So, you’ve secured your tix to the hottest little soiree in town *cue excitement* followed immediately by a sartorial tailspin at the prospect of traipsing across the entire Gold Coast to track down a glittering gala-worthy gown that’s good to glow. Unless you’re hitting the red carpet on the reg, procuring a ball gown is something that probably doesn’t crop up on the ole’ to-do list that often.

As your inside word on all things Gold Coast, of corset it’s us you can trust to guide you on your quest to track down the most glamorous gowns in town.

If this is a realm you have’t revisited since you dedicated half of high school to finding the perfect frock (… among all that diligent studying, of course), fear not. Not unlike Angelina Jolie’s iconic Oscars pose circa 2012, we’ve done all ‘the leg’ work and compiled a handy list of some local boutiques dishing up divine dresses.

(So now you have more time to doom scroll Pinterest for the perfect #hairspo, you’re welcome).

Gearbox Boutique
Broadbeach’s Gearbox Boutique is a name that’s been going strong on the GC for almost 20 years now. Owner Chris Deaves’ extensive industry experience and passion is testament to the brands continued success, going from strength to strength since the boutique’s inception in ’04 (and looking damn fine while doing it).

The spot is well-known among locals of all ages as a one-stop-shop, both for its stellar dresswear selection and next level customer service. Brimming with wall to wall racks showcasing the array of glittering gowns, Gearbox has something suit all manner of soirees. Plus, the Oasis proximity makes for a very convenient caffeination checkpoint post-shopping spree.
Where: Level 1, Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach

Sonia Stradiotto Couture
Local brand Sonia Stradiotto Couture has been bedecking Gold Coasters in formal finery for some 30 years now. Known for her haute couture and eclectic suiting among the Aussie fashion scene, specialities of the label include bold and sequinned silhouettes – utilising rare, globally sourced fabrics such as intricate laces and lush velvets. Chances are, if you’re seeking evening attire that’s a little bit ‘la-di-da’, you’ll find it at Sonia’s swanky shopfront in Marina Mirage.

For those looking to splurge on something truly show-stopping, there’s also a designer service to have a bespoke garment whipped up just for you #fancypantsmuch.
Where: Marina Mirage Shopping Centre, Level 1, Shop 131 & 132, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

One Night Stand Designer Dress Hire
No need to borrow, beg or even buy – One Night Stand Designer Dress Hire is here so we can have a fashion fling with the dress of our dreams. The hero both us, and our credit cards, need.

Hunt through their extensive online catalogue to find a curated collection of sleek, spicy and stunning silhouettes – our haute hookup so we can ‘spend the night’ with some of our fave designer brands, sans commitment. From Aje to Zimmerman, the local label gang’s allll here.

The hire fee includes 5 days of rental and cleaning, which is a relief, because where does one even *find* a dry cleaner these days…?
Where: Level 1, Suite 6c, 2563 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

One Honey Boutique
A fresh face to Bundall is the One Honey Boutique flagship showroom, ready to dress us to the nines with a 10/10 collection of exquisite evening gowns. The One Honey team are dedicated to helping you find a fabulous frock for your own Queen ‘Bey’ moment, their proud point of difference being there’s no charge for fittings nor is there a limit to how many you can try on #thelimitdoesnotexist. They’ve also got the sweet hook up as stockist for an array of local and international brands, such as sought after names like Portia & Scarlett and Sherri Hill.

Buyer, and browser, beware – if you plan on hitting up this particular dress destination, plan those shopping expeditions in advance because bookings are required.
Where: 2/40 Bundall Rd, Bundall

The Formal Gallery
Judging by the testimonials alone, The Formal Gallery is THE place to rent your red carpet drip, hooking locals up with jaw-dropping frocks fit for everything from black tie events to the Brownlow.. and beyond. It’s not uncommon to spy their dreamy dresses strutting and sashaying across the Miss World and Miss Universe stages, and hey, those gals know a thing or two about glamour (.. and beauty and grace.… #obligatoryMissCongeniality)

You can search for your fave frock by date (efficient) and once you find a dress you’re obsessed with, book a try on at the Bundall boutique. The luxe lewk is yours for 4 days, with cleaning included in the hire fee.
Where: Villa 1/13 Vespa Cres, Bundall

Studio Minc
Studio Minc has been hooking up Southport and surrounds with all the fanciest threads going on ten years now – though it’s well worth the side quest for absolutely anyone seeking a fire frock, as of the few boutiques boasting a collection of dresses proudly designed & made ethically in Australia. We love.

