Scotland’s bridal stylists – and a couple of designers themselves – have put together the ultimate label hit-list to kick-start your shopping journey
Amy King Bridal and Beauty (below left)
“Rebecca Ingram’s newest styles are landing at the end of summer and we just can’t wait,” reveals Amy King at Kirkcaldy boutique Amy King Bridal and Beauty. “The dresses are feminine and flirty, and suit all shapes – in fact, we have a bunch of curvier sizes coming soon.”
Bridal Boutique of Falkirk (above right)
Randy Fenoli gowns are our mainstay right now,” notes Elaine Purvis of Bridal Boutique of Falkirk. “They are beautifully made and diverse: everything from big, sparkling ballgowns and gorgeous fishtails, to more figure-hugging numbers in a mix of crepe and lace, like Barcelona (above right, £POA). We’re hoping to have even more from American designer Randy to show our brides by the end of the year.”
Bridal Reloved Glasgow
“One of my favourite designers at the moment is Terry Fox,” says Clare McCabe at Bridal Reloved, a Coatbridge boutique that specialises in pre-owned and ex-sample gowns. “Her couture gowns are elegant and unique – and I’m lucky enough to have over ten of her amazing designs for brides to take home. I’m obsessed with the bohemian vibes of this Enigma lace dress (above, £1,425) and the detail in the lace, with the keyhole back and satin belt featuring the same delicate lace. Truly a stunning gown!”
Innate Bridals
“At Innate Bridals, we’re not tied to any one designer, which I feel is a massive advantage,” argues the Dundee store’s Keira Stocks. “Having said that, sometimes pieces will come in that we know are extra special. For my pick, I’ve gone with this new Eddy K gown, style UR137 (above, £POA). It’s a breathtaking blush dress with bags of presence, a stunningly detailed train and an off-the-shoulder neckline that offers a supremely flattering silhouette.”
Sassi Holford (below left)
What’s not to love about Sassi Holford? The maverick British designer flies the flag for homegrown fashion, yet sits comfortably on the world stage, with innovative materials and impeccable cuts her signature. Available at Anne Priscilla Bridal, Charlotte Grace Bridal, Ivory Grace and Rachel Scott Couture.
Joyce Young Design Studios (above right)
Glasgow-based couturier Joyce Young Design Studios has been in business since 1993, whipping up extraordinary bridal couture and occasionwear, year after year. If elegant, timeless tailoring, refined silhouettes and glorious fabrics sound heaven-sent, make tracks to the showroom in the north of the city.
Kathleen Richmond Couture
“A Modeca gown makes a bold statement,” says Kitty Richmond at Kilmarnock’s Kathleen Richmond Couture. “The manufacturer’s Le Papillon range has attitude and style, but above all, it makes sure that everyone is paying attention. There are a few early signs that one of our stars for this season is going to be Olena (above, £POA), from the Dutch house’s latest drop – the gown epitomises modern elegance with its sleek silhouette and deep V-neckline.”
“This year has seen a move towards more botanical-inspired lace and nobody is nailing this quite like Blue by Enzoani,” states Megan Carberry at Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Dunfermline). “We are fans of the mix of directional and figure-flattering styles that this designer does so well. One of our favourites, Nevaeh (above, £1,890), boasts a gorgeous cotton lace with linear detailing that gives it a boho feel, while the stretch lining makes it both lightweight and comfortable to wear.”
Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Edinburgh) (below left)
“We’re really looking forward to our new arrivals from Rosa Clará Boheme,” enthuses Michelle Scott of Kudos Bridal Boutiques (Edinburgh). “The first collection arrived just before lockdown, so our brides didn’t get a chance to see the gorgeous gowns. Since reopening, there’s been so much interest in them; they seem to be the perfect fit for the smaller, more intimate weddings that have dominated this year.”
Reflections Bridal Boutique (above right)
We’ve been blown away by the latest Le Papillon collection from Modeca,” says Carol Donald, owner of Reflections Bridal Boutique in Kelso. “The Netherlands-based designer produces stunning silhouettes using incredible fabrics and lace. We’re not quite sure how we’re going to narrow them down!
“Lately, there’s been a big push towards more adventurous lace with a softer underlay of either glitter tulle or another, contrasting lace. The designer’s famous illusion panelling is definitely here to stay and splits – some open, some more illusion in nature – are also a big feature.”
Opus Couture
“We’re head over heels for all our designers – especially their 2022 collections,” says Lauren McKinnon of Opus Couture in West Kilbride. “But there’s something extra-alluring about California-based Enzoani. Renee (above, £2,460) is fashion forward and ticks the removable elements box in such a spectacular way. The detachable peplum train unveils the most exquisite gown underneath for evening. This is just a snippet of the rest of the range – it’s all beautiful.”
“Morilee needs no introduction,” says Kirsty Grant at Dream Brides in Irvine. “We are excited about our hand-picked gowns arriving soon from the American label’s new Starlight collection. Calanthe (above, £1,500) is pure magic.”