A cold lobby. A dark and slow ascension. A jolting halt allows steel elevator doors to open to a sharp contrast of alluring light, unveiling what seemed like an enchanting cohort of angels soldered together, ready to share a divine message. That was my sincere experience entering the presentation for Milla Nova, a 20yr Ukrainian-based international bridal brand featured for New York Bridal Fashion Week. Steel elevator doors did open to a sharp contrast of alluring light, unveiling an enchanting cohort of, in fact, dazzling white gowns suspended all around a rustic New York City penthouse loft.
From the warm greeting given by staff and presenters to stories behind the names of each piece, down to the unpretentious display of a stunning collection, it felt like we experienced a transcendent journey that we must celebrate. Indeed we did! The world watched Ukraine invade and hold its ground to defend and protect its own. Many of us watched, prayed, and took action. Milla Nova’s founders, two Ukrainian sisters, Iryna and Zoryana Senyshyn, took their entire creative corporate body and developed protective gear for their militia. The collection I saw and felt reflected a bone-chilling history in the making. It was evident that the people who crafted these gowns lifted a needle to protect and save the life of another. The brand’s CEO, Ulyana Kyrychuck, denotes the success and innovation of the brand to the team members and their dedication.
Milla Nova is undoubtedly a brand to celebrate for its contribution to supporting their troops, marking its 20th anniversary as a successful female-owned international bridal brand and launching Milla by Lorenzo Rossi Collection. It is one of its first high-end bridal collections, established in 2019, and the first Ukrainian bridal collection to debut in the U.S. at New York Bridal Fashion Week.
We saw a mix of dresses displayed from Milla Nova’s classic line while Milla by Lorenzo Rossi ushered in as young goddesses throughout the loft among press and buyers. The collective 28 gowns presented an elegant glamour for what the sisters described is for the “modern, sophisticated bride.” Romance and innocent allure were constant throughout the looks of each garment. Most of the fabric chosen transparencies were flesh-colored for various skin tones, while embellishments like lace appliques, pearls, and crystals covered delicate areas for modesty.
Other materials rich in taste were heavily adorned lace, lush tulle, and fine silk satin, to name a few. Perfectly captured silhouettes were sleek mermaids, shapely trumpets, and classic ballgowns in cocktail and floor-sweeping lengths. As I surveyed each dress, I appreciated the corsetted bodice, a detail as such that provides function and femininity to any attire. Each model sensuously showcased fine seam tailoring and the intention to focus on the most celebrated parts of a woman’s body. There are gowns for any woman who wants to highlight her favorite part or cover it with a glamorous tiered tulle ruffled bolero.
The overarching message was well received. ‘Beauty for ashes’ is a profound exchange seen in Milla Nova’s brand history, and they have seeded a political and creative legacy we should honor. Any bride can display the strength, beauty, and femininity of all the women in your wedding party by making Milla Nova’s gowns your choice for your special day.
Although dramatic, my entry to the loft was symbolic of what had occurred during the Ukrainian invasion, and it is what we all pray to come for Ukraine.
WORLDBRIDEMAGAZINE is your destination for all special event needs. We bring you vetted brands that offer sophisticated products and services, and Milla Nova is one of these. Our interviews share knowledgeable perspectives of fine artists and craftsmanship. Should you be planning a wedding or special event, visit www.worldbridemagazine.com to find out how. Milla Nova sells across 50 countries and online. For more information on Milla Nova, Milla by Lorenzo Rossi, please visit www.itsmilladress.com and mention WORLD BRIDE MAGAZINE.
