A Fashion Preview at The Plaza That Was All About The Personalized

By Alexandra Macon | Photography by

Brian Dorsey Studios

Bridal Fashion Week is a flurry of shows, presentations, and happenings that can feel like a total whirlwind, but high above Central Park, we had the pleasure of hosting an intimate preview at The Plaza Hotel that was all about slowing down, sipping champagne, and taking in bespoke pieces for brides-to-be. In a penthouse suite lined with hand-painted wallpaper, which made for the perfect Instagrammable backdrop if we do say so ourselves, guests were able to watch (and photograph) a cast of three models wearing dresses by Cristina Ottaviano, veils by Monvieve, and jewelry by Alexandra Mor. Our wedding book, our Paravel luggage collaboration, and embroidered items from our very own shop on Over The Moon were also on display.

We first came across Monvieve last year, and had the pleasure of observing creative director Alison Miller’s handiwork up close when she designed a veil made with French lace for Harley Viera-Newton’s wedding in the West Village. This particular headpiece was created with little particles of crushed crystal shimmer sewn into the lace that reflected the light as the bride walked down the aisle and was anything but an after-thought. Instead, it was the accessory that really completed Viera-Newton’s Valentino look. The elegant Old World feel of the veil and the slightly bohemian vibe of the long-sleeved macramé column dress complemented each other in a way that’s sure to inspire brides for years to come, and the pieces Miller showed last week carried on this tradition. With price points that start at $800, we highly recommend seeking her out.

Speaking of inspired, Cristina Ottaviano’s debut bridal collection, which actually incorporates words from Shakespearean sonnets in places, may very well have the dress you’ve been looking for. A native New Yorker who graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology, Ottaviano apprenticed for Oscar de la Renta and Marc Jacobs while she was a student and then went on to work at Marchesa after graduation. It was there, under the tutelage of Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, that she masted the art of embellishment.

Her first ready-to-wear collection was presented at New York Fashion week in 2014, and since then, she has dressed the likes of Bella Hadid, Laurie Metcalf, and Allison B. Janney, to name a few. Ottaviano’s obsession with luxurious fabrics and intricate embroidery carries over into the bridal collection, and her first offering showcases a variety of silhouettes and styles. Standout favorites for us were the satin ballgown with the asymmetrical neckline and the column dress covered from head to toe in pearls. All of her looks can be altered to suit the bride’s taste, and if what you want isn’t currently a part of the collection, Ottaviano is happy to discuss custom orders. And, with a movement towards all things unique and personalized when it comes to weddings, what could be better than that?