SPRING AT KLEINFELD

 It's already spring time in Manhattan.  This was the scene at Kleinfeld Manhattan for Priscilla Troy's trunk show featuring her magnificent collection of vintage and reproduction parasols. Priscilla has such a stunning array of these chic little props with the most intricate detailing I've ever seen, some with lace dating back to the 1890s.   When constructed in silk fabric instead of paper, the parasols last and make beautiful keepsakes to pass on. Her collection has not only more functional products out of linen and cotton but deacquisitioned pieces from The Brooklyn Museum of Art which consist of silk and lace gems dating back to the Civil War. Raised in the South, Priscilla moved West and pursued a career as a graphic designer and advertising art director. Today, she engages in conceptual textiles and became interested in “Shade Art” by reintroducing the parasol as both a protective devise and a fashion accessory. She feels, "One does not just carry a parasol, but wears it as a lifestyle choice. "  You can check out more chic by visiting Priscilla's site.

LOLITA BRIDES

 Porcelain Poet

One version of Goth making it big in the bridal arena is Lolita dressing-aka, Alice and/or the baby doll concept.  The Gothic Lolita fashion movement originated in the Harajuko district in Japan and is growing in popularity in the West. It's become a  favorite concept for artsy photo shoots lately and some fashion designers are finding a real niche in it.  Gothic Lolita girls collect elaborate wardrobes of what looks like 19th century inspired doll clothing. On top of that activities for serious Lolita followers might include the romanticized ideas of yesteryear such as tea parties and croquet matches. The white pinafores and ruffled dresses with full mini skirts covered in lace make this look a great alternative for bridal. You can go all-out costumey or tone down the Raggedy-Ann look by creating more of a fashion appearance as in most of the images here. A great look that seems to have been embraced by tiny and shorter women who love to capture the embodiment of youth . . .

 Photographed by Kassandra Leigh Purcell/Dress for Rakuen Fashion

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OLIVIA YIP

 Meet Olivia Yip, a rising star out of Hong Kong, aka Olivia Couture. Starting out as a graphic designer, Olivia moved on to fashion once she saw the volume of creativity offered in bridal and special occassion wear.  The press worldwide loves her work, the British press in particular after the
impression she made at Harrogate, in England; Peta Hunt of You & Your Wedding had this to say in reference to her designs, “true romantics with a twist” Olivia has since been added to the list of top British designers who showed their stuff in London at the premiere of White Gallery last May. Above and below are just a few pieces from her new collection.  You can see more on her site.