You might not have heard of Israeli bridal couture label Galia Lahav but it's a pretty big deal. Helmed by designers Galia Lahav and Sharon Sever, the 30-year-old brand has over one and a half million followers on Instagram and can currently claim to be one of the most sought-after names for ultra-glamorous brides the world over—the brand's wares are anything but pared back.
At the fashion house's recent non-bridal couture show in Paris (Lahav also creates custom-made gowns for the red carpet, with A-listers Allison Williams and Jennifer Lopez being fans), I had the chance for a chat with Lahav's design partner, Sever, who told me that there's one massive trend he can see becoming even bigger in the bridal world.
While watching Galia Lahav's runway, I couldn't help but notice that sleeves were a key feature throughout. From floor-sweeping gowns with billowing Stevie Nicks–style bell sleeves to peach dresses with puffed tulle shoulders, almost every look centred around the arms. Sever confirmed my suspicions, saying that right now, "everybody wants sleeves and dramatic silhouettes," citing that the extra coverage is also being requested by brides.
You need only take a glance at the rest of the couture shows to see that this detail also played a key role in other wedding-friendly offerings. From Chanel to Rodarte, as well as Monique Lhuillier and Ralph & Russo, long sleeves were everywhere. We've even heard reports from a new brand here in the UK, Grace Loves Lace, that it's a particular British desire right now, while our American counterparts are still keen to bare more skin.
While Sever said they didn't follow trends (they set them, darling), the idea is clearly only getting bigger (literally and figuratively). So if you're in need of a bit of wedding dress inspiration for next year—whether as the best dressed guest or the main lady in question—keep scrolling for a look at Galia Lahav's current bridal designs and the other couture looks.
Left: Rodarte; Right: Monique Lhuillier
Style Notes: Both Rodarte and Monique Lhuillier went for the more ethereal way of representing this trend.
Left: Ralph & Russo; Right: Chanel
Style Notes: Ralph & Russo opted for a more traditional bridal silhouette, whereas Chanel's oversized gown takes the look one step further with bold sleeves.
Next up! High-street wedding dresses have never looked so good.
