Well, for me at least...
Every season, I promise myself I’ll share my thoughts on New York Bridal Fashion Week (NYBFW), yet I often find it difficult to put pen to paper. It’s an exhilarating experience—one that’s equal parts fun, chaotic, and exhausting.
I’ve been attending these shows since 2012, when they were intimate affairs, difficult to access, and truly special. Back then, the guest list was limited to editors, buyers, select stylists, and only a handful of photographers shooting for major publications. I was fortunate to be part of that exclusive circle, where the anticipation of what lay behind closed doors heightened the excitement. The thrill of waiting for editorial reveals was palpable.
Fast forward to today, and the landscape has transformed dramatically, thanks largely to Instagram and TikTok. The platform has opened countless doors and birthed new businesses, making it a crucial marketing tool. Gone are the days when only industry insiders were invited; now, newly engaged influencers, wedding content creators, photographers, and event planners—all eager to connect with the wedding world—are part of the scene.
While this inclusivity is refreshing, it can also be overwhelming. The larger runway shows and presentations often feel more like a spectacle than an opportunity to appreciate the artistry of the dresses. I sometimes wonder: Are attendees genuinely admiring the designs, or are they more focused on gaining followers? Is it really necessary to invite everyone connected to the wedding industry?
The first major show of the week ran over an hour late and lasted over 40 minutes. With a major rush to get all of the guests inside the venue, there was confusion about seating arrangements and all in all, it left a bad taste in my mouth as I was 40 minutes late for my next appointment and therefore, the entire day got pushed back. At another presentation, a designated walkthrough time drew around 400 attendees all at once. With only one functioning elevator and a line stretching down Broadway, capturing a great photo of the stunning presentation felt like a stroke of luck.
To the event producers: please implement a scheduled time for all invitees when hosting an open house. It would greatly enhance the experience for everyone involved.
For me, the best way to experience a collection is during private appointments with designers and their teams. These intimate settings allow you to closely see and appreciate the beauty of each piece. Some of my favorite appointments have been with designers like Wiederhoeft, Jaclyn Whyte, LEIN, Monique Lhuillier, and Hermione de Paula. In these appointments, either the designer or a trusted team member elaborates on the details of each dress, turning the experience into a celebration of artistry. The passion and craftsmanship behind their creations shine through, making these previews some of the highlights of my year. Receiving an invitation to such appointments is always a true pleasure. I hope more will start to follow suit.
Unlike Barcelona or Milan Bridal Fashion Week, the showrooms and presentation venues are scattered throughout Manhattan, which contributes to the chaos. You might have a 10am appointment in FiDi, followed by an 11am in Chelsea, and then a 12pm in Madison Square Park. While it seems logical to schedule based on location, even a minor hiccup can derail the entire itinerary. Your hair and makeup start off looking flawless in the morning, but by the end of the day, you’ll find yourself rocking sunglasses indoors like a celebrity trying to go incognito! And let’s be real, you might end up tossing your hair into a ponytail, declaring it a fashion statement. Who needs perfection when you’ve got practicality?
P.S. Reem Acra had every guest sporting quirky, mismatched short veils on headbands (she wore one herself too). Did we look absolutely ridiculous? 100% - But it was a great reminder that we’re all in this together and that NYBFW should be fun, not stressful!

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