Nestled in the rural heart of Devon, Crediton is renowned for the vibrant, independent businesses that line its high street. One such success story, The Ivory Secret, is a gorgeous emporium of irresistibly romantic bridal wear. Intricate lace, lush tulle and opulent silks cascade from the rails; alongside designs from Eleanor Rafferty, Charlotte Balbier and Annasul Y, there are beautiful veils, shoes, luxe jewels and vintage headdresses, which glint with captivating sparkle.
Rosie Anderson
This is where bridal designer Eleanor Rafferty talks dresses with brides-to-be and makes material that hazy fantasy frock in their minds. Brides may opt for a design from the Eleanor Rafferty ready-to-wear collection or collaborate with Eleanor on a bespoke gown.
Tell us about your journey to where you are today.
Growing up surrounded by the Devon countryside, artistic influence and creative people was where it all began. I pursued creative subjects throughout my education, finishing with a high-level degree in Textile Design from one of the top Textile and Fashion Design universities in England. I was employed in my 'dream job' before I graduated, designing elaborate couture and bridal embellished, embroidered and printed fabrics; clients included Claire Pettibone and Vivienne Westwood.
On my return to Devon, I began collaborating with my mum, Liz - a spectacular designer and dressmaker - in developing a collection of ready-to-wear couture wedding dresses, while designing and making bespoke wedding gowns for discerning brides-to-be. We opened The Ivory Secret in 2011. Our vision was to create a platform for our Eleanor Rafferty label and bespoke designs alongside a hand-picked selection of complementary designers.
How would you describe your creative style?
The Eleanor Rafferty ready-to-wear collection displays silhouettes ranging from the structured corset to the bohemian bride, all with exquisite execution, cut and finish. Highlights of soft, feminine romance are depicted in every one of these simple yet elegant designs. The design signature is encapsulated with delicate, feminine and intricate embellishment in soft pastel hues showcased on a selection of luxurious 100% silk fabrics to perfectly frame the female form. We offer a bespoke service and encourage brides to express their creative side and work with us to design their very own exclusive wedding dress.
What inspires you?
I'm drawn to embellishments, textured fabrics and surfaces. The Eleanor Rafferty collection displays luxurious silk fabrics embellished using a combination of hand and machine embroidery, print, layering and multimedia techniques. I am hugely inspired by theatrical and period costume and enjoy incorporating vintage fabrics, off-cuts, antique lace, intricate trimmings and embellishments into my designs; taking a plain luxurious silk and creating a texture or beautiful dimensional embellishment is what I love most.
Jade Lisa Photography
What would be your dream brief from a bride?
A bride who is open to exploring the use of colour and delicate and unusual embellishments to incorporate into their design. Obviously any detail added to a wedding gown would be carefully considered and empathetic to each individual design brief.
What are your favourite fabrics to work with?
I enjoy working with fabrics that have a luxurious drape and finish such as silk chiffon, tulle and lace. My preference would be to incorporate two and three dimensional shapes and embellishments onto a gown to create interest and dimension to the overall design.
Do you have a favourite dress from fashion, film or worn by an iconic bride?
Despite the fact that I am not usually a lover of wedding gowns with a full skirt, my answer would be Grace Kelly. I think the combination of lace and plain silk creates a beautiful balance, and believe that a Grace Kelly shape is a very elegant and flattering way for a bride to wear a fuller skirt.
www.theivorysecret.co.uk
Elizabeth Armitage
NOTES ON A DRESS
Find your be-mine dress with Eleanor's top tips
1. Ask for recommendations of boutiques that have impressed with their service and collections. Once you have selected your dress, the boutique will usually be coordinating your fittings and after-care. A skilled and supportive team is essential to support and advise brides throughout this process.
2. Keep an open mind during the initial stages of trying on gowns without compromising your own style. Make sure you tell the boutique if you have any body insecurities (most of us have an area we want to either cover up or accentuate) as your bridal expert may have some ingenious suggestions on how to solve this without compromising on your gown's overall design.
3. Try not to bring too many guests in the initial stages of trying on gowns as this can be confusing and overwhelming. Make sure you enjoy every moment of exploring the options available to you.
words Rebecca Matthews
Copyright Wed magazine 2013
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