What to wear on your wedding night

Bridal sleepwear just got a whole lot more appealing thanks to Olivia von Halle

The photographer is booked, the dress ordered, the flowers chosen and the playlist set. But few brides know it’s what lies beneath that really counts. So, in the interests of helping betrothed women everywhere, we turned to sleepwear maven Olivia von Halle for some expert tips. The London-based designer launches her first bridal sleepwear range exclusively with Net-A-Porter in May, so who better to guide us through getting our garter on? You may now read on…

How is bridal lingerie different from everyday pieces?

There is no greater occasion on which one can justify investing in something incredible than your wedding day. For me, this means playing with luxe fabrics and savouring the little details that make a piece one-of-a-kind, be it in the craftsmanship or the finish of the lace.

Should we look at it much like the dress – a one-day-only piece to be boxed and treasured?

Not at all! Every piece in the collection is beautiful and delicate but, of course, it is also designed to be worn. There is no reason why you can’t feel as special as you do on your wedding day, every day.

What should every modern bride’s trousseau consist of?

Everything you need for the morning of your wedding, the wedding night, the honeymoon and into your marriage. The perfect trousseau would reference the classics, but with a decidedly modern twist. The perfectly cut silk pyjamas, a sexy midi-length chemise, a cute camisole with matching French knickers and a dramatic hammered silk robe in a clean cut. Accessories are also fun: a garter for your big day, a blindfold and little gloves to play with on the honeymoon, all crafted from exquisitely hand-corded French lace.

Is it all about traditional white?

We’ve complemented classic ivory pieces with others in the palest duck egg blue, providing a beautiful alternative for those who want something a little bit different that, by referencing “something blue”, is still in keeping with tradition.

Ultimately, what should we be choosing to wear on the big day, under the dream dress?

For me, it’s all about the drama of the dress. Wear whatever enables you to live out your fantasy and then change into something equally beguiling when the day is done.

Is the garter still de rigueur? How do you keep it on the right side of tasteful?

I think materials and craftsmanship play a big part… If in doubt, wear it with something incredibly clean cut and minimalist, such as the Shillingford robe, to keep the look modern and chic.

Which style icons would you suggest channelling when it comes to bedroom style?

I love the way women wore nightwear in the heyday of the silver screen: Marlene Dietrich, Jean Harlow and Katharine Hepburn all knew how to make nightwear look alluring but powerful. In that era, what you wore to bed was as much of a “look” as when you left the house – I love that and find it so inspiring.

What is the wedding night etiquette when it comes to slipping into something more comfortable?

I am a firm believer in making [the act of] getting ready a pleasurable experience. Hopefully you’re staying in a fabulous hotel where you have your own dressing room. Avoid getting ready for bed in front of the person you’re about to get into bed with – it defeats the purpose! Slip into a silk robe, put on your favourite playlist and mix yourself a gin and tonic. Then make a confident entrance; you look incredible, work it! He will love it.

What are the body-flattering tips to look out for when it comes to style and cut?

An exceptional fit is essential. Bias cut can be incredibly forgiving, while soft, scalloped edges of lace ensure an elegant finish.  

What gets packed in the suitcase for the honeymoon?

Alessandra Rich dresses, Delpozo for daywear, Prism bikinis, Céline sunglasses, Stella McCartney shoes, P20 sunscreen, your Kindle and a selection of Olivia von Halle bridal pieces, of course! 

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