Bridal Dress Stores · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory · Visit in person
Maison De Challie is a classic couture atelier with a showroom on Anthony Rolfe Avenue in Gungahlin, Canberra. It was founded by couturier Hajar Gala in 1990s Sydney, in the Strand Arcade, and has been making to order for more than two decades. Her line: “No matter how many times one redefines style, classical simplicity and charm can never be outdated.”
One designer, twelve named collections — Bridal, Seascape, Paris, Timeless, The Bridge, Fable, Rustic, Mystic, The Helicopter, Black and White, Hand Painted and Enchant. The work is silk, French lace and sheer organza, with “elegant volumes and special draping… like a painting”. Published bride gowns include a cream halter neck in silk crepe de chine layered with bias-cut silk georgette and a sheer hand-beaded bodice, and a champagne ball gown with a ruched bodice of clustered crystal and pearl beading over flounced, pleated tulle. Black and hand-painted gowns are as central here as ivory.
The bride who wants a couture gown in the strict sense of the word, and is prepared for what that takes. Press reporting on the house notes an average of 200 working hours to complete one dress. Hajar’s own framing: “in couture, each gown is developed irrespective of cost using as much material and time as is required to realise the artistic vision of the piece.”
Consultations are by appointment only.Gowns are quoted to the design. Contact is direct to Hajar by phone or email.
The first Australian collection ever shown in Europe. After presenting her 1997 collection at the Sydney Opera House couture event Mondo Moda, Hajar was invited to show at Florence’s Palazzo Pitti. She trained in the French Method of Haute Couture, was a fixture of the Australian Couturiers Ball, and has since shown at Paris Fashion Week and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Baku. Her gowns have dressed Tara Morice, Kerri-Anne Kennerley and Melissa George.
1 dress with photos 1 more listed below
Price not listed
Colour Champagne
A structured ruched bodice featuring clustered crystal and pearl beading under the bust line, paired with a full skirt of flounced layers and pleated tulle. Worn by Maison De Challie brides.
The listing describes it as
No dress here mentions all of those. Turn one off to see more.
12 collections listed
One of twelve collections the house shows.
The house's hand-painted silk was shown at the Australian Couturiers Ball.
Shown at the Australian Couturiers Ball.
Shot on location with helicopters.
No details available.
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