Designer Profile: Lena Kasparian
Five minutes with fashion designer and celebrity stylist, Lena Kasparian
TELL US A BIT ABOUT HOW YOU GOT INTO THE BRIDAL INDUSTRY AND WHAT MOTIVATED YOU.
What inspired me was my love for fashion, and working in the family business was my gateway to start my own label. Dressing women for an event or wedding became the norm and, of course, there were the brides…
WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER AND WHERE?
We provide private consultations for brides at the Lena Kasparian boutique located in Parramatta. Private viewings are also available for bridal parties.
WHAT SHOULD BRIDES EXPECT AT THE LENA KASPARIAN BOUTIQUE?
Expect an experience like no other; quality service with genuine advice and happy tears when the bride finally puts on her wedding dress — with a glass of champagne, of course.
DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE STYLE? IF SO, CAN YOU DESCRIBE IT?
My personal style is simple yet classic chic and I design the same way. I would have to say my signature style is ’50s Parisian glam conservative yet sexy without being too revealing.
WHAT KIND OF TRENDS HAVE YOU NOTICED IN THE BRIDAL INDUSTRY?
The trend of late has been very repetitive — body-hugging lace gowns with fishtails. I want to see more daring brides wear something a little different and maybe something old fashioned! Trends come and go but traditions are everlasting. Be unique and wear a gown that suits your personality, not because it’s in fashion.
WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR INSPIRATION FROM FOR YOUR DESIGNS?
I dream them to life, imagination turns to reality. But of course if a bride wants a custom-made gown, we would have a consultation and discuss everything about her wedding plans and her personality and then create a gown to suit her character and body shape.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER BRIDES TO HELP THEM THROUGH THE BIG DAY AND ON INTO MARRIAGE?
Don’t have expectations; enjoy the ride, as it is unwritten, and create wonderful memories together so you can write your own story. Don’t get drunk on your wedding day; take in the day because it ends faster than you think. Smile because your happiness will shine brighter than the white gown you wear. Keep the details of your day elegant. Simplicity is key, but don’t confuse plain and boring with simple.
WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE TO BRIDES WHO COME INTO YOUR STORE ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT GOWN?
Be optimistic and positive about your gown. Think outside the box and be open to ideas about how you would like your dress to be, or it will result in disappointment. A consultation with me will determine what gown will be ideal for you as an individual.
WHAT DO COUPLES NEED TO HAVE BEFORE THEY COME TO SEE YOU?
A relaxed and positive attitude, the right energy will create the perfect mood for creating or choosing a gown for the special day, and that’s worth celebrating with a glass of champagne.
FINALLY, WHAT WAS A HIGHLIGHT WEDDING FOR YOU AND WHY WAS IT SO SPECIAL?
A client invited me to her son’s wedding for which I custom made all the gowns including the suit for the groom. Not only were the bride, mother and sisters wearing my designs but numerous guests were in my label as well. It was wonderful to see them all dancing and looking so glamorous in my gowns, it felt like a Lena Kasparian after party for a fashion show!