Ever wondered if wedding shop workers play dress-up when no-one’s watching? Well, before the latest lockdown, we asked them (or one of their friends if they were feeling camera-shy) to slip into one of their favourite wedding gowns for 2021 and sent a photographer along to capture them
Kathleen Richmond Couture, Kilmarnock
“The attention-to-detail in this Monaco gown (above, £1,650), from the Riviera Collection by GAIA Bridal, is second-to-none. It has a real sense of glamour about it, which I feel we all need in our lives at the moment. It is made from crepe, with ornate beading adorning the bodice and hips. The fitted skirt features a breathtaking chapel-length, illusion train with beaded lace, tulle and a sprinkle of glitter.”
Kitty Richmond, Kathleen Richmond Couture, Kilmarnock
Joyce Young Design Studios, Glasgow
“We put Alexandra (above left) in our Nina gown, a uniquely modern V-neck wrap dress made in luxury silk, that’s aimed at brides looking for something that’ll stand out from the crowd. We can really see it worn at a micro wedding, which we imagine will continue to be the norm as we move into 2021. Lara (above right) wears Arabella, a contemporary, dramatic two-piece. The overskirt has a bow belt and a long floral lace train that you could really make an entrance in. Take this off and you’re left with a simple, straight dress with a high slit at the front that would still have plenty of impact on its own at a ceremony (especially if you’re faced with the prospect of a two-part wedding). Both gowns are £POA from our Couture collection.”
Joyce Young, Joyce Young Design Studios
Amy King Bridal and Beauty, Kirkcaldy [below left]
“Searching for something timeless? Look no further than Rosie by Rebecca Ingram [below], £POA. It’s a dress that flatters all body shapes and different accessories can really switch up the look. Here, we’ve styled it with a belt, veil and hairband from our new Dillon and King line, a collaboration between myself and Kate Dillon Designs.”
Amy King, Amy King Bridal and Beauty
Reflections Bridal Boutique, Kelso [above right]
“A sassy, daring wedding dress doesn’t need to be figure-hugging, as Liara from our Le Papillon by Modeca range (£POA) proves. The illusion lace bodice, covered with intricate appliqué, subtly drops into an elegantly flowing, sparkling tulle skirt, while the soft nude tone is nothing short of sensational.”
Carol Donald, Reflections Bridal Boutique
Kavelle Couture, Edinburgh
“We couldn’t wait to show off this bespoke YSA Makino gown [above left]. Its unique layered tulle skirt and long train emanate glamour with every step. We think it’s heavenly just as it is for a winter wedding, but bear in mind that we can make design changes to most dresses in store, so your final look is completely unique to you. There’s also the option to go completely bespoke, such as this regal-style, handcrafted lace top over a structured mikado panelled gown (above right), that’s entirely designed and handmade exclusively at Kavelle Couture.”
Kavelle Kaur, Kavelle Couture
Innate Bridals, Dundee
“I chose this elegant Stella York A-line gown (£POA) because I adore the lace detail and neckline. Both have a subtle sparkle that catch the light as you move. It’s also very flattering on all body types as it cinches you in at the waist. The Coralbells cathedral-length veil by Rainbow Club (£195) elevates the look even further.”
Keira Stocks, Innate Bridals
Kudos Bridal Boutiques, Edinburgh
“The Miranda-C gown (£1,600) by Australian designer Wendy Makin is a timeless classic. It’s comfortable, elegant and a little bit different with functional pocket detail, pearl buttons and stretch crepe bodice – and who doesn’t love a sleeve? We paired it with the detachable Rivoli skirt by the same designer (£900), Ivory & Co. tiara (£155) and soft tulle veil with customised embroidery by CG Loves (above right, from £235), to show just some of the unique ways you can make this dress your own.”
Louise Kelly, Kudos Bridal Boutiques
Dream Brides, Irvine
“With brides embracing more intimate wedding celebrations, Ada by Morilee (£1,050) is an easy-to-wear, minimalist gown that ticks all the boxes without compromising on style. With its one-shouldered, cuffed neckline and satin fit-and-flare silhouette, it offers simplistic elegance, but still makes a big statement. It would work equally well across the seasons, whether at a garden soiree or a grand hotel.”
Kirsty Grant, Dream Brides
Bridal Boutique of Falkirk
“We have recently started stocking American designer Randy Fenoli, so wanted to highlight Anya, a ballgown with 3d-effect floral lace appliqué and sparkling skirt from his Silver Springs collection, £POA. We are looking forward to his ‘Beautiful Beginnings’ collection arriving in early 2021.”
Elaine Purvis, Bridal Boutique of Falkirk