The Best Bridal Designers In Europe

Speaking from personal experience, wedding dress shopping is somewhat of a minefield. While of course an exciting, special and once-in-a-lifetime experience, it can also be incredibly overwhelming - with endless styles and designers to choose from, finding THE dress (or dresses), can be a time consuming expedition. Luckily, we’ve done the research. These are the top ten bridal brands to have on your radar….

1. Jacquemus for cool & contemporary

While not traditionally a bridal designer, Jacquemus’ reputation for ‘cool and contemporary’ has previously led many modern brides to look toward his ready-to-wear collections for simple yet statement-making wedding dresses. Earlier this year, Jacquemus made it official with its first ever bridal collection, ‘Le Mariage’ - one which takes an understated approach and has a very fitting ‘laissez-faire’ feeling. The collection offers sleek silhouettes and natural fabrics, perfect for both brides and grooms seeking a less-is-more, luxury look. Take note from the ‘Le Mariage’ campaign and look to this collection for a relaxed, beach wedding. 

2. Emilia Wickstead

An established player in the bridal game for a while now, Emilia Wicksted perfectly combines romance with refinement. Much like her core collections, her signature bridal style is characterised by clean lines, structured, sculptural silhouettes in and a touch of tradition. Offering both ready-to-wear and made-to-order styles, as well as a bespoke service, her designs nail the art of exquisite craftsmanship with pieces that are perfect for more formal occasions. For the bride-to-be who seeks classic elegance and old-school romance, this is the wedding dress destination for you. 

3. Eva Lendel

Known for her intricate lacework, bold cuts, and figure-flattering designs, Eva Lendel gowns cater to brides who want to make a statement. From delicately detailed bodices to flowing, tulle skirts, her collections offer a range of styles that highlight femininity while maintaining contemporary flair. If you’re in the midst of planning a luxury, destination wedding, look to Eva Lendel. 

4. Ashi Studio

For the bride-to-be who dares to be different, Ashi Studio is a name to know. Based in Paris, Ashi Studio is renowned for its innovative and architectural approach to bridal wear, offering avant-garde creations that are truly an artform. Ashi’s couture gowns are often sculptural, with dramatic trains, voluminous skirts, intricate embroidery and elaborate adornments - think ethereal organza, cascades of crystals and shimmering pearls.  If you're planning a high-fashion wedding and want a dress that pushes the boundaries of tradition, Ashi Studio will exceed your expectations.

5. Luis Infantes

Yet to find a Spanish brand that we don’t love, we’re not surprised by Lui Infantes' rapid rise to fame. Embracing that cool, conservatism that the Spanish do so well, his made-to-order designs strike the perfect balance between classic bridal beauty and contemporary innovation. Using sustainable design making methods like 3D printing, his pieces take simple forms, and feature unexpected details that just work. 

6. Lana Marinenko  

After designing her own wedding gown in 2009, Lana Marinenko launched her Wedding atelier a year later. Using modern technologies and high-quality materials, her pieces are works of art - elaborate, ethereal designs with high-fashion detailing. Beaded bodices, exaggerated sleeves and pleated details - designs that would work wonderfully for a sparkling black-tie, Winter wedding. 

7. Danielle Frankel

A name you’ve likely heard in recent years, New-York based Danielle Frankel has quickly gained well-deserved, widespread attention amongst industry experts, fashion houses and celebrity brides. Her pieces speak to so many styles - traditional and romantic, whimsy and ethereal and cool and fashion-forward, an art that is hard to master! Using non-traditional fabrics, Danielle combines soft silhouettes with avant-garde details in a collection of not only bridal gowns, but also accessories, jewellery pieces and shoes - truly a one-stop shop for the dreamiest of wedding looks. 

8. Prea James

Prea James designs for the modern romantic bride. With a design philosophy that “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, her gowns are effortless and feminine, featuring flowing silhouettes, delicate fabrics, and playful detailing. Her structured silhouettes, cool-girl mini dresses and bow accessories are perfect for civil ceremonies and evening receptions, whilst her classic collection speaks to the beachy brides. If you love soft, unfussy aesthetics with a modern twist, Prea James will captivate you.

9. Vivienne Westwood

An icon for good reason, Vivienne Westwood is recognised for her expert tailoring, dramatic draping, and innovative cuts. Her signature sculpted bodice and draped, bardot neckline suits all, while her separates and accessories help you to transform one look into two, seamlessly taking you from ceremony to reception. With a number of couture and made-to-order styles available, there’s no doubt you’ll find THE dress here. 

10. The Own Studio 

Saving arguably the best for last, The OWN Studio is a bridal brand to know, for both brides and bridal parties. Handmade in its London atelier, the brand offers pared-back, fuss-free styles with subtle vintage detailing, giving that quiet luxury look we all know and love. In a commitment to being “sartorially Sustainable”, the brand uses fabric offcuts and encourages a circular way of wearing by offering restyling and alteration advice. If your pinterest boards centre around Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy inspiration,  then look no further than The OWN Studio’s, silky styles and sleek suits.