< Previous28 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 TheNEWS IMAGES: SUPPLIED Choosing a bridal gown is one of the most important decisions a bride can make (other than saying 'I do'). Th ankfully, Dalia Abu Issa, founder of Th e Bridal Atelier has a selection of bespoke gowns, curated from around the globe gathered together in one stunning space. From Rami Al Ali to Tony Ward, the varying selection of dresses is arguably the best in the Middle East. When asked what makes brides here so special, Dalia says: "I feel very lucky to operate a business in a market with such a diverse mix of cultures amongst residents and tourists. Dubai brides are a good mix. Th ey are very cosmopolitan and cannot be categorised easily which makes our jobs so much more complex but very interesting. One common truth is that the Dubai bride, regardless of her style, seeks the perfect experience, and appreciates and values good service. Th ey want to enjoy shopping for the dress of their dreams. From classic to cosmic, the Dubai bride cares about the details." What is the most commonly asked question when someone comes to Th e Bridal Atelier for the fi rst time? Th eir main interest is knowing the extent of the services we provide in dress modifi cations and customisations. For example, can we add sleeves, alter necklines or incorporate beadwork? As a result, we have expanded our team of seamstresses to create an atelier capable of meeting our brides’ needs. While signifi cant alterations may involve collaboration with designers, resulting in a complete redesign, many modifi cations can be executed in-house. Additionally, we craft exquisite veils, sleeves, off -shoulder styles, and overskirts in-store, ensuring they complement the dress perfectly. What are the timelines involved with fi nding, and making, the perfect dream dress? In today's world, the answer varies. Some brides will come to us a few weeks before the wedding and others will come over a year before their big day. I would always recommend giving us four to six months to fi nd the perfect dress. It gives us enough time to work with our designers on accessing more of their collections, order dresses according to specifi c measurements and allows us to place style modifi cations. If a bride has less than three months to shop for a dress and the designer she picks cannot accommodate her needs in due time, she can explore from our vast in-store collection. Our in-house atelier can also handle many alterations, provided the dress design allows for it. Regardless of how close the wedding date is, there’s always a solution, although options may become more limited as the date approaches. TTTTTThheeeee SAY YES TO THE DRESS THE BOUTIQUE With the dreamiest of dresses living happily-ever-after under this very beautiful roof, a visit to The Bridal Atelier should be on top of your to-do list HBBR_025_28-29_News_Bridal Atelier_13292374.indd 2827/06/2024 16:5529 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 TheNEWS XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX Do you fi nd ladies getting two or more dresses is prevalent in this region or is it still the norm to opt for just one? Oh yes absolutely. More brides today want to change out of their classic ceremony dress into something fun and dance fl oor-ready, however this also varies by culture. Since our city is rich with diverse cultures, a lot of brides will still choose one look for their wedding. At Th e Bridal Atelier, we curate many collections to accommodate for the second and third look from fl irty short dresses to contemporary fi tted styles. What are your thoughts on wedding dresses with colour? Over the past 12 years, I’ve noticed that brides have become more open to incorporating subtle undertones of colour into their dresses, like light pinks and nudes. I fi nd this particularly appealing on certain dresses because it enhances the visibility of the intricate details, unlike ivory on ivory. However, ivory remains the predominant choice, and I believe will continue to be so. Th ere’s a timeless allure to the idea of getting married in a 'white' dress that every girl dreams of. When you travel the globe to buy the dresses, how do narrow down your selection? Operating in Dubai, a city known for its multiculturalism and attracting people from around the globe, requires me to keep of the ladies in mind, adding a new dimension to my buying experience. Naturally, my focus is always on my clientele; they are my top priority. Bridal and fashion trends do overlap at times, so I ensure we stock the latest styles in-store, incorporating creatively designed pieces. However, many brides continue to prefer the timeless elegance when choosing their wedding dress. What did you wear for your big day ? I chose a classic, strapless dress with a straight- cut neckline in satin, adorned with pleats. It was exactly the style I had envisioned. To complement the gown, I opted for a simple tulle veil embellished with small crystals scattered delicately across its surface. My goal was to ensure that even 20 years later, I would still pick the same dress when I look back at my wedding photos. Now, after 13 years of marriage, I still feel the same way. One thing I regret was not wearing a headpiece, a detail that was forgotten amidst the planning. Diala’s Top 5 Tips on choosing the perfect dress EXPLORE VARIETY: Take the time to try on diff erent silhouettes and fabrics to truly understand what you love and what you might not like as much. LIMIT YOUR OPTIONS: Try not to overwhelm yourself by limiting your search to two or three stores. Having fewer options can make choosing a dress less daunting and more enjoyable. TRUST THE TEAM: It’s important to establish a strong connection with the boutique team or your