BREAK THE BRIDAL MOULD

DREAMY GOLD COAST BRIDAL BRAND GRACE LOVES LACE IS KNOWN FOR BREAKING THE RULES IN ALL THE RIGHT WAYS, AND FOUNDER MEGAN ZIEMS SHOWS US HOW IT’S DONE

THE OLD RULE: Bridal wear has to be formal.

THE NEW RULE: Be true to your style.

We’re no longer all tying the knot in a church, so feel free to kick off those stiff satin heels.

“We’re seeing an upward trend of more casual settings like dinner parties, rooftop drinks or intimate elopements,” Megan says.

“Our capsule collection Le Deux was inspired by that woman who hasn’t dreamt of her wedding dress her whole life – in fact she might not even want a wedding dress but luxury and high impact are still important.

“We are always aware of designing pieces that can be dressed up or down as so many brides value being able to put their own spin on their look.”

Megan says edgy accessories are a way to make any gown yours.

“We’ve always been fans of a statement earring – it’s such an easy way to add your own flavour. A killer heel and a leather jacket or blazer for cooler nights is also a great way to bring your own style into it so easily.”

THE OLD RULE: Cover up.

THE NEW RULE: Have some fun.

Once upon a time, daring to bare a sliver of midriff would have seen you run right back up that aisle.

Now, if you’ve got it, flaunt it. Sophisticated and the right side of sexy, you can definitely have fun with the two-piece trend – but it comes with some style guidelines.

“Our two-pieces have become a bit of a phenomenon,” Megan says.

“We did our first two-piece five years ago and more and more women are seeing how beautiful, fun and flattering they can be. If you want to highlight your waist or abs then this is a great way to go.

“Showing the upper part from your waist to your under-bust is the most flattering and keeps the look chic.”

THE OLD RULE: Suffer for style.

THE NEW RULE: Pretty should be practical.

If you’re not sure you can feast, frolic and dance into the wee hours while feeling confident and comfortable in your gown, keep shopping. Megan says boning and restrictive fabrics have been done to death – instead look for breathable, soft, luxurious fabrics with a stretch element.

“Traditionally, boning and corsetry were about giving the illusion of a different body shape and I think we’ve come a long way since then,” she says.

“Women these days are loving their bodies, embracing their shapes and feeling confident.”

While we’re on the subject, forget spending the night crossing your fingers the Hollywood Tape holds.

By popular request, every dress in the Le Deux collection can be worn with a bra.

“Wearing a bra is really important to women with a bust that need support or added shape.”

THE OLD RULE: You get what you pay for – and be prepared to wait.

THE NEW RULE: It’s not about the money, honey. With every piece in Grace Loves Lace’s latest collection coming in under $1500, you won’t need to beg and borrow to get your dream dress. A tedious schedule of alternations doesn’t have to be the norm either, with bridal labels putting forward increasingly compelling online offerings.

Megan says Le Deux is ready-to-wear, available for immediate purchase and urgent worldwide delivery.