Olwen Bourke, The Kerala Collection
The Kerala Collection is a new range of ethereal bridal gowns for 2022 by London based designer Olwen Bourke.
This is a thoughtful, modern and romantic collection aimed at contemporary brides-to-be.
Inspired by the lush, tropical plants of South Asia, the collection features elegant silhouettes with trailing floral embroidery in lightweight fabrics of organic silk georgette and tulle. Tiny hand-embroidered flowers adorn necklines, and sweeping skirts are embellished with breathtaking botanical designs. The Hanna and Florence gowns feature hints of colour with soft pinks and blues incorporated into the embroideries, and the Alicia gown is a soft duck-egg blue silk crepe.
Bourke says: “As weddings become less traditional, more and more brides are moving away from classical white. Hints of colour add personality to the gowns and mean that they can be worn many times again after the big day.”
In line with the growing trend towards more personalised weddings, where brides favour artisan over mass-produced products, all of Bourke’s dresses are completely unique and handmade to order. She works with skilled artisans in India to create her signature embroideries, and each dress is cut, sewn and finished by hand at Bourke’s North London studio.
Bourke says; “The quality and feel of a gown made by hand is so much more special than a factory produced product. I love to incorporate personal emblems or secret messages into the embroidery or the lining so that each dress is an original work of art.”
Bourke definitely knows a thing or two about creating a show-stopping dress, having designed custom gowns for the BBC TV show Strictly Come Dancing, numerous red carpet events and evening wear ranges for fashion houses in Paris and London. For the past four years, she has also been the designer of the Bridal and Bridesmaids ranges for British high street brand Monsoon.
Dress consultations are available to book via zoom, and designer Olwen can talk you through the range, showing close up details and answering any questions you may have. The dresses can be ordered directly from the designer in sizes 8 – 18 and orders take 3 – 4 months to complete. Prices range between £1,800 – £2,750 when ordered directly from the Kerala Collection.
Bourke says; “Weddings have changed so much in recent times and there’s been a shift towards more ethical and independent suppliers. Offering handmade dresses means that I develop a relationship with all of my brides and can provide a really personalised service. For me, it’s such a joy to be involved in each bride’s unique wedding journey.”
What an incredible array of wedding gowns for 2022 from Olwen Bourke – I am absolutely loving the Kerala Collection. How about you?
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