secret garden
Inspired by the English Countryside
Secret Garden draws inspiration from the beauty of an English countryside garden, recreated through Phillipa Lepley’s artisan skill and couture craftsmanship. The collection reflects the landscapes surrounding Phillipa’s home, translating natural forms and textures into romantic and timeless wedding dresses.
“A thing of beauty is a joy forever: its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness.”
Romantic Simplicity
A subtle ‘debutante ball gown’ theme runs through the collection, underpinned by a sense of classic sophistication. Clean, crisp silhouettes are softened with feminine details – hand-tied bows in balletic blush pink, floating layers of sheer tulle and gentle movement throughout. The result is a collection that feels fresh and deceptively simple, yet undeniably couture.
“Simplicity is about removing the obvious and adding the meaningful.”
The Collection
Striking, clean and classic, Secret Garden introduces a variety of styles, from cleverly cut chiffon gowns and off-the-shoulder shapes with grand skirts to sculpted duchess satin designs. Slipper satin, silk brocade and airy tulles form the foundation, while bold shapes and regal necklines bring quiet drama.
Exquisite Embellishment
Classic draping and slim, body-sculpting skirts provide the perfect canvas for intricate craftsmanship. From buttons and shimmering beading that cascades like rain, to delicate flower petals sewn individually onto tulle, every detail is executed with precision and care. The flowers incorporated into many of the designs are bigger and more prominent than in previous wedding dress collections. The signature internal corset ensures embellishment enhances the silhouette rather than takes away from it, whether a bride prefers subtle sparkle or a glamorous statement style.
Botanical Detail
Hand-embroidered meadow flowers feature prominently throughout, reflecting Phillipa’s love of the countryside and wild garden florals including cowslip, meadow buttercups, cornflowers, oxeye daisies and wild red clover. Floral tulle sourced exclusively from Switzerland is crafted into statement gowns, while bodices are delicately embellished with beads, oversized pearls and sparkling details, all applied by hand in the London atelier.
A Fairytale Experience
Each Phillipa Lepley gown is created through a personalised couture process, ensuring exceptional fit, comfort and confidence. Intricate floral appliqué, sophisticated beading and lace-work of the very highest quality take considerable time and expertise to deliver; all are created by hand, in designs and patterns unique to Phillipa Lepley, in the Atelier. Designed and handcrafted in London, Secret Garden captures the magic of couture bridalwear.
“There are no words to describe how I felt whilst wearing my dress. Truly, a fairytale.”
