At the core of Love My Dress is a deep desire to support independent designers who create work with care, integrity and a genuine understanding of how women want to feel in their clothes. Manchester bridal designer Bronwen Bridge is one of those designers, creating bespoke bridal fashion with a focus on craftsmanship, silhouette and the collaborative relationship between designer and bride.
These images offer an insight into Bronwen Bridge’s new Manchester studio space and the creative process behind her bespoke designs. Photographed by Alessandra of Ariel in Blue using a mix of digital and 35mm film photography, the photographs document the atmosphere of the studio alongside the development of Oria, a new design created especially for this project.
Set inside a converted red-brick school building with original pine floorboards, large industrial windows and a split-level mezzanine workspace, the studio reflects Bronwen’s growing creative process and her interest in interiors, vintage detailing and feminine design references.
Alongside fittings, fabric cutting and hand-finishing, the editorial captures the reality of bespoke bridal fashion as an evolving and highly personal process.
A New Studio Space
Last autumn, as I looked ahead to a busy summer season, I began to realise that I needed to upsize into a new studio space.
I wanted somewhere that could fully hold both sides of my work – a place to design and create, but also somewhere my brides could feel comfortable, relaxed and looked after.
I moved into a room in a converted old red-brick boys’ school built, which I was already located in, a building full of character with large windows, pine floorboards and that industrial quality Manchester is known for.
The studio itself is split across two levels, with a mezzanine for sewing above and a more open space below for fittings and fabric cutting.
Around the same time, I became slightly obsessed with interiors. Having recently moved house, I found myself drawn to vintage pieces, with intricate feminine detailing, particularly lighting.
At my partner’s mum’s house I came across a dusky pink lamp with a sculptural, almost bustle-like shape, finished with a bow and delicate bead fringing. It stayed with me, and in many ways became the starting point for both the space and the dress design that followed.
The studio began to take on a more intimate, boudoir-like feel, helped along by a pink chaise lounge I found second-hand.
I wanted it to feel indulgent and ultra-feminine, somewhere you could feel at ease, but also slightly transported.
Hair, Makeup & Jewellery
Sophie Griffiths created the glamorous hair and make-up on Lisa May Jolley, with the look finished by handmade pearl jewellery from Joannah & Grace.
Connect with Bronwen Bridge
Email Bronwen Bridge on [email protected].
Follow Bronwen Bridge on Instagram at @bronwen_bridge
