Valley shoppers meet Emanuel

Mar 29 2008 by Jean Parry, South Wales Echo

He dressed a princess, now he’s launched his new range... in Blackwood

THE man who famously designed Princess Diana’s wedding dress has unveiled his latest collection – in Blackwood.

It may not be everyone’s first choice as a fashion Mecca, but David Emanuel chose the Bonmarche store in the town for the launch. Customers did a double take when they were greeted by the famous designer.

Mary Edmunds, 64, from Energlyn, Caerphilly, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I saw him and he shook my hand. He is so nice, and to think I could be wearing something created by the man who made THAT dress.”

Originally from Bridgend, David said he had hooked up with the High Street chain because he believed that stylish fashion should be accessible to all women.

He said: “Ladies of a certain age can still have stylish, quality, fashionable and, most importantly, affordable clothes and I felt that was the challenge for me to deliver that with Bonmarche – and I’m thrilled I have pulled it off with the David Emanuel range.”

The Blackwood store was chosen for the launch because it is the chain’s most profitable shop in South Wales.

Shoppers Melanie Smith and Lynne Thomas said they found Emanuel’s designs very elegant.

Melanie, 46, of Fleur de Lys, said: “The clothes are just beautiful. They look so expensive but are within the price range of us Valleys girls. We have a wedding in May and were going to Cardiff for an outfit but once you factor in travelling and parking it gets so expensive. Now, we can say we have been dressed by David Emanuel of Blackwood.”

Lynne, 52, from Pontllanfraith, said: “I have just bought a black cropped jacket. You could dress it up or wear it with jeans.”

Before leaving Blackwood, David was happy to chat about Diana’s dress and said he was honoured to have been part of what was a thrilling time in British history.

He said: “The first dress I designed for her was when she was 18 and still Lady Diana and it was a black dress for Prince Andrew’s birthday party. I will always remember her as a glamorous and wonderful person – such a fresh, natural and sweet girl.”

jean.parry@mediawales.co.uk