LYRA MAG.

Text, Vivian G. Kelly Images, Richard Spiegel Time & Place: Nearly 12 noon, Sunday of NY Bridal Week “This season, I was inspired by pictures of Grace Kelly on her wedding day. I wanted to capture the regal beauty that she exuded. I also wanted to take the collection back to a traditional time. Over the top luxury but in a subtle way.” MONIQUE LHUILLIER - We almost decided to call it a day after this show. The euphoria we felt after her show was not unlike the experience we have every season at a Ralph Rucci show. When something is this good, best not to spoil the moment by seeing anything else that won’t measure up. The retailer next to us was in agreement. THE THEME: Regally beautiful, as in Grace Kelly. VEILS: If you are hankering to wear one of these, they look perfectly apropos to the lovely strapless creations. There was also a teardrop back stunner in floral lace with a v-front in a design that was unmistakably RTW [Ready to Wear]. DETAILING There was some skillful folding t...

Time & Place: Late Sunday Afternoon, NY Bridal Week, The Ulla Maija Atelier & Showrooms, Manhattan’s Garment Center Text, Vivian G. Kelly Images, Richard Spiegel IS THERE AN ANNA MAIER OR AN ULLA-MAIJA? Anna Maier was a real person; she was a master tailor who came to the United States in 1871, from the Alsace Lorraine region of France. Anna was Mr. Charles W. Bunstine II’s great grandmother. Ulla-Maija Couture's business life is under the direction of Mr. Bunstine who develops the Anna Maier ~ Ulla-Maija collections with Allison Fletcher. Ms. Fletchter, very impressively, began as a design intern after graduating from the Savannah School of Design and worked her way up to her present position. THE SHOW This season, the program notes promised us “contrasts, as they were a constant consideration”. WHAT THAT MEANS To start, fabrics are of paramount importance to this collection. There are rich duchess satins, sheer garza, and feather light tulle. The couture element extends ...