Couture Collective #13 Rayner Lee of Regalia Bridal & Formal

Meet Rayner Lee, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

 
Rayner Lee
Label: Regalia Bridal & Formal

Rayner Lee grabbed our attention in 2009 when she was awarded Avant Garde Runner Up in the Queensland Brides Design Awards, following it up in 2012 with a win in the Classique category. Her eye-catching blend of quality design with beautiful materials and a great attention to detail has made her custom-made and ready to wear collections bridal beautiful. With over 15 years of experience already behind her and the Regalia Bridal label going from strength to strength, Rayner's future plans include taking her label to brides throughout Australia and Asia.

Your label in three words?
Distinctive. Individual. Elegant.

Are there any key trends which come through in your latest collection? The latest collection I focused on was for Mercedes Benz Fashion Festival... this brand new collection restores ancient ways, simple lines and magnetic shapes. 

As a designer are your meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free- thinking?
As a designer I am meticulously organised and focused on every detail of my work. However, I am free thinking while brainstorming or imagining new designs. During the dressmaking process I am flexible and realistic when choosing structure, texture, draping, cascading to achieve unique visual effects.

You are inspired by...
a wide range of fabrics and accessories such as silk, French bridal lace, wedding satins with different colours.

Your favourite fashion designer?
Oscar de la Renta

In your workroom we would find...
I always enjoy relaxation music and fresh flowers in my workroom.The soft music frees my mind and relaxes me.The floral scent makes the whole room pleasant. 

Fabric, embellishment and structure – if you could only choose two what would they be? Embellishment and structure. I think structure is the backbone of the whole design. Embellishment highlights the design.

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
It is your day! Be yourself! Don't be afraid to choose a unique gown.

Get to know Regalia Bridal and Formal z

In person
62 High Street Toowong QLD 4066
07 3870 9018

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Website

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The Couture Collective #12 Karen Willis Holmes

Meet Karen Willis Holmes, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

 
Karen Willis Holmes
Label: Karen Willis Holmes
Bride: Venessa
Photography: Studio Impressions

Romantic details including a delicate lace cape, feminine fishtail silhouette and jewelled belt helped create a perfect match for bride Venessa in this Karen Willis Holmes gown. As a ‘couture client’ the bride-to-be was treated to a very collaborative one-on- one where Karen says “the bride can have anything she wants design wise as long as it works technically. 

After years of designing evening wear and working with designers in the UK and Australia, Karen established her brand in Sydney in 2000, launching a Demi Couture Collection in 2004, followed by a Melbourne store soon after and a Brisbane store in 2011 to the delight of local brides. Karen is currently committed to taking the label global, attending her first New York showing earlier this year and focusing on US and UK as secondary markets. 

How does this bride’s gown embody your label’s aesthetic?
Venessa’s gown is the embodiment of the brands aesthetic - it is a balanced combination of a fitted fishtail corset silhouette layered with soft and feminine fabrics such as lace and tulle. It is the brand’s ability to subtly mix these elements - those of the traditional and modern that has been its great success 

Are there any key trends which you have featured in the gown’s design?
In terms of silhouette the gown’s fishtail shape is very much on trend but also the fabric and of course the lace used is also key trend elements in bridal, not just currently but in general. 

What kind of wedding was it designed to suit?
An elegant wedding - one that was family and friends orientated, and a great celebration of Venessa and Matthew’s love.

This gown was inspired by ...
With the nature of a couture gown it is a very collaborative process so I draw a lot of inspiration from the bride. At the first meeting, the design consultation, this is my opportunity to get an understanding of the bride - who she is, her personality, her ideas and thoughts not only about the wedding gown but the wedding in general including the location and theme ... once I get an understanding of the bride I will draw on elements from my own collections and a silhouette I think will work for the bride. 

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or a free-thinker?
I have to say I am a mix ... as the owner and creative director of Karen Willis Holmes  I wear many ‘hats’ so to speak. When I am designing I am a ‘chaotic creative’ and captivated in the design process. On the other hand when I am focused on the business side of the brand I take a more structured and organised approach as there is so much detail and work involved.

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
This may sound corny but is oh so true! – stay true to yourself, your personality and your tastes. This can be said for all areas of your wedding from the invitations, décor and the cake. Choose a gown that you not only love but is a perfect representation of who you are. 

