Daalarna’s latest collection embodies structured design solutions, sparkle, and illusion – not only in the garments themselves but also in the unique interior design of the W Budapest, where the shoot took place.
“With the ILLUSION collection, we’ve returned to the classic Daalarna styles that garnered attention when the brand was founded in 2002 and reinterpreted them for the present,” says Daalarna designer Anita Benes. “One notable aspect of this comeback is the collection’s stronger emphasis on structured and shaping wedding dresses compared to previous years. As a designer, I’ve always admired corsets; they beautifully accentuate feminine curves and enhance the romantic flair of brides. For those who aren’t seeking slimming effects but adore the silhouette, we’ve crafted inventive corset-like solutions using beaded lace, offering the illusion of classic corsetry with a more liberated, comfortable feel.”
Inspired by old movies and the iconic dresses of Grace Kelly and Brigitte Bardot, Anita Benes aimed to evoke the feminine fashion of the 1950s and 1960s. She believes that for such garments, precision and expertise are crucial, traits embodied by Daalarna’s highly skilled team of seamstresses and craftsmen based in Budapest. “Creating garments that follow the body’s contours flawlessly requires meticulous attention to detail and advanced technology, as well as top-notch materials. I’m proud that at Daalarna, our team excels in these aspects.”
The new ILLUSION collection features several wedding dresses incorporating playful illusion tulle elements and glittery fabrics, alongside trendy halterneck solutions. “Illusion tulle offers the effect of a bold strapless dress while providing extra support, while halterneck designs, leaving the shoulders bare but ending in a high neckline, offer a sexy yet understated option for brides seeking not to accentuate their décolletage on their special day.”
The collection includes colorful dresses as well as off-white and black casual dresses, providing modern and trend-setting brides with versatile options for their big day.
The campaign images were captured in the striking interiors of W Budapest, which exude a sense of illusion and magic. The hotel’s design, reminiscent of a mystical labyrinth with reflective surfaces and interconnected corridors, draws inspiration from mirrors and Houdini, the Hungarian-born American illusionist and magician. The signature AWAY Spa area features water elements that create a sense of infinite space and offers hidden retreats where guests can unwind away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
“I’ve always admired English interior design, and elements of it shine through in the beautifully renovated W Budapest,” says Anita Benes. “I appreciate their unconventional and daring approach to revamping this historic building. Shooting the new Daalarna collections – ILLUSION and WHITE SWAN – in these distinctive spaces truly brings the dresses to life.”
In addition to Daalarna's classic twice-yearly wedding collections, the brand is proud to introduce a new exclusive line: Atelier by Daalarna. These exquisite gowns are crafted from the most luxurious materials, including the finest Italian and French haute couture lace, featuring extensive handwork and lavish fabric utilization. Explore the debut collection of Atelier by Daalarna, named WHITE SWAN, by clicking here.
Photography: Éva Papp & Zoltán Schneider @pappschneiderphotography, Dresses: Daalarna @daalarnaofficial, Hair & Makeup: Csilla Kiss @kisscsicsi, Models: Berta Nagy @bertanagy / Attractive Models @attractivemodels, Fanni Csáti @fanniborbala / The Roster @theroster_mgmt, Dzseni Dajka @dzsannifer / Visage Management @visagemodelshungary, Location: W Budapest @wbudapest_hotel
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