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.