Lyn Ashworth is a British label renowned for exceptional craftsmanship and a timeless ‘English rose’ style. Designer Sarah Barrett has interpreted its signature brilliantly for 2018 to create a fresh and fluid collection offering pure romance
Lyn Ashworth is a bridal label with a distinctive design aesthetic. Always beautifully crafted, these are gowns that capture the essence of the English rose bridal style. Ballgowns and timeless full skirts are the label’s forte, and the use of exceptional materials and tailoring makes these gowns classics. All are designed and made in Hanbury, Staffordshire an idyllic rural location on Duchy of Cornwall land.
The 2018 Daydreamer collection is a stunning interpretation of this signature by creative director Sarah Barrett. With ballgown shapes firmly in the mix, Lyn Ashworth is always a go-to look if you want day-to-evening glamour. But what we love most is the fluidity and lightness of touch of this new collection. These gowns are also in tune with current bridal trends, with their focus on fuller ballgown shapes, dramatic necklines and rich textural contrasts.
For 2018, Sarah was inspired by the interplay of light and texture. She says: “We are surrounded by texture and light. Different light can portray a different texture and a different texture can portray a different light”. This is shown to great effect through accomplished use of hand-appliqué, beading and 3D embellishment to maximise the luxurious and luminous fabrics used within Daydreamer.
“We are surrounded by texture and light. Different light can portray a different texture”, Sarah Barrett
There are strong botanical influences, especially visible in the use of floral guipure lace and silk organza appliqué. Monochrome accents run through the collection and we love the addition of contrasting black velvet ribbon belts to accentuate the waist and highlight lavish satin-chiffon skirts.
The gown palette of ivory, blush and champagne shades is perfect for a high-summer or destination wedding but equally effective after dark, especially as this is a collection that includes such rich textures and shimmering details.
Often the Lyn Ashworth collection is photographed in the rolling fields and flower meadows surrounding its Staffordshire studio, but this year the team captured the gowns in the stunning surroundings of Chateau de Clerac, near Bordeaux. The gowns look perfectly at home in these romantic French surroundings – perhaps no surprise then that in addition to a loyal home market, Lyn Ashworth has a following of brides who journey across the Channel to secure their perfect English rose wedding gown.
Our verdict is that this is a vintage year for Lyn Ashworth, so if you are considering a romantic gown, this is most certainly a collection to explore. Since all gowns are designed and made in the heart of England, there is a high level of flexibility with fittings and alterations. Sarah Barrett and team also offer a completely bespoke service from the Lyn Ashworth studio – involving the full couture process of toiles and multiple fittings – if you want a one-off wedding gown.
Lyn Ashworth by Sarah Barrett is located at Hanbury, Staffordshire. London stockists include BOA in Richmond, Surrey. For information about collections, other stockists and personal appointments, visit lynashworth.co.uk
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