10 Australian Designers for Modern Wedding Dresses
Are you a modern bride searching for a wedding dress that speaks to your unique style? Something a little left of centre, not so bridey bride?
I have curated a list of 10 Australian designers who create some next-level modern wedding dresses. Each designer brings their own unique flair to the world of bridal fashion and really turns the world of bridal on its head.
There is a small pond in Australia and New Zealand so to stand out amongst a sea of big wedding dress designers is no easy task. But props to the Australian and New Zealand designers, they have gained international recognition for their innovative designs and luxurious fabrics.
The best part is, if you choose one of these talented designers, you support local craftsmanship, but you'll also be wearing a dress that challenges the status quo.
The importance of choosing the right designer
It's not a secret the wedding dress is key. You want something that will make you feel comfortable, yet classy, individual and looking the goods. That's why it's crucial to choose the right designer who understands your vision and can bring it to life.
These top Australian designers have a deep understanding of the latest trends and styles. They know how to create gowns that are not only beautiful, comfortable and flattering.
Australian wedding dress designers that are known for their modern styles
Dress Designer 1: Harriet Gordon
Harriet Gordon is a fellow Perth-ite who works from a 1912-built character hotel turned office space in Fremantle. She is renowned for her thoughtful refined bridal pieces. They are designed and made ethically in Western Australia (the best state ever!). Harriet works with the best fabrics, mainly silk in premium weight and multiple forms. Laces from Italy, France, Japan and India. Harriet Gordon has global stockists which are listed on her website.
Dress Designer 2: Lola Varma
Lola Varma is a minimal bridal wear designed by the very cool Courtney Illifield. I worked as an assistant on one of Courtney’s campaigns and she is such an infectious witty human. She marries high fashion and everyday clothing. The designs are minimal elegant and dripping in class. Lola Varma has extensive stockists listed on the website.
Dress Designer 3: Rachel Gilbert
Rachel Gilbert describes herself as “A contemporary approach to design and styling renowned for her incorporation of skilled craftsmanship and intricate detailing, constructing elegant and sophisticated designs. Spanning across Ready-to-Wear, Evening wear and Bridal, Rachel Gilbert continues to evolve a modern approach to event dressing truly inspiring us to dress for the occasion”. Rachel Gilbert boutique store is located in Paddington or purchases can be made directly from the website.
Dress Designer 4: KYHA
KYHA Studios came from founder and creative director, Kyha Scott's own experience as a bride. The story goes that she tried on countless wedding gowns with no joy so what better way to start a business, by solving people’s problems. She set out on a mission to design wedding looks that embodied her own vision of the modern bride. KYHA blurs the lines between fashion and bridal. Her collections under KYHA and Chosen by KYHA definitely shake up the bridal scene. KYHA has stores in Melbourne, Sydney and New York along with extensive stockists globally.
Dress Designer 5: Alex Perry
Alex Perry is a household name. He is known for his beautifully constructed gowns and corsets, precision tailoring, and next-level fabrication. Inquiries for Alex Perry Bridal can be made on the website.
Dress Designer 6 : L'eto Bridal
L’eto Bridal brand philosophy, “We vow to create collections filled with the ease and fluidity of the world around us, designing dresses that speak to you on a personal level and resonate with your inner style vixen. Our dresses will make you feel beautiful, confident, and comfortable while you walk down the aisle.”
That says it all, I’m sold! You can book a fitting L’eto on their website or purchase online.
Dress Designer 7: Romance was born
Looking for something fun with colour. Not sure I could think of any other designer that injects these two elements into dress design like Romance was born. If you want a statement piece that is daring and truly modern look no further. Their range can be purhased online.
Dress Designer 8: Toni Maticevski
This guy is a master at construction. His pieces are architectural and directional. If you are looking for a structural gown as a part of your vision, Toni will have you covered. Dresses can be purchased online.
Dress Designer 9: Mariam Seddiq
Seddiq draws influences and focus from her background and culture which express a tribal flare. Her design aesthetic is a juxtaposition of structured Tailoring, fluid drapery and tasteful hand embellishment. Her work focuses on transcending the boundaries between evening wear and high fashion. Mariam’s pieces will help you break the mould of a traditional bride. Offering numerous services including countless ready-to-wear stunning gowns along with custom-made gowns Mariam works together with the bridge to put a unique spin on the perception and experience of bridal wear to create a gown that keeps everyone reminiscing on your big day. See it all here.
Dress Designer 10: Mariana Hardwick
Mariana Hardwick dresses are decided to complement the female form. The gowns are sophisticated, refined and effortlessly beautiful. “The Mariana Hardwick Boutique is Australia’s leading destination for luxury bridal fashion. Bridal gown collections that speak to the visionary bride. The bride who has a unique style, knows quality and shops sustainably. She sees beyond the conventional wedding dress and seeks inspiration from the contemporary global fashion landscape”.
Marina Hardwick flagship store is in South Melbourne or purchase directly online.
Remember the only person you need to please is yourself, YOU DO YOU! Another big tip, make sure you feel comfortable. I believe so much beauty lies in feeling comfortable with whatever you are wearing.
Good luck.