One of our favourite emerging Australian designers, Prea James, has launched her fourth made-to-order collection titled Harmony II. It’s continuing the same minimal design ethos that gained Prea James notoriety in Australia as well as worldwide. Harmonious lines and textures are complemented by well thought-out design details to create this thirteen-piece collection of bridal wear, all of which are elegant, sophisticated and modern.
The collection brings in eight new gowns as well as several separates, including a pair of high waisted pants, a silk wrap blouse with voluminous sleeves and an ultra-feminine organza jacket that can be paired with multiple pieces in this collection and past collections.
“My biggest inspiration comes from my brides. We are continuously striving to design wearable, modern, flattering garments with the PJB woman in mind. What do I find flattering on myself and other women is a question I often ask myself” “As someone with a bigger bust, I know a wrap style is very flattering, which is where the inspiration for the Cecile blouse came from. Add in the silk satin fabric and billowing sleeves and it is still ultra-modern and feminine.” Prea James – Designer
The past two collections have a modern strapless gown, and this year is no different, though James has introduced a more structured aesthetic with the Emilia gown; a corseted strapless dress with a beautiful French-dart minimal bodice. The column skirt and back split takes inspiration from 90’s fashion but is still timeless in its elegance.
The optional detachable sleeves keep it modern and add a little bit of drama for those that want two looks for the price of one. This collection experiments with an organic floral embroidery not traditionally seen in bridal with the Protea gown. With asimilar base to the Emilia gown, a small train added and no back split, the large embroidered Protea is tastefully appliqued on the front of the gown.
The Valentina and Carolyn gowns bring in some beautiful, delicate textures to the collection of otherwise fairly minimal gowns. The cut-out design flows through to the Tyler gown, which has a more tailored look and a beautiful, slimline bias-cut skirt.
All of the pieces are all made in Australia and made to order, which helps to reduce waste. Each piece is individually cut and sewn by skilled artisans in the Wollongong studio, which helps to maintain exceptional quality.
The versatility of the collection is what is really exciting. The Cecile wrap top can be worn with both the Maya skirt for a more traditional but still modern bridal style, or with the Aurora high-waisted flare pant for a modern, fashion-forward bridal look. The Helena one- shoulder camisole paired with the Aurora pant creates relaxed, modern bridal look at an affordable price.
The Brooke gown has been created as a sister gown to Cara from the Harmony I collection and is a V-neck sleeveless twist-front top with a bias-cut skirt.
With stockists across Australia and three European stockist already, Prea is heading to New York this October with plans to expand into the US, UK and Asia. So expect to see more of Prea James’ minimalist chic around the world very soon!
Campaign Credits
Photography // Cara O’Dowd (Lizard Management) Set Stylist // Madeline McFarlane Model // Jasmyn Palombo, Priscillas Hair and Makeup // Phoebe Fever Stylist // Prea James & The Anti-Bride Jewellery // Brie Leon & Amelie Geroge Bridal and stylists own.
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