I’ve been a long time watcher of Anne Barge’s fashion shows at bridal week and admired her tenacious spirit and drive. Anne’s gowns are exclusively stocked at Basilica Couture in Australia and I am delighted to have Anne join us today on Polka Dot Wisdom!

Tell us a little about you? How did you get into the world of bridal fashion?

As a small child, my mother who was a church organist, took me to weddings and I was hooked!

How do you strike a balance between contemporary and classic styles?

An example would be using a classic fabric with a contemporary silhouette

 What’s the most inspirational era in fashion for you and your designs?

1950s

There are many famous brides throughout history, do you see any as iconic in their bridal style?

Grace Kelly

What are the main criteria a bride should consider when choosing her gown?

Remembering it’s “here comes the bride and not here comes the dress!”

Do current trends influence you at all?

Yes, such as trumpet and mermaid shapes.

Please tell us about the gorgeous fabrics, threads and beads you use, how you source them and how you use them.

Most laces are from France, silks from Italy, beading and embroideries hand-done in India.  Sometimes we use these in combination and sometimes they stand alone.  I find the fabrics at fabric shows while the embroiders come to me and or send swatches.

How do you hope women will accessorise  your dresses?

Very simply.  Usually an earring is enough.

What provides you with the most satisfaction in your job?

Making a bride feel the most beautiful in her dress of a lifetime.

What elements of your bridal design are you taking into your custom-made evening gown designs?

Many of our designs work well for evening simply by changing to a color

Have you any plans to bring your gowns to Australia?

We currently sell to Basillica in Drummoyne (Sydney, NSW).

Thanks for joining us today Anne! See more of Anne’s creations on the Anne Barge website.

Images courtesy of Anne Barge