Bridal Fashion

look book: clean lines

Laura McDonagh

Cortana Grace-dress-deco-wedding-coat-2-cortana-bridal-1000x1500

This afternoon we’re talking about sculpted columns, bold lines and architectural sweeps – but this isn’t a piece about wedding venues, oh no, it’s all about dresses – specifically, simple, fuss free-wedding gowns with clean lines and sleek silhouettes.

There’s something about a minimalist gown that, while timeless, has a simultaneous up-to-the-minute feel perfect for a fashion-forward bride. Here at Brides up North we love the edginess of a dress with less, and we’ve gathered together a whole lovely loot of unadorned beauties for your browsing pleasure.

Main post images by Cortana.

Cortana Gala-2-Cortana-bridal-1000x1500

First up is Spanish designer Cortana, a label which boasts a romantic, boho vibe. We love the luxe factor of the Gala gown; a silk satin bias-cut beauty which looks slinky and effortlessly chic. The attention to detail is just stunning – that diagonal row of silk-covered buttons on the back gives us all the feels – and the thin straps feel bold and youthful and a little bit 90s-Calvin-Klein, which is always a good thing in case you’re wondering.

The Cortana collection also features the stunningly minimalist Grace with daring back and thin crossed strap detail and the silk brocade Linda, made with a touch of lurex to give a super-flattering fit and stretch. There’s also the Valentina which, quite frankly, makes my heart sing – the boat neckline! The sleek drapery! And is a strong contender in my frequent ‘What Would I Wear If I Got Married Again?’ mental debate (don’t mention that to my husband, kaythanks?)

Cortana Grace-dress-deco-coat-7-cortana-novias-1000x1500

Onwards to a Brides Up North favourite – the always-opulent Eliza Jane Howell. EJH is known for their decadent vintage designs, and so might not seem a natural bedfellow of the Clean Lines brigade. However, in Gill Harvey’s recent collections, we’re seeing subtlety, simplicity and lots of plain silk alongside the embellishment and embroidery. Belle from the Leading Lady collection is a stunner with a contemporary feel, complete with bold halterneck, textured figure-hugging fabric and a daring sheer back. Daisy from the Legend collection and Clarissa from the Debutante range are unquestionably more vintage in style but still simple and sleek, with Daisy offering the tiniest hint of embellishment and Clarissa’s floaty sleeves a great option for brides less inclined to bare. Luna from the Stardust range gets close to the fussier end of the spectrum with its frothy skirt and mini train, but the long sleeves, close fit and semi-sheer overlay is dreamily clean and sculpted.

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And then there’s Jesus Peiro, specialising in rich fabrics and luxuriously simple looks. We think the 6001 with its sheer back and simple light silk skirt would look stunning with a simple updo and some seriously dramatic jewellery – possibly some oversized statement earrings a’la Jessica Chastain’s emerald Piaget creations rather than Pat Butcher’s gaudy baubles. We love the combination of plain fabric with just enough detail with the sheer lace back and waist in the 6057 and the jewelled belt and pockets of the 6019. And then there’s our ultimate favourite: the 6000. It has a full-blown fairy-tale ballgown skirt, a clean V neckline and an architectural bow at the waist, all crafted in gorgeous heavy satin with gloriously crisp lines. All the drama with none of the fuss.

Cortana Valentina-cortana-bridal-1000x1500

And if you still need more inspiration, then check out Charlotte Simpson’s range. Her couture collection keeps embroidery and detailing to a minimum and instead makes the most of modest, subtle features – a slit back, a Bardot neckline, a simple waistband – equalling a look with a fresh and urban vibe. Her ‘Our Brides’ section is a visual feast for ladies looking for simple, laid-back luxe.

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