Get to know Karen Willis Holmes
In person
Address
Shop 5/2 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington QLD 4064
Phone 07 3368 2216

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The Couture Collective #11 Theresa de Vera Lariza of Asereth Bridal

Meet Theresa de Vera Lariza, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Theresa de Vera Lariza 

Label: Asereth Bridal

After launching her first ready-to-wear collection in 2011,Theresa deVera Lariza quickly realised bridal was her true passion, with Asereth Bridal debut bridal collection launched soon after. This talented young designer is committed to “bringing high fashion bridal to local brides,” with each unique gown designed, produced and finished from Theresa’s base on Brisbane’s north side. “I want to continue designing gowns that are unique and unlike traditional bridal for brides who want a gown that isn’t mass produced,” she says.“ I’m extremely passionate about what I do and love that what I’m creating will be worn for one of the most amazing and important days in a woman’s life.”

Your label in three words?
Sweet. Feminine.Timeless.

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection?
Touches of gold will be featured in my next collection which was inspired by the current metallic trend seen on international runways.

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free- thinking?
A chaotic creative! It’s important to allow ideas for new designs to come to me naturally, rather than force a design onto paper and the end result is unoriginal and uninspiring. It can get dramatic in the workroom, but there’s never a dull moment at Asereth Bridal!

You are inspired by ...
Designs have come to me in dreams, from movies and current trends from around the world.Touching and looking at a variety of fabric usually inspires new designs as the movement and drape of the material can drastically alter a design.

Choose your muse (either real or fictional)
Audrey Hepburn, a humanitarian whose beauty cannot be matched.

Favourite fashion designer/s?
Valentino and Alexander McQueen

Your best advice for girls looking for their dream gown? 

Dress for your shape. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s in fashion and what everyone’s doing, but it’s important to remember to choose a gown that accentuates your assets.

What’s on your workroom playlist?
I’ve always loved Toni Braxton, Beyonce and Mariah Carey and I usually have these ladies singing while I work. Rick James and Prince are great for dropping in between pattern making and sewing! 

Get to know Asereth Bridal
In person
0404 142 539

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The Couture Collective #10 - Winnie Yeung of Winnie Bridal

Meet Winnie Yeung, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Winnie Yeung
Label: Winnie Bridal

Trained in France and describing herself as "a Dior girl" when it comes to her favourite designer,WinnieYeung's passion and 35 years haute couture experience is evident in her designs. "I made my first dress when I was twelve years old, so I have always loved designing and creating dresses," she says. " I work seven days a week, so my business and what I do is a true passion for me, it comes from the heart. I really try to look after our brides - even if they need a dress change which may seem insignificant but actually involves a lot of work for me, I will always do it for them. I have a commitment to service and producing perfect dresses." 

Your label in three words?
Unique. Quality. Exquisite.

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection? 

Grey gowns, traditional styles from the archives, and just a continuation of our quality work. We are definitely referencing some of the bridal styles of the past which are making a big comeback in the bridal fashion industry and we are noticing a market for gowns which are different to the classic white - we will be seeing some grey gowns in the coming seasons. 

Describe yourself as a designer? 

A true dressmaker. I'm involved in every process, from drawing up patterns for the fabric manufacturers to creating the beading designs, so I'm extremely hands on from the beginning. I aim to maintain the highest standard of quality throughout every process - it does take a lot of extra effort, time and money to ensure the dress is of the upmost quality in every aspect, but I refuse to accept the cheaper, mass-produced options. At Winnie we are all about quality. 

Get to know Winnie Bridal
In person 

Shop G31, Wintergarden, 

171 Queen Street Mall, 

Brisbane QLD 4000
07 3229 2000

Over the web
Website

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The Couture Collective #9 - Leonard Derecourt

Meet Leonard Derecourt, Queensland wedding gown designer ... 

Leonard Derecourt
Label: Leonard Derecourt Designer
Bride: Kit

Bride-to-be Kit always knew she wanted a "breathtaking and backless" wedding gown so her first stop was always going to be Gold Coast-based designer Leonard Derecourt. She knew this creative, highly experienced designer (who created a knockout frock for this issue's cover) was the one who could make it happen - with just the right balance of appropriate and attention grabbing. 

How does this bride's gown embody your label's aesthetic? 

It was slinky, figure hugging and shapely, yet soft and feminine with fabulous back views.

