On this rainy day in NYC, Leonela modeled three amazing wedding dresses, each styled a little differently, for the modern bridal inspiration you’ve been waiting for. Three iconic dresses in three iconic locations throughout New York City: New York Public Library, 5th Ave, and the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park.
From a traditional mermaid gown to a reception-style party dress, we covered three distinct ideas for the fashion-forward bride.
My wedding photographer heart was SO happy with these three gowns, the different ways to style them, and these beautiful places in The Big Apple.
DRESS 1
First up? Our most traditional gown–an amazing fit & flare mermaid dress from Lé Lauriér Bridal. Now if you know me, you know that I have mixed feelings about lace gowns. There’s definitely a fine line between your grandmother’s handkerchief and a timeless lace design. Thankfully, Lé Lauriér nailed a modern, heirloom lace that screams both elegant and forever in-style.
The bodice design is amazing here. We have a sheer front panel with visible boning. This is the only piece of the dress that I see aging style-wise, but for now, it’s here to stay. I love the modest sexiness the sheer panel offers, but what’s really great about this bodice is where it hits under the arm.
I always tell my brides to make sure they feel comfortable when a lace or beaded gown rubs the arm. If it chafes, you’ll have red marks in your photos and be a little uncomfortable for your whole day. Thankfully, this gown avoids that by pulling the structure of the gown in toward the middle of the back–effectively avoiding parts of the arm that rub the most.
And can we just talk about the detail in the edge of the lace here? Love! Another love? The flare.
This dress has a perfect flare. It hits just above the knees and really accentuates an hourglass shape (or gives the illusion of one). With the lace detailing spilling down into the train of the dress, the design of the gown is consistent without being frumpy. The train makes this even more amazing. Take a look at that flow.
Lé Lauriér’s couture looks don’t stop here. They even have a line of the most elegant bridal pajamas you’ll ever see. Don’t believe me? Take a look. >> Do yourself a favor and buy a pair for the fashion-inspired couture goddess that you are.
Lauren Holovka, the owner and designer of the artelier, has you covered from start to finish. You can find amazing pieces for your rehearsal to your honeymoon.
DRESS 2
Look two of the day is from a couture designer from Australia–J. Andreatta. Provided by SPINA Bride, this party look has ALL the texture, in a sophisticated party dress. Modest enough that you can dance the night away without a worry, this gown is the perfect mix of style-forward woman and hip party fashionista. Combine it with some earrings from Hushed Commotion, and you’re ready for the post-ball.
I mean look at that texture!
Plus the keyhole back leaves SO many options for your hairdo. You can go for a loose, low pony, like Leonela did here, or get away with a top knot or high pony to show off all those pre-wedding fitness classes.
This dress hugs lightly in all the right places for something that is fitted, but loose. Even the side profile is 10/10.
DRESS 3
Last look took us to Central Park, where we had the Bethesda Fountain and stairway completely to ourselves (one perk of the rain). This gown was part of Amsale’s designer bridal collection.
It’s a throwback to a never-dying classic: the vintage tea-length dress.
The simplicity of the this dress is why it works–that and the fact that it’s paired with some asymmetrical earrings (if you know me, you know I LOVE asymmetry) to keep it fresh and modern. The oversized bow is the statement of this dress, but it doesn’t outdo anything else. A perfect gown for a sophisticated elopement or for City Hall nuptials.
No words for this bow. Endlessly classy.
And that’s a wrap! Three amazing gowns, three amazing locations.
Which would you wear?
TEAM
Photos & Videos: Kay Cushman
Concept: Molly + Co. & Make Pretty Workshop
Styling: Lizzy Polden
Florals: Bloom Bloom Studio
Beauty: Willow House Beauty
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