Designer Interview with Enaura Bridal's Sohil Mistry!

Since his first collection of bridal gowns hit the wedding industry in 2013, Enaura Bridal designer Sohil Mistry has shocked the market with compelling and intricately detailed gowns that evoke a sense of timelessness without conforming to the norm. Meet the creative force behind Enaura Bridal, Sohil Mistry, as we discuss the delicate design processes behind the gleaming gowns our brides have come to love!

How did you get started designing wedding gowns?

I was born in India, and at an early age, I was surrounded by Indian textiles because my parents were in the industry. I was always drawn to ancient Indian artwork (from Hindu deities to the hand-carved marble architecture at the Taj Mahal) and how detailed it was. When I moved to the States, I studied business and fashion design. I wanted to bring a unique perspective to fashion, so I went back to India to study ancient embroidery and design techniques known as “zardosi” and “tambour.” These techniques, while used initially to create royal clothing, are embedded into Indian culture, and have been passed down from generation to generation.  My vision was to bring this art to western culture. I began to think about what garment of clothing makes you feel like royalty, and that to me is a wedding gown.  

Describe the Enaura bride!

The Enaura bride is original with a sophisticated, tasteful style. She looks for the perfect combination of quality and originality and is not swayed by momentary trends. 

Tell us about your design process. What are your first steps when designing a new collection? How long does it take for your ideas to come to fruition?

Several months before starting the design process, I create a mood board for inspiration. I then sketch out the silhouettes I want to include in the collection. My head pattern maker and I work together to bring these silhouettes to life with muslin fittings. In my opinion, this is the most important part of the process because this is where we will make adjustments to perfect the initial shape and fit of the gown. Once finalized, the muslins become the blueprint of what will come next.I then travel to India to work directly with our team of artists who will sketch out embroidery layouts directly on to the pattern, which are known as "khakas.” These layouts are meticulously detailed and are often sketched several times to align perfectly with the curves of the body.

Once the layouts are approved, our artisans begin to create beaded swatches, usually about 10-15 per gown. For this, we use various techniques of beadwork and embroidery using different materials that will complement the layouts and silhouettes of the gown. Once the swatches are approved, each panel of the gown gets beaded. The final step is to have the panels shipped to New York City, where we will decide which fabric textures and shades work best with the beaded panels. Once all of that is selected, the gown is ready to be stitched! On average, the entire process takes about three to four months.

What do you think are the most important aspects for a bride to consider when choosing her wedding gown?

I think every bride has some type of vision for how she wants to look on her wedding day. When dress shopping, I think it is important for her to be open-minded and to try on various styles. Sometimes the bride ends up with a completely different silhouette or style then what she originally had in mind. So when shopping for a garment as special as your wedding dress, trusting your consultant is key! 

What is your best piece of advice for a bride who has just begun her gown search?

Start with a mood board! Consider your venue and what type of gown you envision yourself wearing on your wedding day. 

There are several aspects of your designs that set you apart from other designers, such as offering custom options and producing all your beadwork by hand. What made these decisions so important when you began creating your own designs?

A wedding is a very personalized event for a bride and groom. With a sea of options to choose from, a bride may fall in love with different aspects of several different dresses, or she may want to customize a gown to make it uniquely hers. I believe a wedding gown is one of the most important garments a woman will ever wear, and it should be nothing short of exactly how she wants it. 

Where do you look for inspiration?

Inspiration comes in many ways for me. I get very inspired when traveling to trunk shows. I use this opportunity to learn more about my brides to better design for them. Through my travels, I continue to discover beautiful architecture, as well as new textiles from various countries, that inspire my work. While creating each collection, I spend months in India collaborating with my team of artisans to bring Enaura’s aesthetic and vision to life.

Are there any current or upcoming trends you are excited to include in your designs?

Yes! I want to add different elements, like draping, pleating, and beading to the dresses and bring them together seamlessly. 

Can you give us any details for what you have in store for your next collection?

We plan on incorporating wow factors that may not be noticeable at first glance! 

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