It’s a perfect spring day; 60 degrees and all of Manhattan is in buzzing and in a fabulous mood! As the Editor in Chief of World Bride magazine— I’m privileged to attend the bridal shows. It’s the start of Bridal week in New York. I’ve got an extra phone battery, my schedule, and a weekly metro card—I’m good to go!
First up on the day’s calendar is Gracy Accad. Her show at Alvin Ailey theatre is taking place in a sun-filled gallery with ballet bars surrounding the perimeter as the viewers sat on lucite chairs. The maids walked briskly as the 90’s tune, Bittersweet Symphony played. My favorite was a strapless ball gown without a bit of embellishment—fitted to perfection.
Second, stop the showroom of Theia on Broadway which was transformed into a mock royal palace inspired and excited by the upcoming nuptials of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The designer came out prior to the show and talked passionately about his collection to the audience. It’s clear so much love and hard work is invested in a fashion show and this designer’s intro set the stage for the models. The dresses were beaded and beautiful. One model was a plus size which is becoming more common but not common enough.
On to Monique Lhuillier where the dresses were displayed in a large room at the Lotte Palace Hotel on Madison Ave. Monique is no stranger to beautiful gowns and this show was no exception. Since there were more people attending than the room could hold comfortably, it was difficult to appreciate all the gowns with all the jocking for a position of photographers, editors, and buyers. Nothing is perfect.
I could not wait to see Reem Acra who always has a theatric show. She didn’t disappoint having her show at the NY Public Library. Guests sat family style at long tables in a room lined with bookshelves. Each person was given the book, “The Prophet” by Kahlil Gibran and the collection took the same title. Each forest nymph (or model) had a crown of flowers and held branches of cherry blossoms or sprigs of lavender. White love birds (not real ones) attached to some part of the model or dress gave an air of fantasy. Her gowns were exquisite many with translucent skirts with short underskirts for modesty. The effect was breathtaking when a spotlight hit the dress.
