Preserving the Art of British Craftsmanship

A note from Phillipa Lepley.

“Craftsmanship is the heartbeat of everything we do.

Every stitch is part of a story bigger than a dress – the story of the seamstress who has honed her craft over years, the cutter who understands the grain of silk, the artisan who places each bead by hand. The delicate hands that cut, mould, stitch, and embroider, and the careful eyes that inspect every seam, each play a vital role in bringing a design to life.

Supporting these skills is about more than creating beautiful gowns; it is about preserving a legacy. Techniques such as corsetry, hand-appliqué, lacework, and embroidery are centuries-old, yet remain essential to the integrity of couture. By nurturing these skills within our London atelier, we ensure British craftsmanship continues to thrive – not only today, but for generations to come.

For me, couture is as much about the process as the final piece. Each design evolves gradually, through considered fabric choices, careful fittings in toile and silk, and meticulous hand-finishing. This slower, deliberate journey creates dresses that not only fit exquisitely but carry the heritage of making things well, by hand, here in England. 

Our gowns are timeless pieces, crafted with a careful balance of traditional couture techniques and modern innovation. In our London atelier, digital tools work alongside handcraft, enhancing precision while preserving the artistry in every detail. Every dress is designed, crafted, and perfected in-house, from the drape of silk to the placement of a single bead, ensuring it is exactly as it should be. I am immensely proud of my team, each a true artisan devoted to British craftsmanship. Watching their hands work is a true privilege and one of the greatest joys in what I do.

A Phillipa Lepley couture gown is a culmination of skill, care, and heritage. Designed to transcend trends and be treasured, it carries the tradition of British craftsmanship forward. I remain deeply grateful that we can still practice such high couture craftsmanship in 2025.”

Phillipa x

Phillipa Lepley is recognised globally as a leading British wedding dress and eveningwear designer, renowned for bespoke couture dresses of the utmost luxury. Her wedding dress shop in London, Chelsea, has over 50 dresses, all of which have been made in England from start to finish at her Atelier.