For more than six decades, Vinka Design has defined the art of bridal couture in New Zealand. Founded in 1959 by Croatian-born designer Vinka Lucas MNZM, and now led by her daughter Anita Turner, the Auckland atelier continues to handcraft gowns that combine timeless couture technique with modern design sensibility. Each couture gown embodies originality, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the traditions that shaped New Zealand’s most enduring couture house.
When planning your wedding, your dress is more than fabric and thread – it is an expression of identity, heritage, and couture artistry. In today’s bridal industry, where mass-produced gowns dominate and international labels flood the market, heritage bridal couture stands apart.
Vinka Design, founded in 1959, is New Zealand’s longest standing bridal couture house, and for more than six decades we’ve handcrafted gowns that celebrate individuality.
The story begins with Vinka Lucas, a visionary designer who emigrated from Croatia to New Zealand in the 1950s. At a time when most wedding gowns were imported or made from basic patterns, Vinka introduced European couture techniques to the New Zealand bridal market. Her mission was simple yet radical: to give Kiwi brides access to the artistry and elegance of couture fashion without having to leave the country.
Her bold, feminine, and innovative designs quickly gained attention, and before long, Vinka’s name became synonymous with luxury wedding dresses in New Zealand.
Today, Vinka’s daughter Anita Turner leads the brand with the same commitment to artistry and craftsmanship. Under her guidance, Vinka Design continues to operate from its Queen Street atelier in Auckland, where each gown is made by hand, from sketch to stitch. Anita has infused the label with a modern flare, blending couture traditions with contemporary bridal fashion.
The result is a collection of gowns that feel both classic and current – rooted in heritage, yet tailored to the modern bride.
A bridal gown is the most photographed garment you’ll ever wear. When brides choose Vinka, they are choosing confidence – knowing that their gown has been crafted by experts who have perfected couture techniques over generations. Unlike imported ready-to-wear gowns, a Vinka gown isn’t ordered in your nearest standard size and altered to you; it is created to your exact measurements and to fit perfectly.
This heritage ensures not only quality but also originality. No two Vinka gowns are identical, and no bespoke bride ever walks away feeling like her dress could have been worn by someone else.
The creation process typically begins 10-12 weeks out from the wedding date, depending on design complexity. However, we recommend booking your gown six months out to secure your place in our production schedule and to ensure that we have all fabrics and materials on hand.
Not always. While couture gowns reflect the cost of skilled labour and luxury fabrics, many brides are surprised to find they fall within the same range as high-end imported gowns, but with a more precise fit and originality.
Yes. Whether it’s embroidery, heirloom lace, or unique silhouettes, we specialise in making gowns that tell your story.
For all of our Frequently Asked Questions, see our FAQ page here.
At Vinka Design, we are proud to be the longest-standing bridal couture house in New Zealand, but more importantly, we are proud to continue creating gowns that make brides feel like the very best version of themselves.
If you are looking for a luxury wedding dress in Auckland, handcrafted with care and designed uniquely for you, book your couture bridal consultation today.
