During New York Bridal Week, Vera Wang debuted her new Fall 2016 collection, a lineup of dark, romantic pieces, titled Hotel Madrid Part Two. Drawing inspiration from Spain, the collection was detailed and deconstructed—lace draped softly around models' ankles or billowed from their waist in tiers like Spanish flamenco skirts. Exaggerated accessories like bows and buttons kept the collection feminine and boudoir detailing, reflective of last season’s collection, gave everything a more intimate and sensual feeling.
Of course it wouldn’t be a Vera Wang collection without a little dark drama. Pieces were either long and serpentine or big and voluminous. The line ranged from the most simplistic of gowns adorned with a single bow, to those of gothic opulence with hand-embroidered passimentarie, high necklines and wispy feathers. Skirts were fashioned with ostrich plumes, layers of Chantilly lace, silk taffeta and French tulle, while bodices were decorated with Guippure lace appliqués and illusion sleeves.
Although the choice of fabric was more than enough to lend a dramatic look to the collection, Wang took it a step farther with her silhouettes and structure. A black taffeta gown with a large, abstract bow billowed out into a bubble hem with a thigh-high cutaway. A cap-sleeve Chantilly gown was nipped at the waist with a corset and split in the center to reveal a miniskirt hidden under the floor-length dress. Cutouts on the back, stomach and chest kept everything modern and, for the most part, modest.
