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Updated Mar 06, 2025Ann Lowe's Impact on Today's Top Black Wedding Dress Designers
Time for a (fun) history lesson.
Photo: Archival Getty,Design: Tiana Crispino
Let's face it—the wedding industry is lacking in diversity. And, unfortunately, it's been this way since couples first uttered the words "I do." But these 29 Black wedding dress designers, and many others, are proving that the issue isn't a shortage of talent. (Nardos and Amsale showcased collections at Bridal Fashion Week recently.) Instead, it's often an absence of exposure. That's why it's crucial that to-be-weds of all races support vendors that don't get the spotlight they deserve.
And even though I want to highlight contemporary Black wedding gown designers, there's one icon that I believe needs special attention. Ann Lowe is considered the first Black wedding dress designer, but not many people know her name, story or work. Not only has she influenced a lot of fashion pieces you see today, but she's also posthumously created avenues for Black creators to get a seat at the table or feel empowered to make their own space. Keep reading to learn Ann Lowe's legendary impact on the fashion world and check out my list of Black bridal designers you might recognize and those who are up-and-coming.
Quick reminder: Don't forget to go to The Knot Vendor Marketplace after seeing our list of talented Black wedding dress designers. All you have to do is enter your wedding location and click on the "Support Diversity" and "Black-owned Business" filters. This narrows down your search and helps you pick from the best Black-owned local bridal salons.
In this article: Ann Lowe's Influence | Black Wedding Dress Designers
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
The Ann Lowe Impact: The First Well-Known Black Wedding Dress Designer
I'm not the only one interested in sharing Ann Lowe's story. Recent news has come out that Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, and Ruth E. Carter, two-time Academy Award-winning film costume designer, are producers for an upcoming biopic about the Black fashion designer. To understand why Ann Lowe is slowly becoming a household name, I reached out to fashion history expert and founder of Black Fashion History, Taniqua Martin. (Psst. Using podcasts, online resources and more, Black Fashion History is a platform that highlights Black icons' contributions to the fashion industry.)
"Ann Lowe's journey in the fashion industry was anything but easy. She persevered through racism, financial hardships, health challenges and personal loss—all in pursuit of her dreams as a designer and couturier. Despite her immense talent, she often didn't receive the credit, recognition or fair compensation she deserved," says Martin. "Her work was admired by icons, like Christian Dior and Edith Head, yet she was often dismissed. In reality, she was shaping the style of high-society women from New York to Alabama from 1914 through the 1970s. Her creations weren't just gowns; they were status symbols and the very definition of luxury," Martin adds.
Five Facts You Should Know About Ann Lowe
"Ann Lowe's artistic and design abilities were truly exceptional. While she's widely recognized as a gifted couturier, the full extent of her genius is often overlooked. I would describe her as a savant based on what I think readers should keep in mind," says Martin.
- Born in Clayton, Alabama, around 1898, Lowe eventually moved to New York in 1917. There, she attended S.T. Taylor Design School. "She was placed in a class by herself due to segregation. We also know that segregation comes with the connotation that Black people are less than. Yet, her designs were so superior that they were used as models for the other students," Martin explains.
- In 1953, Lowe completed her most historically significant commission, which was the wedding gown and bridal party dresses for Jacqueline Bouvier, who was marrying then Senator John F. Kennedy. Unfortunately, disaster struck less than two weeks prior to the big day. "10 days before the wedding, the pipes burst in Lowe's atelier, destroying the wedding gown and 10 of the 15 bridesmaid dresses. She and her team remade them all to perfection within just 10 days [,sustained a $2,200 loss and never told the Kennedys about the incident]. Now, Jackie Kennedy Onassis is celebrated as one of the most stylish First Ladies, and her First Lady wedding dress was a defining moment in shaping her image," says Martin.
- When Jackie Kennedy was asked who made the gown in a 1961 interview with Ladies' Home Journal she referred to Lowe as a "colored woman dressmaker." Of course, Lowe didn't appreciate this slight and it's said that she wrote a letter to Jackie saying, "You have to respect me. You have to show me respect, show my discipline respect."
