I have recently gotten to know local designer Allyson Simon and her couture bridal line.   I was so taken by her line that I wanted to get her take on couture bridal trends.  Read below for our interview.

For a little background, Allyson designed her first dress in 1988 and since then her gowns have been featured in numerous magazines, editorial, and the couture shows in New York City.  Each year, she comes out with a new line of 12-20 dresses.  Her main office is in La Jolla, with brides being able to have a sneak peak at her next line by appointment, and her production office is in Los Angeles.

What trends do you see in bridal attire?

     Destination gowns are still in the running, and more and more brides
still want the beauty of a simple elegant gown.  Silk flowers
are still a growing trend on bridal dresses and ball gowns.  We'll also see more added touches of crystals and lace in the details. 

How do you think the bridal industry has changed in the last 10 years?

    Bridal attire has become more fashion conscience. Fashion is not what everyone else is wearing--fashion is what no one else is wearing.  Brides now want dresses that veer from the norm rather than reflect it.  A bride describes her character and personality through  the bridal dress she chooses.  I always say, a brides true personality is shown through her bridal gown. I have been a Bridal Designer for 11 years, and my
collection hit the runways in New York City for the Couture Shows back in 1998. Since then  I have  seen a enormous change in the bridal industry. Weddings have  become some of the most fashion conscience events that we see.  It's a welcome and exciting change for us designers as we now have free reign to create anything we want.

 

What materials do you see being used in bridal fashion?

     All designers have their favorite textiles to work with.  Favorites often seen are silk crepes, silk-satin organzas, and beautiful silk taffetas for those sheered ball gown looks.  For 2010 we see simple, elegant dresses  with details of silk handmade flowers or jewelry accents such as a beautiful diamond belt.  Backless dresses are still in and will always be a popular dress for those far and away romantic destination weddings.

What do you consider to be some of your signature elements?

I am well known for my sexy bias cuts, and backless shapes.   My specialty background is textiles, I always say,"even a fabric wants to be something." 

Are you working on anything new?
I have recently finished a new Jewelry Collection called Bluetulle. This collection is far from being just basic bridal jewelry. I like to call it chunky, edgy and feminine all at the same time.  

Allyson Simon, local La Jolla designer and two of her couture bridal creations