About Van Der Velde
About Us
Van Der Velde is a fashion collection based in Chicago, Illinois. Known for elegant looks, breathtaking style, and timeless laces, we produce couture wedding gowns, veils, and our newly released, intimates. Our contemporary designs celebrate size inclusivity and are recognized for their ideal fit. Each wedding dress is meticulously constructed from luxe fabrics and feature delicate details that highlight feminine lines.
Careful consideration of cut and fit, along with industry recognized seaming, make these couture bridal collections some of the most sought-after gowns on the market. The Van Der Velde design team travels to Trunk Shows across the US and abroad to help each of you find your dream dress. Our brides inspire us. From the salon appointment to our Couture Showroom, we are thrilled to help you with your wedding day look. You may have caught us on the popular “Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta” episodes, on FaceTime, or in a dressing room near you!

Visit the Van Der Velde Couture Showroom
The Team Behind the Design
Meet William Van Der Velde & Matthew Christopher
Matthew Christopher, a designer with over twenty years experience in the bridal industry and well-known for his dramatic architectural seaming, and a fit that women love, combines talents with entrepreneur William Van Der Velde. William brings structure to Matthew Christopher’s unique and often flamboyant work style and is known for more whimsical, lighter gowns that dance. Together they have created clean, vibrant looks that bring a subtle old Hollywood vibe to the modern bride.
Fall in love all over again, this time with the gown of your dreams. Create a custom look with this design team at their Couture Showroom or choose a gown from one of the largest bridal collections in the Chicago area.

The Van Der Veldes
William & Colette Van Der Velde
Entrepreneurs from Chicago, owners William & Colette Van Der Velde have a passion for the bridal and fashion industry. They are proud to create a fashion house that, like all their business ventures, adhere to the highest of standards, standout in every detail, and take pride in artistry and customer service.
William has brought to life his design aesthetic alongside well-known couture bridal designer Matthew Christopher and the entire workroom and team at Van Der Velde.

Meet the Designer
Matthew Christopher
Chicago based designer Matthew Christopher effortlessly blends influences from his extensive couture dressmaking background with his humble beginnings sewing alongside his grandmother.
Attending The Art Institute of Chicago and Iowa State University, his extraordinary talent landed him first with Demetrios, perfecting his craft with one-of-a-kind couture bridal designer Candace Solomen. He rose to head designer with Galina, even taking part in opening the bridal section for Watters and Watters. By 2002, Matthew had created his label that featured everything from intricate and embellished lace overlays to modern, sensual draping and effortless, classic silhouettes.
Consistently recognized as a top couture bridal designer, winning accolades and several nominations for the prestigious DEBI award, it is with great pleasure that Matthew joins the Van Der Velde team.
