Congratulations on your engagement, now the fun can really begin! There’s one iconic wedding planning task that’s certain to be at the top of your list, and that’s finding your dream wedding gown.
When shopping for the wedding dress that’s oh-so-you, there are tons of choices with countless designs of different styles, shapes and shades all vying for your attention. One thing is for certain however, British-made is always best – not that we’re biased!
There is a long list of British wedding dress designers to explore, here we introduce you to the top names in bridalwear design.
Sassi Holford
Known for her balanced lines, sleek cuts and use of luxurious fabrics, it’s no wonder Sassi Holford is one of the most prolific bridalwear designers out there. All her pieces are crafted right here in the UK and appeal to the stylish woman that puts quality above all else.
Despite the contemporary looks she is loved for, Sassi Holford has been kitting out brides since 1981, and it was a friendly favour that led her down a path that would go on to win her several awards and critical acclaim for her creations as Sassi Holford explains:
“…it all began in 1981 with a wedding dress that she designed for a ‘friend in need’. Growing up with this love of design and a dedication to perfection, it was inevitable that the designer would soon establish her name. With a desire to produce luxury clothes for women, bridal was an obvious starting point and a decision which has led to her distinguished success.”
Sassi’s latest bridalwear collections are celebrations of femininity in all its forms. Whether you’re searching for a figure-hugging number or an ethereal design, Sassi Holford should be your go-to bridalwear designer.
Jenny Packham
A favourite amongst royalty and A-list celebs, Jenny Packham is one of the most recognisable names in fashion. She entered the bridalwear industry at the very start of her career and since then, hasn’t looked back! Her flagship stores in London, Paris and New York boast rows and rows of signature Jenny Packham designs.
Her 2023 collection uses embellishment in the most intricate way to create show-stopping pieces that any bride would be proud to wear on their special day.
Caroline Castigliano
Caroline Castigliano is a British designer that has been a leading name in luxury bridalwear for more than three decades. Her elegant, effortlessly glamorous designs have earned her a legion of fans, whilst the wider label puts British design and craftsmanship firmly in the spotlight.
The designer offers a number of stunning bridalwear collections at her Knightsbridge flagship store as well as a number of boutiques based throughout the UK and a little further afield.
Phillipa Lepley
Based in Chelsea, Phillipa Lepley has just as much experience crafting bespoke dresses. Her timeless, iconic and feminine gowns make Phillipa a hugely sought-after designer in the bridal industry.
Phillipa’s use of embellishment, embroidery and fine details is quintessentially English and represents artisan craftsmanship that makes every dress she creates a triumph.
Stewart Parvin
The protégé of celebrated couturier Donald Campbell, award-winning British designer Stewart Parvin quickly established an enviable reputation in his own right. His bridal designs are known for their sophistication and exquisite craftsmanship, with their timeless elegance revered by brides all over the globe.
It’s not just brides that love Stewart Parvin’s beautiful designs, royalty loves him too. The designer was even a personal favourite of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, being granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment and an MVO knighthood in recent years.
Andrea Hawkes
Named as an up-and-coming British bridalwear designer to watch, Andrea Hawkes puts sustainability first with her choice of beautiful, natural fabrics a key part of her commitment to brides. She started her career working in a bridal boutique so knows first-hand the individualised experience brides really want.
Her wedding gowns reflect this uniqueness with contemporary, simple yet tailored designs her signature style.
Find more top tips for unlocking your own standout style by reading our guide to alternative wedding dresses.
