Episode 31: Georgina Chapman

On this episode 30 of Weddings-ish with Jove, Jove chats with Georgina Chapman, the creative force behind the renowned fashion label Marchesa. Fashion has always been a part of Chapman’s DNA. From a young age, she was fascinated by the art of snipping and stitching clothes, drawn to the elegance of historic costume design. That early experimentation evolved into a lifelong passion for beauty, craftsmanship, and storytelling through fashion.

“Creating a dress is a bit like a house; you've got to get the foundation right.”

on designing her iconic Marchesa Gowns

When Georgina co-founded Marchesa, it wasn’t just about creating another fashion label; she envisioned every gown as a structure—much like a house. Each piece is anchored by a strong foundation, ensuring that the wearer feels confident and comfortable. This structural integrity blends seamlessly with Marchesa’s signature aesthetic: romantic, dramatic designs rich with historical details. Think hand-stitched corsets and couture-level finishes, all contributing to that unmistakable Marchesa magic.

For Chapman, creativity doesn't follow a set schedule. Often inspired late at night, she finds herself sketching or draping fabric on a mannequin, constantly refining proportions and achieving the perfect architectural harmony. A defining moment in her career came in 2004 when she dressed Renee Zellweger, catapulting Marquesa to the forefront of red-carpet glamour and solidifying its reputation for creating show-stopping gowns.

As Marchesa’s influence grew, so did its offerings. Bridal design naturally became an extension of the brand, and Chapman’s approach is deeply personal. She takes the time to listen to each bride’s dreams, preferences, and feelings, helping to translate them into a custom look that feels truly authentic. "What did you dream of looking like?" is a question Chapman often asks her brides, emphasizing emotion over trends and ensuring that every gown tells a personal story.

Now, Marchesa is embarking on an exciting new chapter in partnership with David’s Bridal. The new collection spans bridal, couture, and evening wear at a variety of price points, making Marquesa’s signature romance more accessible to brides around the world. This collaboration also introduces virtual styling options and expands the brand’s retail presence, ensuring that more brides can experience the magic of Marchesa.

Beyond the world of gowns and glamour, Chapman opens up about her personal life. She’s a cheese lover (with a special fondness for Colman’s English mustard paired with mac and cheese), a coffee aficionado (milk in the morning, black later), and the proud caretaker of a vibrant menagerie—four horses, two donkeys, four cats, and two dogs. And yes, karaoke nights are part of the fun too.

In this episode, Georgina Chapman gives us a glimpse into the creative process behind one of fashion’s most iconic brands while also showing us the heartwarming, grounded side of her life outside the fashion world. Tune in for a conversation full of insight, inspiration, and a few delightful surprises along the way.

On this week’s “Ask Jove” Sloan and Jove chat about tips to planning a wedding as an introvert!

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