INTERVIEW: Lola and Alice

Elizabeth Raderecht sourced jewellery for a designer shop in her late 20s before working for magazines and running a successful online fashion and accessories boutique; but after taking time off to have her daughter, she decided to re-launch and rebrand her online store to focus solely on weddings, Lola & Alice. We caught up with her to find out more…

My love affair with all things vintage began when I first raided my grandmother’s costume jewellery box as a child. I’m all grown up now, and ended up donating some of my grandmother’s 1920s beaded dresses to the Fashion Museum in Bath, close to where I live. I’m a regular visitor there now and always find my trips to the museum so inspirational; they definitely influence my choices for the Lola & Alice’s range.

Lola & Alice’s signature look is vintage-inspired, Boho and it’s quite eclectic. The Lola & Alice customer is interested in fashion, but is not a slave to the latest trends or obsessed with brands. Throughout the collection, you’ll find plenty of luxe touches, such as silk flowers, tulle, embroidery, beading and feathers; as well as classic pearl and crystal pieces.

I love every part of owning Lola & Alice; from planning and picking the collection, styling and photographing it all for the website and Instagram, to giving styling advice and answering customers’ questions – I love it all. But what I love most is being a small part of such an important day and seeing how jewellery and accessories can really transform an outfit.

My three favourite pieces from my current collection are…

Blossom fabric and crystal hairpiece

I love this romantic hairpiece – it’s a signature Lola & Alice piece featuring lots of lovely detail such as chiffon flowers, ivory pearls, crystals and lace leaves. It’s the perfect piece for a boho bride who wants to wear her hair loose and relaxed.

Catherine pearl statement earrings

I’m a big fan of statement accessories and these bold earrings give just the right amount of wow-factor. They are especially good if you’re wearing an outfit with a simple neckline.

Aubrey crystal gold hair comb

I adore anything from the 1930s, and this gold comb is perfect for adding a touch of Deco-inspired decadence to simple outfit.

Three key SS18 jewellery trends are show-stopping chandeliers and statement earrings, which they have the power to dramatically transform your look; rose gold wedding jewellery (it is such a flattering colour, and beautifully blends vintage elegance with a modern, edgy twist); and lace and silk embellished hairbands and headpieces inspired by the 1920s.

For AW18, jewellery trends will change. Pearls (delicate, oversized and sculptural) will be making a comeback); coloured jewellery that can add character to neutrally toned outfits; and mismatched pieces that allow brides to express themselves, and bring their own flare to their look; these trends will all be big this autumn.

Be unapologetically ‘you’ in every way when you’re creating your wedding, that’s the advice I’d give to a couple getting married. And to follow your heart and sometimes take a few risks!

View the current Lola & Alice bridal accessories collection at lolaandalice.com