Vera Wang
Influence on Fashion
Vera Ellen Wang
Birth Date: June 27, 1949 (age 65)
New York, New York
Known for balancing modern designs with traditional elegance, Vera Wang is arguably the most prominent designer of bridal wear in America.
Background: In 1989, Vera married her boyfriend Arthur Becker. Frustrated with the small selection of already existing bridal wear, she sketched her own design and commissioned a dressmaker to tailor the elaborate gown at a cost of $10,000.
The following year, with some financial backing from her father, Wang opened her own bridal boutique in the Carlyle Hotel on Madison Avenue in New York City.
Vera Wang first received international attention during the 1994 Olympics when she designed a hand-beaded ensemble for figure skater Nancy Kerrigan.
Wang's fashions are frequently worn to film premieres and award ceremonies by a number of actresses.
In 2001, Wang launched her first fragrance.
Main Style: Founding her own company in 1990, Vera Wang is known for her nonchalant approach to style and luxury. Her design vocabulary resonates with signature layering, intricate draping and exquisite attention to detail.
Interesting Facts:
- Major Competitors: Christian Dior; Dolce & Gabbana; Carolina Herrera; Jessica McClintock
- Vera dreamed of becoming an Olympic figure skater and tried out for the USA Olympic team in 1968.
- Vera worked at "Vogue" for sixteen years as their Senior Fashion Editor and was the youngest editor ever at "Vogue" Magazine.
- Jennifer Lopez had picked a Vera Wang gown for her wedding to Ben Affleck. Vera created a dress, (it was estimated to be worth at least $15,000 to $20,000), and had it shipped to her, but Jennifer insisted she get it for free. She said the publicity from the wedding would more than pay for the cost of the gown.
"Vera Ellen Wang." Bio. A&E Television Networks, 2014. Web. 22 Sep. 2014.
"Click Here To Play: Vera Wang." Vera Wang. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Sept. 2014.