(Instead of wearing) one dress, today, brides love changing into different looks, to metamorphosize into different characters.
Andreas Kronthaler, creative director of Vivienne Westwood
Kronthaler declined to comment on the current size of Vivienne Westwood’s bridal business but said that it was “an important part of the house” as “something Vivienne and I have done since the early 90s.” He continued: “It’s grown over the years, and we’ve cultivated a desire for it, because we offer something particular and special.”
Originally available as a bespoke service for private clients, Vivienne Westwood’s bridal offering has expanded since 2019 to include made-to-order collections that are sold in its five bridal salons in London, Paris, Milan, New York and Los Angeles. Its ready-to-wear bridal designs are also stocked by retailers globally: On Mytheresa, a mini dress made from crêpe satin costs $4,790, while a full-length gown is priced at $14,350.
Today, Vivienne Westwood competes with a wider spectrum of brands, from emerging designers to established labels, which are looking to cater to Gen Z and Millennial brides looking for a less traditional take on wedding attire. This year, Badgley Mischka and The Atelier by Jimmy Choo were among the high-profile names at Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week, which was the largest edition in its history, and drew around 450 brands and buyers from over 80 countries.
Asked whether Vivienne Westwood plans to stage a bridal fashion show annually, Kronthaler sidesteps the question but said the brand would look to stage a runway in other cities. “We would absolutely love to do a bridal show in New York. I love the city, and I hope we can make it happen very soon.”
For Kronthaler, his wife’s spirit lives on through the label’s non-conformist approach to bridalwear. He observed that multiple ensembles and multi-use looks are gaining popularity, as brides opt for various outfits that can be worn throughout their wedding day — and beyond. “Perhaps before (people) concentrated on one dress,” he said. “Today, brides love changing into different looks, to metamorphosize into different characters.”
Kronthaler continued: “It remains a wonderful thing to spend your life with someone — and I think you establish and celebrate this through what you wear on that special day.”
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