Anne Barge is a luxury bridal brand celebrated for its fusion of vintage glamour and modern sophistication. Founded in 1999 in Atlanta, the brand has built a reputation for creating timeless, couture-quality gowns that blend classic silhouettes with luxurious fabrics. In 2002, designer Shawne Jacobs joined the team, and in 2014, she and her husband, Steven, acquired the brand, with Shawne becoming the Creative Director.
Under Shawne’s leadership, Anne Barge gained significant recognition, notably when actress Amber Riley wore an Anne Barge gown at the 2011 Golden Globes, and when Kerry Washington’s character donned an Anne Barge gown in the series finale of Scandal. The brand expanded further
by opening a flagship store on Madison Avenue in 2022 and launched an eveningwear shoe collection in collaboration with Black Suede Studio in celebration of its 25th anniversary. In an exclusive interview, Shawne Jacobs reflects on the brand’s 25 years and the evolution of bridal couture.
SB: How has the brand evolved over the past 25 years in terms of design aesthetics?
Aesthetically, the brand has maintained its commitment to timeless elegance while incorporating fresh modern design elements to appeal to contemporary brides. I am very meticulous about attention to detail, the use of luxurious fabrics, and innovative youthful silhouettes.
SB: What sets your brand apart in an increasingly saturated bridal market?
With 25 years of experience in the bridal industry, I can utilize our brand’s heritage, reputation for excellence, and proven track record to foster trust among retailers and brides. Our distinctive design aesthetic remains at the heart of our work, focusing on crafting timeless creations known for
their elegance and sophistication. By offering customization services, we allow brides to personalize their gowns to match their unique tastes and preferences, ensuring a more personalized experience.
SB: How do you balance creating timeless pieces with staying current with trends?
Anne [Barge] always believed that good design is timeless. I balance tradition and innovation by subtly incorporating trends into each collection. While our focus is on classic silhouettes and impeccable craftsmanship, we ensure each piece remains timeless and can be cherished for years.
SB: How important is customization to your brand, and what trends have you noticed?
Customization is a signature of our brand. Brides love having the opportunity to personalize their gowns to reflect their taste and style. One popular choice among our brides is the addition of a detachable overskirt, allowing them to achieve two distinct looks in one dress. Lace toppers are
another frequently requested addition, enhancing their wedding day ensemble with elegance. We’re also seeing a trend in customizing natural waistlines, with brides opting to lower them or transform them into a more unique basque waist design.
SB: Where do you draw inspiration for your collections?
When creating a collection, I draw inspiration from a variety of sources such as historical fashion, architecture, and nature, as well as modern trends and cultural influences. Fabrics play a significant role in shaping my designs. I prefer not to let a specific theme or concept limit my creative process, but I do strive to ensure the collection remains cohesive.
SB: What are your aspirations for the next 25 years in bridal fashion? Are there any specific innovations or trends you hope to explore?
I began my journey in bridal fashion in 2002, and it’s fascinating to witness how bridal trends have come full circle over the past 22 years. Seeing various styles emerge, fade, and return has been an incredible experience. We’ve outgrown our flagship store on Madison Avenue and will be relocating toa new, larger space in the spring of 2025. I’m excited about the potential of opening a flagship store overseas to make our collection more accessible to UK and EU brides. Additionally, I’m open to more collaborations with crossover brands to enhance our brand exposure even further.
SB: What advice would you give to emerging bridal designers who are trying to make their mark in this competitive industry?
I would advise emerging designers to thoroughly understand their market and identify their target audience from the outset. It’s crucial to develop a unique style that distinguishes you from other bridal designers. Launching a line and presenting it at bridal market can be costly, so consider starting
with a capsule collection. This strategy allows you to concentrate on a few key pieces and gradually build your brand. Utilize social media ejectively—platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok are excellent for showcasing your work and connecting with retailers and brides who will inquire about
your dresses. Remember, achieving success in the bridal industry requires time. Stay patient, committed, and don’t let challenges discourage you. Mistakes are part of the process, and what truly matters is learning from them.
photo credit: Anne Barge
