I love the smooth sophistication of this collection. Here’s my 5 Star favourite five – you can see the full collection here.

Imogen

The iconic Wakeley silhouette, this dress is trimmed with soft lace, a gorgeous contrast to the satin that sweeps down to a sweet train. Effortlessly simple, the modern neckline is the real feature here.

Maya

I adore the jewelled cap sleeves on this one. With art deco inspired beading, it leaves all the detail to the sleeves, keeping the rest of the dress beautifully simple in soft silk tulle. A matching waistband is the perfect accessory.

Isla

A gorgeous silk crepe dress, this one has a feature back with metallic ribbons trimming the edge. Soft and sleek in satin, the embroidery is art deco inspired – no need to cover it with a veil, this would look lovely with a simple up-do to show off the back.

Claudette

If you’re looking for separates, this top is such a pretty choice. With hand embroidery on a sheer mesh and a satin ribbon edge, it’s a sweet, soft and unstructured bodice that would look stunning with a simple layered skirt.

Mia

Silk tulle over delicate lace, this is a perfectly soft and dreamy dress. With a touch of boho about it, I love the high neckline and double length of train – so pretty!

Fallen in love? see the full collection here, or head over to our luxury wedding dress page for more stunning collections.

For Spring 19, the Wakeley woman’s look is rich, eclectic and distinctly Parisian. Born french and of North African descent, she is inspired by her heritage, her lifestyle and her travels; from the rich history of her culture to her frequent retreats to Zanzibar. She translates the rich decadent architecture and all of it’s intricacies into complex tile-like prints, luxurious jacquards and textural embroideries, all underpinned by a nostalgic sports luxe feel and modernity that is distinctly Wakeley.

Top wedding dresses: The biggest challenge a bride faces before her wedding is finding the correct wedding dress. Moreover, the abundance of wedding dresses, at times, makes it even harder to find the dress in which you look and feel perfect on your wedding day.

This article presents the top luxury wedding dress designers in the United Kingdom, and thus, to help you in your search for the perfect dress.

Caroline Castigliano

Specialising in classic styles with a contemporary edge, the emphasis at Caroline Castigliano is on genuine luxury and total indulgence. From humble beginnings, Caroline Castigliano opened her first bridal boutique in Surrey in 1991, today there are six such boutiques throughout the United Kingdom with several more stockists around the world.

Caroline is an expert in corsetry and incorporates her superior technique into her perfectly structured gowns. Caroline is an expert in creating dresses which flatter the female form using simple lines and understated elegance.

Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen

Royal wedding dress designer Sarah Burton is creative director at the luxury fashion house Alexander McQueen, following the death of its founder Lee Alexander McQueen. Sarah Burton arrived at the prestigious fashion house straight from college and has since taken the brand from strength to strength.

Famed for her exquisite designs, Sarah is a veritable magician with a needle and thread. Using a variety of textures, Sarah creates a world of beauty with her incredible ability to create artful and sophisticated gowns. Having created day dresses for Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow and Lady Gaga, Sarah Burton and co are no strangers to creating outstanding couture.

Amanda Wakeley

Amanda Wakeley launched her signature label in 1990 and has over the past two decades developed into an international brand with a considerable reputation as a designer of luxury womenswear. The bridal collection established in 2000, offers contemporary glamour coupled with timeless elegance.

Her collections tend to focus on simple clean lines which elongate the silhouette. This is achieved through precision cut and sophisticated designs with very few embellishments. Using a variety of luxurious fabrics, Amanda Wakeley’s attention to detail and craftsmanship is known throughout the industry.

Jenny Packham

One of the United Kingdoms most influential and successful fashion houses, Jenny Packham’s collections include sophisticated eveningwear and bridal attire. Offering a contemporary approach to style and design, there is both a couture and ready-to-wear collection.