- "In 1957, Lowe was commissioned to recreate six miniature replicas of First Ladies' inaugural gowns for the Evyan perfume house, another example of her skill, precision and artistry being recognized," says Martin.
- "Later in life, despite losing her right eye to glaucoma and experiencing diminished sight in her left, she continued to create exceptional pieces. This was during the time of her work with A.F. Chantilly Inc., formed with designer Florence Cowell, which produced some of her most memorable pieces, like the green dress and dressing coat with the black appliqués," says Martin.
Ann Lowe's Influence on Black Wedding Dress Designers Today
"Ann Lowe's impact on wedding fashion—and fashion as a whole—is undeniable. She was known for her signature use of handmade cloth floral appliqués, elaborate hand-beading and intricate craftsmanship. Today, we see this reflected in wedding dress trends with 3D floral appliqués on lace, taffeta and sheer illusion fabrics. While this technique has existed since the 11th century, Lowe made it her own, mastering it from a young age while sewing alongside her mother," Martin explains.
To further emphasize the impression Ann Lowe has left on the fashion industry, I asked a few Black bridal gown designers how Ann Lowe's work has affected them.
- Charles Dieujuste, designer and creator of Scorcesa: "Ann Lowe's legacy inspires me to embrace my heritage and push boundaries in the wedding industry. She reminds me of the importance of representation and creativity."
- Jasmyne Summers, head designer and founder of Page XVII: "When I hear the name 'Ann Lowe,' I hear the words 'resilience' and 'pursuit.' As one of many African American bridal designers, I often see there's no space for us, so we don't get credited for what we do in the fashion industry. Ann Lowe has paved the way for many of Black designers today and because of her we are now able to become more recognized."
- Lawrencia Blount, owner and designer of Lawrencia Bridal Couture: "Ann Lowe was a true trailblazer, a visionary in luxury fashion who paved the way for Black designers like myself. Her legacy is a reminder that Black talent has always shaped the fashion industry, even when history overlooked our contributions. Knowing that she created one of the most iconic wedding dresses of all time motivates me to push boundaries and continue elevating Black excellence in bridal fashion."
- Leah Langley-McClean, founder and designer of elleNelle Bridal: "It saddens me that she didn't receive her flowers until long after her passing, and even more so that she was never able to enjoy the financial success that someone of her caliber deserved. Her work and journey reminds me of the importance of charging what I'm worth and ensuring I receive proper credit for my work. It's not enough to simply be great or exceptional at what I do. I have to protect my craft and my legacy so that history doesn't repeat itself."
- Madelange Laroche, lead designer and owner of Madelange Laroche Studio: "Ann Lowe is an enduring fashion icon who opened the door for Black designers like myself in the bridal industry. Growing up in a seamstress family, her childhood history resonates deeply with mine. Her bravery and strength during the era inspire me every day. Thanks to her dedication and trailblazing spirit, I'm proud to carry on her legacy as a Black bridal designer, creating beautiful gowns that celebrate and empower brides."
29 Black Wedding Dress Designers You Should Know
For those in the process of wedding dress shopping and in search of a Black-owned wedding dress, you've come to the right place. Below are just some of the Black and African wedding dress designers that are making waves in the fashion space and uplifting Ann Lowe's legacy.
Jump to your favorite Black bridal designer: Adwoa Akwaboah | Amsale | Pantora Bridal | Hanifa | Scorcesa | Cynthia Grafton-Holt Couture | Imad Eduso | Danielle Parish Drake Bridal | Esé Azénabor | Alonuko | Page XVII | Jean-Ralph Thurin | the lotus bloom co. | Laury Bride | Lawrencia Bridal Couture | elleNelle Bridal | Madelange Laroche Studio | Mark Ingram Atelier | Zateemee | Kílẹ̀ńtàr | Nardos | Brides by Nona | Rita Colson | Sabina Motasem | Odylyne the Ceremony | Stephen Goudeau | Valentine Avoh | Dreamers & Lovers | Kosibah
Adwoa Akwaboah
Looking for African designer wedding dresses? Then Adwoa Akwaboah's work is for you. This self-taught Ghanaian pro specializes in making kente gowns and bespoke wedding dresses for Black brides. She's known for her intricate and elaborate embellished gowns and use of vibrant and colorful fabrics. She also makes gorgeous looks for the bridal party members.
