Treat the aisle like the red carpet and strut down it wearing one of these daring wedding dresses. Shrinking violets need not apply
Kathleen Richmond Couture, Kilmarnock
“There are a couple of gowns which always get a fantastic reaction when they are featured in our window,” considers Kitty Richmond of Kathleen Richmond Couture in Kilmarnock. “One of them is Monaco from Welsh wonder-label GAIA Bridal, which is going from strength to strength of late. It’s a crepe gown with intricate beading that flows down the bodice to the hip. Everyone simply adores the chapel-length illusion train with beaded lace and glitter tulle. It is truly breathtaking.”
Opus Atelier, West Kilbride (below left)
“The Nadine gown from the Pronovias Atelier Premiere Collection, £POA, is definitely a gown worthy of the spotlight,” smiles Lauren McKinnon at West Kilbride’s Opus Atelier. “It is playful, fun and sexy all at once.”
Joyce Young Design Studios (above right)
“Nina is a uniquely modern design aimed at brides looking for something luxurious, yet a little different from the crowd,” says Glasgow-based couturier Joyce Young of Joyce Young Design Studios. “This belted silk number is one of our couture gowns, meaning brides can choose the design exactly as shown or make their own changes to customise.”
Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Dunfermline)
“We love daring, attention-seeking styles,” enthuses Megan Carberry from Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Dunfermline). “One of our most polarising is Rosette by Maggie Sottero, a gorgeous long-sleeved ballgown with a pearl and diamanté illusion bodice. It boasts an abundance of sparkle and over-the-top detail that some brides find overwhelming.”
Opus Couture, West Kilbride
“Drew from Pronovias’s Premiere Collection is one of our most knock-out looks,” shares Opus Couture’s Lauren McKinnon. “Featuring statement (removable) puff sleeves, it will definitely grab your guests’ attention. This fantasy gown is fit for the modern-day princess and will put the bride centre stage.”
Amy King Bridal and Beauty, Kirkcaldy
“Our standout look of the season is the Nellie dress by Enzoani,” shares Amy King at Kirkcaldy’s Amy King Bridal and Beauty. “This frock is a proper head turner. In the flesh, you can really see the glitter, which usually generates a love or hate reaction from our brides-to-be. Personally, I think it looks fabulous!”
Magnolia Lane Bridal, Aberdeenshire (below left)
“The most gasp-worthy gown on our rails is this beauty by Nicole Jolies,” suggests Georgia Ross at Magnolia Lane Bridal in Peterculter, Aberdeenshire. “It has a layer of glitter tulle throughout, a beautiful but unusual geometric design, and even detachable sleeves – you’d think everyone would love two looks in one!”
“It’s like Marmite though: we have brides who completely fall for it (the amazing beading and design on the bodice definitely helps), and those who are shocked at the thought of having a sheer skirt.”
Kudos Bridal Boutiques Edinburgh (above right)
This Essense of Australia dress was definitely a wildcard purchase for Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Edinburgh),” reveals the store’s Louise Kelly. “It has an extra-large ballgown skirt with full box pleats and layers of encrusted glitter tulle. The super-long train has button detail right down to the bottom, lending a luxurious, regal feel.”
Innate Bridals, Dundee
“At Innate Bridals we love it when new styles and themes come along,” reveals the Dundee store’s Keira Stocks. “We are cheerleaders for the wonderful developments for plus-size brides right now. Long gone are the restrictions of corset backs and ruched satin A-lines. I’m obsessed with Elly Bride’s Catherine gown, £POA, which we carry in a size 22/24.”