A fashion-forward family brand built by the local Mother and daughter team made up of Michelle, Madeleine, and Morgan – Studio Minc is the style savvy trio’s answer to the gap they felt existed for young, elegant, and A-lister aligned gowns. And, the rest is herstory – these days, the only gap that remains is some perfectly-placed side slits for us to put our best foot forward.

Bring your bestie along for one of their dual ‘BFF’ Formal Dress Try’ appointments, and secure one of the handcrafted creations by the all-female in-house team, for an all round girl gang slay.
Where: 27 Margaret Street, Southport

Pacific Fair
OK, so this isn’t strictly a boutique but this list wouldn’t be complete without making mention of the Fair-est shopping centre in all the land Coast. Not only is it packed full of big guns like DJ’s and Myer, it also houses perpetual faves like Sheike, Forever New and Aje along with fancy-pants options like Carla Zampatti and Scanlan Theodore.

As an added kicker they have personal stylists on offer, so you can shop up a black tie storm with your very own in-house fashion expert.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

Words by Kellie Leader.

If you’re planning on getting hitched in the future, the Gold Coast is certainly a good place to do so. With many a delightful location on offer, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to your big day.

From the beach to the hinterland, or the hinterland with views of the beach, the Coast is your oyster.

Here’s a few we think might tickle your fancy, probably get in quite early though because they seem to tickle everyone’s fancy.

The Bower Estate
The newest of the bunch, The Bower Estate is set upon 120 acres of stunning land in the Gold Coast hinterland. Surrounded by national parks, the full-service wedding venue offers onsite catering, event coordination and accommodation and as a family-owned business, you can expect the utmost care to go into your big day. It’s a mind-blowing venue and one that would be absolutely perfect for any style of wedding.
Where: 3165 Nerang Murwillumbah Road, Natural Bridge

*Mavis’s Kitchen
There aren’t enough words in the world to describe the magic of Mavis’s Kitchen. Technically it’s in Northern NSW but that’s never stopped us before. There are mountain views for days, from the hinterland to Mt Warning and food direct from the organic garden and the perfect spot to marry your love. It’s an intimate space but if stunning outdoor scenery is your thing, this one is a must-see.
Where: 64 Mount Warning Road, Uki

Heritage Wines
Another hinterland gem, Heritage Wines is, you guessed it a wedding venue at a winery and those are the perfect combination if you ask us. The rustic style venue boasts some absolutely magical views and there’s a separate little section for the actual getting married part. Guests can mingle on the greenest lawn in the world whilst enjoying wines from their cellar door. The food is a delight there too.
Where: Bartle Road, Tamborine Mountain 

*Summergrove Estate
Greenery abounds at Summergrove Estate, making it the perfect place for a spectacular wedding day no one will ever forget. Having won many awards in the past few years, it’s no wonder this place is much-loved by everyone who has ever laid eyes on it. Found in the hinterland, they boast a little weatherboard chapel, and the option of a reception either indoors or outside under the stars.
Where: 363 Carool Road, Carool

Ancora
Found riverside in Tweed Heads, Ancora is an absolutely stunning venue offering garden ceremonies and a perfect reception space with 180 degree water views plus a balcony boasting salty breezes and the perfect viewing platform for one of the those magical Gold Coast sunsets. We’ve been to many a ceremony here and each has been more beautiful than the last. Good vibes too. Make sure you check Ancora out.
Where: 118 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

Cowbell Creek
With three ceremony areas, Cowbell Creek will have you spoilt for choice on your big day. There’s a retracting roof pergola, giant hilltop fig tree and an creekside verandah and each offers magical views of the surrounding property including 200 acres of rolling hills, creeks, lookouts and fields along with Clydesdales, friendly dairy cows, Alpacas and cheeky chooks. How good. It’s just 15 minutes from Robina Town Centre so practically on your doorstep.
Where: 390 Austinville Road, Austinville

