The best way to stand out from the crowd, if you can afford it, is by having a gorgeous couture bridal gown designed and made just for you. Features Editor Kate Thompson weighs up the options.
Images courtesy of Suzanne Neville
The benefits of the custom-made dress are endless, and chief among them is the opportunity to have something made specifically for you: having your measurements precisely taken, and a wedding dress created to flatter your unique shape. This is surely every bride’s dream.
One of a kind
So what does ‘couture’ really mean? Each gown will be hand crafted by a dedicated team of talented cutters and seamstresses, using the most exquisite fabrics, from sensuous Italian silks to handmade French lace. Corseting is often used to create a feminine and flattering silhouette, and the bride will usually have the opportunity to work with the designer, altering fabrics and colours to create a truly unique gown.
Joining the A-list
Pure couture dresses generally cost thousands and are normally reserved for royal brides and top celebs. Carrie’s wedding dress in Sex and The City 1 was a Vivienne Westwood made specifically for Sarah Jessica Parker and created a real stir for its dramatic shape, colour and style. Since then various versions have appeared on the catwalk and for various celebrities, in different lengths and colours, but all with Westwood’s signature style.
Timeless designs
There are many young and gifted designers following in Westwood’s footsteps. Ellie and Charlotte Design, for example, design and make bespoke bridal gowns and are known for creating bridal gowns that make the most of every individual figure. Classic designers like the wonderful Bruce Oldfield and the charming Phillipa Lepley are renowned for their timeless, elegant style, attention to detail, and pure design philosophy. Top names like Suzanne Neville, Annette Carey and Amanda Wakely are also couturiers with an exquisite eye for style and finish.
Top couture designer Suzanne Neville also produces collections (two designs from her latest collection are shown above). She advises: “celebrate your curves! Look for a dress which flatters your figure and don’t let the latest fashion trends affect your choice too much.”
Whatever you go for, from the ultimate luxury of pure couture to selecting a gown from a designer collection, you can be sure of an amazing, personal experience that will marry all your dreams and desires to your wish to look utterly beautiful on your wedding day.
You’ll find lots of inspiration on Confetti’s fashion pages!
