Weddings are back in a big way—actually in all ways. Gathering people to celebrate a life milestone is happening again because that is what humans do! The pent-up anticipation after many lock-downs is palpable and weddings are the glue that gets family and friends together. Turns out weddings and social gatherings are a life necessity. Couples are planning over-the-top affairs, beach nuptials, farm hoe-downs, city hall quickies, weekend soiree’s or whatever express their uniqueness. One wedding dress doesn’t cut it these days. Now brides require a wardrobe of looks for the copious events on the wedding schedule. World Bride is a great resource for wedding dress Inspo. We cover New York bridal week and get the inside scoop on the latest in bridal dresses for spring 2023 affairs.
Ines Di Santo Couture
Toronto based Ines Di Santo once again expressed her design prowess presenting a variety of silhouettes, each and every one with meticulous attention to detail and exquisite fashion sense. The plat du jour were removable bishop sleeves , undergarment looks with sheer skirts, bow backs and a garden of 3D life-like florals on a voluminous skirt. A spectacular blue ball gown with white appliqué is a prime example that white is not the only option for wedding dress.
The model’s loose and easy beach waves was a welcome contrast to the high design of the gown. Brides take note that playing with contrasts make for a sensual look. If your dress is simple then a more elaborate hair can balance it out.
Amsale
Amsale’s inspirational starting point was the underground jazz clubs of the 1920’s and the soulful singer Billie Holliday. But they definitely took that idea and ran with it. Recognizing that brides want not only 2 wedding looks but 3, they answered that call with convertible looks. The best example of that is a satin backed crepe tuxedo suit with detachable tulle skirt, corset top and cigarette pants. The look is throughly modern yet definitely rings as a bridal attire. The collection includes many long gowns with gorgeous detailing but also tea-length and mini dresses which make for a fully thought out grouping, addressing what brides are asking for.
Brides can make an appointment on their web site to have a personal visit at their New York shop.
Theia
What Theia does so well, is create dresses with easy luxury. Although there is lace or embellishments in many looks, they retain an air of unstructured structure—I imagine they are comfortable to be in for the entire wedding affair without the need to change into another look as many brides subscribe to. Their fabrics are light and move as you do—nothing stiff or rigid. For spring 23 inspiration, the design team chose Eva Grall’s photography of irises. The photos echo Theia’s graceful simplicity and ease of movement.
Available at many retailers and e commerce https://bridal.theiacouture.com
Anne Barge
Serving as the President and Creative Director, Shawne Jacobs began her bridal career with Anne Barge in 2002 and in 2014 took the reigns of this timeless and classic brand. But evolution does happen at this storied brand. A new grouping called, Little White Dress, focuses on dressing for copious bridal events like, the bachelorette party or engagement celebration. These dresses are short and sweet in a variety of styles and fabrics so something for everyone.
Below are the spring ’23 offerings from the main collection which includes a sweet dress in the palest washed pink.
Steven Birnbaum
If you are planning an exploratory bridal gown trip to New York, it’s worth visiting the serene studio of Steven Birnbaum who caters to women’s every whim. His salon is in the heart of Chelsea where he focuses on private appointments. The dresses you will see are the just the starting point, as brides can add and subtract features and fabrics to create their unique “yes” dress with Steven as your guide. Dotted silk organza, double-faced satin, and duchess satin are just some of the exquisite fabrics he works with and brides will have at their disposal.
He created a collection of separates which addresses the Mother of the Bride and the desire for multiple looks for ceremony and party. The Fete’ Collection is an evening wear grouping that is wholly personalized so it’s a one stop shop for all the women in the family at this bespoke bridal collection.
https://www.stevenbirnbaumbridal.com/steven-birnbaum-fete/
