Tuesday 31 January 2017

The Love Molecule - YEN JEWELLERY'S Kinetic Adornments

We are very excited to welcome an exciting, new exhibitor this year to our London show, in the form of kinetic and sculptural YEN JEWELLERYFlowing, refined and playful, Yen's signature style is composed of molecular, softly dynamic forms which undulate gracefully over the body. Subtly bridging the void between contemporary and fine jewellery, Yen's alchemic creations are an elegant solution for the minimally modern bride.

Molecules call to mind the gorgeous intricacies of biology, of microscopic photographs of brain chemistry in love, of flimsy capillaries or cellular matter. They oscillate like sound waves or water or subtle grasses blowing in the wind when artfully joined together. Each piece evokes a romance and poetry that is completely without saccharine cliche.

Hand crafted in their Bloomsbury studio; by founder and designer Yen Duong and her team; Yen also offer bespoke commissions. Come pay a visit and combine elements of their personal style with your own wild imagination. Perfect a tailored pair of wedding rings or a beautifully sentimental engagement ring designed with your loved one in mind. Or perhaps you would like to wow your guests with a simple statement piece to pair with your thoroughly modern structural white two pieces?



Proudly Vietnamese by heritage and brought up in Wales, Yen Duong translates the joy and laughter experienced in her personal life as a mother, to her work as a designer. An experimental approach to her materials, and genuine passionate love for the process involved in her jewellery design translates into delightful metallic connections and structural complexities with her fresh and unique pieces.

In April last year Yen celebrated their 20th anniversary. Despite their longstanding success the studio still sell directly to their established and loyal customer base - from Sotheby's to Liberty of London to The Goldsmiths' Company. Duong herself is still very much immersed in the design process and continues to push her medium to create fresh and unique pieces.



We caught up with Yen Duong to quiz her about her experience running her highly accomplished brand thus far, and what's to come for Yen Jewellery in the future...

Why did you decide to set up your own business?

In one word - Independence. To have the freedom to make my own decisions and to be able to structure my life as I see fit.




What's been the coolest/best moment of your career so far?

One of the most memorable moments of my career was being given the keys to my first home at just 26. I am so grateful I have been lucky enough to buy a home from the making and creating of pieces that make people happy!




Who or what inspires you?

I am a child of immigrants, and my parents instilled in me a work ethic that sustains me today, work hard and make your own luck. I value and strive for life balance, life is about creating quality times and forging lasting memories.



What words would you use to describe the trends for 2017?

"Laughter" and "fun" never go out of fashion, let this trend forever be present.



We couldn't agree more! If you're inspired by Yen and her exquisite forms, we invite you to come visit her and our menagerie of joyful independent brands at the Old Truman Brewery in March. There are still a few TICKETS  up for grabs, so get them whilst you can!

See you lovelies there!


Friday 27 January 2017

Timeless Elegance from KATYA KATYA SHEHURINA


Here at Most Curious HQ we couldn't be more happy to welcome back the internationally acclaimed bridal wear label KATYA KATYA SHEHURINA to our London show in March. The designer of these wonderfully elegant and beautiful dresses is Latvian born Katya Shehurina.  After studying the craft of couture at the prestigious ESMOD fashion design school, Katya worked for the reknowned French designers Nicolas Fafiotte and David Purves, before deciding to launch her own business in 2007.

An affinity for vintage styles and exclusively feminine cuts is apparent in Katya's designs, but the incorporation of a modern aesthetic ensure her dresses, with their distinctive style, will appeal to the most contemporary of brides.


Each garment is skillfully handmade under the watchfull eye of Katya, in her Riga studio in Latvia. Impeccable craftmanship is integral to the design process, and only the finest of materials, such as French lace and Italian silks, are used, bestowing a timeless elegance to all Katya Katya Shehurina gowns.

Versatility and comfort are also essential elements and, in addition to their completely bespoke service, their made-to-order gowns can be customised in a number of ways, guaranteeing a look and fit that is truly yours. Want to add some sleeves, change a neckline, combine the top of one dress with the bottom of another? No problem! Katya Katya Shehurina love to mix and match, encouraging their brides to be imaginative and create a gown that is truly the one of their dreams.


Another feature we love is that most of their gowns can be worn with a separate slip lining beneath. The beauty of this is that you can change the colour of the slip, effortlessly transforming the look of your dress. Choose a white or nude slip for a more traditional look during the wedding ceremony and afterwards slip into something more colourful, and really let your individuality shine through.



Katya's latest collection, Flowers of the Valley, is inspired by the ethereal landscape and relaxed, picturesque settings of the countryside. Katya asks you to picture "French floral, decorative lace and tulle flowing with the soft breeze of the Valley's fresh air as the bride stands in a field of wild flowers. Fresh pastel colours of silk taffeta flowers of the vally rest on the shoulder of the bride, reflecting showers of cherry blossom leaves." These beautifully Bohemian, romantic dresses will allow every bride to feel and look feminine, elegant, confident and the absolute best version of herself.

You can view this stunning collection at their flagship boutique, situated in the heart of Soho, London. Located in Smiths Court, just off Brewer Street, it is roughly five minutes walk from Piccadilly Circus station. And exciting news for all you brides to be, they are holding a sample sale on 1, 2 and 3 March, with up to 60% off!!!


We caught up with Katya recently and asked her to give us an insight into her career, her inspirations and her career highlights so far.

1) Why did you decide to set up your own business?

Because I was young and had no fears and doubts, the older you get the harder it is to make a decision like this ;)


2) What's been the coolest/best moment of your career so far?

When we saw just by chance Kim Kardashian on Instagram wearing KATYA KATYA SHEHURINA dress- which she bought herself while visiting Rome.


3) Who or what inspires you?

I usually find inspiration in the past, when people appreciated a lot of beauty and created beautiful things... I love old interiors, I love vintage embroideries and fabrics, I love the fact that people kept the clothes for next generations, appreciated it and created everything with a lot of love - for centuries!


4) What words would you use to describe the trends for 2017?

Romantic, eclectic, mystical, graphic, clean.


TICKETS are on sale now for our London show in March at the Old Truman Brewery, so come along and meet the Katya Katya Shehurina team and a host of other exciting contemporary, independent wedding brands. We can't wait to see you there!

Friday 20 January 2017

Floral French Fancies - stylish botanicals by FROG FLOWERS


Originally from France; with his bespoke flower shop nestled in Manchester's eclectic Northern uarter; David Jayet-Laraffe - founder of FROG FLOWERS, is much more than a simple florist. An artist first and foremost, this dandy gentleman has a fashion forward and experimental approach to his work. With experience sculpting flora for a range of visual contexts; from centrepieces for high end events and designer stores, to styling lush and overflowing backdrops for fashion stories; David and his team will bring a little bit of avant-garde magic to your special day.


We are very excited to welcome David as a Sponsor for this year's London show, and look forward to showing off his floral talents to all you blushing brides and galant grooms-to-be in March. If wedding flowers to you are far more than a nice little afterthought, we highly recommend paying Frog Flower's stand a curious visit. Chameleon-like in his personal approach to his clients, with a genuine passion and excitement for making floral dreams a reality, David's playful perfectionism will enhance the atmosphere of your wedding with a synesthetic array of scent and colour. We caught up with David to quiz him on his predictions for this year's trends and to talk flowers.




Why did you decide to set up your own business?

I started my floristry career working for an international florist in Manchester and London. This gave me the skills and exposure I needed to go solo, and it wasn’t long before I knew exactly which direction to take. So, Frog was born - a floral artist studio, mixing my love for flowers, fashion and art.

From simple statement pieces to flourishing floral displays, you can guarantee we will deliver unique pieces of work with a big red creative cherry on top.



What's been the coolest/best moment of your career so far?

Having the business itself makes me very proud, so getting my current studio all those years ago, and turning it into what is now our current work studio is my best moment. Doing the wedding ceremony flowers for my clients on a private beach in Portugal, cutting the palm leaves straight from the trees on that same morning… that was pretty cool (the sun and sea helped!)

Who or what inspires you?

I get inspiration from most forms of art, photography and fashion. I love to be creative. I’m a bit of a free spirit and originally wanted to be a fashion designer - which I get from my Mum who used to get changed five times a day!

At Frog, we love collaborating with other creative minds on various projects: from art installations and photoshoots to whole new concepts. From unexpected happy accidents, to work with artists who have complementary skills to ours, we do thrive on a good collaboration. I also work as an art director, bringing everyone's skills, experience and perspective together to create stunning and inspiring visuals.




What words would you use to describe the trends for 2017?

Foliage and green plants are still a very big trend, yet much bolder this year. Think large architectural plants, odd shaped cacti or oversized tropical leaves contrasting with a pink background for instance.


For a more feminine look, think ice cream pastels - peach, coral, blush, mint, lemon… Use gorgeous and fragranced flowers such as roses, peonies, hydrangeas; complementing the look with creative coloured neon light installations for a real sophisticated statement.






















Come visit Frog Flowers, and our menagerie of independent brands at our London show in March at the Old Truman Brewery. If you havn't yet purchased your tickets, you can get them HERE.

We look forward to meeting you there!

Most Curious
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter



Written by FREYIA PORTEOUS

Friday 13 January 2017

We welcome to the stage, MUSCAT BRIDAL...


Created by former ballet dancer and self taught womenswear designer, Kevin Muscat (who toured internationally with Matthew Bourne's all-male production, we'll have you know!); MUSCAT bridal wear is both dreamlike and contemporary. With perfect awareness of 3D form, movement and the wearer's experience of the garment, Kevin Muscat's designs are beautifully minimal and elegantly considered. Combining separates, dresses and more, the Muscat bride is always at the centre of the design process, her individuality and ability to customise are key.



