A Night To Remember With ' ' Ese Azenabor

WORDS BY STEPHANIE BLAKE

Grand congratulations are in order for the Nigerian-born, Canadian designer Esé Azénabor, one of today’s most respected couture bridal and eveningwear designers. Azénabor’s expansion to New York on Madison Avenue, marks the brand’s success. The boutique opening took place in mid-February of this year, among her family and close friends, some of which are diplomats like Ambassador Lot Peter Egopija, the Consul General of Nigeria, and Prince Dimitri. Socialites and others were spotted at the event— Vanessa Noel, Debra Lee, Don Murphy, Rolanda Watts and Peter Tarantino.

The designer unveiled a few key pieces during the grand opening with a rich color palette using brocade fabrics and embroidered organza overlays. Also seen were petal inspired dresses in bold brights and the designer’s signature high-slit gown with feathers and detachable skirt. There were bridal silk-satin overcoats, embellished with luminescent pearls and a Greco-Roman influenced beaded column gown was a stand out. Contrasting ideas of hard structure and soft fluidity were accomplished through a juxtaposition of fabrics. Floral motifs were another theme throughout the presentation.