Just as Paris’ most illustrious shows come to close on the final day of Fashion Month, models based in New York get ready for a week in white. This season, I wore seven different dresses in three different bridal shows, each with a different style and vision. Having two very close girlfriends announce their engagements in the past few months and hitting my mid- 20’s has definitely turned my bridal jobs from mere spectator sport to crystal ball gazing: I am finally paying attention to what I like in a bridal gown and which styles are the most flattering and breath-taking. Of course, there was still the element of fantasy at play this past week, as I took seven different strolls towards not a partner waiting at the altar, but a row of cameras snapping away for the perfect shot.
Dennis Basso for KleinfeldÂ
You may have heard of Dennis Basso because of his furs, or his red carpet looks for the stars. Most notably, as of late, Dennis Basso has been designing a successful line of gorgeous gowns for Kleinfeld bridal, the famous bridal shop where brides ‘Say Yes To The Dress” on TLC. While my opportunity in Kleinfeld was to simply wear the dress I was told for the fashion show, it was still a beautiful experience I was honored to celebrate. Below are my backstage photos, taken by me, professional photographers, and those adept at Instagram!
Lead artist Heidi Evora-Santiago of Damali NYC does my makeup before the show
Photo by Shawn Punch 2015
photo by @videofashionofficial
Eve of Milady
Anna Maier -Ulla Maja
Sunday marked my fourth season walking for Anna Maier. To say that Charles Bustine, Anna Maier’s head designer and operator keeps his house tight-knit is an understatement. This incredible man runs one of the only couture bridal houses in America, and asks me, as well as the same girls, to model in his runway show season after season. Their dresses are simply divine- and made to measure. A minimum of two fittings are necessary to prepare us for the show, yet each time I have to stop by is a great opportunity to hear some wisdom or interesting story from Charles, and to feel like I am an important part of something truly special.
I could not get enough of these gorgeous lace sleeve cuffs. If you ever choose a wedding dress from Anna Maier, rest assured they only use the finest french lace. From the boning down to the trim of the tulle, everything is custom, delicate, and deliberately chosen. To wear these gowns every season is an absolute honor!
The above 3 photos are compliments of WWD
I couldn’t even begin to choose a favorite, but this last dress, part of their new evening collection, was to die for. Take a look at the back!