(from FrolicHawaii.com 3/28/16 – Amanda Stevens & Melissa Chang)

Illusion backs, cascading silk tulle skirts, Italian ivory lace and body-con silhouettes: designer Galia Lahav’s haute couture bridal and evening gowns starred at a preview of Magnolia White, a Tokyo bridal salon opening April 1 at Hokua Tower. If the look is familiar, you may have seen some of Lahav’s creations on the red carpet at the 2016 Academy Awards.

The staircase at 53 by the Sea was the runway. It was a great location for a Friday night fashion show. A posh seated dinner followed, and when Waikiki’s weekly fireworks started, lights were dimmed so the capacity crowd could enjoy the view. The restaurant also has two chapels, a groom’s room, a bride’s room and a fab ocean backdrop for on-site weddings.

Here’s a look at some of the highlights.

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Photos by Melissa Chang and Amanda Stevens

Magnolia White will showcase haute couture and ready-to-wear gowns from international designers exclusive to the Hawaii store including Lahav, Delphine Manive, Rue de Seine, David Fielden, Emmy London and Paris by Debra. The new Hawaii spot is only its second after its flagship in Minami-aoyama, Tokyo.

Magnolia White Hawaii
Hokua Tower
1288 Ala Moana Blvd.
Weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturdays by appointment
800-3088
http://www.magnolia-white.com