Describe yourself as a designer - are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or a free-thinker?
Free thinker.

Did the bride have any particular requirements which she wanted her dream gown to embody?
Hot, sexy and out there. 

What kind of wedding was it designed to suit?
A wedding that started out a country classic and went right through to a classy beach reception.

Where did you find your inspiration for the gown?
I wanted to make a truly sexy and show stopping, yet still gorgeous and appropriate backless wedding gown to suit Kit’s personality.

What has your professional career been like leading up to this point? 

Were you always a designer of some sort? I have always been a gown designer, experiencing its usual roller coaster ride. I’ve won many awards but my best award is a happy bride. 

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown? 

When you have made your decision, stop looking and trying on other gowns! Tell no one. Now get on with the rest of the wedding planning process.

Do you have particular music, candles, flowers, etc. which are always in your workroom?
No, just me, I fill the place up!

What is your vision for your label in the future?
Positive strength to take us always forward. 

Get to know Leonard Derecourt Designer
In person
11 Pinter Drive
Southport, QLD 4215
07 5527 0882 

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Couture Collective #8 Helena Karkovic of Helena Couture Designs

Meet Helena Karkovic, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Helena Karkovic
Label: Helena Couture Designs

The primary school playground was a hotbed of fashion inspiration for budding young designer Helena Karkovic.“I always had an eye for fashion, what I wanted to wear, and analysed people’s wardrobes - what they were wearing, how they were wearing it, whether it suited them” she reveals. “That hasn’t changed, it’s only intensified with time and experience.” Pictured here in her studio and also on location at a sumptuous Helena Couture photo shoot, this Gold Coast-based designer is always looking for a fresh challenge, and in her element when surrounded by beautiful fabrics, sparkling crystals and fine feathers.

Your label in three words?
Timeless, Elegance, Individual

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection?
Texture, Layers, Recycling (using the bride’s mother or grandmothers lace on the bride’s gown), Use of more lace and lace sleeves, Revitalising the fashions from the 1920’s-1960’s.

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free-thinking?
I am meticulous in all aspects from design, detail, customer satisfaction, making sure the design is flattering, the fit perfect, the look , detail, everything.

You are inspired by ...
Many things inspire me, but they usually always involve the environment around me at the time. I find life inspiring ... movies, music, fabric/materials, people, places, events.

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
This is going to be one of the most important days of your life – don’t ruin it with cheap imitations purchased over the internet – too many girls have wasted their money doing this, only to have to throw the gown away and still purchase something in Australia, or spend many hours and money trying to fix it.There are designers and bridal shops/boutiques catering for all price tags from budget to high end. Let us spoil you, while also giving you the wedding gown you deserve.

Fabric, embellishment and structure - if you could only choose two, what would they be?

I need three – lace, sparkle and feathers.

In your workroom we would always find ...
Music – can’t live or work as effectively without it.

What is your vision for your label in the future?
To continue to push myself to create elegant, innovative, feminine bridal gowns that will evoke beautiful emotions in not only the bride, but everyone who sees her in her gown, that will be remembered forever.

Get to know Helena Couture Designs
In Person
Phone 07 5529 4203

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Couture Collective #7 Jack Sullivan of Jack Sullivan Bridal

Meet Jack Sullivan, Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Jack Sullivan
Label: Jack Sullivan Bridal

With his eponymous label turning out several collections of gorgeous, wearable gowns and growing “quicker than I could have imagined” Jack Sullivan certainly has been one to watch. With his signature good humour, keen sense of adventure and a natural sense of style, Jack says he was never going to end up with “a normal job”.With overseas markets beckoning, Jack’s vision for the future is to see the label grow even further in the UK as well as in Europe, New Zealand and of course, Australia. So we don’t see this young gun settling down behind a desk anytime soon!

You label in three words?
Fun. Elegant. Unique.

What are the key trends in your latest collection?
I have used the 50s Glamour as inspiration for this collection.Trends that seem to be popular are ‘waisted’ gowns and slightly rising neck lines. Lace is still very popular and in great demand.

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free-thinking?
As a designer and as a person, I am VERY chaotic, which was probably why I wasn’t the best student at school. Whether it is a conversation or an email or working on gowns, I am often going off on tangents and don’t stay on the same task for more than 15- 20 minutes. Often when I am working on a new collection I will have two mannequins with two different gowns next to each other and change from one to the other. 

