“We are currently working on our collection to be released in March 2021. It is very technical and really pushing our skill and expertise in gown construction techniques. We have been developing some incredible new beaded fabrics that feature in very structural shapes.” Mariana Hardwick ‘s Director Rebekah on what’s new at the brand
There is a true ethereal spirit that radiates exponentially from a Mariana Hardwick design. The way in which it is cut, the innate skill and expertise that is evident in every seam, every hand sewn embellishment, every transparent, lucent bridal jacket (yes, that’s right – you’ll love it) that envelopes a bride in a luxurious cloud of sheer delight. The label has carved out a bridal panorama that is their own, and blooms bountifully with every new seed of an idea they plant. The Australian label’s latest collection, The Awakening has allowed them, in their words, “to go a little deeper without the time pressure, and marks an acknowledgment of what we have achieved, considers where we are going as a brand, a contributor to the fashion landscape and a group of creative women.” And, with over 40 years of producing icons for the aisle, it’s clear no bride can resist the contemporary allure of Mariana Hardwick.
I caught up with Mariana Hardwick’s Director, Rebekah to get the lowdown on her lockdown…
#1 We’ve just gone into Lockdown 3. In three words, describe how you are currently feeling…
“Disappointed, frustrated, sad.”
#2 Talk to us about your usual daily routine for your business and how this will change in lockdown…
“During lockdown the very fundamental parts of our business are not possible – meeting brides and fitting brides for their couture gowns – so this makes the everyday running of the business very hard. However, we have endeavoured to find creative ways to keep moving forward, like virtual fittings, dressmakers working from home etc.”
#3 How will/does lockdown impact your business, and how can people (brides/the wedding industry) support you throughout?
“During lockdown we really appreciate the bridal community being patient and also flexible with how we engage with them and deliver their product.”
#4 Name three small businesses on Instagram you are supporting or would like to support more…
No.1 “@theescapeco“
No.2 “@lostinlove_photography“
No.3 “@the_lane“
#5 Favourite lockdown snack?
“I was eating way too much from a new amazing Italian takeaway – their Italian coleslaw and gnocchi is to die for! (and plenty of wine to go with it!)”
#6 What’s your most recommended lockdown pick-me-up when you’re feeling down during lockdown?
“Mediation and yoga have always been important to me and even more so now, also connecting with nature as much as possible.”
#7 What’s the item you can now NEVER find in the supermarket (and consequently dreamt continuously about) during lockdown?
“Trout pâté – only available directly from the producer!”
#8 Name a dinner/meal or beverage choice you feel might bring someone joy to their lockdown life…
“Comfort food! Homemade cake!”
#9 Talk us through what’s new at your brand…
“We are currently working on our collection to be released in March 2021. It is very technical and really pushing our skill and expertise in gown construction techniques. We have been developing some incredible new beaded fabrics that feature in very structural shapes.”
#10 What’s your lockdown outfit most days? Have you, say, developed an unhealthy attachment to the elasticated waists of your leggings like myself?
“Active wear – all day every day!”
#11 What series have you now completed on Netflix/Amazon Prime etc.? Any recommendations?
“The Handmaids Tale, My Octopus Teacher, Snow Piercer.”
#12 The person(s) you will hug first when social distancing is no longer in place?
“My Mum!”
#13 An act of kindness towards you that you’ve really appreciated during lockdown?
“Just checking in with friends, group messages and support. Also the positivity and flexibility the team have shown in getting through it.”
#14 For a little Instagram-escapism and positivity, what account would you recommend?
“Anything travel!”
#15 Name three things the lockdown has made you grateful for:
No.1 “Space.”
No.2 “Nature.”
No.3 “Family.”
#16 Which restaurant will you dine at first once restrictions are lifted again?
“Any Japanese!”
#17 What would be your film recommendations to watch during lockdown…
“Dior and I, Goodfellas and Gone Girl.”
#18 What book would be top of your lockdown book list?
“Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor.”
#19 Name an odd purchase you’ve made during lockdown…
“Cold press juicer.”
#20 The best gift you received this festive period?
“A collection of prints photographed by my sister…”
#21 What’s your advice to lockdown brides?
“Stay strong and positive – you will get married eventually and it will be amazing – don’t give up hope!”
#23 Your favourite beverage?
“Amaretto Sour! I have really been enjoying low contact, natural wines.”
#24 Name your favourite magazine to curl up with.
For further information head to the Mariana Hardwick website.
Want to read more WFH Diary entries from your favourite bridal brands, boutiques and designers? Head on over to the Bridal Editor WFH Diary page.