designer. Th is relationship is vital as you embark on the journey from selecting your dress to attending fi ttings. ENJOY THE JOURNEY: Cherish the entire process as it can be a truly magical experience. Celebrate each step, from fi nding the dress to fi tting sessions. STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF: Choose a dress that refl ects your personality and makes you feel authentic then you’ll radiate confi dence and beauty on your special day. Dreamy dresses await brides-to-be at The Bridal Atelier in Dubai HBBR_025_28-29_News_Bridal Atelier_13292374.indd 2925/06/2024 06:3830 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 Words by SOPHIA SERIN Compiled by CHARLOTTE MARSH-WILLIAMS Make yours a wedding to remember in a dress dreams are made of The CATWALK REPORT 2024 HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3026/06/2024 07:15 The NEWS 31 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 ROSE UP The power of fl owers on a wedding day is unmatched, and making them a part of your dress is a smart move. Large rosettes work best on petite frames, while all-over roses and ball skirts suit brides wanting to make a Cinderella statement that says fashionable fairy-tale. Monique Lhuillier Fall 24 Gemy Maalouf Bridal Autumn 24 Saiid Kobeisy Bridal Couture Autumn 24 Simone Rocha S/S24 Dilek Hanif Couture 24 Ese Azenabor Bridal Autumn 24 Sarah Wong S/S24 HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3127/06/2024 16:5632 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 The NEWS SHOULDER TO SHOULDER Make a style statement at your post-wedding party with an off -the-shoulder number. Add volume for some additional drama or take the sheer route if celebrations are a summery, on-the-shore aff air. Side note, keep jewellery to a minimum and hair back to reveal nuanced necklines. Full veil, tiara or cloak, adorn your crown with delicate yet intricate fabrics for wow- factor as you walk down the aisle. Worn loose and long or in a chignon, a veil suits any beauty look, but simple always works best with this starry-eyed style. GO AHEAD Antonio Marras S/S24 Chloé S/S24Schiaparelli Couture S/S24 Dolce & Gabbana S/S24 Naeem Khan Bridal Autumn 24 Half Penny Bridal 24 Reem Acra Bridal 24 Said Kobeisy Autumn 24 HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3225/06/2024 13:10 The NEWS WAIST OF TIME Cinched or dropped, all eyes are on the waist this season. Full skirts look great with either style, and also work well with cropped skirt lengths. A clear winner in the waist race is by Vivienne Westwood. Pinched in all the right areas, its contemporary bustle is one of the coolest styles this summer. CAPE IT OFF Never out of style, we love capes always and forever. Adorned with bows, lace or butterfl ies, they always add just the right dash of drama to your big day. Nadia Manjarrez Autumn 24 Alexis Mabille Couture S/S24 Robert Abi Nader Couture S/S24 Peter Langner Capsule Collection Sandra Mansour S/S24 Danielle Frankel Bridal 24 Vivienne Westwood S/S24 Viktor&Rolf A/W24 Vivienne Westwood Bridal Couture HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3328/06/2024 22:27 The NEWS SHAPE UP We love a strong style statement (whatever the occasion) and what better time to steal the show than at your own wedding? Billowing hemlines teamed with stand-out shoulders are the order of your big day and can be married with oversized earrings and headpieces to have and to hold on to. Del Core S/S24 Simone Rocha S/S24 Vivienne Westwood Bridal Couture 24 Jean Paul Gaultier Couture S/S24 Robert Wun Couture S/S24 Zuhair Murad Bridal Autumn 24 Reev Bridal 24 Some might say old-fashioned, we say classic. Gloves are back and they are lenghthier than ever. We love Robert Wun’s daring draped version, as well as the intricate beaded options from the Middle East’s Zuhair Murad. VERY HANDY Berta Bridal 24 HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3425/06/2024 13:11 The NEWS HAPPY BLAZE(R) Worn during and after your wedding, a tonal blazer is every girl’s best friend. Th e more fashion forward bride can wear hers on her wedding day (see Georges Chakra Couture) and Versace have the perfect day suit version to wave off your wedding guests in. No. 21 S/S24 Georges Chakra Couture S/S24 Huishan Zhang S/S24 Versace S/S24 Alexander McQueen S/SS/S24 Dolce & Gabbana S/S24 The Attico S/S24 35 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 HBBR_025_30-35_News_Catwalk Report_13181517.indd 3527/06/2024 16:57HBBR_025_36-37_TP_Destination weddings_13241955.indd 3626/06/2024 07:18 The TALKING POINT 37 HarpersBazaarArabia.com Bride Spring/Summer 2024 WORDS BY EVE NEWMAN. IMAGES: MANDARIAN ORIENT AL, BODRUM FLIGHT of FANCY Dreaming of saying ‘I do’ among the rolling hills of Tuscany or barefoot on a Caribbean beach? A destination wedding may well be what bridal dreams are made of, but the devil is most certainly in the detail he Côte d’Azur, Italy, the Balearics, Mexico, South Africa, Th e Maldives – when it comes to spectacular destination wedding locations, the options are, quite frankly, endless. Often steeped in tradition and art while boasting white sand beaches, enchanting villages, world-class food and stunning vistas, it’s easy to see why more and more couples are choosing to look abroad to cement their happily ever after. “Destination weddings off er the opportunity for couples to gather their favourite people in the world and immerse themselves in their love of a place,” Lucy White, CEO and lead planner of Wiskow & White tells Harper’s Bazaar Bride. Specialising in multi-day, immersive weddings in Italy serviced to an exceptional level for clients all over the world, many from the UAE, Lucy launched her company in 2016 alongside business partner Danielle Wiskow after her own Italian