Inspiration

The main inspiration for my bridal collection has been mid 18th century French design, with the essence of Rococo and Baroque styles - a period known for it’s ‘elegance’, and towards the end of the century for it’s ‘excessiveness’.

‘ I find the silhouettes of this era mesmerising with their huge skirts and dresses enhanced with layer upon layer of net, the structured corsets with intricate detail and embroideries, the ruffles, the frills, the gathers, ribbons and feathers; the beautiful use of fabrics such as luxurious brocades, raw silks, duchess satins, velvets, lace and net’. Methods such as appliqués, metal embroideries, beading, ribbon work - the list is endless. It is hardly surprising that this period was referred to as the ‘Age of Enlightment’ or the ‘Age of Elegance’.

My fascination with the costumes of this era has led me to many places of interest such as ‘The Victoria and Albert Museum’ and ‘The Museum of London’. My many and frequent visits to see the collections of costumes on display, never fail to amaze me. I have also been inspired by places like ‘The National Gallery’ and ‘The Portrait Gallery’, which have proved to be a great source of information. Paintings dating back to the 18th century, by artists such as Boucher and Fragnord depict the era with incredible detail. The subjects, surroundings, costumes and accessories - every element is highlighted with such intensity. These galleries also house beautiful decorative pieces of textile, wallpapers, stained glass and highly decorative furniture from artists such as William Morris, a prominent figure in Victorian and Edwardian art.

My own love of embroidery is reflected in my collection and my designs are a strong combination of Rococo style of embroidery fused with eastern patterns and techniques. The fine embroidery of many of my designs will be completed in Pakistan, where the skill and dedication for traditional embroidery methods have been passed down from generation to generation. Indeed, I believe that today, the craftsmanship required for such intricate detail, is only available in this part of the world.