To be sure the dots lined up symmetrically, we cut the bodice pieces and then printed on the dots. A handful of test prints were done to test color, size and pattern before printing. Ultimately we decided the print looked best when the dots were compressed closer side to side than top to bottom. Printing the dots in a triangle pattern on the skirt made them look more delicate around the hipline than a solid line.

Silk ribbon finished off the waistband and edged the crinoline underneath. The hardest part for her was choosing from a pile of vintage buckles!

Helen chose a fully custom flowy gown of silk charmuese and spun silk. Pleating on the front into the underbust seam, and the pleated waistband highlight her small waist, while flattering her curves. The low neckline front and back add some drama, while the purple printed flowers with amethyst bead details add both a playfulness and a sophistication to the gown.

Whitney put on her favorite dress for me. It was a lovely jersey knit maxi with a full skirt sweeping the floor and halter neckline that highlighted her strong shoulders. Then she held up her inspiration, her mother’s wedding dress. It was a 1960s A line shift that stopped just above the knees, with a high crew neck and no sleeves. Over it was worn a a long sleeve lace jacket. It was a very cute ensemble, but did not have the same feel as Whitney’s favorite dress. Can we make a new gown that is all Whitney’s style incorporating elements of her mother’s gown?

The silhouette of Whitney’s custom wedding gown was drawn directly from her favorite dress. The gathered halter top cinched in at her narrow waist, the skirt skimmed her hips and fell straight to ground with soft fullness.

To honor Whitney’s mother’s gown, we focused on the lovely flowered lace. Inspired by the design, Jocelyn created a silk screen of the lace pattern, which we used to print on the new gown’s waistband. The subtle white print on cream fabric gave elegance and personality to the gown. Using a section of lace fabric, Carla cut around individual flowers in the form of a narrow band creating a racer back shape for Whitney’s dress further highlighting her lovely shoulders. Now her mother’s flowers were wrapped around Whitney’s waist and cascading down her back. As a final touch, buttons reused from Whitney’s grandmother’s wedding gown were placed along the side closure of the finished gown. A new brand new gown using vintage elements. Seeing Whitney’s smile as she tried on her finished gown let us know we had successfully highlighted her unique style!

For this dress, we used Ahimsa 3-ply silk in its natural ivory color and a white silk crepe lining. Two vintage petticoats were altered and combined to achieve the right amount of fullness in the skirt. The use of a screen-printed cornflower design was Antonia’s idea, and Jocelyn drew the screens and printed each garment piece by hand.

The flattering and classic 50’s shape and minimalist pattern highlights Antonia’s tall slender frame. Additionally, the dramatic silver tone flowers, printed asymmetrically on one side of the dress, added interest to the back of the dress as well as the front. Her bright blue accessories and flowers gave this classic style a completely modern punch!