Dresses are available to purchase at the world famous Harrods and showrooms in London, Paris and New York. Jenny Packham is an iconic designer having produced gowns for Kate Winslet, Angelina Jolie, Amy Adams and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Ian Stuart

British designer Ian Stuart is famous for his spectacular bridal wear collections. Mixing elegant gowns with contemporary chic, Ian Stuart is highly praised for his unique and whimsical designs. Five times winner of Bridal Designer of the Year at the Bridal Buyer Awards, Ian boasts an impressive list of clients including socialites, celebrities and the Royal family.

Launched in 2003, Ian’s couture gowns are all about glamour, grandeur and refinement. With an unrivalled eye for detailing, many gowns are hand finished with ruffles, flowers and diamonds. Romantic and feminine, Ian Stuart’s gowns are as elaborate as they are beautiful.

Stewart Parvin

Royal couturier Stewart Parvin studied fashion at Edinburgh College of Art, then went on to work for well-known fashion designer Donald Campbell. Stewart started his own label in 1995 initially designing eveningwear however in 1999 he launched his first bridal collection, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Stewart Parvin was awarded the Royal Warrant of Appointment to HM the Queen in 2007, after years of designing for Her Majesty. Elegant, sophisticated and luxurious, are just some of the words which could describe any of Stewart’s bridal dresses. He truly has an eye for flattering the female form in perfectly cut sumptuous gowns.

Phillipa Lepley

Phillipa Lepley is renown for her impeccable style and is one of London’s leading bridal couture designers. Her distinctness style of understated elegance and sophistication makes her a popular choice for London’s high flyers. Timeless and feminine, Phillipa’s signature look is that of luxurious splendour. Coupling vintage fabrics with exquisite embellishments, Phillipa Lepley’s gowns simply ooze old world charm with a modern twist.

Each dress is designed to flatter the bride’s figure giving the bride the confidence to shine. Phillipa launched her first bridal collection in 1988-1990 from a basement in South Kensington and opened her flagship bridal shop in London’s fashionable Chelsea in 1990.

Suzanne Neville

British-born designer Suzanne Neville likes to keep her award-winning dresses home-made with all of her designing and handmade production taking place in London. Famed for her decadent wedding gowns, each piece is structured and constructed to fit the body perfectly. Suzanne’s dress is hand crafted to the pinnacle of couture excellence. Using only the finest silks and hand embroidery, Suzanne Neville’s collection includes everything from slim fitting dresses to full romantic gowns.

Suzanne started the business in 1991 after studying at London College of Fashion. She has since gone on to win numerous awards and British Bridal Designer of the Year in 2009. Suzanne is frequently featured in top bridal and fashion publications and boasts an enviable client list, including celebrities and high-profile clients.

Ritva Westenius

London’s leading Wedding Dress Designer with over 35 years of experience and dedication for producing innovative Bridal Couture of the highest quality. Ritva Westenius has become the symbol of British style by opening the way to the innovative and artistic interpretation of Wedding Fashion. Ritva Westenius has won numerous designer awards across her career, among them the Best British Bridal Designer 2012 and again a Finalist in 2013.

Ritva Westenius launched her own couture wedding gown collection in 1977 and opened her modern luxury Bridal Boutique in Central London. Here one is greeted with the eye-catching splendour of glamour and sophistication. Elegant slim fitting dresses, trendy fishtails and full romantic gowns are created in beautiful luxury fabrics of organza, tulle, slipper satin and lace with exquisite hand-beading and a choice of unusual, belts, corsages and boleros.

www.ritvawestenius.com

Sassi Holford

There is nothing better than an authentic handmade wedding dress that will show you in your best light. In this respect, Sassi Holford’s interpretation of the perfect wedding dress is brilliant. Her dresses exhibit the traditional style of the old days. What is stylish never goes out of fashion, and this is what Sassi has proven more than once. Moreover, designed to complement the figure at all times, her collection’s internal corseting will portray the bride in her most elegant form.