wedding the previous year. “Th ey truly are a once- in-a-lifetime experience where you can enjoy a holiday with your most cherished family and friends while celebrating your love at the same time.” Yet often spanning several days, events and outfi t changes – and not forgetting time zone diff erences and cultural barriers with foreign vendors – planning the event of your dreams in a diff erent country comes with a whole set of unique challenges that, unless properly managed, can add an extra layer of stress to an already often anxiety-inducing experience. Luckily, that’s where the experts come in. Lisa Smith, founder and creative director of luxury destination events company Isla & Smith, knows a thing or two about the intricacies of planning a wedding abroad, working internationally for style conscious couples who desire something a little out of the ordinary. “We were the OG of planners to really specialise in destination weddings inspired by fashion, interior design, architecture and luxury travel,” she explains. Alongside her team she plans for a wide range of briefs to create something truly unique for every single celebration, with budgets usually starting around Dhs500,000. Case in point? One of her most decadent weddings in Ibiza involved a welcome party with a fl otilla of luxury yachts transporting guests to a private beach club, a Cirque du Soleil style cocktail hour where waiters burst into surprise song, acrobats performed among guests and synchronised swimmers in Chanel-inspired costumes stormed the pool while, post dinner, one of the island’s hottest DJs kept the party going into the early hours. Of course, having an experienced wedding planner is essential to navigate cultures, plans and logistics fl awlessly, but there’s a myriad of key considerations for brides to take into account before getting down to business. First things fi rst – budget. “It’s such a hard element to get your head around, especially if you’ve never planned such an important event for so many guests,” says Lisa. To avoid any issues later down the line, she suggests thinking of the amount you would be uncomfortable going over and then working backwards from there. “Together with your planner, get your main expenses under control and then work out what you can spend on the remaining elements. You’ll feel much more in control rather than the budget controlling you.” Lucy seconds this, adding that it’s vital to have a clear forecast from the start before anything is even booked and guests are invited. “You need to know that you can achieve what you want before you start committing to anything,” she adds. Choice of location is the next hurdle where plenty of brides fall, with one of the most important considerations being fi nding a destination which doesn’t put your guests out too much. Th is means that, unless you’re paying, a remote island off Bora Bora might be out of the question. “Unless the venue is so spectacular that all rules go out the window, pick somewhere that is fairly close to an airport rather than say a three-hour drive,” explains Lisa. While not such an issue if you have three or four glorious days of events planned, if it’s just one or two, the ease of travel and logistics is sure to make everyone so much more relaxed. “Planned events should also be as close together as possible,” she adds. “Transporting guests back and forth to diff erent locations can really kill the buzz after a fantastic event.” If you’re looking to save some dirhams whilst also incorporating sustainable elements into your wedding, one thing many brides forget is that certain items, such as fl orals and signage, can be reused throughout the day. “Florals in particular can be reused to get the most out of their beauty,” advises Lisa. “Not all elements, but a good chunk should be salvageable depending on the weather, and that makes your recovery party another beautifully styled event without the extra cost.” Th is includes reusing dinner and cocktail hour fl orals in vessels and water to style up entrance space structures, plus on stairs and around pool areas. Th ere are specifi c things you shouldn’t try to save on though if you’re really looking to throw the party of the century – a big one being your entertainment. “For a truly amazing wedding band it’s most likely you’ll have to fl y one in from a big city like London. Your band choice can make or break your party, so if the budget doesn’t quite stretch to this – keep in mind you will need to pay for transport and accommodation for all band members on top of their other costs – get a fantastic DJ instead. As long as they have charismatic energy and work with you on your set list, you’ll have the dancefl oor fi lled all night long,” advises Lisa. Other important vendors fall under this umbrella too, so be sure to choose those with experience in your chosen location. “Italian weddings in particular can certainly have their nuances,” advises Lucy. “Having a team that understands this and is confi dent in these specifi c scenarios and locations will make the day work and fl ow better, and ultimately get you the results you want.” While you may end up with a smaller guest count than at home – and you’ll have to accept that certain important people may not be there on your big day - there’s good reason why A-listers (think the Clooneys and the Crawfords) often swan off to more exotic climes to tie the knot. And at the end of the day, if you’re married to the one you love, then everything has gone swimmingly. Like some of the best destination weddings, if you choose to host your party on the edge of an infi nity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean, this could quite literally be the case. HBBR_025_36-37_TP_Destination weddings_13241955.indd 3726/06/2024 07:18Next >