story and photos by Charles Beckwith
Weddings are a ceremony of immortality. They represent moments of transition in which responsibility for the continuity of life is passed from one generation to the next. Almost certainly second only to burial rites in the chain of human social imperatives, they are sacred and primal. The difficulty for any garment designer in rendering clothing appropriate for such a timeless ritual in our culture is to present fertility without vulgarity. In this, Reem Acra is a master beyond reproach.
Season after season, we have watched her collections evolve and amaze. This season, the three points at which I was truly awe-struck came when I saw the bird wing veil, when I noticed the detached lace cuffs, and when I wandered backstage after the show and saw the sparkle detailing up close. The first two moments, I think what I saw there defines innovation, and the third was a moment which I think defines luxury. Most designers, when they want to make a dress sparkle, will cover it in sequins. A step up from that approach is to use crystals and give them delicate spacing. Then, where almost any other high end designer would place a crystal, on several gowns in this collection Ms.Acra placed at least three, so no matter how you look at these dresses, they shimmer when they move, and the effect is refined and glorious. This is elevated bridal design. This is Reem Acra.
