It only feels like yesterday that I was swooning over the runway images from last year’s NY Bridal Market, so I can hardly believe it is possible that this years has also now been and gone?! But oh what a Bridal Market it was *sigh* as not only did we see the unveiling of an incredible collaboration between Trumpet & Horn and Claire Pettibone (more on that later this week!) and the launch of the fabulous Aisle Society (which if you’re not following on Facebook and Instagram you really should be!), but we also saw some of the most exquisite bridal collections EVER – that is no exaggeration! And I can not resist sharing my favourites with you, starting off with ‘The Gilded Age’ from the inimitable Claire Pettibone…..

Staging her show in an ornate ballroom, Claire transported those lucky enough to attend its unveiling to that golden era of opulence and prosperity before World War I, ‘The Gilded Age.’ As always this collection embodies the designer’s vision of vintage romance with an enchanting bohemian spirit. Reminding me of the collection that first brought the name Claire Pettibone to my attention Beau Monde; it has an unmistakably Edwardian feel, with demure necklines, exquisite embellishments, diaphanous layers and lashings of lavish lace, which she complimented with some perfectly coiffed updos. But, as with past collections, what ensures Claire’s dresses really stand out is the splash of colour, ranging in hue from metallic (silver, gold, rose gold and bronze), through blush to a beautifully serene blue.

I will hand you over to the lovely lady herself to introduce this her latest offering. “A time of opulence, exuberance, decadence and extravagance. Diamonds, pearls and gold in all its lovely hues. Precious silks, laces and embroideries are sure to feel right at home in the grandest salon. Encompassing the imagination and artistry of a bygone era, alluding to a dream world where beauty reigns. The aesthetic is always feminine and decidedly romantic. Welcome to the Gilded Age…..”

(you simply MUST see the train on this dress…… it is heavenly!!)

Oh this collection is more than romantic….it is heavenly!! What Claire never forgets is that a bride is seen standing at the alter, as well as walking down the aisle, and so her gowns are always designed to create a complete and unforgettable statement – with details on the back of her dresses as unforgettable as the front! So if you love the front of these gowns, just wait until you see the backs!

If you would like to make an appointment to try on a Claire Pettibone wedding dress, stockists can be found here. I don’t mind admitting to being more than a little envious of any bride who might get to wear one of these beauties….. I really do need to work on Mr E and that vow renewal!

And if you want a little reminder of the beauty of past Claire Pettibone collections, or perhaps see them for the first time if this is the first time you have happened across her name, you can do so here: Gothic Angel, Romantique, Decoupage, Still Life and Beau Monde. You can also see more from this incredible designer and stay up to date with all the latest Claire Pettibone news, trunk shows and collections by following the lovely lady on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tumblr.

Amy

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Photography ~ Anton Oparin