From sculptural corsetry to tulle drama, this bridalwear visionary takes a couture approach to every piece she conjures up from her Glasgow studio. 

Full of rock ’n’ roll, romance and rebellion, owner and designer Alison's range is ideal for brides who want to serve a look to suit the occasion without losing any of their edge. Historic drama, modern attitude and a perfect, personalised fit – does big-day fashion get any better?

What ignited your passion for bridalwear design? 

I’d intended to go to art school, but ended up getting a full-time job at 17. A decade later – married and on maternity leave with my third baby – I bought a sewing machine and taught myself dressmaking. I became obsessed with designer collections, focusing on the technical execution of these knock-out garments. 

I handed in my notice and got accepted by Glasgow Kelvin College on its NC Garment Design & Manufacture course, and never left! After gaining my degree, I began a teaching course there which I still do part-time. 

SEEING YOUR OWN DESIGN ON THE MODEL WALKING DOWN A CATWALK IS AN AMAZING FEELING! 

ALISON

Designing bridalwear allows me to incorporate all of the things I love into my designs: historical details, advanced corsetry, couture finishes and modern twists. I can be a bit more theatrical and inventive with my designs than I could if I was designing everyday clothing.

ALSO, I MAKE MY PIECES TO FIT THE INDIVIDUAL, WHATEVER THEIR PROPORTIONS, MEANING THAT I CAN BE FULLY SIZE INCLUSIVE.

ALISON

Three words to describe the Alyce Jayne Collection?

Luxurious, dramatic, romantic.

What inspires you?

I absolutely love historical fashion and costume, especially corsets, the 18^th century and Victorian eras. I’m inspired by any costume dramas on TV like Bridgerton, fantasy styling like Game of Thrones, or movies rich with references like Sophia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette. My design heroes are the couture collections for the design houses. I loved the theatrical, historically-informed designs by 90s couturiers such as John Galliano for Dior, Jean Paul Gaultier and Lacroix. 

Describe an Alyce Jayne bride?

She’s a strong, independent woman: a wee bit quirky, fun-loving and kind-hearted, but nobody’s fool! She’s the modern romantic rebel looking for a luxurious, elegant bridal look that’s a little different to what’s on offer elsewhere, whether that’s classic ivory and champagne or pink, lilac or black. Her personal style is a mix of grungy rock chick and feminine Victoriana. I like to think someone like Gwen Stefani would love my designs. 

What materials do you like working with?

I tend to use a lot of satin and tulle – I just love the drama tulle adds to a garment. Using different weights of tulle can also affect how a garment looks too – a stiff tulle on a skirt can make the design fuller, while a softer one can add romance. I also like to incorporate traditional corsetry materials in the internal structure like calico, coutil and boning to make sure the corset is stiff and pulls in well.

How do you make your design process sustainable?

All of our pieces are handmade in-house in our studio from fabrics and materials that are ethically sourced in the UK. Every item is either bespoke, or made to order to minimise waste and offcuts are used as interlinings and to make accessories, all of which minimises our carbon footprint.

MY GOWNS ARE HIGH-QUALITY HEIRLOOM PIECES THAT CAN BE HANDED DOWN FOR GENERATIONS. 

ALISON

What’s your approach when working with a bride on a bespoke commission?

They’re very involved in this.

How did you stay inspired during the pandemic?

I’d only just launched the website when lockdown started, so felt disheartened when everything ground to a halt. I decided to keep making samples and social media contact to maintain a presence. I was contacted by other industry professionals to take part in photo shoots and this gave me the wee boost I needed to keep going. I’ve been taking part in lots of high-concept shoots with lots of very creative people.

THE ONLINE BRIDAL COMMUNITY IS AMAZING! EVERYONE’S SO SUPPORTIVE OF ONE ANOTHER AND VERY COLLABORATIVE. BELLE BRIDAL INVITING ME TO BE PART OF THEIR DIGITAL COMMUNITY THE GUEST LIST ALSO GAVE ME RENEWED CONFIDENCE.

ALISON

Can you share some hints about Alyce Jayne’s next collection?

During lockdown last year, I used the time to experiment with a more casual vibe, like trousers and crops tops. Our new collection is really going back to our original influences, back to the corsets and tulle skirts. I cannot wait to share it with you!"

To discover more about Alison and her gorgeous designs, head to the Alyce Jayne website or check out their incredible Guest List profile!