With Scottish wedding dress stores set to open their doors again at the end of April – yay! – we asked 11 of them to select their current favourite gowns that would suit intimate ceremonies and receptions
1. Amy King Bridal and Beauty, Kirkcaldy
“For a micro wedding, I would suggest Lena from Modeca’s Le Papillon range,” says owner Amy of Amy King Bridal and Beauty in Kirkcaldy. “It’s a modern gown with bell sleeves, a side split and pearl-embellished cut-outs. Lena demands attention without being loud.”
2. Magnolia Lane Bridal, Aberdeen
“Style 521095 from Ladybird Bridal is a simple V-neck dress made from chiffon and lace, offering optimal comfort and giving it a flowy feel,” says Georgia Dale, owner of Peterculter’s Magnolia Lane Bridal. “It has a very short train, suited to a garden or outdoor ceremony, and is perfect for someone who still wants to look and feel like a ‘bride’, but doesn’t want that to come with a huge price tag. It comes in two colour options, too – Ivory/Light Rum Pink or White/Light Rum Pink.”
3. Sassi Holford
“Our midi Chelsea shirtdress in ivory lace cuts a demure, but confident silhouette, with its belted waist and deep cuffs,” suggests designer Sassi Holford. “Why not add statement shoes to finish off the look?”
4. Kathleen Richmond Couture, Kilmarnock
“Having a wee wedding doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on your gown,” argues Kitty Richmond of Kathleen Richmond Couture. “It’s still your ‘big day’ and a dream dress is a must! At the moment, we’re in love with this sleek and sophisticated, fit-and-flare satin design from Demetrios’ Cosmobella collection. The bateau neckline drops into a plunging V-back that features a striking removable bow and the lace-trimmed, chapel-length train is elegant. Absolute perfection.”
5. Kudos Bridal Boutiques, Dunfermline (below left)
“We’ve opted for style D3263 by Essense of Australia,” says Megan Carberry at Kudos Bridal Boutiques’ Dunfermline outpost. “The pairing of soft cotton lace and stretch crepe makes it both wearable and fashion forward. Its strappy low back is a trend we’re seeing a lot of for 2021, while the shorter train is particularly suitable for an intimate venue.”
6. Kudos Bridal Boutiques, Edinburgh (above right)
“Essense of Australia’s style D3224 retains a lot of key bridal elements – like a floaty chiffon skirt, graceful lace on the bodice and a knockout back – but combines them in an understated way that would not look too much in even the cosiest of venues,” contends Michelle Scott at Kudos Bridal Boutiques’ Edinburgh store. “And its price tag of just £1,099 is pretty delightful too!”
7. Joyce Young Design Studios, Glasgow
“Ideal for smaller weddings, our Tanya gown is a contemporary design for a modern bride who wants to stand out,” says designer Joyce of Joyce Young Design Studios. “The top is made from 3D-appliquéd flowers and the beautifully fitted skirt is in ivory crepe. It can be turned around quickly too, as it’s made to measure in our dedicated production unit in Glasgow.”
8. Innate Bridals, Dundee
“I love Allure Bridals’ style 2953 because it’s lightweight, romantic and intricately detailed,” explains Keira Stocks at Innate Bridals in Dundee. “It’s not over the top, but still very ‘bridal’. The gown can be dressed up with a dramatic veil and sensational shoes, or relaxed with a trusty pair of flats. It’s easy to have fun styling it, whatever your venue may be.”
9. Dream Brides, Irvine
“Whilst we’d never tell you what to wear (we advocate wearing whatever makes you feel amazing), generally a smaller ceremony may have you searching for a dress with a few less layers and slightly simpler skirt,” suggests Kirsty Grant at Dream Brides in Irvine. “Luckily, we have hand-picked a lovely selection of pared back, A-line or fitted dresses that are ideal for more intimate weddings. Our top pick would be Brandy by Morilee, a gorgeous chiffon gown with an exquisite bodice that’s covered in embroidered appliqué and accented with pearl and crystal beading. It’s easy to wear, without compromising on style.”
11. Bridal Reloved Glasgow, Coatbridge
“Robyn by Ronald Joyce is definitely my favourite for a wee wedding,” says Clare McCabe of Bridal Reloved Glasgow in Coatbridge. “This beautiful A-line gown has stunning lace detail throughout and just a hint of sparkle on the belt.”