by Patricia Simone

December 23, 2008

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There’s never been a more fashionable time to get married. It used to be that Vera Wang was the only designer name in town, but within the past ten years, fashion’s elite, along with its foot soldiers, have flocked to the bridal market, each bringing their own sensibility and style—and with it, more choices and options for brides.

And this year is no exception. From a Town and Country aesthetic to Disney fantasy, there’s something for everyone.

“Fashion should be flattering and wearable, and always retain a sense of fun,” says Texas native Lela Rose, a Parson’s School of Design graduate who first made waves with her unique, finely detailed ready-to-wear line. Following her passion for pairing unconventional fabrics and techniques, the Lela Rose Wedding Collection (lelarose.com)includes about 15 different designs priced from $3,000 to $10,000. Brides can choose from classic strapless looks to dramatic deep V-backed selections and graceful trains. Unusual, decidedly feminine details include tulle-covered stones, laundered double-faced duchesse satin finished with delicate lace, and quilted embroidery. For fanciful fashion with couture sensibility, Lela Rose is a terrific pick.

For cost-conscious brides seeking a couture look, there’s the new Vineyard Collection by Priscilla of Boston (vineyardcollection.com; 973-376-2345). Designer Mark Bower, formerly with Vera Wang, uses his hands-on embroidery, embellishment, and beading skills to produce a refreshingly modern collection. “It’s about putting together current fashion and inventiveness, without it being contrived,” says Bower, who also teaches part-time at his alma mater, the Parsons School of Design. According to Bower, the overall mood of the collection is very pure, while making a big statement about shape and form. That translates into a nice assortment of styles and silhouettes, including close to the body, several versions of A-line, full skirted, sassy short gowns, halter necklines, and off-the shoulder looks.

Bower’s creations include new takes on old standards: a beautiful lace strapless gown with detachable sleeves (that mimics a mini-shrug) and a sophisticated satin dress with sheer organza sleeves. “It’s an amazing quality and fit for the price point, giving brides the tailoring and details they are looking for,” says Bower, adding that half of the collection runs between $1,200 and $2,000, with the other dresses running up to $2,800.

Nina Designs Haute Couture (ninadesigns.ca) by Nina Duong is another recent addition to the American scene. Duong, a talented Vietnamese designer who now lives in Canada, introduced her Black Pearl Collection on the Wedding Channel Couture Show in October 2007. She describes her line as simple, elegant, and sophisticated. “Brides today are seeking modern simplicity combined with classic elegance. We achieved this using simple lines accented with touches of color or lace.”

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Latest Comments

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