A wedding is one of the most touching days in a couple’s life. Many brides envision their wedding dress as a fairytale gown with a voluminous skirt and corset. However, fashion evolves, and so do wedding traditions. In Birmingham, a unique designer and an extraordinary boutique are reshaping the concept of bridal wear. Read more on birminghamka.
We Are All Unique
Birmingham-based company The Couture Company specializes in creating unique, unconventional, and custom wedding dresses. Founded in the 1990s, the company was born from designer Jo’s vision of bridal gowns that truly reflect the individuality of each bride.
As a fashion designer, Jo was inspired by the diversity of people around her. She believed that a bride’s dress should not just be a piece of clothing but a representation of her inner world. The boutique and atelier are located at Block 9 Minerva Works, Digbeth, Birmingham, Warwick Bar.
The Couture Company works by appointment only, ensuring every bride receives personalized attention. The team takes pride in keeping the entire production process based in Birmingham, though orders are accepted from across the UK. While they source exquisite French lace, intricate embroidery, and the finest silk from around the world, they refuse to outsource production to cut costs. Unlike other brands that manufacture in the Far East, The Couture Company remains committed to local craftsmanship and British design heritage.
A Creative Team
From the moment Jo decided to become a designer, she envisioned The Couture Company as a hub of creativity. Over time, she assembled a team of skilled professionals who understand the nuances of bespoke fashion. Each team member is trained to work closely with clients in a warm and welcoming environment, ensuring that every detail of the bride’s dream gown is realized.
The Couture Company specializes in bold accents, non-traditional cuts, and alternative wedding fashion. The price of their dresses generally does not exceed £3,000, but costs vary depending on the fabric and design intricacy. Brides can choose from a vast selection of materials in different price ranges.
Wedding Fashion of the Past
Wealthy Victorian-era Englishwomen were known for their extensive wardrobes. A well-dressed woman was expected to own at least eleven different types of dresses, including dining gowns, walking dresses, tea gowns, evening wear, and ball gowns.
The leading trendsetter of the time was Queen Victoria. The moment she introduced a new style, the entire country followed suit, from clothing to accessories.
Traditional white wedding dresses were the most common in historic England, but there were exceptions. In the late 19th century, navy blue and brown wedding dresses gained popularity. If a widow or an older woman remarried, she often wore a lavender-colored gown instead of white.
This diversity in 19th-century bridal fashion proves that wedding trends have always been dynamic. Now, in the 21st century, The Couture Company is reviving the tradition of non-traditional wedding attire.
While The Couture Company focuses solely on dresses, brides looking for accessories can turn to other artisans. Birmingham’s renowned Jewellery Quarter continues to thrive, producing unique handcrafted rings and wedding jewelry. For those yet to choose an engagement ring, custom pieces can be found in this historic district.
Birmingham is fortunate to have exceptional bridal designers, a vibrant jewellery industry, and picturesque wedding venues—making it a perfect city for couples seeking something truly special and personal for their big day.