How would you describe your latest collection? What was your inspiration behind these designs?
A new sense of contemporary luxury embodies my 2013 collection. I have been inspired by lighter textures and fabrics, along with an array of luscious embellishments. Lace, beading and dimensional details merge to create a modern feel perfect for confident and stylish brides.
Why did you opt to collaborate with Mon Cheri?
I felt that the Mon Cheri label was a quiet achiever with integrity. That is very important to me, and can be hard to find in this business. They are a well-established company and Steve Lang—the CEO of Mon Cheri—and I got along from the start with regards to our vision and philosophies.
Take us through the process of creating your collections.
It generally takes about 6 to 8 months, because I am very hands-on with the gowns. I give the design lots of love and attention, which is great, but the process is often technically challenging. There can be a lot of trial and error working this way, but it’s always worth it in the end.
Describe a Sophia Tolli bride—what is her personality like, her wedding style, etc.
I am best known for the draping of my gowns. I recently had a bride thank me for giving her cleavage she never had thanks to my fit and cut—it was very sweet! Working directly with brides has given me firsthand experience on just how wonderfully different each bride can be. Therefore, each season I focus on making sure there is a variety of silhouettes and looks that cater to every personality. As a result, anyone can be a Sophia Tolli bride, from a confident, sassy woman to one who is more classic and understated.
What is your favourite bridal gown from this collection?
Each gown is dear to me given how much time I spend with them, so I find it very hard to be partial to any one style. I usually have a different favorite each day, depending on how I feel. Today it's "Bonnie" and tomorrow it might be "Mirabelle"—I love them all for so many different reasons.
| Left: Bonnie, Right: Mirabelle |
What is the biggest bridal trend you’re seeing now?
Slimmer silhouettes are on-trend now. I also love that girls are getting more adventurous with their choices. I’m seeing more textural elements—particularly in the skirts—becoming quite popular.
What do you enjoy most about designing bridal gowns? What inspired you to join the bridal industry?
I grew up surrounded by fashion and had many of my clothes made for me by my late aunt, an amazingly talented seamstress. I would choose fabrics with her, select colors, and sit on her cutting table to watch the end creation emerge. From that experience, I knew I wanted to become a fashion designer. (I still have some sketches I did when I was only 10 years old!) Bridal began to appeal to me years later, during my formal training at East Sydney Fashion Design Studio. It seemed to me that any amount of time spent creating the perfect wedding dress was always worth it.
If you could create a custom gown for any celebrity, who would it be and what type of gown would you design for her?
I would love to do a gown for Anne Hathaway. She's a style chameleon and can wear just about anything. I can see her in a stunning silk duchess, satin-draped bodice with an A-line skirt, to a pretty, organza fit-and-flare with a textured skirt. Whatever dress she chooses, I predict that she will be the picture of understated elegance.
What advice do you have for women when choosing a bridal gown?
Try not to get caught up in all the stress about it—enjoy the process and maintain a positive attitude throughout. Before you go to the stores, try to identify your own sense of style, and plan your wedding around that. Lastly, I always recommend that brides choose their gown from an established retailer. Choose a salon that gives you great service and enjoy the journey!
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