The play between architectural structures and softer more flowing shapes really defines this timeless brand. If the idea of an off-the-rack-cake-dress-from-'Ever-After-Princess-Bridal', complete with rhinestones and a mound of net sends waves of nausea through your being, your perfect match might just be Muscat. Think classic, composed pieces without unnecessary fuss and you will be right in the Muscat mindset.


Lined in silk satin with couture finishing and freedom of movement, Muscat gowns and separates provide their brides with a delicious feeling of comfort. Garments are perfectly fitted and designed to be wearable. Goodbye bulky corsets and bundled boobs; in these couture lovelies you will feel relaxed and soothed by silks. With utilitarian details, such as pockets, there is an element of informality, which is perfect if you are more at home in jeans and a Breton than ballgowns of epic proportions.



We are excited to host Kevin and his beautiful array of visionary pieces once more at our London show in March - we can't wait to see his 2017 pieces in person! He kindly sat down for a chat with us to discuss his busy bridal career thus far and give us a sneaky peek into his creative mind...

1) Why did you decide to set up your own business?

I have run my own business for the last 6 years. I like the flexibility that such a set up provides. My first venture was in ready to wear, but I soon found that I am very suited to creating modern wedding dresses. It started off when my sister was getting married and she wanted something simple but special. Above all, she wanted to look modern. That is how Muscat Bridal started. 


2) What's been the coolest/best moment of your career so far?

I have been lucky to work with many celebrities before I set up my own company. But equally rewarding is working directly with brides and seeing their dreams come true. I love it when I can see that a bride has tried a dress on and it feels like the one. Winning Bridal Next in 2014 was pretty cool too.


3) Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by the people around me. I want to design dresses that make women feel gorgeous and special, so my first point of reference is women. The inspiration for design details and mood for the dresses is different any time, and could be as varied as flowers to architecture. A recurrent theme is movement. As a retired professional dancer, I am inspired by how the dresses move, and how they look in action from every angle. After all, a girl's gotta dance and have fun on the big day.


4) What words would you use to describe the trends for 2017?

The word trends scares me! It implies something that is very current now but will look outdated in a few years. At Muscat the 'trend' will always be to the minimal and exquisite quality. One can never have enough of that.



We still have TICKETS on sale for the London show in March at the Old Truman Brewery, where you can come meet Kevin and a host of other exciting contemporary, independent wedding brands. We can't wait to meet you!

Most Curious

Instagram
Facebook
Twitter


Written by FREYIA PORTEOUS

Friday 6 January 2017

I want can-did! The raw emotion of ED GODDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Elegantly composed, and perfectly timed, Ed Godden Photography is the perfect antidote to stiff, staged and traditional renderings. With a self confessed hate of the highly awkward and unnecessarily extensive 'group shots', Ed strives to seamlessly capture deliciously real moments in a way that is both candid and stylish, naturally, without stunting the flow of the celebration. His architectural eye elevates the everyday; arranging intimate instants with the flair of a master painter; and relishing the idiosyncrasies that make your big day yours. With both honesty, humour and a touch of whimsy, if you're looking for a playful wedding photographer with a childlike yet poised working style, look no further!

We love Ed's enthusiasm and down to earth approach. Only taking on 30 weddings per year, this lovely lad is all about a personal service, amicably delivered. He strives to give his full attention to each couple from enquiry to delivery of final images. Inspired and refreshed anew with every wedding he shoots, Ed Godden adores his job, and it is evident in his fresh and fun images.


We are very excited to welcome Ed to our 2017 London fair at Old Truman Brewery; and in preparation for March, we caught up with him to quiz him on his photographic journey thus far!


Why did you decide to set up your own business?

I loved the thought of my hobby and passion becoming my job too! Photographing couples in love, and meeting such amazing people every week, makes me very happy. If I can take a whole heap of cool images along the way and make my living… even better!



What's been the coolest/best moment of your career so far?

Ooh, good question! I’ve been quite fortunate in my career, and had quite a lot of high points. I’d say making the cover of Rock n Roll Bride magazine was pretty damn cool!

Here's the fabulous Rock n Roll Bride herself, Kat Williams, at Ed's stand at our 2016 London show (psst, Kat will be exhibiting at our 2017 London Show too!). You can see two of Ed's weddings that were featured on Rock n Roll Bride, here and here.


Who or what inspires you?

As cheesy as it sounds, creative and passionate people inspire me. I love meeting people that really care about what they do, what they love. If that includes loving organising their wedding day, then I’m more than happy to be a part of their awesome day.



What words would you use to describe the trends for 2017?

Pass. The weddings I shoot change from week to week… thats what I love about this job: the variation. If I was to suggest something now, it will probably have been and gone by the time this appears anywhere!


Be sure to pay Ed a visit at his stand in March, he's a very friendly guy. And if you haven't already, you can get your tickets HERE - quick, quick though, they're selling like hotcakes! See you soon almost newly weds. Happy New Year! xx

Most Curious
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

Written by FREYIA PORTEOUS