“Your body is not the problem—the fit is!”
This encapsulates what we love about Alexander Taksev, president and lead designer of Montreal-based special occasion label Alexander by Daymor. He has a way of creating exquisite statement gowns without ever losing sight of the women wearing them.
With every shoulder bow or ruffled flourish, it’s apparent that Taksev understands the high stakes of a special occasion evening wear, which is why so many mothers of the bride and groom love this brand. “There’s something sacred about designing a piece that becomes part of someone’s milestone, whether that’s a wedding, a gala, or a family celebration,” he says.
We talked to Taksev about his design process, current trends, and fashion advice for mothers of the bride and groom in mind. Good news, ladies: Taksev says sleeves are “having a major moment.”
You've been designing bridal and special occasion for most of your career—was that always your dream or focus as a designer?
Taksev: Absolutely. It was always my dream to create clothing for life’s most meaningful moments. There’s something sacred about designing a piece that becomes part of someone’s milestone, whether that’s a wedding, a gala, or a family celebration. Special occasion wear allows for emotion, detail, and transformation in a way everyday fashion often doesn’t. I love the ritual of it all. The way a gown can make someone stand taller, feel seen, feel beautiful—it’s powerful. That’s what keeps me inspired.
Mother of the groom Trudie in Alexander by Daymor
Where do you get design inspiration?
Inspiration for me is never one thing—it can come from architecture, from sculpture, from the way a piece of music moves. But more than anything, I begin by thinking about the woman. Who is she? What moment is she dressing for? How does she want to feel? I keep a running archive of real women I’ve dressed, and their stories often shape my collections more than anything else. I want the clothes to serve her life—not the other way around.
Tell us about the upcoming fall/winter collection.
Alexander by Daymor, fall 2025
This season, I’m drawn to clean silhouettes with quiet drama: structured necklines, elegant sleeve shapes, soft metallics, and architectural draping. There’s a return to refinement, but not at the expense of comfort. I’m loving rich tonal palettes—bronze, slate blue, deep rose—and textural fabrics that catch the light without overwhelming. And sleeves! Sleeves are having a major moment—whether it’s a soft flutter or a tailored three-quarter—because they allow for elegance and ease.
You've clearly figured out what makes women feel beautiful, and how to design women of various sizes, ages and stages. What's the secret?
The secret is listening. Women over 50, women in transition, women who don’t see themselves in the fashion narrative—they have specific needs, and they know themselves. My job is to honor that. I think beautiful design happens when you respect the body as it is, not try to disguise or “fix” it. Good construction, intentional details, and fabric that moves with you, not against you—that’s where the magic is. Beauty isn't about youth, it's about presence.
Mother of the bride Elaine in Alexander by Daymor
The mother of the bride purchase is an intimidating one for many women for so many reasons: they want to look amazing without overshadowing the bride, they perhaps aren't feeling great about their changing body, they don't know where to look. What is your advice about where to start and how to approach this purchase?
Start with how you want to feel - not how you think you should look. Elegant? Comfortable? Confident? Grounded? That’s your guide. Then find a boutique or stylist who understands that this is more than just a dress—it’s an emotional experience. Don’t get trapped by outdated “rules.” The bride wants you to shine—it honors her day, rather than detracts from it. And your body is not the problem—the fit is. A well-tailored dress will do more for your confidence than any number on a tag.
Any specific fashion advice on what makes a beautiful mother of statement? A look women should try that they might not have considered?
Lean into color. Many women default to navy or black for safety, but there’s so much beauty in richer shades: smoky lavender, pewter, pine, even blush. Texture is another overlooked ally—embroidery, chiffon overlays, a metallic thread that catches candlelight. And don’t be afraid of shape. A soft mermaid silhouette or a column with a cape sleeve can be incredibly flattering and modern. You don’t have to disappear; you get to arrive.
Your label is sold primarily through boutiques rather than department stores—why is that?
Because this kind of purchase deserves a personal experience. Boutiques allow for a one-on-one connection—you can touch the fabrics, try different silhouettes, talk to someone who knows how to fit your body. I design with that intimacy in mind. Department stores can be overwhelming and impersonal for such an emotional moment. My goal has always been quality over quantity, and boutique partnerships allow me to stay close to that vision.
Your designs have been worn by many celebrities through the year...is there one you'd love to dress right now?
There are many, but honestly? I’d love to dress any woman who’s entering a chapter of her life that feels transformative. If I had to name someone, I’d say Helen Mirren. She embodies everything I admire: confidence, strength, grace, and a bit of boldness. She knows who she is, and she wears clothes like armor and celebration, not disguise. That’s who I design for.