At a young age, black and white images of designers the likes of Dior, Balenciaga and Edith Head had me enchanted, skilfully draping yards of sumptuous fabrics on their live mannequins - perfectly posed, fabulously feminine and truly stunning. In that world of whimsy and fantasy, those dreamers made beautiful things. They made me want to make beautiful things, and so, this has become part of the Van der Vlugt (VdV) brand and motto:

Creating beautiful things... for the dreamers.

Made by hand. Made with love. ❤️

Buying me a coffee (I love a good cup of tea!) helps give me a boost for those productive all-nighters. Becoming an ongoing supporter of VdV gives you a front row seat to the growth and development of a brand at the forefront of custom bridal design.

Currently based in Trinidad & Tobago, VdV is so much more than 'local'; a brand and aesthetic infused with my personal childhood global experiences and my love for people and cultures around the world. The custom bridal and special occasion pieces are handmade entirely by me, from start to finish, at my home studio. I find purpose in what I do, having realised that this is far more than simply making a dress, but being able to accompany and guide my clients as they journey through huge life transitions - from every step of a young lady, to becoming a woman, all the way to becoming a wife and beyond. My clients have become my ministry, and it's a calling I take very seriously.

I have the utmost respect for the tradition of couture and haute couture, and - as far as my resources and abilities allow - I implement these techniques and traditions in each of my projects, from handstitched embellishments and finishings to cleverly hidden design details. My goal is that every piece should tell a story, and it is for that reason I prefer to be known as a fashion artist.

Being a VdV member on this platform will enable me to give you a glimpse into what happens in my studio. You will be part of the journey with my gowns and projects from start to finish; whether you choose to simply be an observer or if you are a fellow creative, I will give you insight as to how things are made, tricks and tips that you can learn and use for yourself, and valuable advice about fashion, couture and the realm of bridal... The sky is the limit for us! All I need from you is that you have the desire to dream, too ️❤️

So, here I am, thanking you in advance for believing in me, for motivating me, for supporting me and pushing me to grow... I won't let you down! Now, let's get to creating beautiful things...