Choose your muse (either real or fictional) ...
I couldn’t really choose just one ... probably Audrey Hepburn, Miranda Kerr or Megan Gale.

Your favourite designer?
I have a lot of designers I love, but if I had to pick one I would say Mugatu – I loved his Derelicte Collection.

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown? I have two pieces of advice ...
Go in with an open mind, whilst you might not like strapless or a full skirt or lace for instance. At Least try one on, so you can confirm that you don’t like it once on.

Don’t buy your gown online from websites!! Every week I talk to brides (often in tears) who thought they were buying a designer wedding gown for $80 when they are normally $2000. If it seems too good to be true – it is! Most of these sites have just stolen images from legitimate companies.

Fabric, structure & embellishment. If you could only choose two, what would they be? 

Fabric and structure.

A lot of my earlier gowns that were popular had very little embellishment or none at all. Without good structure or fabric you are fighting a losing battle. I compare it to chefs that aren’t cooking with fresh ingredients, the results can only be so good if you are using poor materials.

In your workroom we will always find ...
I will pretty much always have music in my workroom, I suppose it comes back to what I was saying before about having a chaotic personality, I will always have distractions and something else going on. Most importantly in my workroom there is always a vodka, lime and soda. 

Get to know Jack Sullivan Bridal
In person
Queensland Stockist: Brides Desire
31 Vulture St (Cnr Paris & Vulture St)
West End, QLD, 4101
Phone 07 3846 7077

On the web
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Couture Collective #6 Wendy Makin of Wendy Makin Couture

Meet Queensland wedding gown designer, Wendy Makin ...

Wendy Makin
Label: Wendy Makin Couture

2013 is extra special for Wendy Makin as her label celebrates 20 years as one of Queensland's most loved and most awarded. This romantic soul with an eye for elegant design and fabulous fabrics, has become renowned for her classic couture gowns. And a little Wendy Makin magic is making its way around the world, with the designer’s couture label and ready-to-wear BellaDonna by Wendy Makin brand available in Melbourne, New Zealand and the UK.

If you had to sum up your label in three words, what would they be?
Simple. Elegant.Timeless.

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection?
Lace sleeves and sheer backs, lace back features like keyhole and floral silk.



As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free- thinking?
Free thinking designer who is meticulously organised ... when I need to be.

You are inspired by ... My inspiration comes from working with my brides to make their vision come true.

If you could choose one muse, either real or fictional, who would it be?
Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.

Do you have a favourite fashion designer?
Valentino

What has your professional career been like leading up to this point? Were you always a designer of some sort? I joined a bridal wear company straight out of school as an apprentice designer. I was their designer for 12 years before starting my own business 20 years ago this year.

Your best advice for girls looking for their dream gown?
Invest in the best quality your budget allows as it shows in how the end result looks and feels on the day.

Fabric, embellishment and structure - if you could only choose two, what would they be? 

Fabric and structure. The cut of the gown is as important as the fabric it’s cut in. I believe in keeping embellishment to a minimum in line with my ‘less is more’ philosophy.

Do you have particular music, candles, flowers, etc. which are always in your workroom? 

I must have music on at all times but I like a mix of old jazz classics and new chill-out tunes.

Get to know Wendy Makin Couture
In person
179 Wellington Road, East Brisbane 4169, QLD
Phone 07 3823 0100

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The Couture Collective #5 Meet Ella Stephenson of Ella Moda

Meet Ella Stephenson, a Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Ella Stephenson
Label: Ella Moda
Bride: Kateryna

With her family roots going back to dressmaking in Imperial Russia, Ella Stephenson has always been around workrooms full of beautiful fabric, beading and handmade gowns. With her label Ella Moda now garnering plenty of positive attention, Ella says she feels, “blessed that I get to do what I love every day ... making beautiful dresses for beautiful brides.” One of these beauties was Kateryna, who tried on 20 different gowns and originally had her hear t set on lace before finding ‘the one’ at Ella Moda’s Park Road showroom/workroom. 

How does this bride’s gown embody your label’s aesthetic? 

With the beautiful silk, fine details and hand finishes, this gown embodies the Ella Moda aesthetic of sophisticated romance, it is a classic silhouette with a few modern twists in the styling. It is luxurious, feminine yet customised for Kateryna to reflect her spirit.

Are there any key trends which you have featured in the gown’s design?
There has been a move in haute couture back to embellishment and I feel this dress has that element with the embellishment through the sleeve and bodice. Asymmetric styles always give an interesting twist to a garment and have that ‘statement gown’ factor I keep seeing a lot on the couture catwalks.

Did the bride have any particular requirements for her dream gown? 

The bride wanted her gown to be made particularly for her, using good quality materials and expert craftsmanship therefore she opted for a local designer and dressmaker rather then ordering her dress overseas. Attention to detail was very important for her and she wanted her gown to be very flattering for her body shape as well as comfortable to wear for a whole day. She was very pleased with the results.

This gown was inspired by ...
I am constantly inspired by beautiful fabrics and details. For this gown, inspiration led me towards the way the fabric looked so luxurious when hand rouched. Overall, a sense of romantic sophistication inspired the total design. 

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
Like all things in life, being open and true to yourself is very important when looking for a wedding gown. Envision your dream gown but be open to possibilities. Consider all of the things you love and how these could be incorporated into a dress. Most of all, trust your instinct. It is an amazing moment when a bride tries on a dress in the salon and you can see she just knows it is right. Her whole face lights up. It is a beautiful moment. 

Get to know Ella Moda
In Person
Suite 1B~41 Park Rd
Milton, Brisbane, QLD
4064, Australia
Phone 07 336 837 57

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The Couture Collective #4 Meet Tammie Nitschke of Elizabeth De Varga Exclusive Fashions

Meet Tammie Nitschke, a Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Tammie Nitschke
Label: Elizabeth De Varga Exclusive Fashions
Bride: Allison

It was a case of "it's all about the details" when designer Tammie Nitschke collaborated with bride Allison on her absolutely delightful art deco-inspired gown. Always working closely with brides to achieve beautiful results like this, Tammie describes her main goal as "to help provide brides with the best possible experience and make their dream gown become a reality." The designer says she has always been a creative person, noting "we are always learning. It’s a work in progress. I learn from every bride, this empowers me to share this knowledge with others." You lucky brides! 

How does this bride's gown embody your label's aesthetic?
It’s intricate, and attention to detail is key. Simple styling with divine detailing.

Are there any key trends which you have featured in the gown's design?

Simple line with delicate vintage art deco hand beading!

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or a free-thinker?
A creative thinker - I like to spread images, fabrics, trims and beads across the workroom, on various tables, in various offices, on various walls and on many mannequins – to be completely surrounded by the gowns.To let inspiration occur whenever, wherever! The best ideas can form when you least expect it. 

Did the bride have any particular requirements? 

Simple and styled with intricate detail.

This gown was inspired by ...
It started with the bride’s scrapbook of images and with my guidance and expertise it evolved to the dream gown. 

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
Be true to yourself and your style. Have the gown you want. Don’t be afraid to be individual. Feel comfortable with your designer/couturier as you will be spending a lot of time together.

What would we always find in your workroom?
We always have music on. And there is always cake, chocolate and coffee!

Your vision for your label in the future?
To continue to be recognised for our quality, Australian-made couture gowns, and remain at the forefront of the industry for innovative design and outstanding service. 

Get to know Elizabeth de Varga Exclusive Fashions
In person
  Brisbane
Shop 1, 414 Logan Road
Stones Corner Q 4120
Telephone: (07) 3394 4904

  Maroochydore
1 / 13 Newspaper Place
Maroochydore Q 4558
Telephone: (07) 5443 3006

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The Couture Collective #3 Meet Roslyn Lakelin of Roz La Kelin

Meet Roslyn Lakelin, a Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Roslyn Lakelin
Labels: Roz la Kelin, 93 bridal, Glamour Plus

With 20 years as an influential designer in the local bridal market and three successful labels to her name, Roslyn Lakelin is now making her mark as an emerging designer in the US and Canada.The much-loved Glamour Plus label is a particular hit overseas, no doubt answering the prayers of curvy brides-to-be across America just as it did locally.

Your label in three words?
I would have to choose three phrases rather than three words, these would be - Ready-to-wear couture. Superb fit/construction. Vast array of designs and styling.

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection?
'Coveted aura of glamour' - Embellishments are key this season, with many gowns featuring jewellery like motifs and brooches or using jewellery components within the beading on laces to create texture, oozing old Hollywood styling to make any bride shine. 

