It’s always exciting when we get the chance to meet a designer in person, so as soon as we heard exclusive stockists Rachel Scott Couture had lured London-based bridal maverick Amanda Wakeley up to the Scottish capital, we were booking our train tickets faster than you can say ‘silk organza’.
Setting up camp in a suite at The Balmoral, Amanda assembled her latest collection of light, elegant gowns for us to peruse before she showcased them in a catwalk presentation for a handful of Rachel Scott Couture’s brides-to-be.
Amanda is the perfect poster woman for her own designs: she’s confident, vibrant and polished with a contagious, carefree spirit. “It’s such a breath of fresh air,” were her thoughts on coming to Scotland – ironic, as I was thinking the same thing about her gowns.
We sat down over cups of green tea to discuss her approach to bridal. “It’s so different to ready to wear,” she mooted. “You’re not working with a specific woman in mind. There’s a diverse range to appeal to. You can’t put a collection out that’s too narrow or too specific in theme, because everyone is an individual.
“What’s key right now in bridal is eclecticism, vintage-inspired details and boho chic references.”
Amanda does have a distinct style, however. “There is a common thread running through my designs,” she noted. “It’s all about effortless, comfortable, sensual style and a celebration of craftsmanship.” Hitching up strapless necklines and overloading your arm with heavy, complicated trains are no-nos for Amanda. The wave of gowns coming your way soon are ethereal and weigh nothing at all.
Taking a tour of the new collection, Amanda explained that various forms of silk formed the foundation of the majority of dresses and that she was particularly excited about a silk mikado that’s found its way into the collection (watch out for this fabric, brides, it’s going to be big news for 2018).
Amongst the versatile, easy-going gowns (there are multiple ways to tie straps, for instance, tapping into Amanda’s individualistic philosophy, as well as capes to finish off more pared-back pieces), there is a clear winner.
“Evangeline is my favourite,” admits Amanda. “It’s silk tulle and mesh, with fern foliage embroidery. It may be floaty but it has great, supportive corsetry underneath. It allows the bride to feel free.”
Rachel Scott Couture is the exclusive stockist of Amanda Wakeley in Scotland. You can contact the boutique to see the gowns for yourself here.