Founded by London College of Fashion alumni Maria Yiannikaris and Jane Nicolls, Mirror Mirror London is a bridal institution with a stellar list of international names and a gorgeous house label. Here, Maria explains how they help brides on a quest for the perfect dress
Mirror Mirror London started life in 1989. Both of us had trained at London College of Fashion and had worked in both high fashion and high-end eveningwear. My mother was a couture designer – she dressed people like Ella Fitzgerald and Diana Dors. And I distinctly remember Twiggy having a hotpants fitting in our house when I was growing up! Jane’s godmother was a London couturier, so it’s in our DNA.
Our Mirror Mirror Couture label has been central to what we do since we started. Indeed, we began by only designing and selling our own gowns and were picked up by both Liberty and Harrods. We create original patterns and are always focused on flattering and impeccable cut. Dresses are made right here in our workrooms, and when we’re fitting we cut to the bride, so it’s always the best you. We don’t compromise on fabrics, favouring silk satin, crepes, organza, tulle and fine French laces.
The focus with our other designers is on leading international labels, including star couture names such as Nurit Hen (exclusive to us in London) and Gemy Maalouf, alongside brilliant designers such as the French bridal house of Cymbeline. Our relationship with them means we have a lot of scope to make design changes via their ateliers. Of course, our atelier here gives us the ability to ensure dresses are extremely well fitted. If brides can’t find a dress that feels quite right from across our labels, we can always create a bespoke design.
If a bride can’t find a dress that feels quite right from across our labels, we can always create a bespoke design.
These days, there’s so much choice that it can be hard. My advice is to plan the dress no more than a year in advance and do your research first to find labels you like. Once you’ve shortlisted designers, narrow down to three boutiques that stock them. A lot of brides find it difficult to stop looking, but it can drive them mad. It’s far better to find a look they love and then go for it.
Carousel below: Nurit Hen, Gemy Maalouf, Cymbeline, Mirror Mirror Couture
About Mirror Mirror London
Mirror Mirror London is located at 56 Penton Street, London N1. For bridal appointments, call 020 7713 9022 or visit mirrormirror.uk.com
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