Welcome to Love My Dress on this lovely August day. I hope your day is going wonderfully well and happily, I have something for you that will make even the most fabulous day even better.
For a little while, let’s indulge in a dose of wedding dress escapism courtesy of the incredibly talented Elbeth Gillis, designer of beautiful, feminine wedding gowns. Come on in…
Elbeth Gillis founded her bridal label in 1997 and since then, she’s become internationally renowned for producing exquisite bridal couture. An Elbeth Gillis design is all about luxury and Elbeth’s own attention to detail, pursuit of distinction and love of refinement means that each handmade gown is made with the most wonderful fabrics – silks, satins and chiffons from first-class producers.
This passion for perfection began back in Elbeth’s childhood. She was surrounded by the beautiful fabrics that were transformed by her mother and aunts as they sewed and Elbeth knew from an early age that she would study fashion to bring her own sense of style to the fashion world. And now, years later, that’s exactly what she’s doing with her bridal label.
From her atelier in Cape Town, South Africa, Elbeth designs and produces gowns that are available from stockists around the world and, quite simply, are so many bride’s vision of a dream dress.
“I’m known for gowns that are ethereal and feminine, with a subtle sensuality that is sophisticated and classy,” says Elbeth. “A lot of my inspiration is drawn from haute couture collections, mostly the work of Chanel, Elie Saab, Valentino, Zuhair Murad, and Dany Atrache.”
“When I see something I like, it’ll usually trigger more ideas, and then I’ll start imagining and doodling to see if it leads to something I want to produce. I also love to look through my collection of fashion books to see what has transcended time. This inspires me because we all want that bit of eternity.”
“The bridal industry isn’t as trendy as high fashion but it is influenced by it and this means that things will come and go. I instinctively pull out the elements that will transcend trends, and then translate that into a gown that is ethereal and sumptuous.”
Elbeth’s Luxury collection is just that. The designs move from the romantic and diaphanous to sophisticated, figure-hugging gowns that feature dramatic godets and nude-look Chantilly lace bodices. This collection is all about silhouettes and there’s a definite feeling of sensuality with backs and shoulders on display throughout.
Then there are the joys of Milk & Honey, Elbeth’s collection of bridal separates that you’re just going to love if you’re a more minimalist bride. There’s a strong sense of 1950s style and you can definitely play with finding your perfect look. I love the sassy-chic knee-length ostrich feather skirt.
And finally, we have Mystique. The floral patterns and exotic designs here are just fabulous. Straps are so delicate that they seem to be suspended and there are embroidered tulle overlays to the skirts. This collection includes plenty of my favourite things – deep necklines and plunging backs.
All this beauty also comes at a surprising price. Elbeth Gillis gowns are an affordable luxury, ranging from £1,500 to £3,500 and this made-to-measure service is suitably special for all brides.
“When you start shopping for your gown, it’s important to know what you like but don’t be so bound by that that you aren’t willing to try on a dress. A dress on a person is very different from a dress on a hanger!”
So, if you need another excuse to enjoy trying on lots of gorgeous gowns in your search for ‘the one’, there you have it, courtesy of the marvellous Elbeth Gillis.
To find out more about wedding dresses by Elbeth Gillis, do take a look at her website – www.elbethgillis.com
Love,
Tamryn x