The Couture Gallery on the ultimate bridal design experience

The Couture Gallery, a long-established atelier in Kensington, offers the ultimate bridal couture experience. Absolutely Weddings finds out more

At The Couture Gallery, Danish designer Britta Kjerkegaard offers the ultimate bridal luxury – a perfect couture experience. For the past 14 years, her Kensington atelier has been a go-to destination for brides from around the world. And, with sophisticated and elegant silhouettes, clever integral corsetry and intricate details, these are unique wedding dresses that are guaranteed to steal the show. We caught up with the designer to find out how her bridal couture process works.

What does the couture process entail?

We offer an entirely personal service – from first sketch to final gown – and brides are part of that creative process. At the first consultation, we discuss styles the bride prefers, the overall look she is after and the type of celebration she is planning. My design experience means I’m able to offer expert insight on fabric, silhouette, colour and styling possibilities – including elements she might not have thought about. It’s a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of time to ensure an enjoyable experience for the bride.

The second consultation is where we go through sketches, discuss further ideas and finalise the design as far as possible – including choices of silks, laces and trimmings. Once detailed measurements are taken, work begins on a personal pattern. This is used to make up a ‘toile’ – a dress in a different material – to ensure perfect proportions and fit. Once that is finalised, we make up the final design in silk and several silk fittings follow.

Everything is made here in our atelier, so changes and ideas can be incorporated along the way. We also create accessories such as veils and headpieces to bring the bride’s final look together.

How would you describe The Couture Gallery’s style?

The look is elegant, with dramatic silhouettes. Hand-made details such as silk organza flowers, French-lace embroidery and appliqué are very much part of this. My style is romantic and modern – signature built-in corsetry means my designs complement the female shape. The dresses are made to fit perfectly, be incredibly flattering and also light and comfortable to wear.

Who is your typical bride at The Couture Gallery?

I have clients from all over the world and they are all individual in their personal style. What unites them is the desire to find a dress that is uniquely theirs and that they can play a key part in creating. We offer two floors of inspiration, with everything from floor-sweeping tulle gowns to sophisticated slimline dresses. Some brides opt for more than one dress if they have a multi-event wedding, and we also love designing clever elements to ensure one perfect gown that can be worn in multiple ways.

What makes a couture gown so special?

I believe it is the ultimate luxury to have a one-of-a-kind couture gown created especially for you and, because we offer such a personal service, and huge attention to detail, this becomes a very special part of wedding preparation. It’s a unique process: some brides choose a gown they didn’t initially think they would love while others know exactly the look they want to achieve. We take huge pride in making every bride’s dream dress a reality.