A marriage of old and new 

Luxury contemporary bridal fashion continues to redefine modern elegance, and Australian designer Christopher Esber’s latest collection exemplifies this evolution. Seamlessly blending sleek, modern silhouettes with timeless traditional elements, Esber crafts designs for the bride who isn’t afraid to take bold risks.

The sartorial visionary’s first bridal collection was a natural progression for the brand.

“Having designed bespoke wedding dresses for close friends over the years, and having seen clients choose our ready-to-wear silhouettes for their wedding day, there’s a nice sentiment in the brand playing a role in the milestones of their lives,” says Esber.

Drawing on an interplay of structure, Esber’s latest offering merges classic tailoring with fluid forms and unexpected textures like feather-embellished gowns, layered lace, and dramatic Grecian draping evoking old-world glamour.

“She’s a bride who isn’t afraid to take a risk on her wedding day. She might choose to wear black instead of white or opt for a suit instead of a dress, because a modern wedding doesn’t have to be conventional,” says Esber.

From structured, transparent bodices to soft ruched silk and short-hemline mini dresses, the collection traverses a spectrum of it-girl bridal attitudes, seamlessly transitioning from the aisle to the after-party and beyond. Esber emphasizes this versatility: “The collection is an evolution of our signature silhouettes, reimagined for a modern bride. [It is] as relevant for a traditional ceremony or courthouse vows, as it is for a beachside wedding. And, taking a ready-to-wear approach means the investment isn’t limited to one-time wear.”

An exclusive preview

Several key pieces from the Christopher Esber RTW 2025 Bridal Collection will be showcased for the first time ever at our invite-only Wedded Network Launch Event, held at Three Over Six, Double Bay, Sydney on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. 

Discover the collection  

1. Floating lace mini dress

This delicate lace frock consists of a shorter hemline in the back for a seductive yet elegant touch. With its backless detail and flowy panels, it’s a relaxed, nonchalant sentiment to the Esber bride.

2. Floating lace strapless gown 

Who says lace is outdated or overly conservative? Instead of a traditional lace silhouette à la Kate Middleton, the design features a sheer fine lace fabric with tailored white blazer ties at the back and a soft tulle bow, cascading in place of a traditional train.

3. Twill blazer and trousers 

While pantsuits are often the go-to for courtroom weddings, this stunning set redefines tradition with its clean lines, chalky-white colour, and twill fabric. What’s more, is that the back features an open detail and cascading bow for a dramatic effect down the aisle. Paired with a casual updo or a carefree French bob, this ensemble is bound to make a striking statement.

4. Ripple drape gown 

This show-stopping design features a plunging neckline, a dramatic hood detail, and a sheer skirt. Though it may not suit a traditional ceremony situation, it’s an ideal choice for setting the stage for an unforgettably stylish celebration.

5. Veiled corset dress

Corsetry made a major statement at Paris Couture Week, and this dress proves its enduring appeal. Esber elevates the look with ruched silk tulle details and a sleek column skirt, for a touch of understated luxury.

6. Silk salacia strapless gown

In case you haven’t heard, non-white bridal gowns are au courant. While champagne and blush tones are popular choices, this taupe hue deserves immediate attention–it exudes effortless and nonchalant sophistication with a refined, understated glamour. Perfect for the unconventional bride, this look exudes confidence and a style that’s entirely her own.

7. Lace chemise gown 

Esber makes a compelling case for black as a bridal color with this ebony-hued gown that embraces romanticism through delicate lace. Far from Halloween vibes, it channels the sophistication of an evening dress—ideal for after parties or as a bold transition piece for brides not quite ready to wear a dark colour down the aisle.

Where to shop

The ready-to-wear collection can be purchased online at christopheresber.com.au, and through global online stockists Mytheresa, The Webster, Neiman Marcus, and FWRD.

It will also be available for appointments at The Strand Arcade store (Shop 62, Level 1, 412-414 George St, Sydney) until March 24th, 2025.

The Olivia Heirloom Layered Dress and the Heirloom Patchwork Lace Chemise Gown, as well as two veil styles are available as made to order options, fitted in-person at Esbar’s Sydney Atelier.