Amsale Aberra of Amsale
Since Amsale Aberra first launched her namesake label in 1986, her minimalist aesthetic changed the course of wedding dress trends. The Ethiopian designer's brand came about during Aberra's search for a more streamlined, sophisticated wedding gown. Disappointed with the over-the-top wedding dresses of the '80s, she designed her own gown. Determined to serve brides like herself in the years that followed, Aberra started selling custom wedding gowns from her New York City apartment. Although Aberra passed away in April 2018, The Amsale Group is devoted to carrying on her legacy under the design direction of Margo Lafontaine. The brand, with its headquarters in New York City, now has multiple lines: Amsale, Nouvelle Amsale, Amsale Bridesmaids, Little White Dress and Evening.
The fashion group has presented collections twice a year for over 30 years at New York Bridal Fashion Week and is known for providing elegant and modern styles with accents of glamour. Prices range between $1,700 and $5,000 and come in made-to-order sizes from 0 to 24.
Andrea Pitter of Pantora Bridal
Andrea Pitter established Pantora Bridal in 2013 to address a lack of inclusion and diversity in the bridal industry. A combination of classic silhouettes paired with modern details, Pantora Bridal is made for the glamorous bride who doesn't shy away from edgier trends. Highly customizable, the collection features gowns with various alternative strap, neckline and skirt options. Above all, Pantora Bridal designs with the Black bride in mind. Illusion details are a huge trend in bridal, but standard mesh colors don't work on darker complexions. "Black brides are constantly offered a nude that isn't a nude that works for them because nude isn't universal," says Pitter. So the brand launched Forgotten Skin Tones, a selection of illusion and mesh linings created for brides of color.
"What became obvious in my decision to work in the bridal industry was that it lacked inclusion. I wanted to create a safe place for brides to be celebrated for exactly who they are," says Pitter. "Ours is an important story to tell. As I often say, we're bigger than wedding dresses." Pantora Bridal is based in Brooklyn, NY, where the Jamaican-raised pro grew up, and carries sizes up to 32 with prices starting at $2,200. Fun fact: Andrea Pitter was The Knot magazine cover star for its 25th anniversary in 2021.
Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa
Anifa Mvuemba, born in Nairobi, Kenya, is the self-taught designer and founder of Hanifa. She launched the brand in Washington, DC in 2011 and created the motto, "For women without limits," to capture Hanifa's out-of-the-box, luxurious designs. Hanifa is a combination of nonwedding attire and bridal wear with celebrities such as Beyoncé, Tracee Ellis Ross and Issa Rae wearing her looks. Ranging from sizes 0 to 24, prices for the ready-to-wear dresses start at $329 for simple looks and go up to $10,000 for extravagant styles. The company is also involved in making the community better with its initiative called "The Hanifa Dream," which donates 1% of every Hanifa purchase to a nonprofit of the buyer's choice.
Charles C. Dieujuste of Scorcesa
"I started as a wedding fashion designer after recognizing the lack of representation in bridal wear and wanted to celebrate the beauty of all brides from the perspective of a Black designer. I launched Scorcesa in 2020 to create contemporary looks for the modern bride and infuse the rich culture of my native land, Haiti," Dieujuste says. He describes his Black-owned wedding dresses as being modern and sophisticated. "I blend bold femininity with timeless elegance to create unique pieces that are culturally influenced and empower every bride, including bridal separates and suiting," Dieujuste adds.
Scorcesa, in New York City, is perfect for the nontraditional bride looking for an alternative ready-to-wear bridal collection. All pieces are available in petite and tall sizes, with sizes ranging from 00 to 30 and prices starting at $360 to $2,480. "What sets me apart from other wedding designers is my commitment to creating inclusive designs that honor diverse body types and cultural backgrounds, ensuring every bride feels seen and celebrated," Dieujuste says.
