OUMA

About OUMA

Ou Ma, Design Director and Founder of OUMA, is deeply inspired to create evocative and unique pieces for all to remember. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, Ou quickly joined the design roster of fashion houses such as Calvin Klein Made-to-Measure Atelier and Ralph Lauren Women's Collection.

Founded in 2017 while preparing for her wedding, OUMA is committed to unconventional designs that make a statement. From subtle clean lines that compliment your form to exquisite lace and dresses adorned with embellishments, OUMA provides effortless chic designs tailored to your unique self.

All designs are made in OUMA's Vancouver Atelier in Canada with carefully sourced fabrications and a zero-waste approach.

Behind The Brand

Describe the woman you design for…

The OUMA Bride is a confident and fashion-forward modern woman that won’t settle for anything less than ordinary. Her keen eye for detail is not lost on our craftsmanship, nor is her knowledge of quality and the importance of conscious design. She is a woman with a powerful sense of self and an ever-present journey for individuality and creative embodiment in her life’s story.

What is your most popular piece?

The Zephyr from ‘Zoi’ Collection and the Faye from ‘Whimsical Light’ Collection. Most of our designs have detachable elements that brides can quickly transform into two distinct looks.

What advice would you give to brides-to-be?

Stay true and trust yourself! The most important thing is marrying the most important person in your life. Filter through the minor details and unnecessary voices; you should stay true to who you are.

As a designer, what tips do you have for brides to get the most out of their fittings?

Follow your gut! You will look gorgeous in various styles and dresses, but your heart will know immediately when you put on ‘The One.’ Always wear the proper underwear and come alone for your first fitting. You’ve already found the significant other; you will find the perfect dress way easier.

Do you offer a custom design service for brides? If so, how long does it take to make a custom piece?

Yes, we started our brand with a custom bridal design service, and we have been handmaking every piece in our Vancouver atelier. A custom design piece requires at least five months, but we can accommodate a short turnaround time with a rush fee.

What advice do you give to brides to care for their gown?

Always keep your dress in the garment bag with a cedar ball before your wedding and store them out of direct sunlight. The best option is keeping them hanging on the hanger loops, except for bias-cut dresses. Give it a light but thorough steam on the day and clean it right after. Most gowns can be dry cleaned, but some fabrics can only take cold water and spot cleaning.

Editor’s Notes

Why we love it…

Spilling with a wildly ethereal beauty, OUMA bespoke gowns are created with expert hand-craftsmanship and careful precision, revealing the wearer’s personality through thoughtfully intricate and often unexpected details.

For the woman…

For the bride-to-be with a romantic design sensibility and an appreciation for couture-like craftsmanship with distinguishing design details. Detachable elements and two-piece looks punctuate OUMA collection, allowing brides the opportunity to style their look in a multitude of ways for occasions far beyond the wedding day.

Styling tips…

Playing off the intricate beauty of each gown, we recommend undone styling when it comes to hair and makeup, with barely-there washes of rose blush and effortlessly tousled waves. Think less is more, allowing OUMA ethereal layers of tulle and lace to speak for themselves.