Topshop Riot Metal Trim High Heels ($85) 
Zara Ombre Clutch ($80) 
Monique Lhuillier held her intimate, salon-style runway show at Manhattan’s Baccarat hotel, narrating the presentation herself, look-by-look, along with Hal Rubenstein. For her lineup of princess ballgowns and fit-and-flare and trumpet silhouettes, the designer drew inspiration from “Alice in Wonderland,” in particular its element of fantasy and curiosity. “There’s also a dark side to that fairy tale, and that was my way of incorporating the sultry side of the bride,” she said backstage before the show.
Gowns with low, open backs, sheer embellished bodices and plunging necklines gave the collection a more sensual appeal than in past seasons, while layers of nude tulle created the illusion of skin. Lhuillier also added a few non-ivory options — some dresses bore subtle accents of green and peach — to her lineup of embellished gowns fit for a modern-day Alice.
Ballgowns and fishtail shapes dominated the lineup.....he designers lowered the backs — a few featured sheer illusion details or cutouts — to emphasize a sexier silhouette this season. For a bride who prefers less embellishment, a floral-embroidered, off-the-shoulder silk-faille ballgown with pockets felt fresh and modern.