Cynthia Grafton-Holt of Cynthia Grafton-Holt Couture
Growing up in the small town of Smethwick in England, Cynthia Grafton-Holt was inspired by the impeccable style of her aunts, who relied on the community dressmaker to keep up with the latest fashion trends. After graduating from the London School of Fashion, Grafton-Holt went on to work for high-end design houses like Alexander McQueen, Giles Deacon, Emilia Wickstead and Victoria Beckham. After 20 years of creating countless evening gowns and dresses, Grafton-Holt launched her own bridal brand, Oui Madame. In 2020, Grafton-Holt shuttered Oui Madame and embarked on a new journey: a bespoke bridal business called Cynthia Grafton-Holt Couture. Based in London, Grafton-Holt creates purely custom gowns, working closely with brides to bring their visions to life.
"My heart is always drawn to diverse styles, cultural references and the personality of the women who I design for. Whilst mainstream boutiques tend to offer up perfectly aligned collections, my collection is reflective of my ideal clients who are both diverse in nature and seek their own path. Being authentic, personable and uncomplicated is what my clients enjoy most. Brides in particular want to know that they can trust me to understand their vision and to interpret it in a way that exceeds their expectations," Grafton-Holt says. The types of wedding dresses and outfits that Grafton-Holt makes are timeless and have an ultra-romantic look. Since all of Grafton-Holt's pieces are custom, to-be-weds will have to inquire directly about pricing and sizing.
Dami Olukoya of Imad Eduso
Dami Olukoya founded Imad Eduso in her hometown of Lagos, Nigeria in 2017. The self-taught fashion designer draws inspiration from her Nigerian culture and aims to satisfy "the minimalist bride who seeks classic, yet unconventional designs." Olukoya's work has been worn by Lupita Nyong'o and Chimamanda Adichie and was showcased at the Lagos Bridal Fashion Week multiple times. Offering bespoke, made-to-order and ready-to-wear bridal wear, Imad Eduso's prices range from $112 to $2,372 and carry sizes 2 to 20.
Danielle Drake of Danielle Parish Drake Bridal
Born in San Pablo, California, Danielle Drake runs the Danielle Parish Drake Bridal shop with her husband. Drake always loved to draw and create clothing designs as a child and knew being a fashion designer was going to be her future. The bridal store was founded in 2021 and is based in La Puente, California where Drake lets her Black and Filipino heritages inspire her fabulous wedding dress designs. Her bold dresses are all made and hand-sewn in Africa and the brand offers ready-to-wear and discounted dress rentals at various price points between sizes 0 and 24. Drake pushes an ethical philosophy by partnering with Hope For Children's Ministries in Zimbabwe and a Domestic Shelter in Long Beach, California, so that 10% of every dress sold goes to these causes.
Esé Azénabor-Grembowski of Esé Azénabor
Nigerian-born Esé Azénabor got her start designing custom evening wear. She expanded her line to include bridal options after a client requested a bespoke wedding dress that would work for her body shape and darker skin tone. Inspired by the arts, Esé Azénabor eponymous line is all about empowering women through fashion, as well as an attention to detail: crystals, pearls and hand embroidery are the defining characteristics of her designs. Though mostly known for bespoke gowns, in 2020 Esé Azénabor launched a ready-to-wear line, for brides looking for off the rack options with a faster turnaround time. "The Esé Azénabor bride is definitely not a wallflower. She is daring, confident, a world traveler and truly appreciates what it takes to create art," Azénabor says.
"An example of Ann Lowe's lasting influence can be seen in Esé Azénabor's recent bridal collection, where similar construction techniques and silk floral accents echo Lowe's signature style. I'm not certain that Azénabor used Lowe as a reference, but the connection is clear," Martin says. The Dallas, Texas, fashion house has clothed stars, like Taraji P. Henson and Tyra Banks, carries sizes 1 to 4 for ready-to-wear gowns, has bespoke options and prices start at $890 for non-custom pieces.
