Jessica Wu
What inspired you to get into the bridal fashion industry?
It was actually my own wedding. I couldn’t find a gown that looked nice on me. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with designing and making bridal gowns. When I get to know the bride, build up trust with a bride and her family, and combine her inspiration with my own design advice, the finished wedding gown is always a work of art.
What is your favourite wedding gown you’ve designed?
I couldn’t pick one favourite gown; they all have their own different and unique elements. Recently I designed a gown for stunning bride Chanel Barbarich (pictured below, by Bubblerock), and I would say it’s one of the most spectacular dresses I’ve ever designed. Hundreds of hours of labour and love went into designing her gown and train. When the bride collects her gown, I always feel like I’ve known her for a long time. When they send back their wedding photos with a thank you card, it’s such a rewarding moment for all my hard work.
What is the first thing you consider when you design a wedding gown?
It’s very important that the bride falls in love with her gown now and that she still loves it 10 years in the future. At the initial consultation, I try to understand the bride’s personality and what she loves – maybe it’s a design, a fabric or a lace pattern. Sometimes I feel like a psychologist!
How would you describe your signature style?
I have a timeless, classic and feminine style designed in luxurious fabrics, which enhances the bride’s best features and silhouette.
Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
Many leading designers draw their inspiration from the next collection on the runway, but my inspiration comes from my brides. I love to talk to my brides, and they always give me my ideas!
What are your trend predictions for bridal fashion for the coming year and beyond?
I feel using lace creatively is still on top of the bridal fashion world – breaking the rules of how to use and cut the lace in different ways, creating a garment that is a showcase piece. But timeless is always the key word I keep in mind for my brides. On their 20th, 30th and 50th wedding anniversaries, they need to look back through their wedding album and still be in love with their gown.