The story behind one of Olivia's favorite and most meaningful looks yet.
fashion — May 30
As many brides-to-be—including some dear friends—alter their plans for the altar, it got me thinking about my wedding look and how it all came together. Even if your wedding plans have unfortunately shifted, I love the mantra on social media sharing that love can not be canceled. While I'm usually very private about my personal life, during these unprecedented times (and as Johannes's and my sixth anniversary nears!) I wanted to share some styling details and memories from my big day to inspire any alternative bride. From the delicate skirt overlay to the feather-trimmed cashmere sweater, each aspect was intentional and brought to life a person or idea that shaped who I was and still am.
It was early afternoon in mid-April when I walked into Mrs. Herrera's Seventh Avenue atelier. I was greeted by the designer herself, her creative director, Hervé Pierre, along with my dear friends who worked at the house, Lee and Stephanie. They had pulled out so many beautiful creations from floor-skimming numbers fit for royalty to tea-length dresses ideal for midday ceremonies, but it was an innocuous skirt overlay that caught my eye.
I knew that paired with simple, silk faille shorts, the resulting combo would transition from daytime ceremony to dusk reception with elegance and ease. As for the top, I always run cold, so naturally, I gravitated towards a Carolina Herrera cashmere sweater, which had tonally coordinated bejeweled feathers at the hem. For the ceremony, I kept those details tucked into the skirt, but later on, it looked party-friendly with a fun twist when worn with just the shorts.
As for accessories, I wanted my something blue and something new to be Manolo Blahnik Hangisi stilettos. I remember strolling into Bergdorf as they were hitting stores and couldn't resist. Mr. Blahnik was there meeting with clients and heel fans, and I loved his gleeful look when he saw me grab them. He signed the soles for me, and I tucked them away for almost six years, waiting to step out for a special occasion. When it was time to get ready for the big day, they were perfect. As Mr. Blahnik has been a family friend for years, and even though Carrie wore them in Sex and the City, what bride-to-be wouldn't want to walk down the aisle in Manolo!
My mother Lyn was the source of my something borrowed and something old as she loaned me a heart-shaped brooch with diamonds. My man-of-honor Edward cleverly affixed it to the back of my skirt, so there was a hint of sparkle as I took my last single girl steps. Overall,
I've always admired the beautiful traditions that go into a wedding day but because I work in fashion, this look suited my small, intimate ceremony and was a way to adapt certain bridal aspects for modern times. For those who love the unconventional, trying white ready-to-wear with a pop of color might just be a fit for your big moment, too!
In the coming weeks, my team will be sharing lots of wedding inspo for those needing to pivot their plans or those just getting started. Head back for more and discover a few of my favorite bridal picks below.