Oluwagbemisola "Gbemi" Okunlola of Alonuko
Alonuko was created by Oluwagbemisola Okunlola, affectionately known as "Gbemi," in London, United Kingdom in 2012. The Nigerian fashion designer grew up watching her mother making stunning gowns for others and knew she wanted to follow suit. The Alonuko brand is well-known for having dresses with intricate embroidery and top-tier illusion tulle, which is great for women of color who usually aren't given many options. To-be-weds have three processes for their wedding gown. You can choose made-to-order, which means the gown will be made in a standard UK size. For those who want a tailored fit, the toile service is available so the dress is made to your exact measurements. Finally, there's the bespoke service, which is a collaboration between the client and the designer. No matter what service you choose, prices are available upon request and sizes vary.
Jasmyne Summers of Page XVII
"So my journey began at eight years old, which is when I asked my mom to teach me how to sew, and when I started making handbags from cutting up jeans in my closet," says Summers, a Statesboro, Georgia native. In 2014, Summers started Page XVII, but didn't focus on wedding attire until 2020. "I loved how a wedding dress meant so much more than creating nonbridal outfits. I really felt something when I designed a wedding dress," the designer says.
What makes this Georgia-based glam brand, which frequently incorporates feathers and ruffles, stand out is that each gown has a story to tell. "All my gowns are created to empower women through their life journeys. Also, a lot of my gowns are named after women I find influential, like my mom, my grandmothers and women in the Bible," she explains. Interested in more details? You'll need to inquire by email for pricing. All garments are made-to-order for bridal sizes 0 to 30 or you can get made-to-measure custom sizing.
Jean-Ralph Thurin
Designer Jean-Ralph Thurin's more than twenty-year career in fashion began as a childhood fascination with his grandmother's sewing skills and iconic couture houses such as Dior and Givenchy. A graduate of Parsons School of Design, the designer specializes in custom bridal gowns and evening wear, with a special focus on wedding dresses for Black brides and their bodies. His gown collections typically have illusion and see-through details and are always customized to perfectly match any skin tone.
"As a custom designer, I pride myself in designing for the bride who has a good sense of self, is strong, confident and passionate. As such, my designs are as unique as my brides since they are made to capture their essence and authenticity," Thurin, whose store is located in Raritan, New Jersey, says. Schedule a free consultation and get information on dress prices and sizing.
Keisha Ransome of the lotus bloom co.
Keisha Ransome got her start in the bridal industry by happenstance. Ransome was selling tulle skirts on Etsy and a customer requested a custom skirt for her wedding. Initially, Ransome was intimidated by the prospect of making a garment for such an important moment and declined, but the customer was insistent. "I was flabbergasted that a stranger online expressed such confidence in my abilities for one of the most special days of her life. I haven't looked back since," Ransome says. Today, the lotus bloom co. offers a fully realized world of whimsical tulle pieces—from the tulle skirts that inspired its inception, to luxurious boas. "My pieces are intended to make you feel fabulous. The lotus bloom co. bride is confident, fashionable and owns her identity. She knows what she wants and isn't afraid to be bold," Ransome says. To-be-weds should remember that dress sizes range from 2 to 18 and that the York, Pennsylvania fashion brand sells items for $180 to $438.
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Laurie Underwood of Laury Bride
Laurie Underwood's beautifully bold and structured gown designs took her far on season 14 of Project Runway. After the show and the success of her popular ready-to-wear collection, Wanda Grace, Underwood's bridal collection, Laury Bride, showcases her unique perspective on bridal style with distinctly modern looks with dramatic flair (think: oversize ruffle details and airy ball gowns). Known for primarily having a bespoke collection, Laury Bride launched its ready-to-wear line in Fall 2020, where prices range between $400 to $2500. (You must contact the brand directly to find out the size options.)
"Laury Bride is chic and minimal, yet bold and discreetly dramatic. My designs are clean and simple, but there is always that one element that dramatically speaks to the true style personality of the bride, which allows her to honor her true style and who she is on her wedding day," Underwood, whose company is based in Chicago, Illinois, says.
