One of a kind
& full of grace
B R I D A L W E A R C O L L E C T I O N
Our core collection is made up of antique and vintage bridalwear, each piece chosen in line with our founder Amy’s taste and vision. Because we curate one-of-a-kind dresses, the collection is ever changing, but at its heart are dresses from the late 1800s through to the 1950s. You may also discover more contemporary pieces whose aesthetic complements the collection, as well as rare restorations with a history on stage or screen.
Finding your perfect wedding dress should be a joyful experience. That’s why, instead of overwhelming you with choice, we carefully curate and restore gowns as unique and characterful as yourself.
Vintage wedding dresses
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Technically-speaking, our collection features both ‘antique’ (over 100 years old) and ‘vintage’ (over 20 and less than 100 years old) wedding dresses. Each piece is selected for its craftsmanship and character. From time to time, we also carry more contemporary gowns that embody the same values, quality and aesthetic that lie at the heart of Tuesday’s Bride.
Bridal accessories
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We adore original wax orange blossom headpieces from the Victorian era, and hold a selection of mantillas and veils, often showcasing the finest lacework. Our approach is eclectic, so you may also find shawls, jewellery, fans or parasols among other treasures. Occasionally, we offer unique pieces crafted by talented local artists and makers.
Making it yours
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Whilst our dresses are beautiful as they are, we understand that you may wish to make subtle changes to ensure the perfect fit or personal touch. We collaborate with skilled and trusted seamstresses to offer a thoughtful, individual approach to alterations and customisation.
Some brides are so inspired by our dresses, we’re commissioned to make a replica with bespoke changes to size, fit and fabric – as long as we can do so sustainably and with heritage-level craftsmanship this is something we can explore together.
Expanding our collection
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We are always sourcing beautiful and quality stock. If you think you have an heirloom dress or items we may be interested in, please get in touch. We love to expand our circle and play a part in bringing garments from the past into the present.
Textile artwork
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Founder Amy Martin, resident textile artist at Tuesday’s Bride, works with mixed media and free machine embroidery. Drawing inspiration from nature and using remnant fabrics, she creates fine art pieces and delicate embellishments directly onto garments. Artwork may be commissioned, perhaps even using a gown that you would like preserving in a different kind of way. Amy also paints botanicals and enjoys developing her practice across a variety of mediums.
“Everything at Tuesday’s Bride is stunning, unique and special in its own way.“
L A U R E N
Our dresses were made to be adored; we extend that invitation.
1940s lace dress with décolletage feature through the wired, scalloped neckline.
Key eras
LA B E L L E É P O Q U E
‘The beautiful era’ and many beautiful dresses to match.
As the 1800s faded, corseted Victorian silhouettes relaxed under the influence of nature-inspired Art Nouveau. The result was a softness and gentle femininity. The craftmanship and skill in this Edwardian era is breath-taking: gossamer fabrics adorned with lace and intricate needlework, delicate embroidery on the white cotton lawn dresses, and layers of net and handmade lace with ethereal beauty. These dresses carry a delicacy and relaxed, contemporary feel that pairs so beautifully with barefoot brides and wildflower meadows. These dresses sing to the South Downs…
T H E R O A R I N G T W E N T I E S
The fashion of the 1920s is forever linked to the iconic flapper dress –hemlines rose, waistbands dropped, and fabrics became lighter, looser and often adorned with beadwork. Styles from this era are sometimes referred to as the ‘garçonne look’. These were dresses of freedom, fun and movement, reflecting a time of emerging women’s rights. They shimmer with playful glamour of The Great Gatsby and are a stunning option, from ceremony through to party - they may have once sparkled on the dance floors of Brighton’s Regent Dance Hall.
T H E D I R T Y T H I R T I E S
In the 1930s, a sinuous, feminine silhouette emerged as fabrics began to skim and celebrate feminine curves. Bias-cut satin gowns exuded elegance and a refined, yet sultry grace shared with Hollywood’s golden age. These liquidesque gowns, luminous and fluid, pair with the iconic romance of the Seven Sisters and the iridescent waters of the Sussex coast.
