
“Tara” by Helena Couture Designs. Image:KeykoDesign
“And One Day She Discovered That She Was Fierce, And Strong, And Full Of Fire, And That Not Even She Could Hold Herself Back Because Her Passion Burned Brighter Than Her Fears. In A World Where So Many Speak And Don’t Hear, She Is Somebody Who Listens With Her Mind And Hears With Her Heart.” ~ Mark Anthony (Author Of Kindred Spirits)

“Liana & Spring” by
Helena Couture Designs
Bird and Boy Photography

“Pia” by
Helena Couture Designs
KeykoDesign

“Clare” by
Helena Couture Designs
KeykoDesign
Western women today are stronger and more independent, liberated from the limiting traditions of yesteryear. Let’s wind the clock back and explore where this inner strength started to break free from the shackles of a male dominated society.

1901-1910 Edwardian Era. Royal Wedding Party
Corseted and restrictive.

“Clare” by
Helena Couture Designs
KeykoDesign
In modern history, World War 1 was considered ‘the war to end all wars’. Commencing 28th July 1914, it was the biggest war anyone had ever known. With it came huge changes for women. Traditionally, women in Britain were only allowed to carry out domestic duties however, with men now going off to war, for the first time, women needed to step up and become the workforce too, to keep the country running.

“Rosza” by Helena Couture Designs
Image: Keykodesign

“Jacquie” by Helena Couture Designs
Image: KeykoDesign
Across the country, by late 1918, nine in every ten workers in the munitions industry were female – jobs which traditionally would have been done by men. Women also worked as conductors on trams and buses, as typists and secretaries, and on farms.

“Areva” by Helena Couture Designs Image: KeykoDesign
The war also changed how women looked. Trousers appeared for the first time, corsets became increasingly less popular and short, bobbed hair came into fashion. Women were less concerned with appearance and dressed for practicality. Advancement of women’s rights were now set in motion and British women achieved the right to vote in 1918 (Australian Women 1902-1905).

“Cheyenne” by
Helena Couture Designs
Bird and Boy Photography

“Ashera” by
Helena Couture Designs
Ayla Elaine Photography

“Shannon” by
Helena Couture Designs
Casey-Jane Photography
As horrific as WW1 was, it was the start of equality for western women, allowing today’s woman to decide her own fate. Many of today’s women want to succeed in their chosen career before having children. They are more confident in who they are and wear dresses to showcase that, as opposed to wearing something conforming to society.

“Maddison” by
Helena Couture Designs
Ben and Hope Photography

“Jessica” by
Helena Couture Designs
Roost Film Co.
When brides come to me, they usually have an understanding of what they like, and I guide them when creating their dream dress. I feel that we can still be strong without losing our femininity and independence.
Helena Couture Designs, as unique and individual as you…
Helena x