HOW - Finding a designer wedding dress with a short timeline

Here at Helen Rodrigues Bridal our goal is always to assist brides with finding their dream gowns, but with our designer’s hand making the gowns overseas we normally require 6- 12 months of production time. Some of our incredible designers in the US, UK and Israel are able to turn around a gown with a short lead time of 2-3 months but it would depend on budget allowance as there is a rush order fee.

The other appealing option is buying a sample gown off the rack. Sample gowns are a perfect option for brides who are getting married with a short planning time, brides who wish to purchase a second dress or brides just wanting to secure an incredible wedding gown at an incredible price. Our upcoming Autumn Sample Sale on Saturday the 8th of May is the perfect time to find your dream designer gown off the rack and be able to take it with you on the day.

The Autumn Sample Sale will include a stunning array of sample gowns by our trusted designers from their latest and previous collections including Monique Lhuillier, Inbal Dror, Lee Grebenau and Suzanne Neville. When you buy one of our sample gowns there is no production time so you can have the peace of mind that you can fall in love with your gown and take it home with you that day.

All gowns in the Autumn Sample Sale are at least 30% off the retail price, with Suzanne Neville and Monique Lhuillier gowns start from $5,000 and Inbal Dror and Lee Grebenau gowns starting from $10,000.

Each gown in the Autumn Sample Sale has been carefully examined to ensure they are in excellent condition. Every piece is unique, and has either been used as a sample in the boutique, or worn in a photoshoot. All our sample gowns can be altered to fit perfectly so you don’t have to compromise on quality or design.

Please note: there is only one sample of each design available for purchase, first in best dressed. All gowns have to be paid in full on the day of the sale and all sample gowns are between size AU10-12.

Book your exclusive Sample Sale appointment HERE.

Helen Rodrigues talks all things New York Bridal Fashion Week

Monique Lhuillier Fall 2020 Collection

Helen Rodrigues goes to New York each year for the Bridal Fashion Week to view the collections and place orders to bring Australian brides gowns straight from the runways. Helen shares bridal trends for 2020 and her favourite fashion week moments.

Which shows did you attend at NYC Bridal Fashion Week?

This year I attended some incredible shows including designers within my boutique portfolio including Lee Petra Grebenau, Inbal Dror and Monique Lhuillier.

What were your stand out moments from NYC Bridal Fashion Week?

A stand out moment for me included Monique Lhuillier’s hand designed botanical prints combined with light, airy fabrics that move so beautifully. It is pure romance.

Almost every single dress that Lee Petra Grebenau sent down the catwalk was breathtaking. I adore her use of the pearl as her inspiration for the collection and the way in which she used her fabric to mimic the shape of the pearl. The classic, pure elegance with the modern twist of sheer cut out panels in the bodice, the puffy billowing sleeves and the accessories of belts to highlight the female form and waist. The uniqueness each gown brings.

Suzanne Neville’s beautiful clean lines are timeless. I have never met a designer whose corsetry is so impeccable. Her gowns give brides the confidence to wear her designs on their wedding day. They are comfortable as well as being elegant. Each Suzanne Neville gown is hand made in England from fabrics sourced from France and Italy. Crisp silk organza teamed with stretched crepe create movement and a perfect fit.

Monique Lhuillier Fall 2020 Collection

What are some of the key bridal trends you noticed?

The bridal trends I noticed were:

1. Floral /botanical fabric

2. Sheer panels in bodice 

3. Puffy sleeves 

4. Billowing sleeves 

5. Pearls

6. Detachable sleeves /capes 

7. Clean lines 

8. Dramatic veils

Behind the scenes in the Lee Petra Grebenau Couture House

When will the gowns be available to brides in Australia?

We are so excited to be bringing these gowns to Australia straight off the back of these shows through our exclusive Designer Trunk Shows.

The way Trunk Shows work is that it gives Australian brides access to the latest collections just launched on the catwalk that would not be available in other stores for at least 6 months. It enables brides to Pre-shop the latest! They then are one of the first brides in the world to be able to order and wear these magnificent gowns on their wedding day.

The gowns are in the boutique just for 2 days so it is important to book in advance. It is an incredibly special opportunity to have something different. It also enables brides the opportunity to see and try on a greater range of the designer gowns than what is usually available in the boutique. There are usually special incentives in place for brides who purchase at the Trunk Shows including a personal styling session with me.