Lawrencia Blount of Lawrencia Bridal Couture
Photo courtesy of Lawrencia Bridal Couture
"My journey into bridal fashion began with a deeply personal moment. I made my sister's wedding dress just after one semester of fashion school at Parsons School of Design and immediately after knew that bridal fashion was going to be my focus," Blount says, who describes herself as a designer for millennial and Gen Z brides. Lawrencia Bridal Couture, founded in 2020 and based in Los Angeles, California, offers unique and chic attire for modern brides and Blount believes "a bride's wedding day look should be a true reflection of her individual style. That's why I love to design fashion-forward looks for modern brides who dare to be different—women who want more than just the typical lace or satin dress, but a statement piece that embodies their personality."
When asked her opinion on being a Black wedding dress designer in the fashion world, Blount speaks to the lack of diversity. "I'm committed to breaking barriers and amplifying representation. Every bride deserves to see herself reflected in bridal fashion, and I take pride in designing for all women, especially those who have felt overlooked. My mission isn't just about creating beautiful gowns, but shifting the industry toward greater inclusivity. I launched my brand to carve out a space where diversity isn't just an afterthought, but a priority." Fast facts: Currently prices are between $2,000 and $5,500 for made-to-order outfits and sizes start at 00 (custom sizing is available).
Leah Langley-McClean of elleNelle Bridal
Leah Langley-McClean got her start in the bridal industry in 2015 while looking for a wedding dress for her nuptials. "I was on the hunt for a wedding dress that truly reflected my fashion sense, highlighted my curves and allowed me to show up in true 'Leah' fashion—always stylish. But the options available in a street size 12/14 were lackluster, to say the least," says Langley-McClean. She continues, "I also didn't feel represented in the bridal market as a Black woman. At the time, illusion mesh was only offered in beige, ivory or white, and Black brides or curvy/plus-size brides were rarely seen in bridal advertising. That experience led me to making my own wedding dress."
Langley-McClean draws inspiration from "1950s glam, blending vintage elegance with timeless structure, impeccable craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail" for elleNelle's signature looks. Debuting her "Becoming" collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week in 2024, Langley-McClean says representation should be considered in all aspects of the wedding dress shopping experience. "I tend to feature more Black models than other designers, simply because I know how underrepresented we've been for so long," she says. The Nashville, Tennessee, store has options for everyone, including plus-size wedding dresses, and prices are $3,000 to $8,000 for collection gowns and start at $6,000 for custom gowns.
Madelange Laroche of Madelange Laroche Studio
"Born and raised in Haiti, I learned the art of sewing from my mother and sister, both talented seamstresses. From a young age, I had the privilege of sewing for brides in my hometown. After graduating from fashion school, I took the leap to launch my own brand, dedicated to creating stunning wedding attire that captures the essence of love and beauty," Laroche says. Madelange Laroche Studio, in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, isn't like other shops because the designer's beginnings are different. "I didn't just wake up one day and decide to pursue this path, instead, becoming a designer has been my childhood dream. This love for bridal fashion drives me to craft unique and stunning gowns that resonate with brides on their special day," Laroche says.
In-store, you'll find sample sizes ranging from 8 to 20, but dresses can be ordered in sizes above and below what's available in-store. And when it comes to pricing, it's based on "the time and materials required to create each dress."
Mark Ingram of Mark Ingram Atelier
After graduating from New York University, Mark Ingram got his start in fashion at Bonwit Teller and Bergdorf Goodman. Once he had many years in the fashion industry under his belt, Ingram joined Amsale as the National Bridal Sales Director in 1995. Not long after, Ingram opened the Mark Ingram Atelier in New York in 2002. Ingram's latest collection is for fall 2025 and is called "Portrait of a Lady Party II," which, according to the brand's website, is inspired by Ingram's mother, Naomi. "Naomi's essence is continually found in this season's gowns: her poise in the structured silk mikados, her feminine sophistication within the lace fabrications and strength of character in the architectural necklines and voluminous skirts."
Mark Ingram gowns start at $6,500 and the average sample size is 8 to 10 (and ready-to-wear 6 or 8). Despite this, customers can feel comfortable in making an appointment since they welcome brides of all shapes and have custom services available.
