Karan the designer of Royst & Aran spent many years on the stage wearing beautiful costume and intricate head pieces whilst studying at The Royal Ballet School. She has a keen eye for elegant, striking design and all things sparkly. Inspiration for her exclusive and exquisite collections is taken from Vintage Hollywood glamour and the graceful and sophisticated head dresses worn in ballet.

That’s why I thought an interview would be perfect if we want to know a bit more about the art or accessorizing a wedding gown. Here’s what FashionBride found out for you. Don’t forget to visit Royst and Aran after you finish reading.

1. When did you decide to become a designer and why did you find this domain interesting?

I studied at The Royal Ballet School in London for eight years and spent many years on stage wearing intricate costumes and headpieces. I loved the beauty of the pieces and the feeling that a costume changed you into a different role or character and made you feel very glam! I always felt it was a natural progression to start designing. I also loved getting married myself, so I wanted to be able to play a special part in other peoples’ weddings.

2. Talk us through the first years of your work. Maybe you could tell us what changed over time? Are your designs different from the very beginning?

When I first started creating headpieces I didn’t have the confidence in my own ideas or styles, I played it a little bit too safe. Now I design pieces that I feel represent me as a designer and I offer brides the more quirky and unusual pieces that are unique to Royst & Aran. Also brides are now opting more and more for headbands rather than the traditional tiaras, so a lot of my designs are now based on one sided headbands or full headbands which I thoroughly love creating.

3. Why should a bride-to-be choose one of your designs?

With a Royst & Aran accessory each design is totally unique and a one off piece. They are made from stunning vintage components so are very couture. A vintage design can be your “Something old, and Something new”.
Furthermore, I spend many hours creating my designs and a lot of love and care goes into each piece. I feel that my designs are keepsakes and something to be handed down. I also offer a bespoke service so I can work on creating something very personal.

4. Do tell us a bit more about your inspiration sources.

I spend many hours looking at bridal magazines and wedding blogs. I source vintage components that I just love and this helps in the creation of the designs. The vintage eras are also very glam and inspire me greatly as well as ballet headdresses. A lot of the time brides themselves also give me amazing ideas.

5. Have you got any piece you’ve created and that has a very special meaning for you? Can you describe it or can show us a picture.

I regularly get asked to design bespoke pieces. Bespoke pieces are some of my favourite designs and they challenge me as a designer. I had a lovely bride called Becks whose brief was a floating flower and leaf tiara. It is my favourite design to date as it was so beautiful and unique. (Picture 1 attached) Becks had a great sense of style and individuality, she had an amazing wedding and I was very proud to of been an important part of it.

6. From your point of view, how should a perfect bride look

The perfect bride is one that feels confident and has her own unique style and personality. And of course is wearing something gorgeous from Royst & Aran!

7. And tell us what would you give her that, maybe, other brands can’t.

A selection of unique designs which guarantee that everyone will be asking her…where did you get your gorgeous headpiece from. I am also very passionate about my business and the people I work with, I strive to make each bride feel important and special whilst creating their perfect accessory. I also try to offer the style conscious brides who don’t have the bank busting budgets gorgeous and affordable accessories.

8. Last but not least, do you have any advice for FashionBride readers

Be confident and gorgeous on your wedding day, don’t be afraid to break with tradition and do something a little different!