Justin Alexander

Justin Alexander is best known for his vintage gowns, combining timeless elegance from the 1950s and 60s with modern design. Old world glamour and sophistication pour from each dress, giving the bride a uniquely classical look, synonymous with Justin Alexander. Using exquisite styling and only the highest quality materials including antique lace, tulle and silk chiffon, Justin Alexander frequently appears in high fashion magazines and editorial.

Temperley London

Temperley London easily scores a place here, because she is one of the few designers who are ready to break free from the traditional forms and change the meaning of the word stylish. Her vast collection has dresses that fit all tastes from the shy and simple to the more retro wedding dresses.

Bruce Oldfield

As a wedding designer, Bruce Oldfield is known in all the high-fashion circles. In fact, Queen Rania of Jordan and Princess Diana are some of his previous clients who have proudly showcased some of the dresses in his collection. As for style, he shows how well conservative details go with modern-age ideas. If you are looking for a dress that will open you up, his innovative designs will, without a doubt, satisfy your taste.

Terry Fox

Terry Fox takes her place in our top ten because of a plethora of reasons. For one, her talent is not only recognised by numerous brides, but also by the 2013 Wedding Industry Awards committee, which pronounced her as the Best Wedding Dress Designer National Winner.

Whatever your taste is, you can be sure to find a dress that absolutely satisfies you. Terry Fox’s collection has everything from the most elegant and simple to the stylish, modern-age wedding dress. As a plus, all of her dresses are made by hand with a lot of attention to detail.

We hope you enjoyed reading our list of the top UK wedding dress designers, off-course there are much more, so we hope to feature more designers in the future. If you have any suggestions do let us know.

© 5 Star Wedding Directory

Over the years, Amanda Wakeley has dressed stars like Scarlett Johansson, Demi Moore, Kate Beckinsdale, Dita Von Teese, Charlize Theron, Jada Pinkett Smith, Mischa Barton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Helen Mirren, and Kate Winslet. She has also had the honour of dressing many members of Royal families, most notably the late Princess of Wales and Queen Rania of Jordan.

• 5 Star Weddings: Tell us how you started your booming business.

Amanda Wakeley: I started with a tiny collection that I sold to friends and friends of friends from a tiny design studio in Chelsea… everything was made to order.

• 5 Star Weddings: What influences you and your designs?

Amanda Wakeley: I find influences everywhere… I often say that as a designer your eyes are like sponges, constantly processing information, shapes, textures, colours, silhouettes….

• 5 Star Weddings: Which well-known people would you love to dress?

Amanda Wakeley: I would love to see Emily Blunt or Rachel Weiz in Amanda Wakeley… I think they epitomise the modern English woman, as well as being absolutely gorgeous.

• 5 Star Weddings: Can you tell us what inspired your latest collection?

Amanda Wakeley: Much of the Autumn Winter 2012 ready to wear collection was inspired by historical lingerie and corsetry, which has been translated into body contouring seams and graphic paneling that really sculpt and flatter the body. Many of the silhouettes stem from vintage couture but have been given a contemporary twist.

• 5 Star Weddings: What is your best advice for a bride choosing a gown?

Amanda Wakeley: A bride should always choose a dress that allows her be herself and stays true to her natural aesthetic…She should feel totally comfortable and confident that the dress is embracing and enhancing her and that her husband to be will turn to see the woman he loves not a complete stranger in a costume.. Remember your wedding imagery (both stills and video) will last a lifetime so be mindful of that when choosing your dress…

• 5 Star Weddings: What are your gowns recognised for?

Amanda Wakeley: I love the fact that the Amanda Wakeley bride comes to us for our signature look which is all about the silhouette, the fabric and celebrating the woman’s form…she wears the dress rather than the dress wearing her…

• 5 Star Weddings: At present whose style are you currently loving?

Amanda Wakeley: I personally believe that Britain has the most creative pool of designers in the world and that is one of the reasons I am incredibly proud to be British… .I love the fact that these designers each have their specific point of view.

