When you get a chance to meet THE Carolina Herrera during New York Bridal Market, you say yes and break out into a happy dance. She’s a true legend in the fashion industry, so when SMP was offered the chance to sit down one-on-one with the designer behind some of our most beloved gowns, we brought our A-game plus Rebecca Yale Photography to give you, dear readers, an exclusive first-hand look.
As I walked into Carolina Herrera’s office on 7th Ave., sophistication and elegance reigned supreme. She welcomed us with open arms into her luxe space filled with natural light pouring through every window and each design piece placed just so. We were invited to preview one of the gowns from the Spring 2016 collection, and needless to say, We. Were. Stunned. The fitted bodice with chantilly lace along the neckline is the type of detail we’ve come to love from Mrs. Herrera, and the delicate buttons draping down the back into a tiered train was nothing short of perfection.
Carolina was meeting with her Creative Director, Hervé Pierre when we walked in, and they were putting the finishing touches on a gorgeous feather and lace gown for the upcoming collection. The office was filled with gorgeous photos, trinkets, and memento’s – each with their own unique story.
It didn’t take long to feel at total ease as Hervé Pierre told us fun stories behind the pictures, like how at 6-years-old Carolina was photographed in a white dress for her role in Snow White. She looked stern in the picture and when we asked why, Hervé explained it was because she wanted to play the Wicked Witch instead. Well played, Mrs. Herrera.
A lampshade with different memories pinned to it was full of stories, including a photo of the fabric found in Marie Antoinette’s Versaille palace. The story goes that Marie would change the drapes in the palace for every season. This particular pattern was there right before the war, and it’s still there today. Oh, and you can still buy the fabric today – how amazing is that?
It was such an honor to spend some time with Mrs. Herrera, and get a peek inside her glamorous world. Her Spring 2016 collection is sure to be one of the books, and we’ll be covering each and every gown once they hit the runway this weekend. Stay tuned! xoxo
Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Vendor: Carolina Herrera