So you're getting married, but don't want to wear any of the conventional, saccharine wedding dresses on offer. You also have the good sense to put your bridesmaids in something they want to wear, that they might be able to wear again.
Weddings are still regarded a weirdly formal affair where dresses are seen as the female uniform of choice and women are expected to dress like pretty cupcakes with plenty of chiffon and pleats. Weddings require a way of dressing that would be totally unnatural in any other setting.
Step forward Kalita, a new brand that's only this week landed at Matchesfashion.com. London-based designer Kalita Al Swaidi, who was previously known for her beautiful embroidered lingerie range, teamed up with friend Raechel Temily to create a summer collection that will appeal, not only to anyone going on holiday, but brides who want to look feminine but not like a Barbie.
Kalita is characterised by its clean lines and laid-back glamour. If Tilda Swinton were to get married, she'd go in for something like the Camille dress, with its elegant plunging neckline and swathes of fabric. It's understated, but totally beautiful and also reversible - see directly below.
The Gigi slip dress, the Brigitte backless dress and Riviera wrap are all great options - either for a bride or bridesmaids. Modern, breezy and uncomplicated, these are dresses you'll reuse all summer. The brand's slip style would also look great with a shirt worn underneath - an easy options for any wedding guests.
Prices range from £375 to £500, which seems reasonable considering the average wedding dress costs over £1,000.
