Emilia Wickstead

Bridalwear was a natural extension of what I’ve always been drawn to — clothing that celebrates femininity, form, and the moments that matter most. I designed my first wedding dress for a dear friend, and that experience made me realise how special and personal bridal could be. It’s such a privilege to be part of that moment in someone’s life. Over time, our bridal offering has evolved from private commissions to a curated collection of made-to-order gowns, while still retaining the intimate, bespoke spirit that shaped its beginnings.

I always begin with the silhouette. Structure is central to how a gown moves and holds presence. From there, it’s about refining every detail — be it a square neckline, a beautifully cut sleeve, or an unexpected open back. Bridalwear offers this wonderful opportunity to pare everything back to its essence. For me, that means restraint, quiet drama and silhouettes that feel as modern today as they will in fifty years time.

I believe it’s the clarity of our vision. Our brides come to us because they’re looking for something refined, but with soul. There’s a certain confidence in simplicity — and that’s something we’ve stayed true to. I also think the way we approach bridalwear, with the same thoughtfulness and tailoring as ready-to-wear, gives it a contemporary edge while still feeling ceremonial.

It always begins with the woman. I listen carefully — who she is, where she’s getting married, what she wants to feel on the day. From there, I sketch. It’s an instinctive process: pulling references, developing fabrics, refining the silhouette. There are fittings, of course, but more than anything, it’s a creative dialogue. The most successful gowns are the ones that capture the bride’s personality as much as the brand’s aesthetic.

“You don’t need to shout to make an impact. Subtlety, a beautiful cut, lines and design can be the strongest statement of all — I want to create something that truly lasts.”

It’s a deeply personal and considered journey. Brides will typically have an initial consultation — either in London or virtually — where we talk through ideas, mood, fabric and silhouette. From there, we create a custom toile and begin the fitting process, which can span several months depending on timelines. It’s intimate, collaborative, and tailored every step of the way. We’ve worked with many international brides, and the process is entirely tailored to the bride’s location and needs — even if they’re on the other side of the world.

Growing up in New Zealand, I developed a strong appreciation for simplicity, nature, freedom with fashion and personality. There’s a certain authenticity to the way people celebrate there — less about spectacle, more about sincerity. That sense of grounded beauty has always stayed with me and certainly shapes how I think about bridalwear: nothing forced, just thoughtful, beautifully made clothes for meaningful moments. I love fantasy and pushing boundaries, but I also love the clean and strong impact of everlasting elegance.

I think it’s about honouring tradition without being beholden to it. A wedding dress doesn’t have to be what’s expected — it just has to feel true to the bride. For us, innovation often lies in the cut, the fabric, or the proportion. And when it comes to trends, I try to stay focused on our woman. Our brides value timelessness and individuality over fleeting statements.

Absolutely. There’s an emotional depth to bridal that reminds you why clothes matter. It’s reaffirmed my belief that the best design is personal, and that less is often more. That intimacy often feeds back into ready-to-wear — in how we approach detail, fabric choice, and the narrative behind each collection.

There’s a gown we created with a square neckline, long sleeves, and a dramatically sweeping train — completely minimal, yet utterly arresting in its cut and structure. It captured everything I love about bridal: purity of line, elegance without embellishment, and a sense of quiet power.

There was a bride who wore a very simple crepe column gown with long sleeves and a high neck. The ceremony was held in an Italian villa and everything about the look was quiet, refined, and poetic. That commission affirmed to me that you don’t need to shout to make an impact. Subtlety, a beautiful cut, lines and design can be the strongest statement of all. I want to create pieces that truly last.

I think we’ll see a continued shift toward more sustainable, versatile, and personal bridalwear. Brides are investing in pieces with longevity — whether it’s a dress they can rewear or one made with conscience. We’re evolving our offering to reflect that, with a greater focus on made-to-order and thoughtful design, and exploring ways to expand access to our aesthetic for international brides as well.

Start with how you want to feel on the day. Elegant, effortless, strong, romantic, nostalgic — whatever it may be. Let that emotion guide your decisions. And trust your instincts. You need the right one — the one that feels like you, and that elevates your emotions for the better.

That it’s a journey, not just a product. It requires time, patience, and trust. But the result is something truly one-of-a-kind — crafted with care, made for your body, your vision, and your moment. It’s incredibly special, and worth the investment of time and heart.

Refining the experience and broadening our reach, particularly for international clients. We have a more permanent bridal capsule that brides can access beyond the bespoke process, without compromising on the craftsmanship and elegance we’re known for. We keep developing and adding new styles to this collection — for party, registry and ceremony. We continue to create dresses that feel like heirlooms in the making — timeless, personal, and beautifully made.