An Interview with Kelly Faetanini

In honor of our first trunk show of the season, we have a special showcase of one of our newest designers, Kelly Faetanini!  In this interview we breakdown the inspiration, dress favs and features of the newest Spring 2018 collection, as well as, a little shopping advice from the talented designer.  Be sure to schedule your appointment for this event from August 4 – 26 here!  We can’t wait to see YOU in one of these beautiful gowns.

Without further ado….

How did you begin your career in the bridal industry and as a designer?

Growing up in Sandusky, Ohio, I learned the fine art of tailoring from my grandmother. I took this passion with me to the International Academy of Design & Technology in Chicago where I graduated with a degree in Fashion Design. After a successful career as the head designer of the Jewel by Priscilla of Boston Collection, I knew it was time to establish my own eponymous brand in 2012. I wanted nothing more than to create beautiful, luxe gowns that felt classic and timeless with modern details so that every design felt special and unique for every bride!

What was the inspiration for the Spring 2018 collection?

The inspiration for the Spring 2018 collection was Shakespeare and dark romance.

Hints of black balanced by touches of barely-there blush blend together to create this season’s Kelly Faetanini Spring 2018 collection of “dark romance.” Inspired by Shakespeare and innocent feelings of seduction, each bridal gown is equally romantic mixed with a sexy edge. Black lace, underlays, and feathers pair with whimsical floral details and corsetry seaming to highlight artistic elements in a truly wearable way. Find illusion laces and shimmering effects on fabrics, such as tulle, silky stretch satin, and let your imagination take you away.

“The earth has music for those who listen.” -Shakespeare 

Using three words, how would you describe your bridal style?

I would describe my bridal style as timeless, romantic, and contemporary.

Do you have a favorite dress from this collection?

I really love every piece. They’re all a part of me. I really love the black laces we used this season.

When brides are searching for their dress, what 2-3 pieces of advice would you provide?

1. Don’t judge a gown by it’s hanger appeal. Every gown is uniquely shaped and although you may not like a certain silhouette based on the way it’s hanging, I always tell my brides to try it anyway because it might surprise them.
2. One thing that I see so often is brides struggle to choose a gown that their friends and family like. Everyone has their own taste, so sometimes what friends and family want to see the bride in is different than what the bride envisions herself in. Ultimately, brides should remember that they need to follow their heart and choose a gown that they truly love themselves. At the end of the day, the bride’s family and friends will think she looks beautiful no matter what she chooses!
3. I think brides feel such pressure to make a “statement’ with their wedding dress; they just go for the ‘wow’ factor without being true to their real personal style. With my collections, I want brides to feel glamorous but also confidently comfortable. My top advice would be to stick to styles you know you feel good in. When you’re in a gown that feels like yourself, you will never have any regrets with your choice. Your wedding day look should just be your best version of your everyday self, stay true to your personal style and you will look (and feel!) amazing.