.
Modern romanticism, with fluid cuts and effortless looks, was taken on the runway by Blumarine Sposa. Dresses that flow with light tulles and ruffles with a touch of brightness brought a sense of relaxed elegance. Bellantuono’s collection for 2022 followed the presentation with a more structured silhouette proposal. Dresses in A-line and a princess cut with lace and embroideries, long sleeves, and high neckline.
Emiliano Bengasi showed us the real “Made in Italy” magic. With a collection that swirled from fluid creations to opulent ball gowns and accessories that give versatility to the bride. Bengasi's trend was the mashup possibilities for the bride without losing the luxurious look of his collection.
For the fashion show's closure of Sí Sposaitalia Collezioni, Terry IlaFla presented a collection with innovative necklines, bows, and feathers designed over fabulous fabrics with texture and brightness, making unique and eye-catching dresses that entertained the spectators.
Three different experiences in the exhibition area.
This year, Sí Sposaitalia Collezioni designed three main areas for capturing the presentation of each brand for 2022. Famous brands such as Pronovias, Nicole Milano, YolanCris, among many others, said yes to this Italian fair. Sí Bridal Room was an exclusive area where designers such as Vera Wang and Antonio Riva Milano had a private layout to show their collection creatively. Access to this area was invitation-only, and each brand took the experience to the next level. Antonio Riva Milano decided to take his guests from Sí Sposaitalia Collezioni fair in private transportation to his atelier, offering the genuine experience of his intimate design process.
Sí Italian Touch was were the most renowned Italian designers had a unique layout to display their “Made in Italy” authenticity with a collection that carried the true meaning of the Italian style. Sí Collections was were local and international brands showed buyers and visitors their latest collections.
Sí SposaItalia Collezioni Milano Bridal Week was the first to resume live and face-to-face bridal fashion trade fairs and runway shows. These events bring confidence to the industry and reinforce the idea that the bridal sector is ready to continue with a lot of creativity and high-end quality players.