New Orleans in June is basically a steam room. If you’ve ever stepped foot in the French Quarter during the summer, you know the air is thick, the humidity is legendary, and the idea of wearing a heavy, structured gown sounds like a slow-motion disaster. Yet, when Alexandra Daddario married producer Andrew Form at the historic Preservation Hall in 2022, she looked like she was floating.
Everyone talks about the dress. They see the photos—the lace parasol, the pinstripe suit, the effortless cool—but they miss why it actually worked. It wasn't just a "pretty dress." It was a strategic choice made by a woman who knew she was going to be marching through the streets in $90%$ humidity.
The collaboration between Alexandra Daddario and Danielle Frankel didn't start in a high-end boutique with champagne and a dozen assistants. It started on Instagram. Seriously. Daddario was following the brand, they slid into her DMs, and a fashion moment was born.
The Secret of the Silk Wool
Most brides go for heavy satin or stiff tulle. Bad move for Louisiana. Daddario chose the "Scarlet" gown from Danielle Frankel, and it’s the fabric that makes it a masterclass in bridal styling.
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It’s made of silk wool. Now, if you’re thinking "wool? in the heat?"—hear me out. Silk wool has this incredible property where it holds a crisp, pleated shape but stays remarkably breathable. It’s light. It drapes. It doesn’t cling to you when you start to sweat, which is a lifesaver when you're leading a second-line parade down the street.
Breakdown of the "Scarlet" Gown
- The Texture: Hand-pleated silk wool that looks almost like a seashell.
- The Lace: Hand-appliquéd Chantilly and corded lace motifs scattered throughout.
- The Neckline: A simple, straight neckline with fixed spaghetti straps.
- The Drama: A detachable Watteau train that poured down from the back, adding ceremony vibes without the weight.
Honestly, the dress retails for about $9,990, but the value was in how it looked like it had lived in New Orleans for a hundred years. It didn't look brand new or "precious." It looked storied.
Why Danielle Frankel is the "Cool Girl" Choice
Danielle Frankel (founded by Danielle Hirsch) has completely flipped the script on what "bridal" means. Before her, you were either a "princess" or a "minimalist." Frankel carved out this third space: the fashion-forward bride.
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She’s the one who gave Zoë Kravitz those bridal bike shorts. She’s the one celebrities like Alex Cooper and Julia Garner turn to when they want to look like themselves, just elevated. For Daddario, the appeal was the lack of fuss. She’s gone on record saying she tried on about three dresses and just knew. No "Say Yes to the Dress" drama. Just a gut feeling.
The Meghan Markle Connection (And Other Details)
You might have noticed the massive blue ring Daddario wore. Most people assumed it was just a "something blue" tradition, but there was a specific muse behind it: Meghan Markle.
Alexandra was obsessed with the aquamarine ring Meghan wore to her wedding reception (which originally belonged to Princess Diana). Daddario’s version was her own take on that royal moment, paired with a lace parasol that was more practical than decorative—it was literally to keep the sun off while they walked to Bar Marilou for the reception.
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What about the Groom?
Andrew Form didn't go for a standard black tux. He wore a cream pinstripe suit by Brunello Cucinelli. It was "not-too-serious," which is exactly the vibe you need when your wedding involves cheeseburgers and tarot card readings.
How to Get the Look Without the Celebrity Budget
If you’re eyeing that Alexandra Daddario Danielle Frankel aesthetic but don’t have ten grand lying around, you can still pull it off. The "New Orleans style" isn't about the price tag; it's about the texture and the environment.
- Prioritize Movement: Look for pleated fabrics or "crinkled" silk. It hides wrinkles (crucial if you’re sitting or dancing) and adds depth to photos.
- Ditch the Veil (Sometimes): Daddario used a long lace veil for the ceremony but swapped the "vibe" for a parasol later. Accessories should be functional.
- Low-Fuss Beauty: Her hair was a simple low bun. Makeup was dewy. If you’re in a hot climate, a heavy contour is your enemy.
- The Venue Dictates the Dress: Don't wear a ballroom gown to a jazz hall. The Preservation Hall has "flaws"—peeling paint, old wood, history. The dress matched that "accidental" beauty.
What This Means for 2026 Brides
The "Daddario Effect" is still rippling through the industry. We’re seeing a massive shift away from the stiff, uncomfortable bridal looks of the 2010s. People want to drink wine, eat burgers, and not worry about their bodice collapsing.
The takeaway? Your wedding clothes should feel like an extension of the city you're in. If you're getting married in a desert, go for earth tones and sheer layers. If you're in a city, go for structure and sharp lines. If you're in New Orleans? Go for silk wool, lace, and a drink in your hand.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Own Styling
- Research Fabric Blends: Don't just look at "Silk." Look at "Silk Wool" or "Silk Linen" for summer weddings. They breathe better.
- Follow the Designers on Socials: Daddario found her dress through Instagram DMs. Don't be afraid to reach out to boutique designers directly.
- Think About the "Second Look": If your main gown has a Watteau train like the Scarlet, make sure it’s detachable. You’ll want it off the moment the music starts.