"Monique Lhuillier Bridal 2011"

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

Oh fashion! The rush and fuss, the glitz and the glamor, the stress and the drama, the glamazons and the paparazzi, all culminating in 7 minutes of magic, pure theatre and romantic escapism. Admittedly, I love it. And doing the Set Design for the Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show recently in NYC was all of the above and more.

Alton DuLaney, Set Design, Monique Lhuillier, NYC, Oct 2011.

Peeking behind the curtain at everything that goes into one of these productions is always a pleasure. After conceptualizing the set, the design goes to the studio, where scenic painters work laboriously to hand-paint the 14'x42'(!) back drop. Above, I art direct the project.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

Once the back drop is finished, there is the huge production of setting up the entire show. Seating, lighting, music - all the elements that go into creating the spectacle.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

Meanwhile, back stage the super tall, super skinny gather, where make-up and hair is carefully applied, tech rehearsals and fittings are executed, as the beautiful gowns wait patiently nearby, ready to be animated for the girls.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

All in anticipation of that magic moment, when the lights and the music come up, and strutting down the runway comes a vision in white, the bride.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

The Los Angeles based designer, Monique Lhuillier is a success for her pret-a-porter and her red-carpet evening gowns, but is best known for her bridal. The 2012 collection did not disappoint with beautiful silhouettes, luxurious materials, impeccable tailoring, all embellished with sparkling crystals, delicate ruffles, and the occasional feather.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

 And before you can gasp and shout "Gorgeous!", it is ending, as all the models come out for the finale. The long line of marching brides go sashaying by, skirts flapping, as applause erupts.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

Taken in context, the finale is the best opportunity to see the genius of the entire collection, as every woman, (and a few men) fantasize about which gown they would wear to their own wedding. And just as the last model exits the stage, it is over, just like that. The editors and the buyers rush off to other shows, and the press flocks backstage to vie for a moment of the deigner's time.

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fashion Show, NYC, October 2011.

Well, Monique Lhuillier loves the press and the press love her. And with good reason, as she consistently delivers an outstanding product and a dream-like experience.

For more on Monique Lhuillier, check out her website:

http://www.moniquelhuillier.com/

And for more on fashion and the arts, keep reading AltonOnTheSpot!