Makes: Lily's Wedding Dress
Process
I had the great honor of designing and making my sister Lily’s wedding dress- it was a really special make and a huge learning curve to create such a garment. I utilized the following skills:
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Design consultation- research, references and sketches
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Drafting a pattern block based on measurements
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Adapting a pattern to include new design elements
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Creating a calico toile
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Fitting the toile and making adjustments
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Pattern cutting with silk satin and habotai silk
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Creating an open back dress and a yoke with button fastenings
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Sewing
After taking Lily's measurements, I created a pattern block for a basic dress. I then altered the block to suit the design, drawing the shape of the bodice I wanted to achieve and adding a train to the skirt.
I cut and sewed a calico toile, which helped with some of the problem solving to achieve what I wanted with the pattern. I then organised a fitting with Lily to try the toile, making the necessary adjustments and notes to extend the hem and the train.
I adjusted the bodice pattern following the fitting and once I had created a new toile that I was happy with, I began cutting the fabric.
Lily chose an ivory silk satin and I picked a beautiful habotai silk for the lining. I pressed the fabric before cutting each piece out carefully and sewing them together.
I inserted the matching ivory satin button loops and sewed on the satin covered buttons.
The back was open with satin spaghetti straps, which I adjusted to fit comfortably in a final fitting with the finished dress.