An Exclusive Sneak Peek at the new Martina Liana Collection with Designer Martine Harris!

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(Designer Martine Harris pictured center, photo courtesy Martina Liana)

It’s hard to believe, but bridal fashion week is just around the corner (for Chicago, it’s THIS week!) and I had the pleasure of interviewing designer Martine Harris (Martina Liana, Sorella Vita, Essense of Australia, Stella York) on what to expect from her new collections that are about to debut at Chicago Bridal Market!

Jim Verraros: It’s hard to believe, but Chicago Bridal Market is already next week! What can we expect from your new collection for Martina Liana?

Martine Harris: Fall 2016 is all about taking traditional looks to the next level. From modern clean lines to vintage-inspired beading, every detail has been flawlessly taken into consideration. Modern lacework, plunging necklines, and innovative textures are just some of the features on our newest styles. And, as always, every Martina Liana gown is 100% available for custom changes – every element of the design, including fabric, colour, and beading is open for a bride’s reinterpretation so we can deliver a truly couture experience for brides.

JUDE_SANDER AD Martina Liana.Together Forever

(New from Martina Liana, Fall 2016; styles Jude and Sander)

JV: You’ve started a huge trend with the beaded bridesmaid gown for Sorella Vita. Can we expect to see different versions of this to continue?

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(Modern Metallics Collection from Sorella Vita)

MH: Yes! We have had amazing success with our Modern Metallic Designer Collection and will continue to offer new matte sequin styles each season. We also have a Modern Metallic gown in our new Juniors Collection so there can be a gown for every member of your bridal party!

JV: I loved your concept of Separates. How have brides responded to them? What’s been the most popular style from the collection?

MH: Our Together.Forever. collection continues to be a favourite among brides, with our most popular styles being the Stevie Skirt and the Cayla Corset. Those are both such incredible pieces – they look amazing together and with any other skirt or top you might love. This season we are thrilled to introduce 13 new pieces to the collection! 6 new styles of corsets and bodysuits, 5 new skirt options, plus a new mini-dress, and a fashion-forward long-sleeved lace jacket with high collar (it can be worn totally sheer or with a solid corset underneath)! From chic and simple to sheer and sexy – the new separates showcase a variety of options perfect for those wanting a truly custom look.

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(pictured above, the “Cayla” corset from Martina Liana)

JV: What was your inspiration behind this season?

MH: This season we are focusing on reinterpreting classic dress details such as exposed boning, unexpected textures and volume, illusion tulle backs and, of course, lace! As always, it’s the details that really make each dress a unique work of art. High necklines, golden hues and high-low hemlines all give a modern update to traditional looks. We have carefully matched the perfect details to the perfect design, allowing a bride to show off their personal style in a new and on-trend way. Our new collection continues to emphasize what makes Martina Liana special – that every detail, no matter how small, deserves its own focus and attention.

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(New from Martina Liana, Fall 2016: Style 823)

JV: Describe your favorite piece from this upcoming collection.

MH: I love, love, love our new gown style #791. It’s a sleek, soft column gown made from the most gorgeous Natural Bellagio Crepe. It has long sleeves, which is a really hot trend that I love right now. It also showcases some fabulous details like crepe covered buttons and a cowl back that makes this dress stunning from all angles. My other favourite is style #823, which features some of the most elaborate beadwork we have ever had! With beaded cut-outs, a low back and a Bellagio Crepe skirt – this dress is high-fashion at its finest.

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(pictured above, Martine’s Favorite gown from Fall 2016: style 791)

JV: We’ve seen so many slinky, sexy versions of the white dress. Do you foresee this continuing?

MH: Yes, I think that this trend will continue as long as there are brides that want to look and feel sexy on their wedding day. In regards to Martina Liana, we will continue to offer a variety of gowns in all silhouettes so that every bride can find their dream gown!

JUDE_SIA AD1 Martina Liana.Together Forever

(New for Fall 2016 from Martina Liana; styles Jude and Sia)

Martina Liana available at the following Chicago Bridal Boutiques:

Bella Bianca Bridal Couture, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois

Volle’s Bridal Boutique, Lake Zurich, Illinois

Click here to see the full Martina Liana Collection!

–Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury