7 Of The Best Couture Brides Of All Time

Exquisite bridal looks are a treasured tradition at Paris Haute Couture Week – these are a few that will go down in fashion history books

With Paris Haute Couture Week on the horizon, fashion enthusiasts are looking forward to an enthralling display of sartorial splendour. The annual event is considered the epitome of craftsmanship and skilful design, with each garment meticulously handmade using age-old artisanal techniques.

On the runway, a treasured tradition is the prestigious couture bride. After dazzling and delighting with an array of exquisite looks, designers are known to send out a closing chef-d’oeuvre – a beautiful bridal look usually reserved for the Maison’s reigning muse.

Those who have had the honour of being an illustrious couture bride have historically been at the peak of their careers, or have subsequently gone on to be some of the biggest names in fashion.

From Kimora Lee Simmons in Chanel to Naomi Campbell in Versace, here are some of the most memorable couture brides of all time.

Claudia Schiffer for Chanel, 1995

As one of the original ‘big five’ supermodels, Claudia Schiffer was one of Karl Lagerfeld’s most beloved models of the 90s. The house was synonymous with concept of the couture bride, with Chanel consistently sending out highly-anticipated wedding ensembles since the 80s. In 1995, after modelling an array of captivating bridal looks for the house, Claudia and Chanel truly made history when debuting the now iconic corseted bridal gown made in Chanel’s signature tweed fabric. The ivory creation featured contrasting piping over the neckline and waist, and extended into a billowy, full-length skirt. The dress was accompanied by a jacket – another Chanel staple – and a matching hat.

Naomi Campbell for Versace, 1997

Shortly before his passing, Gianni Versace staged his Autumn/Winter showcase during Paris Haute Couture Week in 1997. The collection was his last, and saw Naomi Campbell come down the catwalk in an unconventional bridal design. The mini metallic dress featured bejewelled crosses on the front, and was complemented with a shimmering veil.

Kimora Lee Simmons for Chanel, 1989

As one of the most memorable couture brides in history, Kimora Lee Simmons made headlines when she closed the Chanel Haute Couture show in 1989, becoming the youngest ever Chanel bride at just 13 years old.

Naomi Campbell for Versace, 1992

This mesmerising moment will go down in history as one of the most phenomenal couture bridal looks of all time. As a muse for the house of Versace, there’s no other supermodel except Naomi Campbell who could have done this opulent gown justice.

Laetitia Casta for Jean Paul Gaultier, 1997

For Jean Paul Gaultier’s first Haute Couture show, model Laetitia Casta famously closed the show in a form-fitting, corseted wedding gown paired with a cascading veil.

Christian Dior, 1999

John Galliano’s surrealist designs for the house of Dior’s Haute Couture collection in 1999 resulted in this ethereal wedding gown and mesmerising backstage photographs.