Born in Glasgow, Gwen Russell studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and began teaching Speech and Drama for 2 years. Having decided the Theatre was where her heart lay. Gwen began what was to become one of the most exciting careers, she could have imagined and headed for the footlights of London.

She fulfilled her dreams by studying with internationally know period costumier Jean Hunnisette at the London College of Fashion and met her future business partner Janette Haslam. As Russell & Haslam, this duo would soon have their creations being worn by an array of Hollywood Stars; Michelle Pfeiffer, (Dangerous Liaisons), Nicole Kidman (Eyes Wise Shut), Joan Collins (BBC- Tonight at Eight Thirty), Juliette Binoche, (Wuthering Heights), Helena Bonham-Carter (Wings of a Dove) and Emma Thompson (Henry V).

Working with international film and stage designers, Gwen Russell and Janette Haslam’s work has been featured in two Oscar (Costume) winning films; Dangerous Liaisons, Henry V. (see credits for more information)

Since 2002 Gwen Russell has continued a very successful solo career still working in both film and theatre, but having spotted a gap in the bridal market for couture design, she launched the Gwen Russell wedding label in 2005. Gwen's extensive experience, skill and craftsmanship merges all her expertise in classical period drama with modern styling to create a contemporary and glamorous bridal collection.

Gwen warmly invites each bride to her consultation rooms in Glasgow, Banff and London by appointment only. Each bride is given individual attention to help her create that special design which is a true reflection of her dreams and embodies her individual personality and style.

Last year Gwen was asked to merge her theatrical talents and her new bridal collection to create a gown for the Hollywood star Christina Ricci for the film ‘Penelope’ which is released in February 2008.