It’s that time of the year where people step out all dolled up to take part in Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. This mumma exchanged her nappy bag for a clutch, reunited with her hair curler and tried to remember how to walk in sky-high heels. Whilst I went along to see – rather than be seen – I mentally prided myself for putting in some effort as I was led to a seat positioned in the very centre of the room. Intimidating? Yes. But a great vantage point? There could be none better.
The QC Club Bridal Group Show took place in the John Reid Pavilion at the Brisbane Showgrounds. Bridal designers included (in order of appearance) Elizabeth de Varga, Jordanna Regan Couture, Brides Desire by Wendy Sullivan, Alter-Ego Brisbane, Jack Sullivan Bridal, Paul Hunt and George Wu. So without further ado, I bring you a peek into their gorgeous designs and the influences behind them.
The latest collection from Elizabeth de Varga Couture Bridal by designer Tammie Nitschke was a tribute to unique fabrics, colours and textures. “I fell in love with the amazing laser cut silk satin the moment I saw it and I knew we had to have it”.
The use of multiple fabrics in one garment to create a complex yet delicate individual piece was the inspiration. Each Elizabeth de Varga piece in the collection was handpicked for its originality and pure design lines. Every garment was tied by fabric or colour or texture to create a truly unique collection.
“I love to create individual looks and pieces for the modern bride who loves fashion and has a real sense of style. And this collection was an intense expression of that – don’t be afraid to be individual and have what you want on your wedding day”.
Jordanna says “I drew inspiration from middle eastern influences and fused this with vintage design. Jordanna Regan Couture gowns are unique, elegant and feminine. We use the finest of fabrics and laces from around the world to create unique gowns of prominent pattern and exceptional detail. We achieve this through the carefully infusion of strong texture and intricate detail”.
Brides Desire by Wendy Sullivan
Wendy describes her collection as “vintage romance showcasing the subtle use of two-tone layering in exquisite laces, sequinned tulles and softly flowing chiffons and silks. Silhouettes feature slim fit fishtails, softly falling waisted skirts with feature strapless bodices and magnificent full-skirted fairy tale gowns with intricate multi toned lace appliqués”.
Daniel Moore of Alter-Ego Brisbane says they “wanted to create a collection that was modern and on trend with a new look for brides”. Supplementing their made to measure service, they commenced work on their ready to wear collection months ago. Fitted silhouettes were the highlight with a few fuller skirts making an appearance.
“I love fabrics that are textured and wanted to use fabrics with a strong look… we used heavy silk satins on bias, soft silks, heavy beading laces, border laces and cotton laces from Europe.
“I think we would appeal to a modern bride looking for something different and unique. We like working with the figure to flatter the individual body shape and make a bride feel amazing. It’s really important to us that the bride wears the dress (not the other way around). You can wear any dress if you feel amazing in it, but no outfit is complete without a smile.”
Jack made an appearance for the second year at MBFF stating his “latest collection is all about laces, with textured embellishments adding the detail. This was done through the use of three-dimensional laces and bold guipure laces. Don’t get me wrong – there is still plenty of sparkle through some subtle transparent sequins that catch the light for just a fraction of a second”.
Paul says that “the inspiration for this year’s collection was to give brides a little taste of something fresh. I loved using a little colour in the collection. Not all brides want to wear white – the sea mint skirt is perfect for a beachside wedding and the butterfly print is perfect for countryside soirée. The beautiful all over flower embroidered gown is sheer and dreamy, and the black velvet ribboned waistline gives it a modern twist on a soft traditional gown”.
Having been to George’s couture laboratory, I was looking forward to seeing his finished pieces grace the catwalk. He says his collection is based on “the Roman’s influence depicted in the Bible – the look is about the textures of the Roman’s artwork in their ancient architecture. The look is regal, effortless, draped and light. The collection also has studding details for a little glamour with an edgy mood. Fabrics like French laces, tulle, silk faille and silk organza form a small part of the couture design – workmanship is the major part in this magical and romantic collection with each gown requiring a minimum of 100 hours from pattern drafting all the way to the finished product.”
Images via Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival Brisbane
Ms Chinoiserie Says: Undoubtedly the most fashionable event in town – what a wonderful celebration of Australian design!
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