RETOUCHED-Lela-Rose

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Browns Bride boutique, a host of designers have created exclusive one-off pieces. Vera Wang, Marchesa, Monique Lhuillier and Reem Acra are on their bridal hit-list, whilst milliner extraordinaire Piers Atkinson (Anna Dello Russo is a fan) has designed a selection of veils. We speak exclusively to the designers about their creations.

Browns Bride’s founder Caroline Burstein gives her top tips for bridal shopping…

1. Start your search as early as possible. Whilst you can buy a dress instantly online, if you’re looking for something bespoke you often need to order it six months beforehand.

2. Come with an open mind. You never really know what will suit you until you’ve it tried on. So many brides tell us that the dress they fell in love with was not what they ever imagined.

3. Be aware of your venue, time of year and the size of your wedding. A small, intimate wedding will dictate a different style of dress than a large, formal one.

4. Bring a good friend or two with you but not many more. Often you’ll get a conflict of opinions, which is not helpful at all. Come to your first appointment alone and bring your friends and family once you’ve already made your selection.

5. What I love about wedding dresses is that they’re made with timeless beauty in mind. Whilst trends in fashion are cyclical, a bridal gown is conceived to   make you look and feel your most radiant. It’s not a fashion statement, but a life statement – it will live in your photos forever.

Monique Lhuillier Dhs53,003

Monique Lhuillier Dhs53,003

“My autumn collection was inspired by a romantic secret garden, and this Adele gown incorporates these accents through its vine motif embroidery and heirloom quality. I loved introducing intricate back detailing to this dress creating an alluring, feminine look; the bride is as gorgeous leaving the reception as she is walking down the aisle.”

Mira Zwillinger, Dhs60,205

Mira Zwillinger, Dhs60,205

“The Beatrice dress was inspired by springtime blossoms and is designed for a lighthearted, fashion-forward bride who is looking for something different;    a dress with textures and dimension.”

Marchesa, Dhs33,672

Marchesa, Dhs33,672

Vera Wang, Dhs32,737

Vera Wang, Dhs32,737

“There’s an otherworldly element to this ethereal gown, created through the combination of French tulle and organza. The woman who wears it is sensual yet spirited; confident yet whimsical; easy going but fashion conscious.” { Also comes in pink }

 Main image:  Lela Rose, Dhs31,800