Mercy Ngozi Udoh of Zateemee
Located in Nigeria, Zateemee was founded in 2014 by Mercy Ngozi Udoh, who got the entrepreneurial idea after stepping away from a successful modeling career. The brand works on bridal and special occasion dresses that feature lots of tulle and complex beading and ships bespoke dresses to more than 11 countries. With ready-to-wear and custom designs made-to-order, this African designer's wedding dresses could be what you're looking for. Please note: Sizes are UK 8 to 20 and pricing is available via direct inquiry.
Michelle Adepoju of Kílẹ̀ńtàr
Michelle Adepoju, a Nigerian raised in the United Kingdom, founded Kílẹ̀ńtàr in 2019. Adepoju, located in London, is well-known for two things: crafting vibrant and texture-filled clothing collections inspired by Nigerian fashion and culture and being a sustainable wedding dress designer. Passionate about sustainability and ethical design practices, Kílẹ̀ńtàr clothes are made using traditional African methods. Some ways that the brand emphasizes being sustainable is by working with artisans in the West African region, using natural dyes, having limited-release collections and transparent pricing that directly contributes to their workers. Sizes start at 0 and go up to 20 and to-be-weds can expect to pay between $132 and $854 for their gorgeous attire.
Nardos Imam of Nardos
Nardos Imam dreamed of designing dresses as a young girl growing up in Eritrea. Her mother was a talented seamstress who loved making colorful dresses for her children, and Imam was fascinated by different patterns and stitching. After studying costume design at El Centro College in Dallas, Texas and spending several years in the fashion industry, Imam launched her own collection in 2009. Since then, Nardos, located in Dallas, Texas and New York, has expanded into accessory, evening wear, custom bridal and a ready-to-wear line. Imam credits God and the unique perspectives of her clients as her main source of inspiration. The Nardos bridal collection offers a variety of classic, tailored silhouettes with standout details like oversize rosettes, colorful statement bows and 3D florals.
Find out about prices and sizing when you call or email one of their flagship stores. Fun fact: You can find this Black wedding designer's recent pieces on the Spring and Fall 2025 New York Bridal Fashion Week runways.
Nneka C. Alexander of Brides by NoNA
Nneka C. Alexander's gown shopping experience inspired her to leave a budding career in investment to pursue wedding dress design. After finding herself disappointed by the selection at several bridal salons, Alexander decided to make her dress herself. "The only place I could find the gown of my dreams was literally in my dreams—and I wouldn't settle for anything less," Alexander says. In 2014, Alexander launched Brides by NoNA. Based in Marietta, Georgia, Brides by NoNA offers a curated collection of custom wedding dresses and formalwear for brides.
"The Brides by NoNA aesthetic is timeless chic. I design pieces that transcend short-lived trends and fads. Our bride understands the language of luxury and the intricacies of a bespoke process. I create gowns that'll still take your breath away 10 years down the road," Alexander says. Since Alexander's pieces are bespoke, prices and sizes will vary.
Rita Colson
The Ghanaian-British Rita Colson, located in London, has been in the fashion industry for almost two decades. Her bridal shop's most recent collection was inspired by a photo of a man in an ivory 1970s three-piece tuxedo. Colson describes her pieces as all "light, fluid and contemporary" and that is apparent in the fun movement allowed in each garment. Sizes go up to a 16, but Colson also has a bespoke service for those who want their outfit tailored specifically for their bodies. Prices depend on several factors so don't be afraid to reach out for a consultation.
Sabina Motasem
Sabina Motasem has been creating minimalist dresses for brides since 2007. It all started after Motasem made a wedding dress as a gift for a friend, who couldn't find the simple, yet elegant gown she wanted. Soon, Motasem crafted other wedding dress gifts and the idea of making a bridal line came to mind.
The made-to-order bridal studio, in London, prides itself on being environmentally responsible and has been rewarded for this with a Marie Claire Sustainability Award in 2022 and 2023 for Best Bridalwear Brand. (One reason they received that award was for being a zero fabric waste company.) My favorite parts about this brand is the price transparency, dresses start at $1,550 for sizes 8 to 24, and the ability to see real brides wearing the dress you choose online. For example, here are real wedding photos of brides wearing the Sabina Motasem dress above: Jessica, Amelia and Melissa.
