Rachel Leonard: 

I'm speaking with designer Georgina Chapman on my recent trip to Barcelona Bridal fashion Week. I just want to start by saying the Marchesa for Pronovias Collection looked so beautiful and very romantic. Tell us about the inspiration for this season. 

Georgina Chapman: 

You know, when Alessandra and I were talking about it, we always want to infuse the Marchesa DNA and make sure that the collection is very much true to our brand. Yet, what I love is obviously, Pronovias is European and I'm European…it's fun to inject a little bit of that into it. And we were also thinking about that break coming out of COVID so many people have found love or have had to delay their weddings. And there’s so many brides out there that I feel people are more fearless, a little more experimental. We played with a lot of accessories, which was a lot of fun. We've got over slits, we've got capes, and we have looks for a more modern girl. And yes, we have this super romantic and very ethereal true Marchesa collection. 

Rachel Leonard: 

I loved all the accents of large flowers like at the neck.

Georgina Chapman: 

Oh, thank you. 

Rachel Leonard: 

And it looks like you had a lot of corsetry as well. 

Georgina Chapman: 

We do. We always have this structure. I think you know what I feel is very important is when a Marchesa girl puts on a dress, she doesn't have to think about it. She doesn't want to pull at it. She should just be able to have fun and enjoy her wedding. 

Rachel Leonard: 

Perfect. And one more question. What's the difference in your approach in designing ready to wear versus wedding dresses? 

Georgina Chapman: 

I think the idea of bridal is this has been someone's, most girl's dream when they were young and so it's really enabling someone to find what that is. And I love bridal. It's one of my favorite things to do. I love the expression of love and I feel it's such an honor to address some of that on the most special day of their lives. But evening too, I believe in the timeless approach. I really do, and I love evening as well. But there's something very special about bridal. Some say it's a privilege. It really is.