Offering a new take on the white dress, Vera Wang’s Bridal Spring 2018 collection looks as though it belongs in an art museum.
We visited the Bridal Open House at InterContinental Sydney to catch a glimpse and feel of the renowned designer’s latest offering – The Bride Wore White – courtesy of our friends at YTD. Open to the public by appointment only from January 31st until February 3rd, it is Wang’s first Australian boutique, one that is set to wow fashion-conscious brides.
“The collection is for brides who are wanting something different to the traditional look,” explained Vera Wang bridal stylist, Fiona. “It’s for the sensual, modern, edgy bride.”
Pushing the boundaries of traditional bridalwear and veering towards high-end avant-garde fashion, Wang’s collection is a flurry of soft tulle, intricate macramé, exaggerated sleeves, and daring silhouettes.
“Any brides who come in and book an appointment with us can try on gowns from our newest collection,” said Fiona. “Appointments are one hour and brides who come in will receive a special 10% off incentive from the new collection.”
Despite being loved by celebrities and fashion power figures worldwide, this latest leap in bridalwear by Wang is more affordable than what a budding bride may anticipate. Prices start at around $5,500 and cap at $13,800. The collection is also inclusive of different body types, ranging from a US 0 to a size 22, whilst everything is made to order, rather than measure.
The Spring collection also features bold accessories that complete the monochromatic scheme, with large tassel earrings and dip-dye veils of both black and nude; a trend that we expect to take off.
The accessories challenge conventional choices of diamond earrings and one-tone veils, instead creating an edgy romanticised look. Other additions include a stretchy tulle bodysuit to be worn underneath the dresses, a lace capelet, and generous use of macramé.
“Starting from the 2017 collection, Vera started using the macramé lace on the gown. She also brought it into this current season,” Fiona told us. “Macramé lace is all handwoven, similar to crochet, so there’s a lot of hours that go into making it.”
It was the macramé detailing on the show-stopping gown standing centre stage of the room that caught our eye; the dress of course being a favourite in store.
“This gown is called Therese. It has French tulle sleeves and leather embroidery on the front which is something you don’t usually see on gowns. It also has a very nice tulle train that’s longer than some of the others so if you’re looking for a gown with a long train then this is definitely the one.”
“Most ball gowns have a higher back but this one has a very nice open back.”
For brides in the midst of hunting for a wedding gown, Fiona suggests giving yourself time as the Vera Wang leadtime is anywhere between six and eight months.
“We are Made To Order, not made to measure,” she said. “We also recommend you to do alterations once the gown comes in so we do suggest starting that from around 6 weeks out from the wedding just to ensure it is a perfect fit on you.”
For brides visiting the store next week, Fiona also suggests a few basic necessities.
“Definitely nude underwear. We have some brides come in with black underwear and it just shows through the white,” she said. “Spanks if you have any. Heels are not necessary as we do have heels in the store.”
