DESIGNER | Prea James | Riviera

RIVIERA

Drawing inspiration from the evolution of femininity over eras passed, the new Prea James Riviera collection stays true to the the brand's design ethos that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. With modern silhouettes, billowing sleeves, vintage details and breathtaking separates in luxurious fabrics, Riviera is influenced by Australian designer Prea’s favourite fashion eras, as well as music, film and the nostalgic reflection of a trip to the French Riviera in her early 20's. The Riviera collection creates a romantic and dreamy aesthetic that speaks to modern lovers. The collection caters to relaxed and modern brides who want something fashionable and unique on their wedding day.

“I love the way femininity has evolved over time, with certain silhouettes in fashion circling back around and fusing with modern details to create a new wave of modern romance” says Prea about the collection’s inspiration. The collection has more structure than the brand's previous offering, with a highlight piece of the collection being the Penelope - a heavily boned corset with top stitch detailing. This versatile piece could easily be worn after your wedding day - and is one of our absolute favourites of the collection. There are a number of other breathtaking, structural pieces, including the Orla top, Anouk and Minerva. The Sidonie dress is a tea-length dress made from a heavy silk twill with the most beautiful sheen and rich ivory colour and is also designed with support cleverly hidden internally. It can be styled with the Lila sleeve for a more playful style and dramatic silhouette - a great option for maximalists at heart.

The Riviera collection also continues the Prea James tradition of simple and elegant gowns - the understated elegance the brand is so well known for - including the Rebecca dress which is a bias cut empire line gown. The deep V-neck is balanced with the hand sewn sheer organza inserts on the front neckline. The subtle cutouts on the side of the gown are barely visible from the front, but give the gown a beautifully fashionable detail. The Juno gown is another t-shirt style dress like the popular Cara gown, which the the brand is so well known for. Prea James has also included a number of interchangeable separates, with pieces like the Stevie coat - which pairs beautifully with the Juliette slip or the silk organza Lana blouse, which can be worn under the Penelope corset and with the Sadie skirt. Lana is also a great layering option over several other pieces, adding a soft layer for brides wanting two looks on their day without buying two separate gowns (an idea, which we absolutely love!)

Riviera offers something to brides wanting something more classic and those wanting to break away from anything too traditional. Another favourite of ours has to be the Winona, a 60’s style mini dress that can be paired with a number of separates, such as the Liv blazer. The Winona is the perfect reception or non-traditional wedding dress and could be styled with Jonie, a sheer layering skirt, for the ceremony and with a matching giant bow, the Bowie for the reception - making Winona another fantastic option for having two (or three!) looks in one.

The made-to-order Riviera collection will be arriving in Prea James nearly 30 worldwide stockists and her Sydney flagship boutique in Paddington in early November. Get in touch with your local boutique to book your appointment for the Riviera collection trunk shows now.