Bride Chic

  Who doesn't adore that pure, clean look of optical white? I'm talking the screaming  M imi kind, amped up to look like neon snow. Usually, optical white is made from synthetic fibers like polyester, but pure silk can be bleached. Some distributors bleach already high-sheen satins snow white to achieve this effect, but is that right for you?  Typically, this neon version of white looks stunning on darker skin tones--but not always. Believe me, t here's nothing like actually stepping into the gown or draping the fabric next to you to find out.  SATINS &  TAFFETAS   Ideal fabrics for structured silhouettes are those that sculpt well. Some bouffant styles and ball gowns pair nicely with medium- to heavy-weight taffetas and satins. They come in high-sheen or matte finishes. I prefer working in the more suble mattes like the ones pictured here. There's a bit of sheen but not much. All are pure silks that have been bleached. Above Left & Top Right: ...