Lazaro Perez, designer of the JLM Couture Lazaro and Tara Keely collections is one of the world’s leading bridal designers. Lazaro is known for impeccable fits, exquisite hand embroidery, and the use of luxurious fabrics that shimmer and bedazzle on the runway. Bridal Times had the opportunity to catch up with Lazaro for a short Q&A on his latest collection featured at the New York Bridal Week 2019.
Lazaro Perez
As a top wedding dress designer in the U.S. and 20 years in the business, what inspired you to become a wedding dress designer and what has your journey been like?
My mother inspired me to become a wedding dress designer. When we lived in Chicago, she would create dresses for brides. I really loved the joy that she brought to her brides so as a kid I thought, “what a wonderful thing to do when I grow up.” My journey has been amazing. I’ve seen trends come and go, which has been reflected in my collections.
Lazaro gowns are known for catching the eye with their dazzling shimmer, sparkle and luxurious fabrics on the runway. What motivated you to use these kinds of fabrics on many of your gowns and did you know they would be a hit?
I think fabrics are the most important element of a dress. It’s important to me to use what is eye catching and what will make a statement. I go through hundreds of swatches every season and choose the ones that I believe my brides will love. Fashion speaks for the person and a bridal gown tells a story of who you are, whether you’re a demure bride, a classic bride, or a dramatic bride.
Shimmering Lazaro Gown, Spring 2018 Style 3810
The new Fall 2019 Lazaro bridal collection was recently showcased at the New York Bridal Fashion Week. What are some new styles that have been added to this collection?
The Marilla gown is a new silhouette that I tried out this season. It’s a true mermaid gown and the fabric is carefully placed so it accentuates a women’s figure perfectly. I also used a printed organza on my Calla gown. It’s very romantic and soft.
Marilla Gown
What is your personal favorite gown from the new Lazaro Fall 2019 collection and why?
My favorite gown from this season is the Ayana gown. It’s a beaded embroidered trumpet gown with delicate spaghetti straps and a detachable tulle skirt. It comes in blush and ivory.
Ayana Gown
Tell us about the Tara Keely Collection by Lazaro. How is it different?
Tara Keely is the sister collection that I design. I design Tara Keely for the Lazaro bride but it is at a more affordable price. Tara Keely is very soft and romantic. It’s filled with delicate laces and sparkly tulles.
Tara Keely by Lazaro, Spring 2019 Style 2909
Congratulations on winning the “Best Designer Award” from Marymount University fashion department in Virginia, one of many big names in fashion to receive this award. If you could go back, what piece of advice would you give yourself at the beginning of your career if you could?
I would tell myself to be a little more outspoken and not as shy.
When you think of every aspect of being a wedding dress designer, what part do you enjoy the most?
I love traveling on trunk shows and being able to interact with my brides. There is nothing more special and rewarding when a bride is standing in one of my designs and is overcome with emotions because she knows that is the dress she wants to get married in.
When is the next opportunity for bridal retailers to view the 2019 Fall collection?
It will be on our website soon and I also love posting the gowns on my Instagram page!
For further information visit, JLM Couture Lazaro Bridal