This year, you could say there has been lots of GL fever and we definitely caught it. (Secret: we’ve long had the fever, but who’s keeping track?!) Celebrities, like Simone Biles, Kamila Hansen, and influencer Karen Sarahi Gonzalez, and non-celebrities all over the world have chosen to be a GL bride this year. What’s not to love, really? Galia Lahav is all about fashion, and their wedding dress designs are not only daring, but also a wonderful mix of sexy and sophisticated. Truly, we cannot get enough of everything with that is GL. They do it all oh-so-well — look no further than their new Sophie Richie inspired wedding weekend looks! And that’s in large part to their talent, their Head Designer, Sharon Sever — a true genius, so we are incredibly proud and honored to share with you our exclusive interview with none other than Sharon Sever.
Wedding Day Match (“WDM”): How would you describe the GL bride?
Sharon Sever (“SS”): The Galia Lahav bride is confident, sophisticated, and daring. She is not afraid to push boundaries and is all about making a statement on her wedding day. She is fashion-forward thinking, she knows exactly what she wants and she is comfortable in her own skin, ready to embrace everything she has to offer! She appreciates quality and craftsmanship and values intricate detailing, luxurious fabrics, and modern silhouettes.
WDM: What would you consider signature design elements of the label?
SS: At Galia Lahav, we are known for our attention to detail, the use of luxurious embellishments and of course we are known for the most perfect and flattering fit. We also specialize in combining different fabrics and textures to create unique and memorable gowns. Our designs often feature dramatic trains, plunging necklines, of course our signature GL low back and figure-hugging silhouettes that accentuate femininity.
WDM: What advice do you have for those trying on gowns or looking at designs for the first time?
SS: My advice to first-time brides is to keep an open mind and trust your instincts. I think it is always good to try on different styles and silhouettes to see what works best for your body type and personal style — sometimes we can surprise ourselves. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from your bridal consultant, and most importantly, choose a gown that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
WDM: Do you have a favorite design from designs to date?
SS: It's hard to choose just one favorite design as each gown is unique and special to me in its own way. However, it has been such a dream of mine to do a black wedding gown again. This Spring 2024 collection that dream became reality. Our FUEGO gown from the new couture collection AMOR is everything I love combined in a gown: versatility, transformation, body-hugging and form-fitting silhouette and just DRAMA! It's a showstopper and that's exactly what I wanted to create.
WDM: What motivates your design inspiration?
SS: My design inspiration comes from a variety of sources, including art, architecture, and travel. I am also a HUGE opera fan which is one of the main sources of inspiration for me. Our latest couture collection AMOR is inspired by one of my favorite Spanish opera “CARMEN”. I'm always looking for new ways to incorporate different textures, colors, and patterns into my designs, and I love experimenting with new techniques and fabrics.
WDM: What do you think will be the next big trend in bridal fashion, and, conversely, what’s on its way out?
SS: I believe that the next big trend in bridal fashion is going to be non-traditional colors and prints. With brides opting for unique and personalized looks that reflect their individual style, we may see more experimentation with different fabrics and textures, such as leather or velvet, for a bold and unconventional look — it’s definitely something new and exciting to look forward to!
I believe that the trend toward overly stiff and structured wedding gowns may be losing some popularity, as brides really want to be more comfortable and go for more wearable and transformative designs for their big day. While ballgowns will always have their place in bridal fashion and will never be going out of style, we may see a move towards softer and more fluid silhouettes that allow for more ease and movement and a more of a natural, relaxed look.