T H E F O R T I E S
& T H E N E W L O O K
Wartime and post-war bridalwear reflect striking contrasts. From the humble handmade dresses made with care and simplicity, to post-rationing dresses which embraced Dior’s New Look with exuberance: cinched waists, long, full skirts and sweetheart necklines. The hourglass silhouettes and layers of net and tulle continued into the 1950s, conjuring images of the sea foam of the Sussex coast and an enduring sense of optimism.
B E Y O N D T H E F I F T I E S
Our collection extends beyond the mid-century, reaching into the present day with gowns chosen for their inherent beauty and quality – though it’s a high bar! Contemporary yet vintage-inspired designers such as Alice Temperley and Jenny Packham are sometimes found in our collection.
And there’s more… rare and the unique pieces from the stage and screen also find their home at Tuesday’s Bride.
A C C E S S O R I E S A N D S T Y L I N G
Complete styling is possible at Tuesday’s Bride. Our collection of accessories includes stunning veils showcasing incredible artisan craft, and antique embroidered shawls and capes that add individuality and flair. Headpieces and tiaras from bygone eras crown each look with romance and delicacy. When possible, we also feature pieces by local designers and makers who share our ethos and aesthetic.
We seek to keep these incredible dresses and accessories worn, cherished, and passed on again and again.
If you are interested in looking at our dresses or have an heirloom for a new generation, we would love to hear from you.
Frequently asked questions
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Whilst striving to cater to all body sizes, many (though not all) of the dresses in our collection are petite up to a small-medium (roughly sizes 4–10), reflecting the average proportions of past eras. Our alteration and bespoke services may expand choice too. We have exciting hopes for the future to enable us to be inclusive in sizing. We welcome enquiries and are happy to be open about our current selection.
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Our pre-loved dresses and accessories come with history and a story to tell, and some may bear marks of their tales. Each dress is carefully cleaned, repaired and restored, and any remaining traces of its journey are part of its unique history and charm. We do our best to point out imperfections and encourage you to inspect garments fully before making a purchase.
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We are always curating new stock to maintain an exquisite range and diverse collection. If you have bridalwear or accessories (whether bought from us or elsewhere) that reflects our aesthetic and values, we would love to hear from you. Pop us an email – we’re always happy to chat.
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Contact us to arrange a visit! We are located just five minutes from Lewes and we have free parking on site.
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We offer a relaxed yet exclusive hour in our studio for you and one or two guests (unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate children). We’ll chat about your ideas, your tastes, wedding style and how you want to feel in your dress.
You’ll have the chance to browse our collection, and together we’ll choose several dresses to try. We can also experiment with the styling, trying different accessories and veils (which, we’ve noticed, is often the moment that brings happy tears!).
For trials and fittings, we recommend nude underwear and shoes with a similar heel height to those you plan to wear on your wedding day. If you have a slip, feel free to bring it – though we have some in the studio. Please arrive without make-up or remove it before trying on gowns, as this helps protect dresses from marking. We will assist you in getting dresses on and off with care.
We hope you find the dress of your dreams. If you do, you can purchase and take it home the day. We’re also happy to discuss in any bespoke services you may wish to explore.
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Our dresses vary in price depending on age, rarity, craftsmanship and level of restoration. We strive to maintain a broad price range across our collection to enable all brides beautiful options befitting their budgets. We understand that choosing a vintage dress can be a beautiful part of a modestly budgeted wedding and can also be a cherished investment in an heirloom. We’re always happy to discuss your budget before your visit to help guide your appointment.
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Yes. We work with trusted and experienced seamstresses who can advise on fit and adjustments you may wish to make. Should you prefer to take the dress as it comes and make your own arrangements for alterations, that’s also fine of course.
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All our dresses are available for purchase only. Each piece is one of a kind, restored with care and ready to begin a new chapter with its next bride. However, we are open to repurchasing gowns after your wedding day. You can read more about our commitment to optimising longevity and circular wear through our sustainability policy.