Stephanie White of Odylyne the Ceremony
Designed by Stephanie White, ethereal bridal brand Odylyne the Ceremony is made for the free-spirited, boho bride, who doesn't shy away from ornate embellishments and delicate details. Inspired by the dreamy works of French painter Odilon Redon, Odylyne the Ceremony infuses every gown with a sense of romance that pushes the limits.
"At Odylyne the Ceremony, we have a simple mission: To create a dream-like state in reality of the strong expectations that you may have on one of the most special days of your life," White says. "Our collection is curated for the bride that understands that standards are meant to be challenged, and the limits should feel endless. In our ethereal sphere there lies no reasoning, no typicality, no explanations, no realism, no comparisons, nothing ordinary and no normalcy. Our mission is to help you leave all of those things behind." At this bridal studio, in Los Angeles, California, they carry sizes 2 to 20 (accommodations can be made) and prices begin at $925.
Stephen Goudeau
From Shreveport, Louisiana, Stephen Goudeau founded his luxury fashion business in 2014 with the goal of designing sophisticated and bespoke pieces. Celebrities like Zendaya and Destiny's Child have worn his creations and he's featured in numerous fashion publications. On the brand's website, it speaks to the Black wedding designer's wishes for the future of the fashion industry. "His goal in the industry is to leave a strong, persevering stamp for people of color, of any sex, age, and background. He firmly believes, and wants others to understand, that Black Lives Do Matter and he wants the example of his life to leave footprints in the fashion world that help stamp out stereotypes of people of color being seen as subpar." Stephen Goudeau is based in Dallas, Texas and to-be-weds must inquire about sizing. Also, the highest price for a bridal dress is $7,150.
Valentine Avoh
Valentine Avoh's eponymous bridal line has royal roots. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, Valentine Avoh worked for prestigious fashion houses such as Alexander McQueen and Alexis Mabille. While designing a wedding dress for a friend in 2009, Avoh fell in love with the gown creation process. In 2013, Avoh made two bespoke gowns for the Queen of Belgium, which inspired her to formally launch her own brand in 2015. Based in Brussels, Belgium, Avoh Valentine describes her line as "refined, fluid and delicate," and draws inspiration from the glamour of Jazz and the golden age of cinema.
"My designs are for women who wish to highlight their femininity without compromising their ease. I give a lot of thought to the fabrics I select and create pieces with movement and flexibility. I really want to create showstopping pieces that work for the red carpet just as easily as they work for a wedding," Avoh says. For long gowns the price range is between $3,029 and $8,654 and, for short dresses, a minimum of $1,947. Dresses come in 0 to 14 for US sizes.
Yanique Barnes of Dreamers & Lovers
Yanique Barnes created Dreamers & Lovers in 2012 after adding what she thought were three nonbridal dresses on Etsy. Soon after listing them, Barnes realized that brides were embracing the dresses the most. This Venice, California brand is ideal for any bride looking for vintage-inspired lace dresses. My favorite service that this made-to-order bridal studio offers is an at home try-on option. For brides sized 2 to 16, you can order up to three dresses to your house if traveling to California isn't possible for you. The shipping is even free on the delivery and return of the dresses if you purchase one of the choices you ordered. Before you rush over to this dreamy, boho wonderland, ensure their starting price of $1,599 is in your budget.
Yemi Osunkoya of Kosibah
Inspired by weddings in his homeland of Nigeria, Yemi Osunkoya knew at a young age that he wanted to create bridal gowns. In 1991, Osunkoya launched his wedding dress label, Kosibah, named after an alternative spelling of his mother's name. Now based in Manhattan, Kosibah specializes in high-end bespoke gowns, designed from scratch and inspired by the elegance and technical intricacy of Dior, Balenciaga and Givenchy Couture gowns popular in the late 1940s and 1950s.
"My signature style is figure-enhancing gowns that recreate the classical hourglass shape, which in turn flatters and celebrates the female form regardless of shape or dress size. I prefer clean, uncluttered silhouettes," Osunkoya says. Contact Kosibah through email or phone to find out their prices and size range for your favorite gowns.
Additional reporting by Sofia Deeb
