Steve Barth
Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week recently concluded its first edition under the leadership of Albasarí Caro, and despite high expectations, it surpassed attendance figures recorded in 2019, indicating optimism for the global bridal fashion market after the pandemic. The trade show and runway show days of the event saw a strong presence of industry professionals and Asian buyers, with 350 brands participating and 21,500 visitors, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. Notably, 1529 of the visitors were national and international strategic buyers invited by BBFW, with a focus on growth markets such as China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and the U.S. The European presence was also significant, with countries such as Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Holland, and Portugal having notable presences.
The fashion shows at the Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week were a huge success, with 34 shows of designers from 15 countries held at practically full capacity. The iconic Spanish bridal brands Rosa Clará and Pronovias showcased highly anticipated fashion shows, while Elie Saab presented its first-ever bridal fashion show at Barcelona Bridal Night. Additionally, designer Jimmy Choo attended the event to present the bridal collections of his brand The Atelier. The event also showcased the latest bridal collections of Spanish designers, as well as international collections that stood out, highlighting brands such as Italy’s Nicole Milano, Demetrios and Carlo Pignatelli; Ukraine’s Wona Concept & Eva Lendel; Vietnam’s Joli Poli; Poland’s Agnieszka Swiatly; Belgian brands Marylise, Rembo Styling & Carta Branca; French brand Cymbeline; Bulgarian brand Julia Kontogruni; Dutch brand Modeca; American brand Madeline; Turkish brand Madam Burcu and Canadian brand Ines di Santo.
The Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week also introduced the inaugural Barcelona Bridal Fashion Awards, aiming to recognise excellence in sustainability, innovation, art, and quality across the bridal fashion industry. The winners included Vivienne Westwood for best wedding dress, Viktor & Rolf Mariage for their bridal collection, Carlo Pignatelli for his bridal collection, Cortana for its cocktail designs, Isabel Sanchis for her sustainable party dress, Monvieve for its photo campaign, Nicole & Felicia Chang for emerging talent, and fashion designer Professor Jimmy Choo OBE, for his outstanding professional career. Additionally, entrepreneur Yew Loh, CEO of the Malaysian brand, was awarded a special honour for his role as a strategic brand ambassador.
Finally, the dates for the next edition of Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week have already been announced from April 17 to April 21, 2024. The success of this year’s event surpassed expectations, leading to optimism for the global bridal fashion market and reinforcing Barcelona’s position as the premier destination for observing trends and closing business deals.
