Staying Clever

Ten years ago we started our business with a simple idea: Make beautiful and affordable couture wedding dresses for the sophisticated, modern bride.

We called it Clever Couture.

Today, while most designers have chosen to manufacture in large overseas factories, we still construct each gown, one by one, in our San Francisco design studio. 

We've been told our methods are old-fashioned.  Well, our methods, perhaps. Our gowns? Never.

After All, It's a Small World

Perhaps this is the rationale behind so many designers' decision to manufacture their "couture" gowns in large factories on the other side of the planet.

Now we have nothing against free trade or open markets.  In fact, most of the exquisite fabrics we use come from France, Italy, England and China.  But our gowns are constucted, one by one,  in the building where they were designed. To create dresses that are beautiful both inside and out, we follow the same strict guidelines as haute couturiers in Paris.

Hey wait - Paris is on the other side of the planet.      It is a small world after all.

 

Abby writes: "I am officially declaring this the most innovative wedding idea I have ever seen."  Our gown Voilà is featured with our Statement Necklace.  We're inspired!

More gorgeous photos and vendors at Style Me Pretty.

Appointments

If you live in or are planning a visit to San Francisco and would like to see our gowns in person, give us a call: 415.956.5657

 

The Journal

April 26, 2011

At Amy Kuschel, we like to treat everyday like Earth Day. We pride ourselves in making our wedding gowns right here in San Francisco! It's beneficial to our brides and also eco-friendly.

The nature of our custom couture process produces less waste and builds better fitting gowns. With this hands-on approach, each bride experiences the comfort of knowing where her gown is...every step of the way!  And from beginning to end, we control the quality of each and every gown that we make.

So rest assured, we'll send you on your way to wedded bliss ... all while being good to Mother Earth.

Buy Local. It's Clever!  

Amy Kuschel Juniper
December 7, 2010

For our 2011 Collection, I was inspired by San Francisco, this great city that we call home.

I tapped into vintage and modern aspects of San Francisco's architecture and history.      A city that is complex and layered, indulgent yet compassionate.  She's sophisticated and contemporary, romantic and balanced. The heart of our 2011 collection is filled with San Francisco

September 3, 2010

San Francisco loves Amy Kuschel Bride!  We're giving some love back to our community this year through our partnership with The Edgewood Center for Children!

what_image.jpg Edgewood Center provides services to Bay Area children who have been abused or neglected.  It's a safe place for children and teens to connect with a loving family, where they can find confidence, trust and empowerment.

Advice

May 29, 2009

It can be overwhelming with the many styles a bride will consider when deciding which "bridal hairstyle and makeup " look is best for them. Once your fabulous wedding gown is chosen, the next most important thing is your bridal beauty.

Collecting ideas from bridal and fashion magazines will be key for your makeup and hairstylist

Do you want your look to be sophisticated, classic chic, 1940's retro era, modern elegance or natural beauty? Collecting ideas from bridal and fashion magazines will be key for your makeup and hairstylist when creating your desired beauty look for your trial run. Stay away from styles that are too trendy as these can appear to be dated looking, 10 years from now on the pages of your beautiful wedding album.

May 21, 2009

Q: “I’m a plus-size bride and am having trouble finding a flattering dress. Any idea of what I should look for?” —Katherine, Seattle

A: In the past, I have helped many plus-sized brides find their ultimate gown. It is a process of finding out what you have envisioned and melding that idea with what looks flattering on curvier figures. There are many gown silhouettes that can look great, depending on what you would like to highlight and what you would like to hide.

Here are my Top 10 suggestions for finding the perfect dress for you: