8 BRIDAL DESIGNERS YOU'VE PROBABLY NEVER HEARD OF...UNTIL NOW
Bridal has its mainstays, and you've undoubtedly heard their names before…multiple times. That voluminous textured ballgown with a corseted bodice is most likely a bespoke Vera Wang creation; your dear friend's classic silk faille A-line gown adorned with hand-cut lace, or another's perfectly tailored mermaid silhouette was probably found after an appointment with Oscar de la Renta or Carolina Herrera. You also won't be surprised upon hearing that the hand-embroidered tulle confection your college roommate wore to her Lake Como nuptials was by Monique Lhuillier or Marchesa–the list goes on. But, in the past few seasons, bridal's two fashion seasons (which follow the ready-to-wear collections in October and April) have proved especially exciting for the bride seeking something unexpected–from a designer she's never heard of. Graduates of these famed fashion houses and new kids on the block have ushered in an exciting time in the world of weddings for those looking to stand out from the Chantilly-clad pack. No matter what your personal style, these new talents (who hail from the U.S. and the world over) are driving the of-the-moment bridal conversation, offering twists on traditional elements and innovative variations to the staples we've grown accustomed to. Introducing, bridal's new guard.
Mira Zwillinger
After proving themselves for the past six seasons in the U.S. (they were mainstays in Israel for years before landing stateside) and now easily accessible in bridal salons across the country, Tel Aviv-based mother-daughter duo Mira and Lihi Zwillinger are well on their way to cementing their point of view on the American bridal market. Known for their incredibly delicate yet intricate appliqués, second-skin illusion net necklines and weightless volume, this family-run atelier uses soft color (think barely-there nude and soft, cloudy greys) and the highest quality fabrics to create silhouettes for any occasion–from a dramatic ball gown to a laid-back sheath–with a feminine, light and ethereal point of view. If you are seeking a romantic style with a European sensibility, their website should be in your bookmarks.
Christos Costarellos
Greek native Costarellosmerges the ease of the Mediterranean region with the construction, attention to detail and fabric quality of a Parisian house. Often utilizing multiple laces to create one single silhouette, this brand is never looking for the easy way out when it comes to designing for the polished bohemian bride. Imagine discovering new details in each fitting and up until your wedding day–from hand cut fluttery appliqués used to create that much more texture and dimension to a softly frayed hem intended to make the wearer appear that much more effortless to a soft puckering atop a single tier in your skirt. This is the brand for those who are torn between going barefoot on the beach or airing on the side of something more refined.
Kaviar Gauche
German design duo Alexandra Fischer-Roehler and Johanna Kühl launched Kaviar Gauche with a guerilla fashion show outside of Colette in Paris in 2004; and their bridal collection that followed in 2009 retains the brand's young, fresh perspective and understanding of what modern women want. Case in point: their pret-a-porter bridal collection available for purchase online at accessible price points. If you're looking for details that feel unexpected, feminine and undeniably wearable, theirs are some pieces worth adding to your online shopping cart.
Delpozo
In case you missed the memo: Yes. Creative Director Josep Font of Delpozo designs bridal–stellar bridal at that. Fashion girls the world over have been coveting these gowns for seasons; but for those who didn't know about the designers capsule for the aisle, your style prayers have been answered. Dramatic silhouettes, innovative appliqués and the softest of silk tulles are available through the brand's Miami flagship boutique and through select online retailers like Lane Crawford.
Sabrina Dahan
Years working in Monique Lhuillier's bridal atelier gave Sabrina Dahan the street cred to launch her namesake collection last season, inspired by her own engagement. The L.A. based designer spent summers in Paris growing up, contributing to her effortlessly elegant aesthetic focused on light-as-air volume and intricate handwork. This designer released a capsule of five delicately embroidered pieces to start for Fall 2016, emphasizing quality over quantity, and will release a less-than-ten dress collection for Spring 2017 in her signature aesthetic.
Cortana
If you've hit your local bridal salons and department stores and find that most gowns are far too stuffy, stiff or overwrought for your taste, this brand gets you. Fine fabrics are this Barcelona-based brand's forte, spinning multi-ply charmeuse, chiffon and silk tulle into slim sheaths and fuller skirts that feel equal parts bohemian and traditional. Delicate touches like a frayed edge or a wider weave in these luxe fabrics feel special, not unfinished, and design details that amplify comfort (like ballgowns that are actually separates in disguise) are hidden throughout this boho brand's range. The best part? Cortana has officially landed stateside, courtesy of LOHO Bride's new Los Angeles location.
Inbal Dror
Second-skin silhouettes partnered with layered appliqué and embroidery is Inbal Dror's specialty–and most of her curve-hugging gowns are designed to contour to all your assets using the finest meshes and French laces. Sheer elements are a common theme in this range, from illusion necklines and sleeves to subtly see-through skirts. While Inbal's name is one to know for the bride whose confident in her own skin (and has worked for a figure worth showing off!), her latest collections have also featured jaw-dropping ball gowns, jumpsuits and eveningwear to suit those looking for something a little less body-con. If Beyoncé comes to mind when thinking of your bridal style inspiration, put this designer's name on your short list.
Lihi Hod
Shapewear is typically the plight of most brides leading up to a first fitting (along with shoes and overall anticipation), but what if it was already built into your gown and taken off your to-do list? Lihi Hod's got some designer pedigree from her time in John Galliano's atelier in Paris (circa Dior) and has taken that know-how to her cutting table. Each gown is lined in a fine stretch-mesh, and hidden separates are secretly bodysuits that smooth your curves and ensure expert fit. Body-shaping aside, Hod's aesthetic is Euro-bohemian, easy-going yet elegant and never too overdone. This designer walks that fine line of cool girl with a couture-feel, understanding each bride's desire to find the balance between timeless and trendy.
