DESIGNER Focus

when I begin with a new collection.I’m a lover of great architecture and it translates into my bridal creations. Where do you look to spot ‘trends’ and keep abreast with what brides are looking for?

I follow my inspiration and I work hard with my team on new techniques. We continuously reinvent materials. This is a very big part of the work: research and experimenting but always with an eye to the woman we want to dress and to her needs, which change from country to country and generation to generation. That’s why I try to travel as much as I can and meet my brides. I need a dialogue with them to understand what they want.

What are your favourite materials/embellishments to work with?

Most of our fabrics are Italian, even though I always look for something different and new. So, my eyes are always open for new fresh ideas. A fabric is very important to give the gown the right shape and body. You choose the wrong fabric and the most amazing idea is lost. Every collection is different: last year we used porcelain petals, fringed raffia, small chiffon square fabrics folded in little cubes and then sewn on tulle fabrics. We invent new solutions every season.

What, in your opinion, sets your brand apart? What are your core values?

Our gowns are couture gowns. They are really done one by one and the hand work really shows in the final result. Our trims are silk satin or silk organza and not just an applied ribbon. The laces are all placed by hand and are ensured that they fall the right way. The gowns are cut and made in a way that they follow the movement of the woman. Very often brides tell me “I don’t want a gown which stands whilst I move”.

Tell us what do you do to relax? How do you escape from the wedding world?

My pets first of all: my dog Aladino and my cat Luna and then cooking – the art of being relaxed whilst enjoying genuine food directly from my countryside’s garden. What are the most important things brides should keep in mind whilst choosing their gown? Listen carefully but choose with your heart. Less is more. Simplicity is the essence of elegance.

If you weren’t designing wedding dresses, what do you think you would be doing?

I would be making jam and marmalade in my countryside’s house.

What should we expect next from your label?

We are now working on the 2019 Collection which will be showcased next month in Milan, New York and Barcelona. I’m so proud of it! It is the full expression of my creativity combined with the expertise of my seamstresses and unusual experiments and combinations of new materials and techniques. I will surprise you!

Peter Langner Collections are available at Per Lei Couture. Peterlangner.com