Discover Your Perfect Wedding Dress at Melbourne's Premier Bridal Boutique – Riva Bridal

A Closer Look At Riva Bridal: Boutique Overview and History

Riva began in a small sewing room with a sewing machine and some leftover fabrics. Following in the footsteps of her mother - who trained and worked as a couture designer, founder Kim began forging her own path, designing wedding dresses for a new generation of women. 

Passionate about fashion and with an eye for detail, Kim designed a range of wedding dresses that reflect the effortlessly cool sophistication of Melbourne with a London edge. The backdrop of these two cities she called home has intrinsically influenced both the style of the wedding dresses and the ethos of the boutique itself.

Named for Riva, meaning from the sea, this local Armadale bridal shop defines itself as a community icon. Filled with the local industry’s best homegrown talent, this team of clothing and pattern makers are trailblazing the way for the modern bride who knows what she wants. 

Signature Styles

Riva stands out with its modern designs and experimental approach to the traditional wedding dress. At the boutique, you’ll find the traditional styles you love with a Riva signature twist. From off-the-shoulder styles to striking mini dresses, Riva gowns redefine what it means to be a bride. 

Wedding dresses and gowns from Riva Bridal are expertly designed to flatter the figure, accentuating features and minimising perceived flaws. Riva believes a bride should feel the most beautiful on her wedding day, and they work meticulously to make all her satin, silk and tulle dreams come true.

Accessorising Your Riva Gown

Perhaps one of the most innovative designs is Riva’s range of bridal accessories that embody sophistication without sacrificing comfort. Discover detachable sleeves, bows and silk scarves that can be worn to personalise your dress and exude confidence. 

A few carefully chosen details can completely transform the entire look in a matter of moments. Opting for a simple wedding dress is one of the most straightforward methods to achieve this, by embellishing the neckline or waist with fabric bows. A strapless bridal gown can undergo a stunning metamorphosis with the addition of a silk neck scarf, introducing an ethereal element to the neckline and creating an entirely new wedding aesthetic.

Intertwining a silk scarf through a bridal braid is a delightful way to infuse a hint of white or a splash of pastel into the overall wedding ensemble. This charming technique also imparts a dreamy, ballerina-inspired touch that radiates femininity. When draped, the silk scarf engenders graceful movement with every turn of the head.

Caring For Your Bridal Gown

Tips for Caring for Your Bridal Gown

• Choose a Safe Storage Location: Keep your gown in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Use Acid-Free Tissue: Stuff the gown with acid-free tissue paper to maintain its shape and prevent creasing.
• Avoid Hangers with Clips: Use padded hangers to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
• Limit Handling: Wear gloves when touching the gown to prevent oils from your skin from transferring onto the fabric.
• Professional Cleaning: After the wedding, have your gown professionally cleaned and preserved as soon as possible.
• Check for Stains Promptly: Address any stains immediately to prevent them from setting.

Caring for your wedding dress is essential to preserve its beauty and integrity for years to come. This cherished garment often holds sentimental value, symbolising a significant moment in your life. Proper care, including gentle cleaning and appropriate storage, prevents discolouration and damage, ensuring your dress remains in pristine condition. Additionally, maintaining your gown allows you the option to pass it down or repurpose it in the future. By investing time and effort into its preservation, you honour the memories created on your special day while safeguarding a timeless piece of your personal history.

Planning Your Visit

Our flagship boutique is nestled in the heart of Armadale, Melbourne. Designer and founder Kim personally conducts every consultation, guiding brides through her stunning collection to find their perfect gown.

At Riva Bridal boutique, expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can explore a variety of styles. Each appointment is tailored to you, ensuring personalised attention as you try on gowns that resonate with your vision. 

Contact Riva Bridal and start the journey towards the happiest day of your life, knowing you’re in safe hands. Can’t make it to the boutique? While we recommend the full experience, we’re also proud to offer our range of wedding dresses online, so you can shop Riva anywhere.