Bridal trends: ‘Shift to unique gowns for all’

ALEESHA HARRIS A lot has changed in the wedding dress world in recent years.

Sure, most gowns are still white, off-white or some subtle variation, but when it comes to length, silhouette and embellishments, these days, anything goes.

We asked Gaby Bayona, owner and designer behind the Vancouver-based bridal brands Truvelle and Laudae, to talk trends, the bridal-gown industry, and her upcoming designer meet-andgreet with local brides-to-be. Gaby Bayona

QWhat’s new in the world of bridal gowns?

ASimilar to how it is in many other product sectors, the rise of social media has given a voice to the independent designer and paved the way for more options than ever before. The past year has been the year of the indie bridal designer — something made glaringly evident by the much publicized bankruptcy of Alfred Angelo, a bridal company which has been around since the 1930s. Faced with proof that options exist through Pinterest and Instagram, brides are no longer settling for what’s available at their local bridal boutique. It’s an awesome time to be a bride, and a time that is both exciting and challenging for designers.

QHow, if at all, have styles changed in recent years?

AOh man, it has changed so, so much. Quick backstory — I grew up in the bridal industry, thanks to my mum who was a bridal alterationist. Growing up, it felt like the only thing out there was heavy satin mermaid gowns and ball gowns ... probably due to the fact that was all there was. Gone are the days when whole decades can be summed up by a look — we all know too well the puffy sleeved bridal gowns of the ’80s. In recent years, there has definitely been a shift to unique gowns for all. It’s not hard to find super streamlined sheath gowns, romantic chiffon gowns, luxurious ball gowns, super-sexy fitted numbers, or anything else on a bride’s Pinterest board.

Q. What can you share about the upcoming event at Truvelle?

A.For the first time ever, Truvelle is doing a designer meet-and-greet at our flagship boutique in the heart of Gastown. This event is the perfect opportunity for brides to meet the makers behind their favourite dresses, and ask styling questions. We first got this idea through traditional trunk shows — in the early days, I would travel with a suitcase full of dresses all over Canada and the U.S., and it was always a special moment to be there with a woman as she chose the gown she would get married in. To make this event extra exciting, we’re giving free customizations to all women who book between Feb. 24-25. Visit truvelle.com to learn more about the Truvelle meet-and-greet event.