The runway from GAIA and Believe by GAIA at this year’s Harrogate Bridal Show was full of romantic dresses that focused on flattering the feminine figure whilst incorporating a range of shades and different styles of lace. From chic and simple gowns to intricately designed patterns, there is something for every bride. There were a variety of different types of sleeves used, including sheer fitted long-sleeves, drop sleeves, and even detachable sleeves. Structured bodices were often accompanied by ruffled sweetheart necklines, adding softness to the boned bodice. This collection felt sexy but graceful, with romantic touches added to figure-flattering gowns.

We spoke to Maria Ryan from GAIA Bridal, to discuss their latest collection as seen on the Harrogate Bridal Show runway:

What was the inspiration behind the collection?

For this collection we were looking at introducing something a little bit more romantic. I think that brides are moving away a little bit now from the sexier, fitted look. They want to feel romantic; they want to feel beautiful and soft, but also have that modern edge. So that is what we were trying to incorporate into this collection. There’s lots of floral laces, with vines and trailing flowers, and that’s got a really soft, romantic feel so has been incorporated into our designs. We want to try and give brides something a bit more modern and edgy whilst also being very feminine and romantic.

Can you pick your top 3 favourite dresses in the collection?

Jasmine, Jo, and Laura were GAIA’s top three sellers at this year’s show and are unlike anything the brand has done before. Romantic and feminine, incorporating unusual laces and different shades of champagnes. These gowns come in various different colourways whilst including different kinds of laces and features such as off-the-shoulder details. We’ve gone a bit more princessy in the skirts this time and it has really paid off. It’s been really nice to do something that felt a little bit indulgent.

How has the Harrogate Bridal Show 2021 been for you?

The show this year has been absolutely phenomenal: we’ve had such an amazing show! It’s been so lovely to see all our retailers again after such a long time but then to welcome so many new retailers on board has been phenomenal. Now it’s just trying to work out how we’re going to fit all of these dresses into our premises and whether we need to get a bigger one! It’s been absolutely wonderful, had such a positive vibe. It feels like we’re at the end of something that’s been horrendous and we’re moving towards the future.

Click the link below to watch GAIA and Believe by GAIA’s full catwalk: