By Jennifer Thorp
Exclusive bespoke designer Lisa Gowing has dressed Sydney’s most fashionable brides for nearly 20 years. Rescu. sat down with her to ask about new wedding trends, the etiquette of finding a custom gown, and her favourite celebrity moment.
All images courtesy Lisa Gowing 2014.
RESCU: What trends are on the horizon for the 2014 bride?
Lisa Gowing: For 2014 I see more of the jewel embellished fabrics that have been popular recently, as seen at the Academy Awards on Cate Blanchett, who wore Armani Prive.
In 2014, the Lisa Gowing bride is choosing slim lace sheaths and corset panelled bodices, paired with hand draped liquid silk skirts, and richly embellished jewelled tulle gowns with matching jewelled headpieces, cuffs and belts.
Of course, the Princess silhouette (left), with tiny bodice and full skirt, will always be a popular and flattering shape for a bride.
RESCU: Have you seen much change in wedding style since you first began designing?
Lisa Gowing: Lisa Gowing was launched in 1997, and at that time many brides would not consider wearing a slimline gown. Clean lines, panelled bodices, a-line skirts and V necklines were popular, and these details were all quite fashion forward at the time.
In 2014 most brides choose to wear ivory, but they will wear a much more modern silhouette: lace and jewel-covered sheaths, corset shaped bodices or vintage-inspired shapes. In 1997 duchess silk and stiff fabrics with defined form were popular, but 2014 brides choose the softer fabrications, like liquid silks, chiffons and tulles. Most like feminine detailing like capped lace sleeves or jewelled belted waists.
Lisa Gowing began as a couture, custom-made collection, but I’m introducing Lisa Gowing Ready-to-wear in May 2014, as I am finding that in today’s world not every bride has the time or desire for a custom-made or made-to-order gown.
RESCU: Is the Kate Middleton effect still a force in bridal fashion?
Lisa Gowing: The “Kate Middleton” effect definitely influenced bridal choices in 2012 and 2013, and will continue to do so in 2014. The most obvious effect is the demand for good quality matte laces.
My laces are from France and Italy, and many European mills are now taking up to 7 months to complete their lace orders due to increased global demand. Brides must keep these timeframes in mind when shopping if they want a made-to-order gown.
Long lace sleeves like Kate’s are in demand, but don’t suit all weddings or all brides. Most Australian brides are married in the warmer months and in warmer destinations, so a long sleeve is not always practical. We find the cap sleeve offers the same vintage lace look without the coverage of a full lace sleeve.
Another way to get the 1950’s or 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s looks that today’s brides covet is with accessories. My current ‘The Golden Age’ collection offers silk buckle belted waists, jewel capped headpieces and mantilla lace veils.
RESCU: What tips would you give to brides when they first begin looking for a dress?
Lisa Gowing: I would always recommend that a bride shops alone or with one trusted friend or relative.
Shopping with too many people with differing personal opinions can confuse the bride, and it’s lovely to keep the gown a secret until the big reveal on the day!
Do look online and in magazines to get an idea of what designs and styles you prefer, but remember to keep an open mind, as you have never worn a bridal gown before and you could be surprised by what best suits you.
Make an appointment with your preferred bridal designers/ salons at least 9 months before your wedding if you would like to order a made-to-order design.
Many brides today are shopping with only 3-6 months until the wedding, which is fine if they would like to purchase a ready made ready-to-wear own or a sample – but most made-to-order designs take at least 6 months to make.
RESCU: What are some dos and don’ts for brides at fittings?
Lisa Gowing: When attending your bridal fitting do bring your shoes and any specific underwear, like shapewear, that you would like to wear on the day, as this can change your shape or size.
Don’t bring a host of people to a fitting, as they might not visualise the end result and could confuse you or the alterations expert.
RESCU: What’s the most exciting dress experience you’ve had as a designer?
Lisa Gowing: I dressed Deborra-Lee Furness in a custom designed gown and coat the first time Hugh Jackman hosted the Tony Awards.
I met with Deborra-Lee and Hugh in their home in Bel Air and sketched my recommendations for her, then measured her and returned to Sydney where we made the gown and shipped it to her. It fit Deborra-Lee perfectly and she looked stunning!
Pictured: Lisa Gowing on her own wedding day.
Lisa Gowing works by appointment only. To arrange a visit or for further details of her latest collections, visit lisagowing.com.