Sok Hoffman of Malachi Empire Launches Her Wildflower Collection

A wildflower is a flower of an uncultivated variety or a flower growing freely without human intervention

‘Fresh, bold, sweet and feminine’ are just a few words to describe a Malachi gown, and boy were we impressed by how sweet they were indeed. The Adelaidian were invited to the launch and showcase of Malachi Empire’s Wildflower Collection that had the crowd glaring in awe, transporting us to a romantic bridal wonderland. As guests entered the Lakeside Function Space at the Lakes Resort, white draping embellished with fairy lights illuminated the room, with the runway adorned by a white flower backdrop, tea lights and rustic greenery to enhance the ‘Wildflower’ theme.

Sok Hoffman is the mastermind behind Malachi Empire and is recognised as one of South Australia’s leading bridal designers, whose hard work, passion for sewing, design and attention to detail boasts from each gown that she creates.  We were given an exclusive sneak preview of her Wildflower Collection that has been 2 years in the making, featuring 21 new designs enriched with femininity, character and elegance. As we socialised against a background of funky tunes, guests were treated to some delicious canapés alongside glasses of bubbly and wine and some heavenly bite-sized cupcakes by Cristarella Cakes.

malachi empire the adelaidian launch

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From first glance, it’s evident that Sok offers a different style for each unique bride, ranging from a classic take to a more contemporary interpretation. A mix of soft ivory, white lace, sheer and silk gives her gowns an ethereal feel reminiscent of a fairy tale. As each model braced the stage, all eyes were affixed on the Wildflower pieces that flowed celestially amidst the pretty white lush flower backdrop by Venue Productions. Likewise, warm mauve flowers by Wyld Orchids helped to form the dreamy atmosphere that evolved throughout the runway show.

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Although many Malachi gowns combine traditional and rustic elements like dainty French lace, it was exciting to see an inclusion of contemporary mermaid fitted dresses and captivating black pieces to suit the more alternative bride. Sok challenges the norms of what a wedding dress should be in her Wildflower Collection by establishing that it’s okay to be a little different. The black gowns were an undeniable stand out, as they glistened against their contrasting white backdrop in a striking yet subtle way. As we all know, wedding dresses are almost always white or ivory to signify purity and simplicity. However, Sok attempts to break this stereotype and conventional way of thinking by featuring black as another option when considering the perfect wedding dress. As designers embrace this refreshing take of bridal couture, women are beginning to feel more confident and comfortable with the idea of transitioning to a different dress hue or style.

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The Malachi gowns delicately fit the body and silhouette to create a petite Parisian flair as they effortlessly fall against the leg. Sok combines a mix of ornate bodices and simple relaxed long sleeve and cap sleeve gowns to refresh the romantic and classic neckline, as the light yet textured material delicately reveals the collar and shoulders to enhance this ethereally luxe feel. Flower crowns and gorgeous bohemian inspired hairdo’s by Sam Frost of Hair to Envy added an extra dimension and burst of colour to the overall look. Makeup artist Leah Metaxas kept things simple yet timeless with a natural look to allow the featured gowns to shine. As femininity encompasses the Malachi Empire philosophy, the dresses are made to order to compliment the female figure respectively.

It wasn’t all dresses though, as the guys strutted their stuff in a selection of charismatic suits perfect for any special occasion. The navy suit in particular was a favourite, as it’s suitable for all seasons and can be matched with an abundant array of coloured shirts or ties, making it a versatile choice for the fashion conscious groom. Likewise, three flower girls showcased Malachi’s brand new children’s designs that had guests gleaming as they stepped onto the stage in their petite Wildflower gowns that were prominently of a chiffon and tulle style material.

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malachi empire the adelaidian launch

As the show came to an end, so did our short time in Malachi Empire’s wedding wonderland, undoubtedly leaving many with much bridal inspo. The Wildflower Collection really speaks about the notion of being wild at heart like an ever growing flower that’s both beautiful and unique in its own way, bravely growing wild and free in a world plagued by conformity. You can visit Malachi Empire at 226 Grenfell St, Adelaide SA 5000.

Images: NKM Images

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