Oh, what a treat we have for you today! Filled with exquisitely feminine silhouettes, the dreamy Spring 2016 Val Stefani collection features unforgettable detailing and options that are perfect for the contemporary bride (think stunning low backs, detachable overskirts and two-piece gowns). SoCal-based designers behind Val Stefani, sisters Valerie and Stephanie Chin, walked us through the inspiration behind their gorgeous new collection, what it’s like working together + dished out some practical tips on how to survive the tumultuous ride of finding the one:
Wedding Inspirasi: The Spring 2016 Val Stefani collection looks amazing. What is the story behind the new collection?
Valerie & Stephanie: This season’s collection was inspired by desert gardens and desert blooms. We are based in Southern California and currently experiencing an epic drought. So we infused the drastic weather we are experiencing and channeled it into the designs this season. We incorporated designs perfect for an outdoor occasion with convertible options with removable sheer tulle skirts and two-piece bridal gowns.
Our color palette this season mimic the colors of hibiscus flowers and the textured bougainvillea vines. We wanted to have people re-imagine their idea of a desert and go beyond just your typical cactus and seeing the feminine qualities of desert plants like succulents shaped the colors and textures we choose to accent our latest collection. The beautiful and unexpected feminine layers of the succulents we incorporated into our lace patterns and new soft earth tones.
What is a key bridal trend for 2016 that you are most excited about?
We love seeing romantic sleeve detailing, sandstone/blush tones, and beading this season. We see flirty shoulder detailing as being a hit this season and a great alternative to a strapless neckline.
We do love a good backstory! How did the two of you get into the business of designing wedding dresses?
Our family has history in the fashion and bridal industry, so fashion has been a constant influence in our lives. It was the encouragement we got from our friends and family that we decided to come together and design our own collection. Being sisters is what makes our dynamic unique. We have our own unique style and personality, but when we come together we are like one person. When people meet us they are always in awe at how we can complete each other’s sentences and sometimes speak in unison. We create each design together and can switch roles so that we complement each other during the design process.
We are also big fans of the Moonlight brand (view Moonlight Couture Spring 2016 collection), which is also under your creative direction. How does the Val Stefani collection differ from Moonlight’s collections?
Our Moonlight bride has a more carefree and elegant spirit. Val Stefani is our luxury brand and we use more silks, Swarovski crystals, and hand detailing.
How would you define the Val Stefani bride?
The Val Stefani bride is looking for glamour and sophisticated styling.
Being in the industry for over twenty years, we believe that you must have witnessed your fair share of bridal meltdowns. Any advice on how a bride can stay sane when looking for the gown of her dreams?
Remember to have fun! This process is supposed to as stress-free as possible. Don’t bring too many friends or family to your bridal appointment. Just bring the people that you know want to see you happy. You are wearing a gown that is supposed to make you look and feel beautiful. When the bride tries to please everyone else then sometimes she is the one that ends up having an unhappy experience. Also, don’t be afraid to try on something that is different than what you originally plan. It is the unexpected that might actually surprise you and be the one.
Photos courtesy of Val Stefani. For details on where to buy a Val Stefani gown, visit Val Stefani.