UPCOMING DESIGNER TRUNK SHOWS

Lee Petra Grebenau 2020 Trunk Show
Date/ Time: 8th (10am-5pm) & 9th (9am-5pm) November 2019
Click here to book your Lee Petra Grebenau 2020 Trunk Show appointment

Inbal Dror 2020 Trunk Show
Date/ Time: 22nd (10am-5pm) & 23rd (9am-5pm) November 2019
Click here to book your Inbal Dror 2020 Trunk Show appointment

Alon Livné 2020 Trunk Show
Date/ Time: 13th (10am-5pm) & 14th (9am-5pm) December 2019
Click here to book your Alon Livné 2020 Trunk Show appointment

Brides Ready to Swoop on Discount Designer Wedding Gowns

End of Financial Year Sale

22 & 23 June 2017

Exciting news for all brides in Sydney and beyond! Helen Rodrigues is having its first ever End Of Financial Year clearance sale on Thursday 22nd June and Friday 23rd June 2017, where dozens of international designer sample dresses will be sold at a fraction of the original cost.

Almost too good to be true; luxury sample gowns from the likes of Oscar De La Renta, Jenny Packham, Inbal Dror, Sabrina Dahan, Zuhair Murad, Alon Livne, Monique Lhuillier and many more international designers, will be available at the sale which is expected to see a huge response from brides seizing this rare opportunity.

An increasingly popular trend, purchasing a sample wedding gown is not just for those looking to spend less on their dress. They’re a great idea if you’re getting married quickly or overseas and don’t have the time to invest in multiple fittings, because you can still have a stunning designer bridal gown straight off the rack (and at a great discount as well). 

Sample dresses are also perfect for those wanting a second gown to change into on the big day, or for brides who may have overspent their wedding budget in other areas too. Weddings aside, some women also just love the opportunity to get an incredible designer dress for a special occasion at an amazing price.

What is a sample gown?
They are wedding gowns that are either samples, ex floor stock or are now discontinued. Most have been tried on or have been used in photo-shoots or shows. Many of the gowns are in wonderful condition (particularly if it was only discontinued), while others may need a little bit more love e.g. a bead could be missing or a dry-clean required, but nothing that can’t be fixed. The End Of Financial Year sale will take place at our sister store, Sincerely. Located just a few doors down from the original Helen Rodrigues boutique, Sincerely is an extension of the brand into affordable luxury, with the added benefit of experienced and personalised service.

Helen Rodrigues EOFY Sample Clearance Sale:
Date/time: Thursday 22nd June (3-8pm) and Friday 23rd June (9am-5pm)

Where: Sincerely store, 1A 211 Ben Boyd Rd, Neutral Bay NSW 2089 (upstairs from Home Property Agents)

Cost/bookings: Free with no appointments required

Sale details: All sales are final, no exchanges or refunds. Items are sold as seen. First in, best dressed! Most gowns will be between size 8-12 and will start from $2,000 upwards. All gowns need to be paid for in full on the day.

More information: For a sneak preview of some of the gowns available on the day visit www.sincerely.com.au. For further details or enquiries please phone 02 9904 5700.

Make sure you don’t miss your chance to get your dream gown at a dream price.

Helen Rodrigues launches Alexandra Grecco

We are thrilled to announce that this month sees the arrival of the fabulous new Alexandra Grecco bridal collection, available in Australia exclusively at the Helen Rodrigues boutique.

Featuring ethereal gowns for the less-traditional and boho brides, the beautiful line was created when the designer herself was looking for a gown in advance of her own wedding in 2013 and saw an opportunity to pair her aesthetic with high-quality fabrics and intricate hand-embroidery.

According to Alexandra Grecco, she’s very excited to be working with Helen Rodrigues to offer a broad range of their gowns to Australian brides.

"Inspiration for our gowns can come from the tiniest details, whether it be a scrap of antique lace or embroidery.  Sometimes I pull ideas from a painting or an architectural detail. Most of the time though, I just create something that I would want to wear. Inspiration for me changes, but what's constant is that each season I am focused on the collection having a feeling of being effortless yet elegant," says Alexandra.
 
"It is really important to me that our brides feel comfortable in their gown and that our pieces move with the women who wear them. We use a lot of really lovely silks and create some subtle, yet striking embroidery.  I'm a big fan of gowns with strong, clean lines, but always with some detail that makes it truly special," she adds.

The gowns in the Alexandra Grecco bridal collection range from $4,500 to $10,000. To be one of the first in Australia to view her exquisite line, simply book your appointment now at the Helen Rodrigues exclusive preview launch day on Saturday 11th of March. Bookings are $50 and include a glass of bubbles.

