African wedding gowns and ethnic bridal dresses were on display in New York City during an annual bridal showcase hosted by Circle of Sisters and WBLS Radio.
The show launched the ‘Queen of the Brides’ collection by TeKay Designs. TeKay Designs presented wedding gowns that represent matriarchs from ancient civilizations. Each runway model displayed cultural bridal attire and ethnic gowns inspired by the ancient thrones of Africa.
The models portrayed Queen Sheba of Ethiopia, Queen Mumtaz Mahal of India, and Egyptian queens Cleopatra, Nefertiti, Ti
ye, Ankhesenamun, and Hatshepsut.
Each fashion look features an aesthetic embellishment such as a necklace, bracelet, veil or headpiece that’s of cultural or historic relevance. Veils have been a traditional wedding staple for years, dating back to the 13th century BC. Ancient Egyptian queens wore a range of elaborate crowns and head pieces linked frequently to the Queen’s role of a goddess such as Isis. In modern times, the veil is more a symbol of wedding elegance, and a fashion accessory that complements the dress.
TeKay’s bronze metallic headpiece has gold beads and scales and is a historical replica of headpieces worn by Egyptian Queen Cleopatra. Queen Nefertiti’s gown has hand stitched golden crystal trim, appliques and beads. But the jewelry and headpieces complete the look. The statement necklace with pearls, crystals and hand blown faceted glass beads has a distinct, royal Egyptian look.
The gold, silver, and rhinestone headpiece with a crystal applique in its center added a finishing touch of regal beauty to the ensemble. However, the gowns that are inspired by culture, such as the Maasai wedding dress are equally as regal. The Maasai people in Kenya are a proud nomadic warrior tribe whose women wear elaborate and colorful beaded necklaces and bold earrings.
The fashion line-up also included flower girl dresses with embroidered colors to match the ethnic bridal gowns. As an option, TeKay’s gowns can be ordered with a set of matching bridesmaid’s dresses and groomsmen’s attire to complete a theme wedding ceremony. TeKay’s cultural gowns and jewelry are fused with western silhouettes, and can be worn for occasions beyond the wedding date.
For more information and a look at additional gowns visit www.queenofthebrides.com and/or www.tk-designs.com. Photos by Macintosh Smith
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