Every bride can agree on one thing: there’s no wedding without the perfect dress. And what deems as ‘perfect’ is another story. After all, that’s where the fun and albeit, stressful bit comes in; amidst the gazillion other things on one’s to-do list. In the expansive sea that is bedazzling wedding dresses, your only double-edge sword might come down to the luxury of options. From springy petticoats to entrance the aisle to a classic mermaid hugging all the right places, a customary bride procuring the ideal dress is only par for the course.
But should your tastes happen to stray from the conventional; in the event of playing into a certain theme or destination chosen for the special day, or even choosing to wear something that screams inherently you, here’s where unorthodox options can come into play. That means no rules apply: whether to denounce the white, opt for lounge instead of formal, layer with a blazer…. it’s a whole new world when you step out of the classics. And even if you might not look like the traditional blushing bride, it is still irrevocably, perfect for you.
South Korean designer Kiminte Kimhekim springs first to mind, with his eponymous label Kimhekim’s recent bridal edit. Larger-than-life bows, structured blazer dresses and silk minis make up most of the collection—reimagining what a loved-up ceremony could look like. Then, there’s the ease of sophistication from New York label Danielle Frankel, where breathtaking wedding ensembles take on a myriad of silhouettes; from sleek and slinky to cascading, outlandish shapes. Singing of exuberant youth, there’s also the cutesy school-girl to emulate from Sandy Liang’s bridalesque pieces—with the designer herself recently getting hitched in one of her own designs. It’s simple, understated and accessible enough to bust a move without putting a rip in it. Bonus points for longevity long beyond the big day.
So for any bride considering to go deviant for their matrimonial dress, shop these designers below.
1 / 6
Danielle Frankel
Last year, The White Lotus star Alexandra Daddario got married to producer Andrew Form, donning a pleated silk wool gown from Danielle Frankel—with all eyes on the subtle yet striking dress of choice, which exuded an old-world charm fitting for the wedding that took place in New Orleans. And it’s this exact mastery that Danielle Frankel’s designs channel, toeing the line between minimalistic and indistinguishable. From sheer lace to exaggerated hip proportions, there are a plethora of offerings for the bride-to-be, catering across varying climes.
Shop Danielle Frankel here.
2 / 6
Sandy Liang
We know the effortless, cool-girl energy that Sandy Liang sends through with her everyday designs and that ethos extends to bridalwear. If you’re planning a reasonably relaxed ceremony, sans floor-length gowns and posh ballrooms, there’s a good chance you’ll be a Sandy Liang bride. There are form-fitting minis that make a case for showing off major leg on your wedding day and the range of veils on hand here will marry just fine with just about any free-flowing dress you might have already picked out. You can even take a leaf from the designer’s book and pile on mini ribbons to zhuzh up your veil.
Shop Sandy Liang here.
3 / 6
Wiederhoeft
Theatrical musings form a significant part of Jackson Wiederhoeft’s designs, while also attributed to his three-year tenure at Thom Browne, and his recent fall 2023 show revealed yet another strong display of his penchant for bridalwear. A series of goth-punk trimmings coalesced with the tenderness of tulle, designed to redefine the Wiederhoeft bride. And from where we’re standing, you can never go quite wrong with a controlled streak of drama—as long as it stays within the dress.
Shop Wiederhoeft here.
4 / 6
Nevenka
An Australian atelier that specialises in bespoke, made-to-order wedding dresses, centred around the fluidity of bohemia. The pieces here lay down the perfect picture of a breezy folksy ensemble, apt for a beachside solemnisation—with crochet, florals and even that pop of colour (if you’re willing) to sweeten the happy occasion.
Book your appointment at Nevenka here.
5 / 6
Cecilie Bahnsen
Cecilie Bahnsen certainly needs no introduction and with her bridal category, there’s more to love from the Danish designer. The assortment ropes in ethereal creations from current seasons as well as exclusive collections, weaving couture fabrics and the distinct feminine sensibilities from Bahnsen. Think sculptural skirts, occasional peplum cuts and buffet tea dresses to add a pep in your step as you waltz down the aisle.
Shop Cecilie Bahnsen here.
6 / 6
Kimhekim
Kimhekim’s latest bridal collection sees delicate silks rearranged in varying cuts—from a two-piece suit to playful minis to corset tops over ankle-grazing skirts. And while all of that sit on a safer side when compared to the designer’s subversive M.O, the accessories are anything but. Especially in the way its giant ribbon hair clip makes for a fun alternative to your traditional veil. However those knee-length boots for a styling option? Not exactly for the faint-hearted.
Shop Kimhekim here.
