I’m so excited to share with you my latest Facebook Live from one of the world’s most gorgeous bridal boutiques, London’s Mirror Mirror (a much-loved Recommended Vendor), I was lucky enough to meet with co-founders Maria and Jane, sisters-in-law who started their business 30 years ago out of a shared passion for artisan bridal fashion, and we had wonderful Smashing The Glass Recommended Vendor Adrian Stone behind the camera.
These two inspirational ladies, who I got to know after noticing that so many of our STG Real Brides bought their gowns from Mirror Mirror, are both designers and stockists of some of the hottest international bridal designers, including Nurit Hen, Hayley Paige, YolanCris, Gemy Maalouf, and Atelier Pronovias. So who better to talk us through the top luxury wedding dress trends for 2019/20?
We had the amazing Reportage Gallery on hand to sneak some behind-the-scenes photos. They were a joy to work with, and I’m absolutely delighted to share the images they snapped with you!
Maria and Jane started off showing us some stunning dresses from their own Mirror Mirror Couture collection. We saw some totally gorgeous gowns and chatted about some of the top bridal trends for the coming year.
First off, we’re seeing a return to classicism in a big way – there is so much to be said for a timeless gown.
A big trend is off-the-shoulder styles, which I think are just so elegant (and no worries for your brides who need to have your shoulders covered for the chuppah – Maria and Jane have got plenty of options for you. For example, they paired one glam off-the-shoulder style with a lovely long veil, to exquisite effect.
Another thing we’re seeing a lot of is styles using different material for the bodice and the skirt – most commonly, lace on top, and something simpler on the bottom. Maria and Jane report that for years gowns tended to be either all-over lace, or decidedly minimalist styles made from plainer fabrics – but now, we’re seeing more and more dresses that incorporate both elements.
Pockets, which have been steadily picking up speed for a couple years now, are still going strong. So are 3D flowers, which are also a hot trend when it comes to wedding stationery!
Another trend – and one that I know is very much welcomed by many Jewish brides – is high necklines and long sleeves. These can be sexy with sheer lace, or modest with full lining, depending on each individual bride’s needs.
Maria and Jane also had a great tip for Jewish brides who are worried about tripping on their trains while circling under the chuppah: they can sew in a ribbon loop that’s easy to hold up elegantly – so smart!
We then shifted over to some lovely Pronovias styles.
We also had a discussion about the cost of bridal alterations, which is something I get asked about a lot – Maria and Jane provided a great explanation as to why it’s worth spending on top tailoring for your big day.
At the end of the day, though, your wedding gown should be an expression of your own personal style – which may or may not match the trends of the moment. As Maria said, “It’s your wedding, your way, and we never forget that” – and that could not possibly be any more aligned with our philosophy here at STG.
Located in Angel, the shop is super convenient to both North London and the City. But even if you’re not close by, Mirror Mirror is absolutely worth the trip — even from another country; this boutique is seriously that good! Whatever your personal style, modesty standards, or body type, Mirror Mirror is THE place to find the dress of your dreams. And with dresses starting at £1850, they’ve got options at a range of price points.
Oh, and did I mention that members of STG’s Brides Club are eligible for a £200 discount on veil and accessory purchases over £400?
If you missed the live show, you can watch the replay below. Make sure you like the Smashing The Glass Facebook page to be notified of all future shows!
0:00 Welcome!
2:46 Introducing Maria + Jane
4:00 Trend: Off the shoulder, buttons, pockets.
5:26 Trend: Return to ‘classic bridal’
7:14 Pronovias veil with 3D flowers – another trend!
8:17 Special gifts for Brides Club Members!
8:45 Wedding dresses and pockets!
11:54 Tips on choosing your dress based in your body shape
16:03 Trend: ‘Off the shoulder’ straps
16:47 Trend: 2-in-1 look
18:17 If you’re worried about tripping over your dress when you do the circling
19:59 Q&A: “What kind of veil should I put with an A-line dress with only beading and crystals (no lace)?”
21:01 Q&A: “What is the best silk to use”?
26:50 Q&A “How should I cover shoulders for a sleeveless dress without covering the detail in the back & front?”
28:10 Q&A: “How do I go about selecting the right veil length to go with both the dress & cover up (as I don’t want to hide the lovely back & front detail)”
29:33 Q&A: “How do I figure out the proper length for the dress when you don’t have your shoes selected yet & you want to wear heels but change into flats later?”
31:11 Q&A: ” Bustle tips!!”
33:19 Starlight Pronovias gown from the latest collection
36:27 Trend: High neckline
45:19 Why are alteration costs so high?
49:00 Think big picture!
Mirror Mirror | Call +(44) (0)20 7713 9022 | angel@mirrormirror.uk.com | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest |Twitter
Brides Club Gift: £200 discount for veil and accessory purchases over £400
HUGE THANKS TO: