Vera Wang Bridal Spring 2016

If her seductive lineup was any indication, Vera Wang wants her brides to embrace their sensual side next spring. Soft mermaid shapes with full, hand-pleated tulle skirts prevailed as the predominant silhouette in the 15-piece collection, many topped with sheer Chantilly lace bodices styled with corresponding lace bras and panties that were very much meant to be seen. Touches of black in exaggerated bow belts, passementiere embroidery and satin-ribbon straps  accented the ivory looks, culminating in an all-black strapless sweetheart gown with a voluminous ostrich-feather skirt.

Transparency, needless to say, was a major theme here, and some completely sheer looks felt a bit better suited to the boudoir than the aisle but perhaps that’s what slips and underpinnings are for? Wearable or not, in a field of conventional bridal gowns, Wang’s push of the envelope was welcome.