New York was graced with dozens of exquisite bridal gowns for the 2015 Bridal Market. Designers showcased their Fall 2016 collections, wooing every onlooker in sight. There was femininity, class, and elegance, but what specifically caught my eye was the designers who went against the grain and took incredible risks. I was blown away. From Monique Lhuiller’s feather-filled ball gown to Ramona Keveza's art-in-the-flesh masterpiece, all these gowns were swoon-worthy.
Here’s five eye-catching against-the-grain gowns from this year's Bridal Market!
1. Monique Lhuillier
All hail the feather queen! Who knew feathers could be so chic, glamorous, and wedding worthy? Certainly not me. Monique's entire collection deserves an article, but this one dress specifically caught my attention. It completely stole the show. I love the contrast of the bold feathers against the elegant lace and nude lining; these elements can stand alone perfectly fine, but together it's absolutely harmonious. The dress has an element of mystery and surprise that makes it all the more exquisite.
2. Naeem Khan
First feathers... now fringe?! Is there anything these designers can't do? If I was Naeem, I would name this dress "Organized Chaos." There's so much going on, but somehow it all works impeccably well together. First off, the detail of this gown is perfection alone. I love the pairing of the illusion neckline and delicate beading. I see a bride
wearing this charming little number after the ceremony at her reception. How fun and
easy would it be to twirl in this all night? Since it's short and easy to maneuver in, the bride won't fret about guests stepping on her gown, so her only task will be to enjoy the night -- worry-free. Whatever lucky bride has the privilege of
wearing this fun dress will feel like a modern day Daisy Buchanan…I'll take it! (with a side of Leonardo DiCaprio please).
3. Vera Wang
Oh, hi super sexy Vera Wang gown, nice to meet you. This is not the design aesthetic we typically think of when "Vera Wang" comes to mind, at least not for me. When I think of Vera Wang, my mind often flashes images of the infamous ball gown worn by Kate Hudson in the movie "Bride Wars." To me, Wang's designs are feminine, but lately I see them more as sultry and edgy rather than sweet and elegant. However, this dress is both edgy AND elegant.
The edgy aspect is quite obvious. This model is basically nude minus the strategically placed applique's barely covering her. On the other hand, the lace looks painted on her body, almost like a porcelain figurine creating a not so typical idea of elegance. Also, the belt adds a sweet touch, balancing out the edginess of it all. I, for one, would not wear this at my wedding, but I appreciate the way Wang takes risks and completely owns it.
4. Inbal Dror
Well, this is the chicest button up dress "shirt" I've ever seen. I don't know where to begin. It's so fascinating to me how a designer can manipulate a silhouette that's known for being professional and stern into an absolute masterpiece filled with lace paneling, subtle netting, geometric patterns, peak-a-boo tulle, and many other minute details. This gown is beautifully constructed; the consistency of the "v" and diagonal lines within the dress tie in perfectly with the smaller geometric shapes.
However, the way the gown drapes and flows naturally into the bottom half leaves a unstructured impression--I love the contradiction. I guess you could say this gown is business on the top, party on the bottom!
4. Romona Keveza
Hello, Hydrangeas! From now on, when I think of "bold," this is what I'll think of. Keveza took floral prints to a whole new level for this piece and I am obsessed. Hand-painted Hydrangeas steal the show on this dramatic gown, and they have full bragging rights. I love how this is a "traditional" ball gown, but because of the masterful, refined floral element...uhh, what was I saying about "traditional?" This is so much more than a wedding dress: this is art, innovation, and regal perfection. I applaud Romona Keveza for being so bold and bringing florals back to life.