The show at Lela Rose was an exercise in relaxed elegance. “I think the rules have been broken,” the designer explained, citing brides getting married later in life, having ceremonies in more casual settings and, in general, eschewing old traditions. “They’ve been changed for what a wedding constitutes.” And also for what a presentation constitutes: The looks were shown on models perched atop wooden ladders in a sun-soaked West Village loft.
Motivated by attitudes of ease and modernity, Rose infused her bridal lineup with a ready-to-wear sensibility, as demonstrated by the presence of black-tie separates — the best of which featured slim-fitting, high-waisted cream trousers and a strapless peplum top in a floral-patterned, metallic-threaded fil coupé. Her A-line gowns and slipdresses, many with elegant ballerina necklines and floral lace embroidery, imparted a charming sweetness. Another gown featured blouson sleeves, which perfectly captured the collection’s nonchalant spirit.