Lights, camera, action! Cookeville bridal dress boutique Couture by Tess recently hosted a fashion show. And let’s just say it was HAUTE! Models and influencers walked the runway in wedding gowns from the Nostalgia and New Discovery collections. We are excited to feature these looks and share a recap from this incredible day. Keep your eyes peeled because you may just lock eyes with your dream dress.
Tell us about the fashion show vision.
Tess: My two latest collections were presented at our fashion show. The Nostalgia Collection is a new collection donning various fashion techniques from different eras while assimilating modern touches. New Discovery is a smaller collection that has utilized designs from previous Couture by Tess collections and re-imagined based on clients’ feedback over the year.
“We were honored to attend this fabulous runway show and were truly stunned by the variety of gowns that came down the catwalk. Nods to different decades kept the crowd at the edge of their seats. We personally fell for some statement sleeves and one silky gown with an ever-flowing cape back. Look out Music City, Nashville might become Couture City thanks to creatives like Tess Mann,” says Abigail and Emily Bache, fashion bloggers at Wanderlust Girls and creators for A M A T O S T Y L E.
“It was so much fun getting to see Couture by Tess showcase the new Nostalgia and New Discovery collections. You won’t find polyester with appliques. You will find silk jacquards, damasks brocades, Duchess satin, silk crepe, and other elegant fabric choices. It was such a fun exposure to the full-design experience,” says Scarlet Paolicchi, author and top mom blogger at Family Focus Blog. “Very Bridgerton vibes,” says Kesley Rae, founder and creative director at Kelsey Rae Designs. “Tess’s designs are truly one of a kind. The gown quality is unmatched and her style is so unique. Not for the cookie cutter bride,” says Bridgette Martin, owner and model scout for Premiere Model Management.
What was the theme and what inspired it?
The fashion show took place at Ozari, an industrial-style venue in the heart of Nashville, yet reminiscent of a New York “meat packing district” building. Tess’ dream has always been to bring a European haute couture flair to Tennessee and between the beautiful fashion designs and the environment they were showcased in, Tess achieved this goal. Guests truly had the opportunity to feel immersed in the fashion show experience often found in major cities like Milan or New York City.
What details were used to create the theme?
Tess wanted an upscale, yet approachable ambiance. The bridal designs in these two collections produced an Old Hollywood vibe, but for the modern bride. Passed hors d’oeuvres were a must along with their artful presentation to represent the theme of the day. Hummingbird cake petit fours, risotto cake, Caprese cones, pastrami-smoked salmon gougere, prosciutto satay, mini Maryland crab cakes and chocolate pot de creme trifle were served with a beer and wine bar flowing. The day was built for guests to enjoy a unique fashion experience whilst having fun in an intimate setting with hand-selected members of the fashion and wedding community, brides-to-be and editors. This created not only a showcase of gorgeous gowns to behold, but also a networking event of sorts for the community.
Can you share any special moments or highlights of the day?
Tess says the highlight of the day was being surrounded with and meeting her wonderful supporters and seeing their enthusiasm for the designs.
The Couture by Tess Fashion Show was beautiful! Congratulations Tess on such a success!
If you’re in the Nashville area looking for your perfect gown, be sure to visit the boutique!