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free- thinking?
I love things around me to be organised so then I feel free to be creative. Throughout the season I will quickly add images and pieces to my vision boards and folios, then once I start the design process these get sorted and my desk is cleared so I can see everything clearly and the creative juices can flow.

Your muse, either real or fictional?
My passion and devotion to the bridal fashion world and to the real women around the world who want to wear flattering and enhancing wedding dresses is the driving force behind my success, therefore I would love to design for Scarlet Johansson. She represents beautiful real women the world over as well as possesses an old Hollywood charm that was distinct in the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Mae West who was famous for saying ..."Cultivate your curves, they may be dangerous but they won’t be avoided"

Your best advice to girls looking for their dream gown?
It's about you looking fabulous in the dress! When you shop for your wedding gown the most important thing to keep in mind is your body shape. You want to enhance your natural silhouette and accentuate your best assets.

Fabric, embellishment and structure - if you could only choose two, what would they be?
Embellishment and structure. The foundation of cut and construction which form the structure are the most important as a gown should in its barest forms still reflect a basic beauty that is then enhanced through the fabric and embellishments ... I love gems and jewellery so adding textures or appliques and beading and dimension is adding the individual touches and personalising each gown. 

What is always in your workroom?
Our workroom has very high ceilings so we've made the most of this space by hanging tissue pompoms in varying sizes and shades of pink, making every day feel festive. I love lamp lighting and orchids, so I've surrounded myself with these luxuries in my office.

Get to know Roz la Kelin
In person
50 Morgan Street
Brisbane Queensland 4006
Phone: 07 3852 1421

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The Couture Collective #2 Meet Wendy Sullivan of Brides Desire

Meet Wendy Sullivan, a Queensland wedding gown designer ...

Wendy Sullivan
Label: Brides Desire - Wendy Sullivan

The Champagne has been flowing this year as one of our favourite designers celebrates 30 years. From her humble beginnings in a tiny shop house in Paddington in 1983, where she started the Airs & Graces label on the urging of husband Graeme,Wendy Sullivan has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the most influential and awarded designers in Queensland. Now called Brides Desire, her label is renowned for its romantic gowns and intricate detailing and has been the toast of many, many happy brides.With son Jack recently joining the brand and an expansion into the UK and New Zealand, we raise our glasses to many beautiful years to come.

Your label in three words ...
Romantic. Feminine. Distinctive 

Are there any key trends which have come through in your latest collection?
Vintage styling is still strong, soft tulles, silk chiffon and dimensional lace work, two-tone layering, delicate shoulder lines and sheer look sleeves. Opulent embellishment, as is usual for my signature look. Also trending strongly are ‘waisted’ gowns, cinched waistlines featuring on all silhouettes, both slim-line and full.

As a designer are you meticulously organised, a chaotic creative or free-thinking?
My designing career celebrates 30 years this year, so I think I would have to say that my method of designing has probably been streamlined over that time. These days I have the absolute luxury of dedicating my entire time to designing and creating the collections. This gives me great pleasure and enjoyment, not quite as hectic and stressful as it was all those years ago.

You are inspired by ...
I would say it definitely has to be travelling. I am always inspired by overseas trends and the direction they can take you. Inspiration comes not only from fashion but interior design, artwork, architecture and the different cultures, traditions and lifestyles. You can’t copy design, but you can take the essence and direction to create your own. 

Choose your muse, either real or fictional ...
Christian Dior, he has left an inspiring legacy to all fashion lovers.

Fabric, embellishment and structure - if you could only choose two, what would they be? 

For quality you would have to say fabric and structure ... however the embellishment is such a distinctive and important part of a Brides Desire gown, so I wouldn’t be happy if it wasn’t there.

Do you have particular music, candles, flowers, etc. which are always in your workroom?
I don’t see Champagne on that list?!

What is your vision for Brides Desire in the future?
Joining the business four years ago, our son Jack has since taken Brides Desire to the United Kingdom. Wanting to embrace all aspects of the business he has also launched his own designs under the label Jack Sullivan Bridal ... It’s good to have the injection of youth into the company, so I think with the next generation on board our bridal labels can continue on for many years.

Get to know Brides Desire
In Person
31 Vulture St (Cnr Paris & Vulture St), West End, QLD 4101
Phone: 07 3846 7077

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