8 of the best Australian and New Zealand labels for bridesmaid dresses
IMAGE VIA @VAN.DER.KOOIJ/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
Here comes the bridal party.
If you based your opinion solely on romcoms from the late ’90s or early 2000s, it’d be fair to say bridesmaid dresses are notoriously ugly. Movies like 27 Dresses, My Best Friend’s Wedding or Confessions of a Shopaholic will tell you the only options are made from peach taffeta or ill-fitting satin – but thankfully, fashion has come a long way.
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Yes, being a bridesmaid does mean you probably have to concede to whatever the couple chooses. In saying this, it can be a somewhat collaborative effort or at least one where the bridesmaids’ body types, colour palettes and preferences are taken into account. Luckily for you, there are a number of thoughtful Australian and New Zealand labels offering bridal party-appropriate options. Scroll on for some of our favourites.
Maggie Marilyn
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Climate-positive New Zealand label Maggie Marilyn offers a collection of easy-wear dresses in sizes six to 16. More suited to a casual, modern affair, Maggie Marilyn pieces come without the dreaded bridesmaid bells and whistles (a matching headpiece, excessive layers of tulle, etc), making them certified re-wear-friendly.
Perple
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For something a little unconventional but still formal, browse Melbourne label Perple’s collection of made-to-order dresses. Dreamt up by designer Huiliana Chandra-Curry, Perple pieces feature subtle unexpected details (detachable armour-like sleeves, a faux corset) that won’t steal away from the main event.
Van Der Kooij
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Australian-made womenswear label Van Der Kooij fuses luxury, sustainability and smart design. The label has a dedicated bridal offering, so you can work directly with the designer in creating a bespoke piece (or several!). In saying this, all Van Der Kooij dresses are custom-made, so you can enquire about specific sizing options/other tweaks when you place your order.
Paris Georgia
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Cult New Zealand womenswear label Paris Georgia makes modern, elegant pieces designed to be worn time and time again. Alongside its collection of high-quality wardrobe basics, the label has a range of elevated bridesmaid options, from asymmetrical midi dresses to floaty, voluminous minis.
Beare Park
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Luxurious, simple and made right here in Australia, Beare Park dresses are ideal for a refined, classic ceremony. The dresses come in a variety of muted colours like black, burgundy, brown and cream, so you can take your pick or choose the same shade, but different styles for each bridesmaid.
Silk Laundry
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When it comes to the big day, sometimes simple is best. That way, you’re less likely to look back and cringe at very of-the-moment choices (for example, the infamous purple wedding). Australian label Silk Laundry is known for its beautifully made, minimalist silk dresses, available in a variety of flattering colours, cuts and washes.
Wynn Hamlyn
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Another of our favourite New Zealand-based designers, Wynn Hamlyn is known for its technical knitwear, refined tailoring and feminine dresses. While the label doesn’t have a dedicated bridal range, its range of dresses is extensive enough to suit a variety of ceremony styles – from soft, simple maxi dresses to asymmetrical minis with the label’s signature macrame detailing.
Macgraw
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Loved Australian label Macgraw offers something a little left of centre for your bridal party. With playful elements like frills, intricate prints and peekaboo lace panels, Macgraw dresses are romantic but never boring. If you’re looking for something more gender-neutral (or just have a penchant for cool suits), the label also excels in tailoring.
For more of the best bridal designers right now, head here.
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