10 Questions with Head Designer Sharon Sever of Galia Lahav
Michele Iacovelli
1) What inspired the theme for Galia Lahav SS2024?
My biggest inspiration has always come from the Opera. I am very inspired by the storylines, the actors & the incredible costume designs. Fun fact: I am also part of the council of the Israeli Opera. For the Spring 2024 Collections I was really taken by one of my favorite spanish opera’s CARMEN. The passion, the spanish culture, the love & lust. This is exactly what I wanted to showcase in the designs and how I wanted the bride to feel in them.
2) Where did you shoot the campaign?
Our Campaign was shot in Madrid. We thought - what better place to shoot than Spain itself to bring out the most authentic visual translation of my inspiration.
3) What new fashion looks excite you this season?
I am really excited about confidence, it has really become a big trend in my opinion - Being unapologetically YOU. Sheer fabrics are such a big trend at the moment and I love how the trend is being incorporated through lace & tulle - it is so exciting to me.
Another trend is incorporating lingerie-inspired elements like corsets & slip dresses into everyday outfits. And also goth-inspired looks have made a big comeback!
Each trend has its own elements, but they all embrace a bold, unapologetic aesthetic that encourages individuals to express themselves fearlessly through fashion.
4) What is trending for your brides?
I absolutely love that gowns are becoming more transformative. I really wanted this collection to scream versatility. The trend of multiple wedding gowns really got me thinking on how to transform gowns from ceremony to party without having to go change and taking away precious time celebrating with your loved ones. Add ons are just such a fun way to customize looks & to give them a personal & unique touch.
5) Is wearing a black dress common for a bride?
It’s definitely not common, but since Christine Quinn got her custom black GL gown, the demand has definitely risen a lot. I think it’s more so that what has become common is being unconventional and not conforming with traditional wedding norms. Brides are just having fun with their looks and finding their ways of incorporating their own touch and personality into them!
6) Which gowns exemplify the look of the collection?
I think the collection through and through is so expressive of the inspiration behind it. EVITA, ESMERALDA & FUEGO are just some of the looks I think really captivate the passion, the raw intensity and love that I was trying to convey with this collection.
7) What were some of the best sellers that the retailers picked up?
Not all orders are in yet, but so far, the highlights of the collection were EVITA, CATALINA & SHIRLEY. They are all gorgeous gowns with such unique fits, silhouettes & add-ons. Very fashion forward and exciting looks for 2024 Brides!
8) Describe the different collections that are produced this season?
the AMOR Couture collection is inspired by romance and pure, raw passion - and the designs reflect just that. The dresses in this collection are more fitted, featuring intricate beading, embroidery, and unique lace detailing. On the other hand, the ENCANTO GALA collection draws inspiration from a couple's unique love story and how it is as unique as the gown created just for the bride. Incorporating organic shapes and textures into the design. The dresses are flowier and feature loads of glitter & floral appliques.
9) How would you describe your bride?
Unapologetic, fashion-forward, sophisticated & not afraid to go for what she wants :) Our GL brides are confident in their own skin & want to embrace all they have to offer!
10) How was it to work with Simone Biles?
She was truly one of the most delightful brides I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. Working with such an iconic and inspirational woman was an absolute honor, and it was a dream come true for all of us involved. When we heard the news, our marketing team immediately sent her a DM, and I recall them screaming with excitement when we received her reply stating that she wanted to come in and try on dresses. We were all overjoyed and thrilled! To top it off, she was already a big fan of our brand! The entire process from trying on gowns to selecting the perfect ones and customizing them to her exact vision was truly magical. She also wore two pairs of shoes from our collection, completing her head-to-toe Galia Lahav look. Her energy was infectious, and she was just radiant.