Westwood Vowery & Estate got the incredible opportunity to travel to New York this fall to attend New York Bridal Fashion Week (NYBFW) – a dream trip for any bridal designer, stylist, or wedding professional. The city was full of energy, creativity, and couture, and it was such an honor to be surrounded by so many talented designers and industry peers who share a passion for bridal artistry and innovation.
Night 1: Nicole + Felicia
The week opened with the enchanting Nicole + Felicia show, setting the tone with jaw-dropping gowns that blended fairytale volume with contemporary edge. Layers of tulle, corsetry, and shimmering embellishments created looks fit for the modern romantic who still loves a touch of drama.
Day 2: Effortless Elegance Meets High Glamour
Day 2 was packed with inspiration, starting with the One Fine Day bridal market – a curated showcase of independent designers. The standout? Minimalist gowns with structured shapes, bold textures, and delicate draping that felt timeless yet fresh.
Next, Steven Kahlil brought an unexpected sophistication, blending clean lines with architectural design, perfect for brides who crave modern simplicity.
The night ended with the dazzling Berta runway. True to form, Berta delivered unapologetic glamour: body-hugging silhouettes, intricate beadwork, and daring necklines.
Day 3: Artistry and Couture Statements
The final day of New York Bridal Fashion Week was nothing short of breathtaking, a grand finale vibe!
House of Idan opened the day with bold sophistication. Known for pushing the boundaries of bridal design, the collection fused dramatic silhouettes with refined detailing. Sleek satins, and unexpected cutouts gave each gown a fashion-forward edge while maintaining that signature bridal elegance. For the bride who wants to make an unforgettable entrance, House of Idan delivered in every sense.
Justin Alexander’s latest collection paid homage to classic bridal beauty – think sweeping trains, delicate lace, and impeccable tailoring. Yet there was a modern twist: subtle sparkle, square necklines, and minimalist fabrics that felt fresh and current.
Closing out the week was the iconic Viktor & Rolf Mariage, whose approach to bridal couture left us in awe. Sculptural bows, dimensional florals, and statement silhouettes defined the runway. Each piece told a story.
Day 3 left us inspired and energized. A beautiful reminder that today’s bride has endless ways to define her “I do” moment. From modern minimalism to couture extravagance, the future of bridal fashion is bright, bold, and brilliantly personal.
We chatted with Shelby Dempsey, Owner of The Sixpence & Westwood!
WW asked: Did any show stand out to you specifically?
”Berta by far! Attending Berta’s show at NYBFW was SO exciting, as it was my most anticipated show. It felt like such a full circle moment for me. Back in 2018, I got the amazing opportunity to shoot New York Fashion Week, but I always wanted to attend New York Bridal Fashion Week and hadn’t yet had the chance. Then, in 2021, I fell in love with Berta at The Wedding Studio Carmel and selected my wedding gown for my Florida Keys wedding. I went on to share the decision-making process behind my Berta gown with the New York Times directly following Seth and my wedding.”
“Getting the agenda for our week at NYBFW in October and seeing Berta on there was a “pinch me” moment, it felt like so many pieces of my life came full circle at once, and it was honestly very emotional for me. Experiencing that night was already incredible, and getting to share it with my EA, Lilly (who was about to get engaged just DAYS later) was just the cherry on top. I’ll never forget that night.”
“At the show itself…Berta never disappoints. I recall The Wedding Studio’s buyer, Evan, saying he didn’t see anything he didn’t like and I couldn’t agree more. Berta stays on the cutting edge of couture, with interesting textures, boning, structure, and accessories. The look that stuck out to me the most was a fully beaded, hooded gown. WOW! Seeing these pieces of art in motion was truly the most amazing experience.”
Until next time, New York!
