Creating wearable art: An exclusive look at Edwina O'Gorman
Discover the story behind the eco-friendly, ethereal gowns that symbolise bridal innovator Edwina O’Gorman’s unique design style and commitment to nature.
A born creative, Edwina O’Gorman’s innate design talents, married with her admirable devotion to the natural world, meant that she was truly destined to breathe life into her very own revolutionary bridal collection. Since the establishment of her eponymous label, Edwina has dedicated herself towards remaining cruelty-free and sustainable in the process of producing gowns especially designed for the eco-conscious bride. Adorned with delicate, minimalist lace detailing, her signature soft sheath silhouettes are crafted with the finest crepe and romantic chiffon, creating the an idyllic assortment for the understated bride who also adores the effortless, non traditional bridal look. The beauty of elegant simplicity takes centre stage in her new collection which will be unveiled at White Gallery this year. We spoke with Edwina O’Gorman to find out more...
What inspired you to begin your journey within bridal design, and what attributes of your collections do you think contributes to their overall success?
My fashion journey commenced with crafting bespoke couture dresses for individual brides, leading to my inaugural collection—a montage for brides of that era. The success lay in merging contemporary relevance with my distinctive style. This balance is a hallmark in each subsequent collection, ensuring a dynamic allure that resonates with brides worldwide.
What external influences inspire your own designs?
My inspiration is drawn from real brides, cinematic scenes, the organic beauty of nature, architectural marvels, and a rich array of fabrics, my design process unfolds as a dynamic narrative. Imagination takes center stage as I shape ideas, allowing them to flourish before finding their expression on paper. This diverse landscape of influences becomes the canvas where the creative process thrives, giving rise to designs that seamlessly blend real-world elements with the artistic finesse inherent in my distinctive style.
Which elements of your gowns do you think characterise the Edwina O’ Gorman aesthetic?
My commitment to signature crepe styles endures, loved by brides and emblematic of the brand. The exploration of exquisite embroidery laces, 3D florals, hand-beaded sequins, sumptuous satin, and ethereal chiffons showcases my profound love for fabric experimentation, crafting effects that transcend the ordinary.
What fuels your love for bridal?
The unequivocal love for the craft resonates from the brides themselves. Playing an integral role in their special day is a profound honour that fuels my passion. Nurturing relationships with retailers and fellow creatives adds depth to the brand’s journey, creating a collaborative synergy that enriches the creative process.
Within your campaigns and photoshoots, how do you ensure that the unique nature of your label is captured?
In the upcoming photoshoot, the spotlight illuminates my brand’s signature—effortless coolness. The careful selection of a model embodying relatability to my brides ensures authenticity. This choice guarantees a genuine representation of the brand’s ethos, capturing the essence of its unique style.
What sustainability practices do you implement within your design and manufacturing process, and why do you think this is important?
My commitment to sustainability is unwavering; eschewing furs, feathers, leathers, and silks, my designs proudly establish the brand as 100% vegan and cruelty-free. This ethical stance not only aligns with contemporary values but also fosters a deeper connection to nature and the design process, emphasising beauty without compromise.
Do you incorporate any particular trends within your designs, and do you have any trend predictions for this season?
Trends take a back seat for me, yet an affinity for sleeves remains. Revelling in the nuanced interplay of details and volumes, I foresee the corset making a comeback in 2024, offering a timeless allure that resonates with the brand’s ethos of marrying contemporary coolness with classic elements.
If you could collaborate with any designer, who would you choose and why?
The dream collaboration would be with the visionary Coco Chanel. Admiring her ground-up brand development, characterised by a timeless signature that transcends eras, I am inspired by her avant-garde spirit, a beacon of creativity ahead of its time. A collaboration with such a luminary would undoubtedly elevate the brand’s narrative.
What excites you the most about the future of your brand?
The horizon for Edwina O’Gorman is aglow with excitement as we unveil the new collection at White Gallery this year. Building connections with salon owners and esteemed partners adds a layer of anticipation. With a robust team by my side, we eagerly anticipate introducing the label to a global audience, resonating with salons and brides who appreciate the unique artistry and contemporary coolness of my creations.
