Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger (micaelaerlanger.com) is the sartorial star behind best-dressed looks worn by Lupita Nyong’o, Michelle Dockery and Amanda Hearst. Now a bride herself, she expands her focus from the red carpet to the aisle to assist women on their big day with the launch of a capsule collection with Brideside and an IG Live series #EngageWithMicaela to provide resources and guidance that tackles current conundrums like face mask fashion and postponed ceremonies. We polled the New York-based Erlanger for all her stylish secrets.
What do you love most about working with brides? Walking down the aisle is the closest thing to walking on the red carpet, and there are so many parallels between getting a movie star ready for an award show and a bride ready for her wedding day. I love the process and curation that goes into putting together a look and seeing the final result memorialized in photos that are forever treasured. Being a part of such a special moment and helping my clients to feel like the best version of themselves brings me so much joy.
What is the most important styling advice you give brides? Invest in your accessories! I always recommend platinum; it’s not only the most durable metal, but it adds extra brilliance and shine to your special day. Comfort is key! Don’t choose a dress you can’t dance or move in, or shoes that hurt to walk in—you will be uncomfortable, and that will show in photos and spoil your night. You want to feel like the best version of yourself and be present in the moment! Also, consider your venue and environment. Choose a dress that complements you and your setting—you truly have to dress for the occasion!
How do you suggest brides adjust their styling given the current climate? The most important detail is the date and venue. Once you know the time and place, you can curate or adjust your wardrobe accordingly. Bridal is inherently timeless and there are so many tricks to transition a wedding dress from one season to another! I have an ongoing IG Live Series called ‘Engage With Micaela’ where I share my tips and advice and invite fashion designers, wedding industry experts and beauty pros onto my account to answer questions and address concerns from brides who need guidance.
Tell us about your work with Brideside. I am so thrilled to be working with Brideside, and I’m excited to announce my curated capsule collection for Brideside will be available starting this summer. I worked closely with Brideside to carefully curate four key styles from Brideside’s own SS20 Ellera collection. This is the beginning of an ongoing partnership with Brideside, and I’m so happy to align with a brand that delivers beautifully designed gowns at an accessible price. The collection is available in sizes 00 to 30, retailing for under $2,500. Inclusivity was really important to me—I wanted to choose styles that would not only flatter every body type, but come in a range of sizes, and fit within a range of budgets.
The million-dollar question: What are you going to wear on your own wedding day? A stylist never shares her secrets—you will have to wait and see!
Photography by: Photo courtesy of Brideside
