More edgy looks for brave brides
IT’S ABOUT breaking the staid bridal mould and giving the free-spirited, contemporary bride a fresh new way to celebrate her big day, says designer Abigail Betz of her 2015 bridal collection.
Betz of Abigail Betz Bridal Couture targets the high-end bridal wear market with her once-off haute couture pieces, and makes bridal accessories to suit each wedding gown.
Her latest collection ranges from the high drama of black tulle to the prettiness of a peachy ’50s-inspired skirt.
“Retaining its signature sense of romance, the new collection introduces colour, texture and an irresistible sexiness.
“The collection highlights the female form – waist, shoulders, collar bones – to accentuate the shapeliness of a woman with a subtlety that’s never overtly suggestive,” says Betz.
“In a bridal market with so much over-embellishment and lack of variety, I wanted to set the modern bride free to look as enchanting and have as much fun as possible on her special day without being weighed down by excessive, restrictive petticoats and overstated trimmings.”
She says the collection’s four themes feature dresses that are timeless enough to be as relevant in 20 years as they are now. HAIR: SAADIQUE RYKLIEF MAKE-UP: LIZ VAN DE MERWE AT RED HOT OPS MODEL: ALEX GLENDAY AT BOSS MODELS PICTURES: ROSS GARRETT/LAMPOST; COURTESY ABIGAIL BETZ BRIDAL COUTURE
Look 1:
The Dark and Enchanted Forest FOR the creative woman who is comfortable with her individuality, the black wedding dress of the enchanted forest exudes sophistication and confidence but also the magical qualities of an exotic bird.
Multiple layers of black and grey tulle create volume, depth and mystery while a black feather bustle accentuates the waist and a touch of soft tulle across the bust line draws the eye to the bare shoulders.
Oversized cut-out appliquéd flowers on the train complete the forest romance.
Look 2:
The Soft, Romantic Beach THE perfect summer’s day on an endless beach with the love of her dreams – for this free-spirited bride, the gown combines a sleek, classic silhouette with soft, natural fabrics.
The cotton embroidery anglaise skirt is topped with a soft cotton bodice covered with open crocheted lace and finished with a cotton belted bow to create a refined, vintage look.
Look 3:
The Beautiful Garden THIS look is for the girl in love with all things pretty as she floats across a lawn or a bed of summer wildflowers.
Shades of pink and peach, different weights and textures of tulle and a variety of stitching techniques are mixed to create enchanting colour play and movement.
Layers of tulle and delicate beading emphasise the sensuality of the neckline and shoulders. The tea-length hemline adds light-heartedness.
Look 4:
The Clean, Sophisticated City This look of opulent simplicity is for the sophisticated working girl who wants an evening of excitement and glamour.
The gown is made from silk chiffon and a duchess satin skirt with pocket detailing. Large decorative flowers have been hand-appliquéd down the front of the gown, with tiny pearl detailing adding a romantic flourish.
The ankle-length design allows for ease of movement, with the small train giving a touch of glamour. The dress can be easily repurposed into a cocktail dress. – Lifestyle Reporter