Hold onto your veils, because Tony Ward’s Couture Fall Winter 2025/26 collection is not just fashion, it’s an explosion of artistry, drama, and self-expression. The show, entitled “Entre Rêve et Regard” (Between Dream and Gaze), took the runway by storm, turning every glance into a daring performance. From masks to shadows of intricate embroideries, this collection captured the imagination, pushing the boundaries of bridal and couture fashion. And for those who wanted exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, Wedded Wonderland had the privilege of getting insight from Tony Ward himself for this feature.
A World of Masquerade and Mystique
For Tony Ward, inspiration for the 2025/26 collection came from an unexpected yet utterly captivating source: the world of masquerade.
“I got inspired by the idea that people once felt they had to hide their true selves to meet societal and familial expectations,” Ward shared.
“But today, we see a movement where people are shouting their truths from the rooftops, and I think that’s beautiful. The masks in this collection don’t hide the faces of the models; instead, they amplify the persona already present.”
Ward delved into the idea of identity as a dynamic, fluid concept, something that’s constantly evolving, much like the world of couture.
“I wanted to take the mystery of masquerade and turn it into a form of self-expression,” he said. “The masks are decorative, enhancing the character rather than concealing it. Each piece in the collection is about showing who you truly are, unapologetically.”
Bridal Influence: Redefining the Wedding Gown
Although Ward’s collection spans beyond bridal, it’s clear that his designs have an undeniable influence on the world of luxury wedding fashion. Bridal masks made a striking appearance, with elements of mystery and daring contrasts woven into the overall aesthetic. The idea of layering your identity, much like couture itself, speaks to the modern bride who is complex, layered, and unapologetically herself. The masks were a direct challenge to traditional bridal wear, pushing brides to step into their full power and embrace both their femininity and strength.
Ward told us, “Brides today are no longer confined to the same traditional silhouettes. They want to embody who they truly are. There’s a shift in bridal wear where women aren’t just looking for a dress, they’re looking for an experience, something that speaks to their individuality and strength. It’s about empowerment rather than submission.”
Baroque Meets Modernity: Couture Techniques with a Bold Twist
When it comes to couture craftsmanship, Tony Ward is a master of balance. This season, the collection took cues from Baroque architecture, blending the extravagance of the past with a sleek, modern twist.
“The Baroque era is known for its theatricality and emotional weight, but I wasn’t interested in nostalgia,” Ward explains.
“I wanted to reimagine it through clean, bold cuts, and a sculptural sensibility that feels contemporary.”
The details were nothing short of stunning. 3D appliqués, hand-molded and placed to appear as if they were organically erupting from the fabric and brought the designs to life.
Theatricality and Emotion: The Show Itself
The Tony Ward Couture Fall Winter 2025/26 show was an immersive experience from start to finish. It wasn’t just about showcasing beautiful garments,it was about telling a story. The show opened with models wearing intricately designed masks, setting the tone for what was to come. Every glance was an act, every movement a performance.
As the show unfolded, the models embodied various Commedia dell’arte archetypes: flirty, romantic, and eccentric. Ward mixed and matched fabrics and colors to challenge the notion of fixed identity, showing that you can be anything you want, a message that resonated deeply with both the bridal and fashion communities.
The Call to Dream Big
Tony Ward’s final words about the collection were an invitation to dream big and embrace one’s true self.
“The world of masquerade is a dream world where you can be whoever you want to be, with no consequences,” he said.
“The reality is that life can be the same. It’s all about how you take it and how much you allow it to affect you. My hope is that people leave the show feeling seen, emboldened to express their complexity.”
Brides, are you dreaming of a wedding that is as iconic as this show? then sign up to be part of our complimentary Wedded Concierge service and let Wedded Wonderland help you match with vendors, venues and planners anywhere in the world.
