Your Monday needs beauty, it needs something inspiring, it needs a burst of glamour to kick off your week. Today, meet the brand new “Phoenix” collection from Australian designer Helen O’Connor.

You know Helen’s work from her much loved brand Thurley, and it’s this detail, this intricated layer of design, that she brings to life in her namesake wedding gown collection. “Phoenix” the debut, speaks of “rebirth and renewal”, and honouring of the designer’s next step in her journey of fashion design.

Designed as a collection that combines both draping and tailoring, Helen designed each piece by hand, to make sure they each honoured and made the most of the wearer’s body. There are 34 pieces, including gowns, dresses and separates designed to be worn together or on their own. Pieces like the “Soul Frequency” top and skirt (picture below) are created with sculptural detail in mind, glittering white fabric the base for oversize circular frills. While other pieces, like the “Enchanted” dress, focuses on 3D fabric appliqués and beading to bring modern detail to the wedding day style.

With sustainability in mind (each piece is designed and made in Melbourne), Helen also worked with artisans internationally to create unique fabrics and techniques that make this collection stand out on its very own.   “My designs all begin with empowering women with self-confidence and strength,” says Helen. “I want them to walk into a room and take everyone’s breath away and walk out leaving an unforgettable impression”.

The new collection is available via private appointments with Helen herself at her Melbourne studio. Click here to book yours.