(Fashion)

The Making Of Rachel Zoe’s 2016 CFDA Gown

Rachel Zoe has donned a myriad of glamorous gowns throughout her career, so the bar was set high when it came time to imagine her dress for the 2016 CFDA Awards. Here, a behind-the-scenes look at how Rachel and her team custom-designed the intricate pearl- and crystal-encrusted stunner she’ll debut tonight.

Rachel Zoe's 2016 CFDA Gown

Two Months Ago

Taking inspiration from her Fall 2016 collection, Rachel wanted a clean, '90s-inspired silhouette imbued with elements of 1930s glamour.

One Month Ago

Featuring hand-embroidery crafted in India, RZ's gown incorporates a combination of crystals, pearls, silver sequins and beaded fringe on an ivory silk base.

Three Days Ago

Once the gown was sent to the design studio in New York, RZ's team tweaked the original design by making it sleeveless and adding a wide crystal bugle strap, laddered pearls at the neckline and draped pearls at the shoulder. To ensure a perfect match with the handwork done in India, additional pearls were sent to New York for the finishing.

This Afternoon

For her CFDA Glam, RZ opted for an asymmetrical side braid against tousled waves and her Tom Ford beauty essentials including "Toasted Sugar" nude polish and her signature red lip.

An Hour Before

The final adjustments being made to RZ's glamorous gown—the open back lace-up detail and David Webb jewelry literally tie the look together.

30 Minutes Before

A stunning snap with Rodger at the hotel, right before heading out to the event.

Billy Farrell/BFA.com

At The Event

Rachel stunned in her gown on the red carpet with Brian Atwood platform heels and a Salvatore Ferragamo clutch as the finishing touch.