Finding The One
It’s undeniable that your wedding dress is a main statement piece of your ceremony, turning heads and tearing up eyes as you gracefully walk down the aisle. A traditional symbol of romance, the dress is more than just pieces of layered fabric but rather a piece that embodies passion, detail and meticulous craftsmanship. So, with so many options available, how do you find the one? Western Australia Wedding & Bride’s Josephine Day hosts a candid conversation with Sophie Linardopoulos, owner and director of Zolotas Australia Bridal, about how handmade dresses symbolise a return to craftsmanship, individuality and timeless beauty.
Image courtesy of Zolotas Australia Bridal.
From the choice of fabrics and silhouette to the intricate embellished details, every element of a gown contributes to bringing a designer’s vision to life. Linardopoulos’ journey to elevate the bridal industry began nine years ago when she travelled to Greece for her cousin’s wedding. There, she was captivated by her cousin’s stunning, handmade wedding gown crafted from organic Greek cotton – something unlike anything she had seen in Australia. Intrigued and inspired, Linardopoulos was introduced to the designer, Mr. Zolotas, whose unique aesthetic blended traditional craftsmanship with bohemian elegance. “In 2016 I met with him, and we discussed launching his incredible designs in Perth for the Australian market. It took a total of three weeks to launch, first starting from my spare bedroom while working full-time. In 2019, I opened my first bridal store in Subiaco,” she recalls.
Since then, Zolotas has grown into a renowned bridal brand, specialising in handmade wedding dresses created exclusively in Greece. Each gown in crafted from organic Greek cotton and vintage lace, brought to life by an expert team of seamstresses – all over the age of 65 – who bring decades of artisanal experience to every stitch. “Our seamstresses have a deep understanding of handmade craftsmanship and vintage lace,” says Linardopoulos, reflecting on her journey so far.
The Beginning Of A Love Story
After saying yes to your dream partner, selecting the perfect venue, and inviting all your loved ones to celebrate, choosing your wedding dress becomes the final, magical piece that completes your fairytale. Wedding dress design is a true art form – one that uses textures, colours and craftsmanship to ensure every bride feels radiant and unique, as though the dress was made just for her. This is precisely what Linardopoulos brings to life in her stores. She finds it deeply rewarding to witness the beginning of each bride’s love story with her dress.
Linardopoulos is known for stocking one-of-a-kind gowns that celebrate individuality and timeless elegance through a meticulous and heartfelt process. “We use organic cotton grown in far north Greece, in the mountains,” she describes. “Once our seamstresses obtain the cotton and tulle, the seamstresses use their hands to plant with bobbin lace techniques to make a wedding dress comes to life.” This handcrafted method is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced, mass produced fashion world. When brides step into Zolotas, they experience more than bridal couture – they connect with tradition, heritage, and an entire cultural narrative. “We believe that brides obtain our heritage, an entire culture, a unique story that follows them from the moment they imagined it,” says Linardopoulos. With a legacy of unmatched vintage heritage, Zolotas stands apart, driven by passion and artistry. The lead designer, Mr. Zolotas, was honoured as “Most Innovative Designer” two years in a row – a recognition of his bold creativity and unwavering commitment to redefining bridal fashion.
The Right Look
Finding your dream wedding dress ultimately comes down to one essential factor – how it makes you feel. If the dress makes your eyes light up, your heart race, and your smile impossible to contain, then you’ve found the one. This journey shouldn’t be rushed – it requires time, care and passion.
Today, many brides seek dresses that are versatile enough to suit both the ceremony and reception, often blending traditional elements with modern details.
Linardopoulos embraces this evolution in bridal fashion by prioritising the individuality of every bride and tailoring each creation to their unique vision. “We notice our clients are brides who love standing out and are unique in their own ways. If a bride wants to be a contemporary bride, then they always add their modern jewellery to tie it in together,” she notes. Linardopoulos encourages brides not to follow fleeting trends but to choose a dress that reflects their unique personality and essence. By doing so, they’ll discover a gown that not only flatters their figure but also captures the spirit of their special day – one centred on love, joy, and authenticity. Your dream dress should feel like an extension of you, making your celebration all the more unforgettable.
Saying ‘Yes’
Beginning your wedding dress journey can feel overwhelming, with countless styles, shapes, and fabrics to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to a sleek, modern silhouette or a romantic, flowing A-line gown, every element plays a role in creating the perfect look. The key is choosing a dress that complements your personality and makes you feel beautiful and confident on your special day.
If you’re unsure where to start, Linardopoulos offers thoughtful guidance. “If you are unsure of what style or kind of dress you are looking for, always ask your consultant to try on a vintage style or bohemian wedding dress – you might just surprise yourself!” she emphasises. “We often get many brides unsure about trying on something so different but may end up loving the freedom and can feel the high-quality of fabrics.” Keeping an open mind is important, as you may find your dream dress unexpectedly.