Edith Élan Trunk Show

One of the best parts of supporting North American designers is the incredible relationships we get to build with them. More than just a name and a collection of pretty dresses, we get to know the amazing human(s) behind the line while we work with them to create our brides’ perfect looks. 

We’re kicking off a fun Designer Q&A series with Lourdes Castañeda, owner and creative brain behind Edith Élan! Known for blending the past and present into timeless looks for the modern bride, her gowns are lovingly designed and produced in her studio in charming Charleston, South Carolina. 

Here’s what Lourdes had to say about the brand as a whole, her inspiration, and her personal favorites!

Q: What type of bride do you feel like your gowns speak to? 

A: “Edith Élan bridal styles speak to brides that are searching for pieces that are modern yet timeless, chic, and unique. In other words, our brides possess style and confidence, and exude a joie de vivre. They know who they are and what they want. They are unaffected by passing trends. And instead, seek designs that speak to their unique style and that will withstand the test of time.”

Q: Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs?

A: “Honestly, inspiration can come from anywhere! I've been inspired by nature, works of art, photography, fabric, and even previous collections! I usually know pretty quickly if what I'm looking at will be the inspiration for the newest bridal collection. It's just a feeling.”

Q: What do you love most about the design process? 

A: “My favorite thing about the design process is watching flat pieces of fabrics become this beautiful, three-dimensional piece of wearable bridal art! It's like watching magic happen in front of my eyes!”

Q: If you had to choose a favorite gown from your newest collection, which would it be?

A: “From the newest collection, it would have to be Jealine! I really love the mid-century inspired silhouette and the little details that make her so unique. I especially love how what would be the tails of the the bows at the shoulders drape down the back and transform into the trains. Oh, and the fact that the trains are detachable for a two-in-one wedding dress.

If you want to know what my favorite all-time gown is, it would be Milly from the 2020 collection! She's a sleeper on the hanger, but once she's on she comes to life. And again, I love her beaded details on the sleeves, cuffs, and waist. They might be small in size, but they are significant!”

Q: What advice would you give to a bride-to-be? 

A: “I have two pieces of advice for a bride-to-be. First, don't be afraid to try on different silhouettes, necklines, fabrics, etc. during your first appointment especially if you don't know what style you want. Only by trying something on will you know if it's for you or not. Also, along the same vein, don't discredit a dress by how it looks on a hanger. Not every dress hangs the same way it falls on a body. Some dresses need a body in them for them to really shine!

My second piece of advice for a bride-to-be is to always be true to your personal style! Don't choose a trendy dress just because it's "what's in" now and you feel like you have to. Trends come and go, but no one can recreate your style. And when you are true to yourself, you will wear the bridal style with confidence instead of it wearing you. In the end, your wedding-day look should be an elevated version of you.”

We’re hosting her newest collection and some classic favorites from the brand for a trunk show at our Branford location June 17th through July 2nd! Book your appointment for then and see for yourself how Lourdes’ words translate into her stunning gowns!