Prabal Gurung's Debut Bridal Collection Is Here

Prabal Gurung has never designed in a vacuum—and his debut bridal collection appears to be no different. Gurung's clothes have always reflected the times he (and his clientele) are living in, unafraid to express political sentiments and core values on the runway and through his clothes. While thought-provoking and statement-making, Gurung's brand messaging has always been about courage, optimism, equity, and–above all—hope.

His foray into bridal is similarly hopeful, designed for the day that we will soon gather again, and proof of his finger-on-the-pulse: at a time when families, friends, and couples are desperate to celebrate and express love for one another, he designs for the occasion. The forward-thinking sentiment is consistent with his latest collection for Fall 2021, which featured party looks, sexy suiting, and dramatic gowns in juicy berry tones, rather than anything resembling quarantine loungewear.

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After years of designing bespoke bridal for friends and private clients, Gurung's first collection for the aisle is simple, sophisticated, and calls on silhouettes he's designed before—this time done in ivory. Standouts include the two-piece finale look of his latest collection, which he originally showed in bubblegum pink, and his bell-bottom suiting from seasons past. The collection, which ranges in price from just under $3,000 to approximately $10,000, doesn't take major risks—it's simple and sophisticated with a fashion bend. For the aisle, Gurung is doubling down on refinement, classicism, and elegance—with an edge.

The aesthetic of the collection feels more minimalistic for Gurung, but still promises his five-star fit, attention to detail, and versatility in the ability to transform one look from the ceremony to the reception with the removal of a jacket, the unbuttoning of a bustier to create a two-piece ensemble, or the change of a sleeve, top, or skirt. The designer's signature covered buttons are scattered throughout the collection, adding interest to sleeves and waistlines.

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Devotees of Gurung's will notice silhouettes he's best known for, from a sultry suit to a corseted tiered gown with a pleated skirt, to a goddess-esque, halter-neck ensemble that hearkens to one of his best-known bridal gowns: a custom reception look he designed for Nell Diamond in 2014. As a complement to the gowns, and perhaps the dotting of his signature buttons, Gurung accessorized the looks with pearl pieces by Tasaki Atelier.

In his show notes, Gurung discussed the emotions behind the commitment of marriage as his inspiration, noting the power, courage, and authenticity it requires not only to love oneself, but to love another. On designing his first bridal collection, the designer explained that the collection was more about the women who would wear his gowns than any exterior inspiration: "The 2022 collection is an ode to all those who are valiant enough to wield the power and buoyancy to love...This collection serves as a love letter to the bold, the beautiful, the phenomenal, and the courageously authentic individuals we know and are fortunate enough to love."

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.

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