Israeli Designers at New York’s Bridal Fashion Week
Israeli wedding dress designers are having a moment – having taken over New York’s Bridal Week with their stunning 2018 collections. Here’s a look at five Israeli designers to know and love.
The Designer: Mira Zwillinger
It’s all in the details for the mother-daughter duo behind the Mira Zwillinger brand, who pulled whimsical and nostalgic inspiration from the lyrics of the song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” for their 2018 spring collection. The artful designs include a sorbet color palette of everything from mint to peach and showcase a delightful mix of floral appliqués, feathers and tulle adorning sweetheart necklines, ball gowns and A-line dresses.
The Designer: Inbal Dror
Dror is best known for her innovative take on bridal design, and this forthcoming collection is no exception. Delicate embroidery and corsets, feminine silhouettes that flatter every curve and a fantastical emphasis on the unexpected (check out this ruffled blazer that sweeps into a revealing, floor-length skirt of lace and tulle!) are all part of her winning showcase this spring. Everyone from Beyonce to Naomi Watts and Israel’s own Bar Refaeli (who donned Dror’s design for her second “party” wedding dress) are huge fans.
The Designer: Berta
An Instagram success with almost 1.5 million followers and a huge influence in the bridal fashion industry on an international scale, Berta’s latest collection features Sports Illustrated model Kate Bock. Taking inspiration from the world of botany and floral arrangements in particular, the 2018 looks include 30 new pieces, rich in textures, floor-grazing gowns embellished with flouncy feathers and sparkling jewels.
The Designer: Alon Livne
A homegrown hero in his own right, Alon Livne was the first winner of Israel’s version of Project Runway, close to a decade ago. He parlayed his success into a burgeoning fashion design business that caught the eye of everyone from the Kardashian family to Naomi Cambell, Lady Gaga and Beyonce. He has since transitioned into bridal wear, showing his last two collections at New York Bridal Week, with much fanfare. His feminine, flattering tailoring and meticulous eye for detail is a win on all fronts.
The Designer: Lee Grebenau
Grebenau unveiled her 2018 collection “Symphony in White” at New York Bridal Week, an intimate presentation inspired by the paintings of 19th century artist James McNeill. The Impressionist used to paint women in flowing white dresses made of wild silk, with large silhouettes emphasizing their grace and femininity. The handmade collection of 14 dresses features a variety options, including removable sleeves, skirts and bodices – making the shift from the wedding ceremony to the party festivities effortless.