All in all, it is always an inspiring thing for me to do and I love going to NYC every year. The inspirations are everywhere – I get so much joy out of being in the middle of the fashion capital in the United States as I experience it though my eyes. I come home and sort out the things that I think will resonate with my clients.

The sky was always blue, just like in Colorado, but the heat was like being inside an oven!

Day One: I need to mellow into the environment. I usually go the the Metropolitian Museum to see their yearly fashion exhibit, and this year was called Heavenly Bodies. There always seems to be a bridal gown at these yearly exhibits, and this one did not disappoint!

Along the way, I like to window shop and this year at Saks Fifth Avenue I was touched by this display, as last season I incorporated the word TRUTH into my collection. I must be on to something! I think you’ll see it again in 2018.

As I shop for new fabrics on 7th Ave, I am always amazed by how casual people are. This young gentleman was gracious when I asked if I could snap his photo. I loved his hair and his hat.

While I was shopping on the street, I fell in love with this stylish family. The young lady was so put together when I asked if I could snap her photo, her siblings insisted they join in the fun. All of them were so put together, I wonder if they needed their mom’s help when getting dressed!

The most recent trend (in New York) is shine. Everything is shiny, including sneakers. Not sure how this will resonate in Colorado yet.

I may incorporate shine in trims that I choose.

The most inspiring retail store for me was in Soho.  The newly opened Gucci Store was a sight to be seen. There were lots of interactive pieces within the large space, including theatre-like venues with large screen TVs, with headphones and theatre seating for the public to enjoy. It’s definitely a place to see and be seen.

Here is only one example of many of the merchandise in the store:

The people I met up with were entertaining, helpful, professional and you will definitely see the influences they had on my visit. Follow me on Instagram to see how it all develops, you won’t be disappointed!

I am lucky to say that I will continue on this journey soon. Next stop: Aspen, and then LA!

Thanks for coming along on my journey.

The post New York State of Mind appeared first on Brooks Ltd.

Not only is a custom-designed dress made to fit your body, but you’ll love being able to wear something tailored to your fashion vision and style — especially if you have something extraordinary in mind that is more specific to your individual personality.

But when it comes to working with a custom dress designer, there are a few important things to look for before your commitment. Here’s what you should look for in a dress designer to find one that’s right for you.

Experience & Expertise

When you meet with a potential designer, ask how long they’ve been in this line of work. Those with more experience will often have a better perspective on the dress shapes, colors, and fabrics that can help you create an entirely unique ensemble. Hiring a designer is also requires trusting in their expertise and guidance, so you’ll want someone who can bring a professional opinion to the table.

And although there are many clothing designers out there, find someone who has a background in creating high quality ensembles (such as gowns, dresses, skirts, jackets and blouses) so they can better suggest the right fabrics and style for such an important event.

They will also know the right questions to ask you in return, making the design process smoother and more transparent, so you clearly understand each step the entire way.

Portfolio

This tip may sound obvious, but it can be one of the most important to helping you find the right designer. Look through samples of work they’ve done in the past. See which dresses they’ve designed that you may or may not want to borrow inspiration from.

Honesty

You should feel comfortable with the person you’re working with, and this requires a good amount of honesty and transparency. It’s better to hire a dress designer who is up-front about what may or may not be possible (say, with certain fabrics that may not match the style you’re going for), than someone who says “Yes” to everything and doesn’t achieve your vision in the end as they promised.

Creativity & Artistry

You aren’t looking to have someone create a custom dress if you’re hoping to wear something unoriginal, so look for a designer who thinks outside the box!

Ask for their insights, ideas and opinions. Creating your dress should be a collaborative effort in order to bring an out of the ordinary design to life. Work with an artistic dress designer who uses creative design elements, and you can feel confident as you walk into your event with an ensemble that is truly “yours”!

Contact a Custom Dress Designer in Denver, CO

Whether you’re looking for a truly unique wedding dress, an elegant mother of the bride dress, a creative gala or party dress, or other artful ensemble creations, reach out to Brooks LTD for a design that suits you and fits perfectly! Contact me online or call 303-573-3801.  

The post What to Look for in a Dress Designer appeared first on Brooks Ltd.