Glamouria - Before You Try On Your First Gown, Meet Antonio Riva By Hayat Ammouri

When white is not a color, but a living material…

How do you know when a dress feels like your dress? Maybe it’s the way the bodice holds you, or the tiny petals on a tulle skirt that you only notice when you look in the mirror a second time…

We asked Italian designer Antonio Riva what to look for at your first fitting, how to choose a veil, and if white is always a must for the bride.

Where do you start when designing a Bridal collection?

I always start with an inspiration: it could be an architectural detail, a flower or a place I have visited. These elements become the starting point for creating something unique.

If we saw a bride across the room, what would tell us she is wearing Antonio Riva Milano?

A distinctive balance between simplicity and character. A clean, elegant silhouette with a recognizable detail, such as a bow or a ruffle, that makes the dress unmistakably mine.

Everyone talks about the bride’s entrance. What do you want people to see when she walks past them?

I want people to see elegance, style and personality. Above all, the bride should wear a dress that truly represents who she is and makes her feel like herself.

What are 3 things the bride should consider before choosing her dress?

Her body shape, her temperament and her personality. A wedding dress should enhance her figure, reflect her character and make her feel confident.

Any rules when choosing the veil?

The veil should complete the look and frame the dress, never compete with it. Its style should also be in harmony with the wedding location and atmosphere. I see it as an extension of the gown.

Should the bride always wear white?

Yes, I believe white is the perfect choice for a bride. However, subtle variations such as ivory or nude are welcome, as long as they preserve the elegance of the bridal look.

What’s an Italian wedding tradition you especially love? What makes it beautiful to you?

I love the tradition of the bride and groom not seeing each other before the wedding, and of keeping the dress a secret. It preserves the magic of the moment and makes the first look even more special.

If you could design a wedding dress for any woman – past or present – who would she be and what do you imagine her wearing?

Audrey Hepburn and Queen Rania of Jordan are two timeless sources of inspiration. I imagine them wearing dresses with clean, elegant lines and a strong personality, where simplicity makes all the difference.

Are you team heels or flats?

Definitely heels. I believe a wedding dress needs the posture and elegance that only heels can give, enhancing the way a bride moves and carries herself.

If you’re dreaming of wearing white, Antonio Riva’s 2027 bridal collection, White Sublime, gives you flowers sculpted from crisp mikado and tiny petals embroidered on airy tulle. A boned bodice gives the gown its shape, while a sheer veil dotted with chenille adds a little flirtation.

Antonio Riva is an esteemed Italian fashion designer, widely recognized for his extraordinary craftsmanship and refined designs in the bridal and evening wear industry. Born in Lecco, Italy, on the Como Lake, Riva studied architecture before establishing his own brand that quickly became synonymous with elegance, sophistication and impeccable tailoring. Riva is celebrated around the world for his ability to combine classical aesthetics with modern, cutting-edge techniques. His creations are known for their exquisite fabrics, intricate details, and breathtaking silhouettes.