Vintage Fifties Style Wedding Dress – Private Commission

When Melissa commissioned me to make her wedding dress she had a very clear idea of what she wanted. Though the dress itself is extremely simple and elegant she had found it impossible to find one off the peg that suited her. Due to having a large bust getting the fit right proved difficult and so she approached me to make her dress.

I started by drafting a very basic bodice pattern and then sculpting it onto Melissa at the initial fitting to obtain the best possible fit. By adding an additional bust dart and darts at the front and back of the bodice I was able to get the fit right and create a usable pattern. I was keen to get a close fit over the bust, in keeping with the vintage style of the dress and to highlight Melissa’s figure.

Adding a large circle skirt was simple and was boosted by a super wide underskirt.  The wide skirt perfectly balanced the large picture collar I added to the dress – a distinctive design feature requested by Melissa. An invisible zip and stiffened lining completed the dress.

Melissa chose a bridal satin for the main body of the dress and a beautiful lace, both sourced from Fletchers Fabrics, York. The bridal satin has a lovely rich sheen and was a crisp fabric able to support the shape of the dress well. The lace, though only used on the collar and covered buttons down the centre back, was a beautiful choice and lifted the dress design to something really special.

A truly enjoyable commission and I wish Mel and her new husband all the best in the future.