A $32,000 (and 35 lb.) dress by designer, Pinina Tornai at the new Kleinfeld Bridal in Toronto.
When I received an invitation to Canada's first Kleinfeld Bridal opening bash, on gorgeous wedding-worthy stationery no less, I immediately said 'I willl!'. The highly-anticipated arrival of the store, thanks in large part to TLC's 'Say Yes to the Dress', made this a highly coveted invite - plus, I always love a good wedding. As for the happy couple? Hudson's Bay and Kleinfeld, of course - a match made in heaven for the department store who's been looking for creative ways to keep the store relevant as American chains invade our space.
I arrived at Hudson's Bay on Queen Street and was directed to the 7th floor which now houses the renovated gift registry and housewares departments and the new 20,000 sq. ft. Kleinfeld. I was met by a model in a slim-fitting black tux and ushered towards a champagne bar. Bubbles in one hand, a bulging bicep in the other, we headed into the buzz of the party, already well underway. The pale wood floor and white walls provided a pristine backdrop for blossoming pink branches, elegantly-attired party-goers and, of course, scores upon scores of the dreamiest dresses you've ever seen.
From simply beautiful gowns that run around $1500 by Maggie Sotero and Paloma Blanco, to a 35 lb, $32,000 stunner by designer Pinina Tornai, there are frocks for every type of bride at Kleinfeld. Plus, Canadian designers like David Dixon, Erin Fitzpatrick, Christopher Paunil and Greta Constantine give brides the chance to wear Canadian designs on their wedding day. Once you've sorted your way to your dream dress, impressive bedroom-sized fitting rooms await - such a far cry from the cramped closets I visited when picking out my own wedding dress. And for the detail-oriented, accessories, from veils and headpieces to sparkling jewellery, give brides-to-be the chance to see exactly how they'll look on their big day.
I'll admit that I didn't work as hard as I could have that night. I took a few pics here and there but between the champagne, the canapés and the conversation, I was swept off my feet by the Kleinfeld experience. Kind of wish I could get married again - same guy, different dress, I mean.
To any lucky brides-to-be out there, you really must go. Can't wait to hear what you think of Kleinfeld. Overwhelming? Overrated? Or just over-the-top amazing?
A view of the space (and a front view of the $32K dress) before opening. Photo via Hudson's Bay.
Kleinfeld and Hudson's Bay sitting in a tree...
A pretty-in-pink bouquet next to a beautifully detailed frock.
Yes to all of these dresses...
The outdoor space, perfect for catching a view of the Toronto skyline.
Loved this chic, simple dress.
Whitney: 'I totally saw the dress first!' Arabella: 'It's mine, bitch. You'd betta step off or I'm gonna pull a Solange on your bridezilla ass.'
Pretty pearls and intricate lace.
One of 14 150 sq. ft. changerooms. It's like you're my mirror, only bigger. P.S. - I'm in Pink Tartan.