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Photographs courtesy of J. Crew
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Tom Mora
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J. Crew has been churning out one good thing after another, from whimsical accessories to classic every day pieces―the brand has chic down pat. It has launched a hugely successful bridal party collection that has become a favorite among local wedding parties, and its newest venture is made just for the soon-to-be wed: bridal gowns from $250 to $2,500. Tom Mora, J. Crew's head of wedding party design, phoned SLM from his New York office and filled us in on what it takes to be a modern bride—on a budget.
Who is the J. Crew bride?
She is classic, modern, unfussy. She has a great attention to detail and fit―but wants it a great price.
How should a bride work color into her big day?
Stay pale! Nude, blush, dusty rose, lavender. We have a color called apricot mist that looks great with a black grosgrain belt.
What is the best way for a bride to look stylish on a budget? Are there some details more important to attend than others?
Think about buying a dress at a great value―pay attention to the fabric, the finishing. Our goal is not to make the most expensive wedding dress, but to make a beautiful dress at a value with Italian fabric, French lace, tulle. You can also buy a very simple dress and spend money on a detail like a beaded sash that will make it very special.
What about the rehearsal dinner or reception?
Enjoy being a bride and keep it ivory or white, even for the rehearsal dinner. Think of it as you’re going to the ultimate cocktail party. Make it playful! We have an amazing ivory dress made of paillettes and a strapless ivory feather dress.
What’s the most flattering dress style for a bridesmaid?
We have a mix of blues, pinks, greens―there is a matrix of different ways to dress the bridal party. Our two most popular dresses are the Arabelle and the Taryn―strapless with an easy shape. The crinkled texture of the silk chiffon with ruching and a slight A-line skirt is very flattering.
What are your favorite accessories for the bride?
We have a blush-colored fur vest that looks great with a full dress. We have fantastic jewelry from Lulu Frost and Miriam Haskell that was inspired from the vintage collection and finished with filigree detail. We’ll be carrying one-of-a-kind Leah C. veils created from antique netting and beautiful heels made of anything from python to duchess satin.
For more information on ordering the bridal party collection, contact a local J. Crew store at Plaza Frontenac, 314-862-2739, or Saint Louis Galleria, 314-727-2534, jcrew.com. For more information on the bridal gown collection, contact the New York J. Crew bridal boutique: 769 Madison, Manhattan, 212-824-2500, or email kate@jcrew.com to schedule an appointment. Bridal appointments are only available at the New York salon.
