I relish any opportunity to write about pretty frocks here on Love My Dress. It's definitely one of the perks of my job! The fact a post I've written might help one of you find the perfect dress for your wedding day is a delightful bonus.
Today it is my pleasure to introduce you to The Couture Company. Based in Birmingham, Joanne Bromley designs and makes bespoke bridal gowns and accessories. Jo studied
fashion at university, but her passion for design stems from her childhood.
'I learned a lot from my Mum who
was a seamstress and used to make a lot of our clothes when we were children. She then opened a bridal boutique just as I was leaving University in 1991. I helped
out with some bridesmaid's gowns and we didn’t look back – The Couture Company was born thereafter.
Twenty One years later, The Couture Company is still going strong, and adhering to an admirable set of principles that keeps their production right here in the UK."
Image Credit: Emma Case
'We pride ourselves on what we do. Our gowns have always been made here in England. Our motto is 'Made in England, Made for YOU'. I know it's not always the cheapest option, but supporting
cottage industry here in the UK, supporting skills and creating jobs while helping our economy, must be satisfying and add value to your
decision to buy here.'
Image Supplied via The Couture Company
I asked Jo what she loves most about her work and where she finds inspiration for her beautiful designs…
'We love putting a bride's
personality into a dress, putting elements that are just her. Brides
love us because they can have whatever they want. We're able to design
something fresh and unique for them based on their preferences. Most importantly, we hopefully help women
realise they can look stunning no matter what size they are, whether they are
petite or curvaceous.'
Image Credit: Jonny Donovan + Image supplied by The Couture Company
'I am
blessed with lots of brides who have a very individual and unique style, but
above all I have always focused on the curve of a waist. The waist is a focal
point in a lot of our gowns, whether they are 50’s styling, corseted or
slinky. I love shape and curve.'
'I am
inspired by lots of things. I grew up watching film stars like Elizabeth Taylor,
Sophia Loren and Marilyn Monroe. I love a nipped waist (hence our naughty sister
company Rawhide Corsets). I love art deco and art nouveau, and anything with Japanese
styling. I adore 50’s style pin-ups and burlesque stars like Immodesty Blaize
and Dita von teese.'
Image Credit: Rebecca Parker
Image Credit: Steve Gerrard
'I also hugely admire Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen, Yohji Yammamoto and Thierry Mugler…'
As I think we can see
Image Credit: Rebecca Parker
Image Credit: Rob W May Photography
I love the way Jo celebrates the female form and its many permutations. I would imagine any woman could feel fabulous in one of her designs.
Image Credit: Steve Gerrard
Gowns by The Couture Company
range from £800-£2000 in price. Be sure to visit the website for more
details and to arrange an appointment. You can also keep up with Jo via twitter, facebook and The Couture Company blog.
As well as running The Couture Company and Rawhide Corsets, Jo is
co-founder of The Eclectic Wedding Extravaganza – will EWE be attending?
So ladies, are you taken with any of the dresses on display here today?
Much love,
Franky