Boomerang Farm
Getting hitched in a 100 year old barn seems like a good time. Even better when it’s surrounded by lush green lawns, big old trees and an actual rainforest chapel. You’ll no doubt spy a local wallaby or two and with the babbling Mudgeeraba Creek running through the property, what’s not to love. We highly recommend including lawn games on the agenda and a wheelbarrow full of beverages to set the mood. Plus, its just 10 minutes from Robina Town Centre.
Where: 55 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba 

Crystal Blue Yacht Cruises
If an intimate wedding on the water is more your style, why not gather the gang and go all out on a Crystal Blue yacht. It’s quite the romantic experience to be cruising along with the sun setting in the distance, a glass of champagne in hand having just wed your beloved (or so we hear). And imagine the incredible photos you’ll get! Definitely get on board with this idea for something quite unique but also very lovely.
Where: Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Words by Kirra Smith

The Northern Gold Coast officially has a brand-new chic Lagoon Beach Club now open at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove.

This $2.5 million masterpiece is the first of its kind on the GC, set to elevate its already iconic surrounds to unparalleled heights of coastal indulgence and style.

The epitome of chillaxation, get ready to bask in the breathtaking view of the resort’s stunning one-acre Lagoon Beach Pool where laid-back leisure, contemporary design, and summer fun collide. After four months of extensive renovations, you can safely cancel your Euro summer vacay, because the Euro vacay (with a quintessential GC glow up) has come to us!

Best of all, it’s not just for InterContinental guests or Sanctuary Cove residents, it’s for everyone to enjoy – and enjoy we will! Perfect for a balmy GC arvo with friends or a taste of the good life with the fam in tow, it has people talking for all the right reasons from laid-back locals to vibrance-seeking visitors.

So just what can we expect from this game-changing summery stunner? An expansive deck for events and dining – check. Direct access from the marina to the resort – double check. Three cabanas and double day beds for ultimate relaxation? Yes, they’ve got that covered too.

Watch the day unfold from under the comfort of a pool deck umbrella or the shade of a nearby palm tree, and it would be remiss of us not to mention the fresh new menu offering seafood galore, share plates, gourmet pizzas, and casual poolside fare. Wash your meal down with an extensive drinks selection showcasing a tropical holiday in a glass, including expertly crafted cocktails, wines, beers, spirits, mocktails and other non-alcoholic drinks (because someone has to drive).

We suggest a Bucket of Whole Mooloolaba Prawns accompanied by a zesty seafood sauce and fresh lemon #ShrimplyDelicious. Not a seafood fan? No worries, how about a sharing platter and we can’t go past the Fromage Extravaganza with Kingfisher double cream brie, Maffra matured cheddar and King Island blue, paired with homemade lavosh, muscatels, chutney, dried fruits, and crackers.

If you’re after a small bite, tuck into Smokey Pulled Pork Soft Shell Tacos, three tantalizing tacos with slaw, guacamole, and sriracha mayo. There are also refreshing salads, larger meals, sides, a kid’s menu, and as per our teaser, five gastronomically gratifying pizzas. Try them all but in our humble opinion, you ‘knead’ to order the Spicy Chorizo and Wood-fired Capsicum with black olives, ricotta and spinach.

Our beverage vote goes to the Chilli Sunset house cocktail, with White Oat mango chilli gin (#supportlocal), Aperol, pineapple juice, and passionfruit pulp. Feel like sharing and if so, who can go past a Pimms Jug (not us), with Pimm’s, strawberries, mint, lime, lemon, orange, and ginger ale.

How about a healthy helping of live tunes and yes, InterContinental has that covered. Live music, DJ sessions, and even some Malfy Gin magic are all part of the plan to woo us, and mission accomplished – we are officially wooed.

And here’s the kicker – if you’d like to enjoy the lagoon pool and fabulous facilities, you can purchase a Resort Pass for just $30 per person (limited availability so book ahead). Summer hangs sorted!

For more information or to book your Resort Pass, go here.

Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
When: 10am – 5pm Sunday to Thursday. 10am – 9pm Friday & Saturday

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY INTERCONTINENTAL SANCTUARY COVE RESORT