The Bridal Council Annual Scholarship

The High School of Fashion Industries (HSFI) recently hosted its annual bridal design competition for the Junior honors class of 2024, led by instructor Mark Centeno. This year's event was notable for its smooth execution and inspiring final bridal design projects. The competition emphasized not only bridal design but also the importance of discipline, design craftsmanship, and teamwork, skills that students can apply in various future endeavors.

A distinguished panel of industry judges, curated by board member and program creator, Robert di Mauro, evaluated the students' work. The finals judges included Kleinfeld owner and host Mara Urshel, Union Square Couture founder Flora PetakAs, designers Madeline Gardner and SarEh Nouri, HSFI alumna and designer Andrea PittEr, and former Bridal Guide Editor-in-Chief Diane Forden.

The theme for the competition was "nature” with a specific focus on flowers. The process began with a master class at Kleinfeld, followed by the submission of student sketches. Five sketches were selected, and students were divided into teams based on their designs. After a master class with Madeline Gardner, students chose their fabrics donated by MoriLee, created muslin versions of their designs, which were critiqued by the judges. The final show took place at Kleinfeld, where the dresses were presented by the designers or team members, complete with Q&A sessions with the judges.

The student designs showcased impressive sophistication and complexity. Highlights included:

• Quilted panels with a sparkling "dew" effect and a large flower as the bodice-Team Fleur Dleurs

• Asymmetrical floral bouquet sculpted on a corset with a fit-and-flare skirt -Team Noite de Flores

• A voluminous, multi-gored skirt adorned with scattered flowers- Team Flower Bomb

• A draped corset bodice with floral cutouts and a removable skirt, complemented by a delicate lace-appliqued veil-Team Italy

• A tiered organza full skirt with multi textured corset-Team Volant E Rose

The winning design came from Team Fleur Dleurs, the winning designer is Esme Alam featuring a floral bodice with quilted panels. This design was particularly praised for its innovation and execution. 

For the first time, before the winner was announced, Robert added a Q&A session where the students had the opportunity to ask the judges questions. One insightful question addressed how the bridal industry differs from other fashion sectors, sparking a valuable discussion.

This competition highlights the unique industry partnership between the high school and the bridal fashion world, a collaboration that is especially significant in New York City. The event not only recognized the students' hard work but also aimed to inspire some to pursue careers as future bridal designers.                                      - Rachel leonard