For more information on Alexandra Grecco please visit her website here or for enquires on the collection simply phone the Helen Rodrigues boutique on (02) 9904 5700.

Three Bridal Events You Won’t Want To Miss This March

If you’re yet to find your perfect wedding dress then now’s your chance. With three exciting Helen Rodrigues events coming up in the next few weeks, there’s never been a better time to make an appointment at the boutique. With gowns to suit all styles and budgets, this is a fantastic opportunity to find your dream gown.
 
Alexandra Grecco Launch Preview – Saturday 11th March
Be one of the first in Australia to view the fabulous Alexandra Grecco bridal line at our exclusive launch preview day. The newest addition to the boutique, Alexandra Grecco’s gowns are exquisitely ethereal and perfect for the boho bride. Dresses range from $4,500 to $10,000. By appointment only, bookings are $50 and include a glass of bubbles.

Helen Rodrigues Sample Sale – Sunday 12th March
For one day only we will be selling sample gowns from a range of fabulous international designers such as Alon Livne, Jenny Packham, Inbal Dror, Monique Lhuillier, Sabrina Dahan, Naeem Khan, Zuhair Murad and Mira Zwillinger. A great opportunity to purchase a luxury gown at a more affordable price; all dresses are sample sizes 8-12 only and start at $5,000. Appointments essential.

Inbal Dror 2017 Trunk Show – Friday 17th & Saturday 18th March
Bridal gowns from Israeli designer Inbal Dror will be available in our exclusive appointment only trunk show held over two days. With a range of flattering designs crafted from the best fabrics, you’re bound to discover the perfect gown for you. 
 
To attend any of the above events phone the Helen Rodrigues boutique on (02) 9904 5700 to book your appointment today.

Image credit Jose Villa.
 

Designer Sample Sale - 11th December 2016

Announcing the last Designer Sample Sale for 2016 - Sunday 11th December 2016 in Sydney.

The sample sale includes gowns from size 8 to 12, This is a perfect for brides who are ready to purchase their designer gown at a discounted price! Designers include Inbal Dror, Oscar de la Renta, Mira Zwillinger, Monique Lhuillier, Naeem Khan, Zuhair Murad and more.

Prices start from AU$5,000.00

Book your appointment today to make use of this exclusive opportunity. Call Helen Rodrigues on 02 99045700 to make your appointment.

By appointment only
Date: Sunday, 11th December 2016
Where: Helen Rodrigues
Tel: 02 99045700

The Helen Rodrigues Elie Saab Bridal Presentation

We were beyond thrilled to host our Helen Rodrigues Elie Saab Bridal Presentation last Thursday evening, where we showcased a selection of gorgeous gowns from the inaugural 2017 Elie Saab Bridal collection ahead of our weekend trunk show for brides-to-be.

Available in Australia exclusively at our Helen Rodrigues boutique for two days only, it was a rare opportunity for members of the media and bridal industry to view Elie Saab gowns in person and see up close the magnificent quality and beautifully intricate design details that the esteemed designer is renowned for.

With gowns starting from $15,000, the exquisite new bridal collection features a gown for every type of woman with styles ranging from traditional and classic; to boho, retro and modern. All dresses are incredibly feminine, beautiful and sophisticated; and designed to highlight a woman’s silhouette.

As the exclusive Elie Saab Bridal stockist for Australia, we were so pleased to be able to showcase this stunning collection and formerly introduce the brand in such a special way. Whilst viewing the line, guests enjoyed French champagne and delicious canapés from Katering, with our boutique beautifully fragranced by divine peonies from Susan Avery. 

We can’t wait to fit all of our beautiful brides in their dream Elie Saab gowns and share the photos with you, but in the meantime feast your eyes on some of the images from our presentation evening below.

For any enquires regarding Elie Saab Bridal gowns please contact the Helen Rodrigues boutique on (02) 9904 5700.

Inbal Dror Designer Weekend - 2nd & 3rd Dec 2016

Announcing the Inbal Dror Designer Weekend on 2nd & 3rd Dec 2016 in Sydney.

The weekend will have gowns from Inbal's latest collection. This stunning collection will be in Sydney only for 2 days!

Book your appointment to be part of this exclusive event and buy your dream Inbal Dror wedding gown. There is a $50 booking fee that includes personal advise from Helen and a glass of bubbles! Call Helen Rodrigues on 02 99045700 to make your appointment.

By appointment only
Date: 2nd & 3rd Dec 2016
Where: Helen Rodrigues
Tel: 02 99045700