Disclaimer: I’ve always loved wedding season. From the chaotic hen-dos and hunt for the perfect wedding guest dress to tearful speeches and, of course, the romance of it all, there’s something so joyful about the whole affair. I’ve happily played my part as guest and unofficial photographer through the years, but lately something’s shifted. My friends have started getting engaged, and suddenly, I’ve become an active participant in the planning, which has meant one exciting thing: wedding dress shopping. So, when my best friend got engaged, as her fashion expert, I was armed with many, many mood boards and boutique recommendations. Naturally, the first stop wasGalia Lahav, a brand that’s always been on my personal wish list.
The brand has long been the first port of call amongst fashion-forward brides and even the A-list, including Simone Biles, Paris Hilton and even Beyoncé, who all wore Lahav’s dresses for their weddings and vow renewals. Still, I was expecting the designer boutique to be the first of many try-ons for my friend, Emily. But as she twirled her way through the appointment, we somehow landed on a dress that ticked all her boxes and more in under an hour. But what an hour it was.
The moment we walked into the Galia Lahav showroom in Audley Street, it felt like walking into a romcom. The lights were soft, carpets lush, and floor-length mirrors reflected sparkling reflections of the brides donning their gowns. We were greeted with warm smiles and glasses of Prosecco, and it felt less like shopping in London and more like a scene from 27 Dresses. Although we never quite got to 27.
Although Galia Lahav is practically synonymous with intricately embroidered pieces, Emily was keen on trying simpler silhouettes, and surprisingly, the boutique had plenty. The first we tried was the Dynasty gown from its Kiss & Tell Collection. Understated and elegant, at first glance, the silk gown looked simple enough, but it was the details that shone brightest. The brand’s knack for excellent corsetry was evident in the dress’ structured silhouette, while the scoop neckline and baroque basque waistline added a flattering finish before flowing into a voluminous skirt. The classic dress was paired with a simple veil finished with a vintage lace trim.
Shop: The Dynasty Gown
galialahav.com
Emily said: ‘The first thing that caught my eye about the Dynasty gown was how well the corset snatched my waist in. The scoop neckline was incredibly flattering on my bust, and the full skirt was surprisingly less heavy than I thought it would be, which would make dancing at the reception a breeze.’
It was almost love at first sight for Emily, until the staff at the boutique brought in three more gowns just to try, and this self-confessed minimalist found herself swayed by the gorgeous embellishments. So, we moved on to the next dress, a whimsical A-line silhouette by Head Designer Sharon Sever. Crafted from an AI-designed fabric, blending technology with craft, the structured dress featured all-over floral 3D beading and a thigh-high slit, which proved just a bit too daring for Emily, but stunning nonetheless.
Shop: The Fortuna Gown
galialahav.com
Emily said: ‘I love florals, so I was very keen on the Fortuna gown, and it looks every bit as gorgeous as I imagined. The V-shaped panel on the corset added a flattering illusion, and I adored how light it all felt. However, the thigh-high slit was much more risqué than I was personally hoping to go on my wedding day.’
Next came a vintage-inspired dress that would’ve looked completely at home at a '20s-themed party. Aptly named the Gatsby gown, the beaded slip sculpted wonderfully to Emily’s body. Featuring shimmering art deco lines through the torso and into the skirt, it also came with a silk tulle embellished overskirt for added drama. While this would’ve been the winner for me, we decided to try one more dress for Emily.
Shop: The Gatsby Gown
galialahav.com
Emily said: ‘I loved the simple slip-dress style silhouette of the Gatsby. The oversized skirt was great for a dramatic effect, and the beading made it so special. The only drawback here was that the simple silhouette clung to my body, which felt a bit uncomfortable for me, but would look so brilliant if you’re comfortable with skin-tight dresses.’
Now, at first glance, I wasn’t sure if Emily would suit the frankly dramatic Primavera gown, but as she slipped on the romantic ball gown, we knew we’d found the one in an instant. The soft ice pink gown snatched in her waist with its corset, while the sweetheart neckline was incredibly flattering, and the dramatic sheer balloon sleeves added to the dreamy silhouette. Detailed with dainty 3D lace & intricate hand embroidery and accesorised with a simple tulle veil, it was exactly the special dress she’d be getting married in.
Shop: The Primavera Gown
galialahav.com
Emily said: ‘I knew this was the one the moment I tried it on. I love how special the ball gown silhouette feels and how gorgeous the lace and embroidery details are. The corset is the best I’ve ever tried and sculpts my waist in while still being comfortable to breathe in. The best part, however, is the detachable sleeves that let me have two looks without having to change out of my dress on the day.’
While Galia Lahav has long been on my list of bridal designers for exquisite gowns, the ease and luxury of the appointment cemented my belief that it’s definitely the first stop for any fashion-forward bride. So, whether you’re after an effortlessly classic dress or an embellished ball gown, I’d suggest booking an appointment the minute you say yes. Start with the bridal quiz on the brand’s website for guidance on your dream dress before booking an in-person appointment for the perfect try-on experience. Trust me, you’ll be walking out with the dress in just a few hours.
Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.