Amy Wong wins OPERATION DREAM DRESS competition

This morning, live on Good Morning America, BRIDES Magazine presented a runway show of the final five gowns in their OPERATION DREAM DRESS competition. Editor in chief Millie Martini Bratten also announced the winner, Amy Wong Micucci from Beverly Hills, California, whose gown will grace the Nov/Dec issue of BRIDES, on stands October 13. Ms. Micucci was awarded $10,000 and then surprised when Ms. Bratten added that David's Bridal will exclusively produce the winning design. It will be available for a limited time in select stores starting in early November.

Amy has worked in the fashion industry for the past ten years as a merchandiser and buyer. Most recently, she held the position of Divisional Merchandise Manager. Last year, she took a leap of faith and left that position to develop her own line of bridesmaids' dresses. This line, called Swoon, will launch in Spring 2010.

BRIDES Magazine announced OPERATION DREAM DRESS in February. Hundreds of sketches were submitted and 20 semi-final designs were posted on brides.com/dreamdress for a nationwide vote. A private event was held on June 24 where an advisory panel critiqued the designs and helped determine the winner. The panel included Austin Scarlett (Project Runway contestant and recent bridal designer), Hilary Rhoda (Supermodel and Estee Lauder's "Beautiful" Bride),Rachel Leonard (Fashion Director of BRIDES) and Dan Rentillo (Design Director of David's Bridal), and was hosted by BRIDES editor in chief, Millie Martini Bratten.

Ms. Bratten commented, "We were beyond thrilled with the response to our inaugural Operation Dream Dress contest. The sheer quantity, breadth and imagination displayed in the submissions were stunning and the finalists all delivered stylish, romantic and wearable gowns. This is an extraordinary moment for Amy Wong Micucci, whom we're excited to welcome to the bridal fashion community."

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