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OPERATION DREAM DRESS 2011
For our third annual Operation Dream Dress Contest, up-and-coming designers from across the globe created wedding gowns that exemplified the theme "artful romance." As the sketches poured in, we searched for something romantic, but also creative with an element of surprise. Hundreds of dresses and thousands of votes later, here are the five stunning gowns that made it to the final round. Click here to see the reveal on Good Morning America.
Hannah Friesen
Portland, Oregon
Hannah’s dress combines fashion with sustainability to create a natural, bohemian-chic gown. By weaving together natural fibers, Hannah tells the story of two lives being woven together and becoming one within a united community.
Adriana Rivera
New York, NY
This multilayered gown — a simple trapeze silk crepe dress topped by a silk organza kaftan — is the modern bride’s answer to ease and elegance. With a sash at the waist and a high Watteau train (both removable), this flowing silhouette is perfect for a beach wedding.
Maya Kurz
New York, NY
High fashion describes this glamorous dress; ivory silk chiffon hugs and accentuates a woman’s curves before draping into a romantic, flowing skirt. Featuring a sexy jeweled racer-back, Maya’s red carpet gown is perfect for the daring bride.
Emily Ericson
Keene, NH
Inspired by Monet's Water Lilies, this dress boasts an open back, and a short hemline with a sheer overlay. Emily's refreshingly modern design combines whimsical details — delicate flowers scattered at the waist and down the train — with a flirty, feminine silhouette.
2011 Winner – Nandi Fernandez
Miami, Florida
Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, this Fashion Institute of Technology trained designer used Botticelli's depiction of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, as her inspiration for this sensual gown. Complete with a pleated bodice, pearl accents and silk draping, the gown marries modern sophistication with romantic detailing. See Nandi’s inspiring design on BRIDES magazine's July cover.