• 5 Star Weddings: What is your favourite dress from your current collection?

Amanda Wakeley: One of my all time favorites is our Cleopatra dress – recently worn so exquisitely by Irish model Aoife Cogan when she married Gordon D’Arcy. She looked the epitomy of a modern bride.

• 5 Star Weddings: What fashion trends would you like to see more of within bridal couture?

Amanda Wakeley: Actually I dont believe bridal dresses should be about fashion trends… they come and go and your wedding imagery lasts a lifetime….However, the skill is combining modernity with timelessness… something I am constantly trying to achieve in my work

• 5-Star Weddings: What, in your opinion, makes a 5-star wedding?

Amanda Wakeley: Less is more but when each decision has been carefully considered so the whole wedding is a beautiful cohesive package from invitation to dress to flowers to food….

For more beautiful designs see Amanda Wakeley.

Glamourous and opulent headpieces in tarnished antique hues are encrusted with intricate shimmering crystals, encased by the finest silver silk thread, undulating strands of fine silver and twinkling crystals. Rondelle bars clustered amongst oversized crystals provide a modern luxe take on an art deco classic, opal pear and oval crystals emulate decadence whilst shimmering pearls add Old Hollywood style to a contemporary look.

From dramatic, bohemian champagne beaded feathers, to ethereal flowers and sequins in platinum and ivory crystal, this graceful and feminine collection mirrors the vintage inspired beading in the collection.

Jenny Packham continues to be the red carpet designer of choice, dressing the world’s most glamourous and discerning women from Angelina Jolie, Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Rhianna and Beyonce, to Keira Knightley, Reece Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston.

For further brand information please contact:
T: +44 (0) 207 493 6291 E: PR@jennypackham.com jennypackham.com

 V E N U E   &  D A T E S

White Gallery London, 20-22 May 2012, Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, London, UK

D E S I G N E R S
Alan Hannah, Amanda Wakeley, Annasul Y, Anny Lin, Anoushka G, Augusta Jones, Babe, Blue, Chic by Hollywood Dreams, Cymbeline, David Fielden, Donna Lee, Elizabeth Stuart, Fara, Freya Rose, Gatti Nolli Couture, Gemy Couture, Halo & Co, Harriet Wilde, Hollywood Dreams, Ian Stuart, Ivory & Co, Jenny Packham Accessories, Jesus Peiro, Johanna Hehir, Katzi, Kisui, Lea-Ann Belter Bridal, Linea Raffaelli, Little Bevan, Lusan Mandongus, Lyn Ashworth, Madeline Isaac-James, Malis Henderson, Mia Mia, Nicki MacFarlane, Novia D’Art, Ottavio Nuccio, Ozlem Suer, Pepe Botella, Peter Lang, Polly Edwards, Rachel Simpson, Raimon Bundo, Ritva Westenius, Sanyukta Shrestha, Sarah Janks, Sassi Holford, Stephanie Allin, Stephanie Browne, Stewart Parvin, Terry Fox, The Vintage Wedding Dress Company, Victoria Kyriakides, Victorio&Lucchino Novias, Vivien Sheriff and YolanCris.

NEW TALENTS
Claire Mischevani, Hazaar of London, KatyaKatya Shehurina, Naomi Neoh and Sadoni.

M E D I A P A R T N E R S
5starweddingdirectory.com, Bridal Buyer, Bridal Buyer Europe, Bridalbuer.com, Bridal Nordic, Conde Nast Brides, Confeti, Dani Vjen?anje, FashionMag.com, Fashion TV, Hochzeit, Ideal Bride, Ideal Mariaj, Just Married, Marions Nous! Martha Stewart Weddings, Sposa.com, Vjen?anje Ponuda, Wedding Magazine, Wedding Venues & Services, White Sposa Italy, White Sposa Russia, Wedding Russia, You and Your Wedding, Zank You.

