How long have you been in Fashion and what was the inspiration to start Victor Bridesmaid? My interest in fashion started from a young age (as soon as I could sew!) and after completing a Fashion Diploma in Wellington, I began my fashion career in 1999 with Keith Matheson. I was inspired to start ViCTOR when my friends started getting engaged and came to me for help with their dresses after struggling to find dresses in the retail shops.
How do you think the wedding industry has changed in that time? And how did you adapt to continue with your success? The bridal industry has changed immensely in just the last 7 years! We’ve gone from classic, cookie cutter weddings to weddings that are more individualised for each couple. Styling, location and of course the dresses are so much more exciting and fashion-lead with brides having access to amazing inspiration from Pinterest, wedding blogs, new wedding mags like Together Journal and of course social media like Instagram.
What sets the Victor Bridesmaid brand apart, and what do your clients come to you for? I believe in creating beautiful, quality NZ made dresses and am proud not be part of the ‘fast fashion’ revolution. My clients appreciate good fit and design and receive personal service right through the whole process. I also make sure bridesmaids of all shapes and sizes feel beautiful by offering a size range from 6-20. All designs made to order in a huge range of on-trend colours.
How would you describe the Victor Bridesmaid aesthetic and experience? I don’t skimp on fabric so my designs always move beautifully. The ViCTOR look is somewhere between fashion and bridal, offering clients something other than what they can find elsewhere.
Where do you get inspiration? My inspiration comes from everywhere! Global fashion trends, wedding locations, my lovely clients and bridal magazines etc
Tell us about a few of the most spectacular dresses you’ve made over the years? Not personally designed or made by me, but being part of London Fashion week while working for Jasper Conran was incredible. Seeing the handwork and attention to detail that went into each design was so inspiring.
And some of the most memorable? (for whatever reason…) My most memorable dresses have been designing and making my own wedding dress (and attempting to fit it myself too!) and of course making dresses for my lovely sister’s weddings too.
What are your favourite fabrics to work with, and why? I choose to work with chiffons mostly. I love the way adding fullness gives movement and drape
What is trending in bridesmaid’s dresses right now? (Colours, fabrics, styles, details etc) Trends in bridesmaid’s dresses…….lace, individualised designs to suit each BM. Black, jewel tones, strong shades, and mismatched colours. Hemlines are either city-sleek and short or long and boho-floaty.
Victor Bridesmaid | Photography by Delena Nathuran
