Vera Wang Comes to Bella Bianca

With the closing of its flagship salon, Vera Wang was looking for a new home in Chicago. So the New York-based label reached out to Natalie Bauer and Melissa Russell, the sisters behind Bella Bianca Bridal Couture in Chicago and Oakbrook, to house its storied Haute collection. “Vera Wang is the crown jewel of bridal,” Bauer says. “The beauty of [this label] is that it runs the gamut from elaborate ballgowns to layers and layers of exquisite tulle to very sleek and chic crepe gowns.” Bella Bianca now carries them all, and will get new inventory as collections are released twice annually. “The Vera Wang bride is somebody who is appreciative of fabrication and construction and what goes into making a true luxury garment,” Bauer says. “Somebody who is looking for that combination of femininity and striking, modern elements.” There can be an intimidation factor when it comes to the prestigious brand, but Russell encourages brides to give it a try regardless—and believes they’ll be pleasantly surprised. “The gowns are so Chicago,” she says. “They’re so wearable, so timeless.” 875 N. Rush St., 2nd Floor; 17W527 Roosevelt Road, Oakbrook Terrace, bellabianca.com

Pictured at top: Vera Wang’s Haute collection is now carried at Bella Bianca Bridal Couture in Chicago and Oakbrook—including this stellar piece, a light ivory off-the-shoulder silk faille bow coat with elongated train. PHOTO COURTESY OF VERA WANG AND BELLA BIANCA BRIDAL COUTURE