At Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week 2025, Isabell Kristensen Couture revealed its latest bridal collection, introducing a captivating new chapter under the creative direction of Martin Kristensen. The collection—described as “ruthlessly romantic”—features sculptural silhouettes inspired by historical fashion elements, particularly antique corsetry and Victorian crinoline hoop skirts.
According to Kristensen, the collection is a visual homage to the bride’s special moment. “It centers on the glorification of the bride, a tribute to her and the love her partner holds,” he said. “Ruthlessly romantic because love is the core. Sculptural in silhouette because these designs will be frozen in time, immortalised in our hearts, minds, and memories.”
The designs aim to make the bride shine as the focal point during her entrance. Drawing inspiration from historic icons like Empress Eugenie of France—famed for her crinoline-enhanced grandeur—Kristensen emphasized the empowering quality of these silhouettes. “Historically these have been used to assert presence, make an audience of any crowd, and capture attention,” he noted. “What bride does not deserve to be the center of attention?”
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the new collection. Over 56% of the fabrics used are environmentally friendly, including cutting-edge materials like Seaqual (recycled sea nets) and rNylon (created from industrial offcuts). However, Kristensen acknowledged the inherent challenges in merging sustainability with high-end couture. “The greatest challenge is the luxury of quality available within high fashion,” he explained. “Sustainable alternatives are improving but range is still limited. Recycling waste is one avenue, but sourcing from new responsible renewable sources is even more valuable.”
He expressed optimism about the future of eco-conscious fashion, highlighting innovations in natural, cellulosic fibers such as modal and lyocell, derived from wood. These developments reflect his dedication to producing high-quality garments that endure over time. “Couture is the antidote to fast fashion,” Kristensen stated. “Our aim is to create gowns that span generations, as heirlooms.”
Since reviving the brand’s London atelier in 2017, Kristensen has gained significant traction in the bridal world, culminating in his 2025 win at the Hitched Bridal Awards. Looking forward, he has ambitions to broaden the brand’s global reach, particularly in the American bridal market. “My sights are firmly set on the US,” he revealed, citing plans to participate in New York Luxury Bridal Fashion Week and hold potential trunk shows in Los Angeles.
For Kristensen, the bridal line is a deeply personal endeavor driven by an enduring passion for love. “I began the bridal line because I am enamoured with love—true, illimitable, indomitable, overwhelming love,” he shared. “When I design for bridal, I draw on the purest form of that feeling.”
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