The past year may have thrown weddings into disarray as celebrations had to be cancelled and plans put on ice but, now that things are slowly going back to normal, many brides-to-be may be left suddenly panicking about planning their nuptials. One major aspect of this is, of course, the dress, which can be tricky (and expensive) to find. Luckily, one British designer has just made things a lot easier.
Jenny Packham is renowned for her glittering evening dresses which are beloved by the likes of Miley Cyrus, Sandra Bullock, Angelina Jolie and – most notably perhaps – the Duchess of Cambridge. The latter has worn Packham's dresses for countless events, famously choosing the designer to wear for each hospital photocall after giving birth to her children. So, Packham is well-placed to know what women might be looking for when it comes to a wedding dress.
'Essentially, the dreams and desires of the bride never change…[it's] to be the most beautiful version of themselves,' Packham says. For her part in this, she has created a 13-piece bridal collection for The Outnet, which includes embellished tulle gowns, feather-trimmed minis and elegant crepe dresses.
'During the pandemic the bridal industry was hugely affected,' she says. 'Our buying skills evolved, shifting heavily to online meaning we had to develop new and exciting ways to present our designs to international brides.' Choosing The Outnet means that the prices are more affordable than usual, with these wedding gowns starting at £1,320 (40% off the usual cost), which will no doubt be music to brides' ears.
Says Packham: 'The collection is some of our most-loved silhouettes - both elegant and modern. A bridal dress should reflect the times we live in and yet recognise the traditions of marriage. It is always my intention to design gowns that are light and comfortable so that the bride can move easily and be in the moment- enjoying herself!'
Of course, one of the potential issues with buying online means brides forego a more traditional shopping experience, although Packham suggests a way round this. 'In the same way that you would experience during a store appointment, ask a trusted friend to come over to give their opinion [as you try on] and have a glass of champagne if you decide it’s the one.'
SHOP: Jenny Packham's Bridal Collection for The Outnet
Wild Orchid Tulle-Paneled Embellished Crepe Midi Dress, £1,170
Gardenia Embellished Glittered Tulle Bridal Gown, £1,860
Anise Tiered Glittered Plissé-Tulle Mini Dress, £1,260
Lotus Cape-Back Crystal-Embellished Cady Bridal Gown, £1,560
Magnolia Crystal-Embellished Georgette-Paneled Satin Bridal Gown, £1,680
Tulip Crystal-Embellished Tulle-Paneled Crepe Midi Dress, £1,170
Bird of Paradise Feather-Trimmed Embellished Tulle Mini Dress, £1,498
Camellia Embellished Lace-Paneled Draped Cady Bridal Gown, £1,590
Song Flower Crystal-Embellished Satin Bridal Gown, £1,320
Bloom Cape-Back Embellished Chiffon Bridal Gown, £1,498
Amaryllis Embellished Tulle-Paneled Chiffon Bridal Gown, £1,680
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