Over the last 15 years, Elizabeth Fillmore has been designing enchanting, one-of-a-kind wedding gowns for brides everywhere. Her career began designing evening gowns, but quickly blossomed into the world of bridal. Now, her gowns are some of the most sought-after creations for brides that want to look graceful, modern and unique. We caught up with her recently and took a look at her exclusive collection, now available at Kleinfeld Canada at Hudson’s Bay.
Left: The “Lola” gown by Elizabeth Fillmore / Right: The “Monet” gown by Elizabeth Fillmore
Today’s Bride: Talk to us about your transition from evening gowns to bridal gowns.
Elizabeth Fillmore: “It happened so organically. The fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue urged me to design something more modern, softer, and more bridal – and the idea had never crossed my mind! I worked on a small collection, they started to sell and then other stores like Bergdorf Goodman wanted the collection too. So I started investigating the whole bridal market because I knew nothing about it. And overnight that was it – I started designing wedding dresses. I honestly fell into it. And I love what I do; it’s so rewarding.”
TB: How do you want brides to feel in your wedding dresses?
EF: “Like it’s their second skin. I want them to feel like a goddess; they should feel absolutely effortless and not fussy. I want them to feel like themselves.”
TB: Where do you get your inspiration from?
EF: “A lot of my inspiration comes right from the fabrics (almost always Italian or French) so it’s a very special process for me. I really think of each dress as an individual, and I’m continuously inspired by everything around me – from haute couture, to what I see on women that likes light and feminine and we go from there. My inspiration can even come from music, so it’s really a magical process.”
TB: “What are you most looking forward to about bringing your collection to Canada?”
EF: “I think it’s exciting that my collection will reach such a broader audience. Hudson’s Bay is such an established retailer and I think having Kleinfeld here is really making a statement in the bridal industry. (Kleinfeld) is able to really represent the collection in all its beauty and fullness, and really demonstrate the integrity of it, and they really stand out as a niche collection.”
TB: Talk to us about some of the bridal trends you’ve noticed for 2015.
EF: “Subtle colours – I have two dresses based on this trend. I know that brides are always looking for something different, but they still want to look pretty and feminine. Another trend I’ve noticed is individuality – girls want to look unique on their big day, so I think it’s important to have strong, individual, stand-out pieces in each collection.”
TB: We’ve had dozens of celebrity weddings this year. Have you had a favourite?
EF: “What was unique about Angelina Jolie’s dress was her veil – she took a risk and it was personal, and I thought that was cool. To incorporate her children’s drawings on her veil, it really speaks to her, and she’s such a mother so I really liked that detail. I think brides should do that more – have something that is completely personal to them.”
TB: What are some of the tips you can offer brides when it comes to choosing their dress?
EF: “First of all, think about where you’re getting married. Stay true to who you are, and what you personally feel beautiful in. It’s not about what your mother or mother-in-law thinks you look beautiful in. It’s really about looking in the mirror and seeing yourself in a dress that makes you feel amazing. Also try to bring something out about your personality that is really you.”
TB: If you could sum up your collection in 3 words, what would they be?
EF: “Feminine, sophisticated and independent.”
