“Bridal gowns transcend fashion, they are a timeless representation of the brides own style and personality.” Ian Stuart
Of all the bridal catwalks I’ve seen, the ones masterminded by Ian Stuart are my favourite – colour, music, personality, cheekiness, beauty… and fabulous frocks: it’s like a very good day at the theatre. And I love theatre. Lots.
So this morning I’m honoured to welcome a truly talented Northern export home to the pages of Brides Up North, as we sneak a peek at the marvellous Ian Stuart’s brand new collection for 2015, and hear about what makes this design genius tick.
Wedding. dress. heaven. Right here.
What sort of woman do you design for?
Ian says:
My collections are always very diverse, as are the women who wear them. As a designer- you can’t put all of your energy and creativity into creating one signature look for one type of woman. We no longer live in a society where we all fit into the same shaped hole, I believe it’s my duty as a designer to celebrate this. I’m known for my dramatic and theatrical creations, because no one else has a look like this, but I also create more demure, cleaned lined and sophisticated gowns, as well as those somewhere in between. I design for all women – this is evident on our Facebook page from all of the real bride’s photos we a share.
What were your inspirations for this collection?
I’m always inspired by the same things, because these are my passions: music, theatre, couture, films, photographers, we live in such a creative world, the supply of inspiration is endless. But I was particularly inspired by the new Pink Martini album, which is a collaboration with the real Von Trapp family. The music is simply magical. I locked myself away, put my headphones in, absorbed myself in the exquisite sounds, and allowed my mind to conjure designs that flowed from the music. The album was also the central soundtrack to my fashion show, it was my favourite to date.
What shapes, fabrics and embellishments were chosen for the collection and why?
Lady Luxe, as the name suggests, is about those luxurious details. I’ve carefully selected laces, beading and applique that I think will make brides feel more illustrious than they could’ve imagined. The way a bride feels I think, is far more important than the way she looks, as it gives her that stunning glow you only get from being in blissful joy.
I always include many silhouettes in my collections to ensure that any bride can find a shape that sculpts and compliments her figure. I’d never eliminate a shape just because it wasn’t ‘on trend’. Bridal gowns transcend fashion, they are a timeless representation of the brides own style and personality.
What sizes are your gowns available in?
Because all of our gowns are made-to-order, we can offer a full made-to-measure service, which is great if a brides shape doesn’t conform to standard sizing. It’s a great way to ensure the gown works exactly with a brides proportions, without compromising the design. Our standard UK sizes are 6-22, but the made-to-measure service means that sizing is limitless.
Our retail prices range from £1,400 to £3,800, which is most definitely a reflection of the amount of beading and crystals I put on a dress!
What does 2014/ 2015 hold for Ian Stuart Bride? What are you excited about?
Our infamous ‘Flowerbomb’ dress from the 2010 Revolution Rocks collections is currently on display at the V&A’s Wedding dresses 1775-2014, until March 2015. It is the only dress featured in the exhibition that brides can still order.
We have just opened our first flagship concept store in London, The Blewcoat in Victoria. It’s the most beautiful backdrop to showcase my exclusive collections of bridal, evening wear and mother of the bride special occasion wear. I have also selected a range of beautiful accessories from my favourite designers to compliment the gowns.
I’m also particularly excited now that I have the perfect home to offer private consultations for brides, mothers, celebrities, or anyone who has a special event that they want to look spectacular for.
What are your “best things” in life?
My partner Pete and our dog Charlie, my creativity, Dolly Parton and Coronation Street!
Where can Brides Up North find out more about Ian Stuart?
We have a great Facebook page, with all of our up-to-date news, behind the scenes stories, as well as photos from real brides, I love seeing real brides in my dresses, and it’s the most rewarding thing as a designer.
We also have three individual websites, where you can find all the information you need;
www.ianstuart-bride.com for or bridal collection
www.ianstuart-london.com for our special occasion collection
www.ianstuart-blewcoat.com dedicated to the Blewcoat store
