Born and raised in Sydney, Jessica Andreatta grew up in a world surrounded by fashion, textiles, and design. Her biggest inspiration is her mother who worked in the fashion industry, at the helm of her own childrenswear label and who taught at the prestigious Whitehouse Institute of Design.
After graduating from Whitehouse herself, Jessica designed for various Australian fashion labels, but her passion for couture ultimately led her to working as head designer for a leading Australian bridal label. Fast forward to 2018 and Jessica launched J.Andreatta bridal. Jessica’s designs are breaking new ground for brides with evolving shapes and unexpected fabrications that are both timeless yet effortlessly chic.
We asked Jessica a few more questions to find out more about J.Andreatta, what inspires her and what she sees as the next big bridal trends....
How did you get into bridal design?
After graduating from Whitehouse, I was designing for a couple of Australian fashion brands. These days most fashion designers are constantly liaising with Chinese factories rather than creating with their own hands. I longed to feel connected to the tangible aspect of design (like we were taught at university) and discovered that in Australia couture bridal was the only avenue that offered that experience.
How long have you been designing bridal?
I was designing for a couture Bridal Label for a few of years, before realising that I really wanted to start creating designs that pushed the boundaries and that I was passionate about. J. Andreatta was established in 2018.
What’s your favourite bridal look?
To be honest I don’t have a specific look. My taste changes all the time, however one thing that is consistent with me is that I love old world romance or ethereal feminine vibes with a touch of edge.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Sometimes it can be from simply looking at a fabric or a lace. I can immediately start conjuring ideas in my mind of what shape would look best in that fabric. Music inspires me; it could be dark and moody and this can set the tone for the next collection. Travel and architecture also inspire me.
Who is your favourite bridal designer?
I generally look to the Haute Couture houses in Paris - Dior & Givenchy.
Are you married?
Recently engaged!
What do you plan on wearing?
This is a difficult question to answer. It will all depend on the location, setting and the vibe of the wedding – and what style I am feeling at the time!
Who is your favourite famous / celebrity bride look?
Nicole Trunfio was stunning in her SK ball gown, then I loved how she changed into the 70’s inspired dress & cape from Yolan Cris (very much ‘her’).
What do you think the next bridal trend will be?
The updated ball gown is becoming our biggest trend. Brides are loving the full skirts, the slinky/slim look is slowly becoming less popular. Sleeves are always very popular. Short sleeves, long sleeves, bell sleeves. Even if they’re having a summer wedding, they are opting for detachable sleeve options.
Square necklines. A couple of years ago it was all about the deep V plunge. Now girls are wanting to look less ’sexy’ and more elegant on their big day.
What are your top three ‘choosing dress’ tips?
1. Don’t be swayed by the trends. Try on shapes and find a style that suits your shape and vibe of the day.
2. Season should be a key factor when creating your dress – you don’t want thick sleeves or layers of material for a summer wedding.
3. I always tell my brides to do their research – do they want something off the rack, or couture? If it’s custom, you want to make sure the relationship with the designer creating your dress is a positive one!
CONTACT:
For more details about Jess, visit https://jandreatta.com and follow her on Instagram here.
Written by our guest writer, Nikki Yazxhi, editor and creator of bellamumma.