Bridal designers appear to have spent the last few months binge-watching British period dramas. With their voluminous skirts, romantic capes, and elaborate embroideries, the season’s most glorious gowns could easily have come from the sets of Masterpiece’s Victoria or Wolf Hall.
Perhaps it’s a backlash to flannel shirts and beanies. Or maybe it’s a longing for the days when the folks in power were masters of speech and good manners. But there’s something in these grand, court-worthy costumes that feels as uplifting as an episode of The Crown.
Rachel Leonard was the Fashion Director of Brides Magazine for 18 years—the first employee at Condé Nast to make the jump from advertising to editorial. Rachel is currently the Editorial Director for The Bridal Council, and can be followed on Instagram @_rachelleonard
A marketing executive currently living in Arizona, Sally Kilbridge spent more than 20 years as an editor at Brides Magazine. She indulges her love of travel and romance on her website, destinationw.com, a definitive guide to destination weddings.
More from Rachel Leonard and Sally Kilbridge:
3 Fall Foliage Wedding Locations, With Gowns to Match
Fall Wedding Gowns for Every College Major
Your Perfect Four-Day Wedding Wardrobe