The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1464285
coveted so he bartered telling Tornai he would get her anything she wanted. A meeting with Kleinfeld was her wish and it was granted. However, the owners and buyers felt her line was too racy and sexy for the more traditional American audience. Not to be dissuaded, Tornai returned to Israel, completed new designs that incorporated some of her signature cuts and embellishments, but was a bit tamer. She asked Kleinfeld to carry her line for a month and if it failed she would pick up the dresses. Kleinfeld could not keep up with the orders and 17 years later, Tornai remains the only designer with her own boutique and the top designer for Kleinfeld. Each year she releases a new couture collection, which this year is her Stardust line that features endless possibilities from a form fitting mermaid style, to full flowing ball gown. Each is custom made with options for beading, crystal appliques, lace flowers, or detachable sleeves. Plunging necklines and thigh high slits can add a sensual appeal, while high collars, puff sleeves, and long full skirts lean more towards tradition. Options for lace, pearls, and even sequins add the right amount of flair for any bride. All the customization of her couture lines do come at a cost as Tornai said she has even designed gowns with Swarkowski crystal and cubic zirconia beading, but she didn't want to leave any bride out. "I was only a couture designer but during 19 seasons on TLC'S Say Yes to the Dress, brides reached out to me on social media telling me that they couldn't afford my dresses. That's not fair, so many love me and my work that I knew I had to do something for them. So I came out with my Love Collection. That was a huge challenge, in finding how to PHOTO CREDIT: ALEX ANDER LIPKIN