Monique Lhuillier Opens Flagship Store in New York

 

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the MONIQUE LHUILLIER flagship boutique store opening in New York. Harley Viera Newton DJ'd at the event which also included top industry insiders like Hannah Bronfman who hosted, Kelly Rutherford and Steven Kolb. The 19th century townhouse boutique has two-floors which consist of her ready-to-wear collection & accessories on the first floor and of course an amazing bridal salon on the second floor which is very intimate.

 

Monique's elegant boutique is located at 19 East 71st Street, between Madison and Fifth Avenues. At the event, I had the chance to talk to Monique about the concept of the store, the Monique Lhuillier woman, what to expect from her upcoming Fall 2013 collection and Nicki Minaj wearing her gown at the AMA's. Continue below to see what she had to say about that and more.  

 

 

Monique Lhuillier and I

 

What was the concept behind the design of the store?

We wanted to create a 'jewel box' theme where it high lights the clothes. That's why you see the malcramtic drapes and textures with the beautiful product in front of it. Also I wanted to keep it like the quid-essential NY townhouse. That's why I created these private sections so people can have their privacy like their are at home.

 

Who is the Monique Lhuillier women?

The Monique Lhuillier woman is fashion forward but she wants a little tradition mix with a little edge. That creates an exciting tradition, it always a twist.

How does it feel to see your gowns on the carpet all the time? 

It's very validating because celebrities can choose anything to wear & designer but the fact that they continuously come back to me validates my career. They eventually put me in front of the magazines and people who don't know my brand say my name because celebrities are great supporters of my collection.

 

How do you keep people wanting more from Monique Lhuillier?

I stay very true to my brand aesthetic and my consistency. It's also about doing something that you are proud of and as a woman designing for a woman, I make something that a women can feel good in. That's my design philosophy. Every season I push the envelope a little bit along with making someone feel special and good.

 

Nicki Minaj recently wore the same neon green Resort 2013 gown that Julie Bowen wore before, who do you think wore it better and did you know Nicki was gonna wear your gown?

I think they both rocked that dress and the beauty is, I had nothing to do with putting that dress on Nicki. I was watching the show and when she walked on stage, I was like OMG! I didn't know she was wearing it and if it came from us, we wouldn't put two people in the same dress. So I thought it was a great surprise and I thought she looked amazing. That's the trend for Resort, color, color, color.

 

 

 

Yes, color is huge right now but if you had a client who was afraid to dabble in color, how would you get them to shop your collection?

I would say if you can't commit to one piece, buy a printed blouse. Just incorporate some elements of color and if you can't do that, then do it with your accessories.

 

What can we expect from your upcoming Fall 2013 collection?

More pushing the envelope and sensuality. I feel like women want to feel beautiful in their clothes. It's a fine line between looking so put together and a little edgy with sensuality in the mix.

 

To find out more about the designer and her collection go to MoniqueLhuillier.com and again check out her store at 19 East 71st Street, trust you will not be disappointed.

Photos:BFAnyc, Me