Since its formidable inception, OM Style Avenue has been a trailblazer in Mzansi’s couture landscape, offering intricate designs and astounding silhouettes. Founded by the self-proclaimed King of Couture, Orapeleng Modutle, the fashion brand’s magnificent creations have been donned by various entertainment industry tastemakers such as Bonang Matheba and Boity Thulo.
Boasting Swarovski crystals and antique designs with a modern twist, OM Style Avenue recently debuted its 2024 bridal couture collection. Speaking about the breathtaking instalment, designer extraordinaire Orapeleng Modutle shares that the collection is celebratory, above all else.
“We haven’t done a collection in such a long time so this bridal collection pays homage to our 10 years of existence in the fashion industry,” expresses the King of Couture.
We chat with design maestro, Orapeleng Modutle about his brainchild’s new offering, creative process, and tips for selecting the perfect wedding gown!
OM Style Avenue’s 2024 Couture Bridal Collection is breathtaking, to say the least. You incorporated diamantés and 3D structures, among other captivating designs. What inspired you to take this particular creative direction with your collection?
The silhouettes and creative direction I had put into the collection were a narration of the different OM Brides we have seen over the past years and trying to re-invent and elevate the styles to inspire brides to be.
Despite the modern features of the bridal gowns such as Swarovski crystals, your collection still boasts classic silhouettes. How did you find the balance between showcasing your brand’s identity while also embracing traditional bridal styles?
Finding a balance between classic bridal styles and the OM Style Avenue identity is always important as you need to find a balance between the bride’s vision and identity and merge that with your creativity as a designer.
What did you enjoy most about the process of crafting this collection?
Exploring different textures, silhouettes, and techniques. When designing a collection like this the fun part is that there is no actual “client” that could be restricting you in terms of exploring your inner creative ability to its greatest potential.
There are many gorgeous designs in your couture bridal collection. Do you have any personal favourites? If so, what do you like most about them?
My favourite gown in the collection is the satin gown with the draped structured off shoulders. It just exudes so much opulence and romance.
OM Style Avenue bridal couture design | Supplied
Bridal couture is also a global phenomenon. What are some of your favourite bridal wear trends locally/ internationally?
It has to be the alternative bride trend. It just gives you an opportunity to explore creatively and create something completely different and unexpected be it playing with colour or something unconventional.
What advice would you give to a would-be bride who is struggling to pick the best dress for her wedding? What is the key to choosing the perfect wedding dress?
Know what works for your body type and do not be afraid to explore something new and different.
Can we expect more couture designs, (be it bridal or not) from OM Style Avenue this year? If so, what can fashion enthusiasts expect from said designs?
We are currently working on a couture collection which will be coming out towards the last quarter of the year. It’s something interesting and different. Do look out for it!
