Canberra’s leading red carpet event is fast approaching. FASHFEST will once again return for three fashion-filled nights September 28-30.
With six shows over three nights, Canberra can expect a variety of looks for all occasions. This year, having all my focus on my upcoming wedding I was particularly intrigued by the bridal collections. So, I caught up with Gabrielle from Gabrielle Spencer Bridal and asked her a few questions about her stunning gowns and her anticipated trends for 2018.
What are you anticipating to be the biggest bridal trends for 2018?
Bridal trends for 2018 include black accents, classic silhouettes, cascading ruffles, statement bows and all over beading. I’m very excited to have incorporated a few of these trends in my collection, which I’m showing at FASHFEST on opening night (28 September), show 2, at 9pm.
What’s your favourite and least favourite bridal trend so far?
My favourite trend it one that is fairly recent. It’s the laid back, boho, not-too-done up look which is what my collection is all about. Comfortable, classy and effortless. My least favourite trend was the leg-of-mutton sleeve which appeared in the 1890s and then made a comeback in the 1980s … eeek!
What distinguishes your bridal ‘look’ from many others?
The most distinguishing feature throughout my collection is that it offers an alternative style for those not wanting to indulge in traditional gowns, whilst maintaining a distinct bridal flavour. The collection includes winter wear suitable for colder climates, like Canberra, but also has many pieces which can be worn in all seasons. It has classical styles that are suited to a diverse age group and gowns that can be adapted for all kinds of venues whether it be a small restaurant, an al fresco venue such as a park or a more traditional venue such as a church or chapel. Each look can be dressed up or down as the collection provides alternative pieces such as a formal jacket that can be worn with a woollen dress or combined with a 1920s style lace-frilled skirt for a more traditional look. My fabric combinations are both traditional and non-traditional with splashes of sequinned lace, silk and wool crepe. I also explore with different shades of ‘white’, a common element of the early 1900s.
Who is your favourite bride of all time?
Poppy Delevingne. Her CHANEL gown was stunning and if I had the same budget for my wedding gown I would have worn something very similar.
Which celebrity would you love to dress?
Jessica Mauboy. I love her enthusiasm, her passion for life and her gorgeous indigenous features. I think she would make a beautiful relaxed and happy bride … and that voice …
What are your top three tips for brides to be (like myself!).
Choose a gown to complement your face, which is the most important feature on your wedding day.Don’t feel the need to have something fitted. Relaxed and floating is often just as elegant if not more. Try on many different styles, you might be pleasantly surprised about what compliments you, and it may be a world away from what you envisaged. Dress for your body type, not your ideal body type.
Are you excited about FASHFEST? Tell us why and your views on the show.
I am extremely excited to be a part of FASHFEST 2017. FASHFEST is such a wonderful influence on Canberra. It creates a platform for start-up designers like myself to gain massive exposure and showcase my designs in the flesh as opposed to just online. From a designer perspective, it’s wonderful to meet and interact with other creatives, and I love how FASHFEST creates many possibilities. I love fashion and I love Canberra, but 10 years ago the two didn’t mesh well. They do now, thanks to FASHFEST.
Tickets for FASHFEST 2017 are on sale now. For the full program and to buy your ticket, head to www.fashfest.com.au And don’t forget the after-parties at QT Hotel.
