As a young entrepreneur in the noughties our designer Elizabeth quickly realised that British craftsmanship was in decline. Most bridal wear, indeed, fashion was manufactured in the far east and developing countries, gowns offered elaborate beading and embroideries at relatively modest retail prices, once you deduct retailer profits, shipment costs, VAT, materials; there did not seem to be a fair amount left for the maker.

Most of the skilled seamstresses and tailors who worked with Elizabeth in those early days were significantly older and there simply wasn’t the talent emerging from the younger generation to carry on the skills and traditions.

Seeing an opportunity and a problem that needed to be solved Elizabeth decided to study the art of the fashion atelier, couture dress-making and tailoring and become a new generation of designer bringing these skills and practises to bear in Britain.

29 Atelier is a brand with a clear ambition for ethical and sustainable production, which does not comprise style, made here in the United Kingdom.

Book in to try the collection in our Kiddington store.