The latest Amanda Wakeley Sposa collection embodies the true essence of Amanda’s signature style; luxurious fabrication, contemporary silhouette and impeccable cut incorporating pieces in sumptuous double satin, fluid matt silk georgette and signature silk cady. Contemporary embellishment details include Swarovski crystal beading, graphic deco beading and detailed ribbon beading, adding drama and presence to modern yet timeless silhouettes. The collection has been shot at the fabulous private game reserve Zuka in the romantic wilds of South Africa to allow the imagination to travel for the ultimate destination wedding….

Amanda Wakeley launched her signature label in 1990 and has been designing for the last two decades. Through her designs, she has developed an international reputation and was awarded an OBE for her services to the fashion industry.

Amanda Wakeley will preview her 2013 collection at White Gallery London, Battersea Park 20-22 May 2012.

For more information on attending or exhibiting please visit www.whitegallery.com

The world’s most exclusive wedding wear retailers and the influential press will once again have the opportunity to see the very best in bridal design at this elegant three-day trade event held on 22-24 May 2011 in Battersea Park.

Amanda Wakeley Sposa will be presenting a supremely luxurious range of dresses, injecting fresh new shapes and contemporary, light fabrics. Cord embroidery is a dynamic and youthful embellishment on the bodice of a satin gown. A parachute hem gives a fresh twist to the traditional train. Gunmetal chain detail trims an empire line georgette dress, making an exceptional statement. David Fielden will be showcasing his 25 signature gowns – structured yet soft, romantic and floaty in slinky satins; cut-out work and soft, fuller skirts with embellished bodices will be key features. ‘White Gallery London is an event that was very much on our radar last year and one we felt very necessary to partake in for 2011.

The show is ideal for the David Fielden brand as it encompasses what we stand for high-end luxury, style and glamour. It is a fantastic opportunity to present the 2012 collection to a high-quality retailer and buyer set in a fabulous venue,’ David Fielden. Ian Stuart will be showing a selection of classic elegant gowns. Full skirted dresses meet asymmetric tiered styles, presenting innovative updates on period styles. Luxe fabrics include brocade and taffeta with lace also dominating the collection. ‘Once again we will be presenting our 2012 Bridal collection in association with White Gallery London. This is the most exclusive and couture bridal trade show, giving buyers the opportunity to see many different designers and accessory collections. Elegant surroundings and daily fashion shows give the buyers and press the first look at the leading collections,’ Ian Stuart comments.

Matthew Williamson will be launching the full bridal collection showcased for the first time ever in a glamorous catwalk show at White Gallery London. Fong Ee, a spokesperson for the designer, said: ‘Matthew Williamson Bridal is a natural extension of the mainline eveningwear; the pieces are characterised by a soft and feminine silhouette in richly-embellished luxurious fabrics. Elements of the designer’s signature style, fine embroidery and intricate beadwork, are central to the look. The personality of the collection encapsulates elegance and opulence and combines them with a bohemian spirit’. Stewart Parvin will be presenting pretty embellishments and flowing light fabrics with fluid lines.

Classic structured A-line dresses are key to the collection with lace and chiffon offering a contemporary take on traditional styles. Waistline detailing creates perfect silhouettes and look and feel ultra feminine. Stewart comments: ‘It’s such a fabulous setting to be able to present our collection.’ Alan Hannah, Anoushka G, Blue Bridalwear, Halo Designs & Co, Hollywood Dreams, Johanna Hehir, Katzi Jewellery, Lyn Ashworth, Polly Edwards, Rachel Simpson Shoes, Ritva Westenius, Sassi Holford, Stephanie Allin and Vivien Sheriff Millinery will also be amongst the UK talents at White Gallery London 2011 together with some big international designers including Claire Pettibone, Gemy Couture Bridal, Jesus Peiro, Lea-Ann Belter Bridal, Lusan Mandongus, Olivia Couture, Stephanie Browne Australia and Ugo Zaldi.

For more information on attending or exhibiting please visit www.whitegallery.com