C For Men

Designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. Photography by Tim Walker.
OSCAR DE LA RENTA embroidered tulle gown, $80,000, overskirt, $9,000, and veil, $10,000.
3-D floral motif gown, $55,000, and veil, $5,000.

Oscar Season

by slh

Designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia

Two years after taking the reins at Oscar de la Renta as co-creative directors, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia continue to shepherd the storied New York fashion house forward with their singular interpretation, balancing reverence with modernity. Being entrusted with a decades-old label is serious business, but Kim and Garcia, who also jointly own and run ready-to-wear brand Monse, have managed to win over both longtime customers and newer clients.

Casting a wider net seems to be the driving force for the duo, who have now expanded their bridal selection to include demi-couture gowns. “For this collection, we were inspired by the diversity of the modern woman,” says Kim of the five embroidery-rich looks, which debuted as part of the Fall 2019 bridal lineup and are currently available for purchase. They are made to order, with room for customization to satisfy varying tastes and needs.

When choosing the perfect dress, Kim says it’s wise to take into account your venue and, most importantly, your comfort. “We find that most California brides respond best to our tulle gowns due to the warm climate, whereas brides having a more traditional church or ballroom wedding often opt for silk-faille versions.”

For the bride looking to make an elegant statement, there’s a sleeveless illusion-neck gown with cascading hand-embroidered flowers made of woven silk petals and encrusted buds. Another look nails a whimsical note, combining silk organza blooms with intricate beading and featuring a strapless, tulle V-neck bodice with a soft giant bow in the back. “Ultimately, we’re after a joie de vivre that came through in Oscar’s clothes,” says Garcia. “We want to make him proud.” By appointment only. 8446 Melrose Pl., L.A., 323-653-0200; oscardelarenta.com.

Written by CAROLINE CAGNEY.