The Oscar de la Renta Fall 2019 Bridal collection was best described as being “very Oscar” with strapless ball gowns with “scattered” embroideries and gestural details.

The collection featured a soft bow in the back or a wrap-effect sweetheart bodice. An ivory gown in cut-out lace fern embroidery had universal, borderless appeal, but Garcia and Kim considered specific markets when it came to other styles. The handful of long-sleeved gowns were a response to brides who are looking for more coverage, particularly in the Middle East.

The introduction of demi-couture gowns, which made up about half of this collection. Consider the long-sleeved, allover lace gown with a semi-sheer skirt, which could likely be lengthened, lined for more coverage, or embroidered with metallic or colorful threads. Another look in the demi-couture group was covered in hand-embroidered flowers with a strapless, V-neck bodice and giant tulle sash.

Those gowns marked a refreshing new direction for Garcia and Kim at a time when fashion is becoming increasingly fast-paced, machine-made, and distant-feeling. Women want clothes that feel unique and handmade.