UNIQUE WEDDING GOWNS FOR INDIVIDUALS
Text, Images by J. Ecochard
Warwick Hotel, NYC April 13th
Luckily we caught a lull in the usually crowded bridal suite commandeered by the gracious fashion talent Lela Rose and luxe jewelers Van Clefs and Arpels (a new partnership)….so we were able to get the DNA on the unconventional but still sweetly feminine bridal gowns created by this Texas native/Parsons graduate.
INSPIRATION: “Came from ATLAS SHRUGGED-I took ideas from that…breaking out of a mold, challenging tradition and the norm. My gowns are not for the traditional bride as this season, my gowns are a little more architectural, playing with the shape of things.”
OUR TAKE: Not to worry, the polished Lela Rose did not go all whacky with her classic modern designs.
Quite the opposite-it is a grown-up, elegant ivory/oatmeal tinged collection, with soft, organic draping and layers. Subtle embellishments like cotton pique embroidery and traditional Chantilly Lace are made new, juxtaposed with voile silk cotton backing.
Think refinement.
FAVORITE GOWN: We were taken with the soft washed feel of delicately layered cotton faille (almost a cotton muslin like) dresses- that we see as the ideal textile choice for outdoor weddings in warm places- as in tropical destination nuptials, where the bridal party’s all barefoot on the beach.
WEARABILITY: We have a lovely, timeless sleeveless dress from L.R.- in the aforementioned fabric that we’ve rolled up, stashed in a suitcase, took out, hung in a steamy shower-and slipped into – yachting the Mediterranean isles last year. And got boat loads of compliments too!
MOTTO: “This is for brides that have lived a life that is more than the Princess concept.”
Which is just about every gal we know.
RETAIL: Prices from $3950-$5000 for gowns deftly named “Rose Garden” “Pagoda” “Lilly Pond” etc.
AVAILABLE: Better bridal salons and department stores like Bergdorf’s Neimans and select Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue.
FACTOIDS: Accompanied by adorable dog, home bakes yummy cookies for clients and press.