Timeless style

Timeless

STYLE

WORKING BETWEEN SYDNEY AND HIS BLUE MOUNTAINS STUDIO ALLOWS DANIEL LEARMONT TO CONSTANTLY BREATHE NEW ENERGY INTO HIS EPONYMOUS LABEL – DANIEL LEARMONT COUTURE. HERE THE TALENTED DESIGNER TALKS GLAMOUR, INSPIRATION AND COLLABORATION.

When did you first dream of becoming a couturier, and who was your biggest influence?

I’ve always been drawn to fashion. Even as a child I can remember the fashion sections in The Australian Women’s Weekly and Vogue magazines, which my grandmother, Rosa, would have around the house. My grandmother was one of the earliest influences in my life – she was an elegant country lady who constantly busied herself with some kind of sewing or craft project. The beauty and singularity of her handmade garments made a lasting impression on me – my love of craftsmanship and hand-finished details is an integral part of my couture work to this day.

Where did you train and did anyone in particular mentor you?

I studied Fashion Design at TAFE in Sydney. Although I didn’t have any particular mentors, I’ve been extremely lucky to have worked with some of Sydney’s best bridal couturiers, all of whom have inspired my desire to create beautiful silhouettes and classic cuts that never go out of fashion. They also helped to give me an ability to listen and understand each client and create a gown that exceeds their expectations.

Describe the bridal gowns you design and the fabrics you prefer to use.

My gowns draw from classic silhouettes of the ’50s and ’60s, with nipped waists and flowing skirts. My fabrics of choice are beautiful pure silks, French lace and delicately beaded tulles sourced from France, Italy and Switzerland, which are exclusively designed and are limited-batch runs. I’m always in search of vintage fabrics and laces that today’s manufacturing is unable to replicate. I truly love creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect each client’s personality and are something I always hope will become a family heirloom.

Are there any specific shapes you are currently favouring?

I’m loving the resurgence of the tea or midi-length gowns, which are gaining popularity at the moment – they are perfect for a more intimate or garden-style wedding without sacrificing the glamour and drama of a big wedding gown. The brides I’ve created tea-length gowns for have commented on what a great choice the length was, and how happy and comfortable they were – this shorter length allows the bride to move freely throughout the evening. These gowns are also perfect for altering after the wedding into spectacular evening or cocktails gowns. I’ve always been inspired by the creative genius of design from the houses of Dior, Valentino and Balenciaga – they have always created clean, glamorous silhouettes that have stood the test of time. I’m also inspired by old Hollywood glamour and stars of the Golden Age, such as Marlene Dietrich, Ava Gardner and Lauren Bacall, to name just a few.

In contrast to my bridal couture business, I also work intimately with some of Australia’s leading actresses from film, television and the performing arts industries. This inspires me to create gowns with a more modern twist on classic designs. I love to create and design one-off gowns for red-carpet events and opening nights, such as the TV Week Logie Awards and the Australian Academy of Cinema & Television Arts (ACCTA) Awards.

What do you most love about working with brides and bridal parties?

A bride’s input into the creative process is integral and one of the most important parts of what I do. I enjoy the process of getting to know the bride and what inspires her, what her inspiration is for the wedding, and her thoughts and feelings on what her dream gown looks like. To me, the process of creating a gown has to be fun and personal, and has to reflect the bride’s personality. I’m always excited by being part of the evolution of the gown through a collaborative process.

What’s the best thing about living and working in the Blue Mountains?

Living and working in the Blue Mountains is in stark contrast to my city bridal studio. My home studio in the mountains is tranquil, with beautiful, fresh mountain air, compared to the hustle and bustle of my fast-paced city clientele. I’m always more relaxed in the mountains and truly believe we have some of the best wedding venues in New South Wales.

Do you have a favourite wedding venue in the Blue Mountains?

My favourite would have to be Lilianfels Resort & Spa, in Katoomba. It has the old-time glamour of the Victorian era, which I love, with beautiful gardens, and the staff and management are world-class and attentive to your needs. Lilianfels has, unquestionably, the most glorious vistas overlooking the Jamison Valley. BML