Cicily Daniels Reports from Junko Yoshioka Bridal 2014

Well, my fast and furious foray into New York International Bridal Fashion Week continues with my visit to the Junko Yoshioka atelier for a presentation of her 2014 collection. I was again accompanied by Fashion Reverie editor-in-chief William Gooch. This presentation was mostly by appointment only and there were only four people present at our viewing. A presentation is a very different experience than a runway show, much more intimate. It reminds me of what I imagine a classic 1950’s upscale shopping experience might have been like, with one model showing all of the different looks, and each look described in verbal detail.

After the presentation, the dresses were hanging on display, allowing me to examine each garment up close, feel the fabric and see the design elements in detail. I was even able meet designer Junko (pronounced June-Co) Yoshioka and have a one-on-one conversation with her. William and I were both invited to have the model retry any dresses that we wished to see again. I felt nervous, but with William’s encouragement, I asked to see one particular gown once more.

One of the gowns I wanted to see again was the ‘Éclair.’ It had beautiful draping, a softer cut sweetheart neckline, and a loose mermaid fit to the floor. The zipper on the back was off to the side, again, a small detail, but somehow it made the draping feel more continuous and gave the dress a modern feel. It was simple, but it was somehow so stunning. I could definitely see myself wearing the ‘Éclair.’ While the gown was gorgeous, it was the kind of dress that I feel would make everyone stand up and notice and continue commenting on how beautiful I looked, even after my wedding day.

The ‘Sorbet’ was another look that was a standout. It featured a beaded v-neckline, jeweled belt and a gorgeous keyhole back. If I wore this dress, I would feel sleek and sophisticated, yet timeless. The dress is made of crinkle chiffon, invoking the Grecian draped style, and with the addition of a modern constructed back and belt the ‘Sorbet,’ though classic, still looks very modern.

The final dress, the ‘Flambé,’ during the presentation was totally unexpected. Like any good actress, I know the importance of a well-timed wardrobe change! I expect that I, and most fashionable brides, will be planning more outfits for the wedding weekend than just the wedding gown. This shiny, sparkling, jewel-encrusted number will bring a tasteful bling to any party. A bride might wear it for a rehearsal dinner or an engagement party, but I was picturing myself wearing it to the bridal after party, dancing the night away. Who knows, the most daring among us brides might choose the ‘Flambé’ as their wedding dress!

Overall, I would describe Junko Yoshioka’s 2014 bridal collection as having modern, feminine elegance. There was also a depth to the collection that I think would appeal to a wide range of brides seeking both traditional and contemporary gowns. Nothing fussy or overdone, the dresses bring all of the beauty you want to a wedding dress, while leaving you as the focal point. What more could a bride want?

‒Cicily Daniels