Briefing for Bespoke: Here come the brides!
I opened the Financial Times this weekend to a splash of advertisements for engagement and wedding rings, although for me none as elegant as this stunning example from Lucie Campbell in Bond Street.
Despite the Arctic conditions here in London, minds are turning to warmer thoughts and spring nuptials. I have completed two weddings so far this year, with a third underway and still more around the corner. As we were laying out each garment it occurred to me that there are some common issues that might be worth bearing in mind as you start the planning process.
So, here are ten thoughts, in no particular order, that will help to reduce your stress levels and preserve the bank balance as the day draws near:
- It is not necessary to purchase large quantities of expensive fabric. Simply designed dresses can be transformed with hints of more exquisite fabrics such as beaded silks, embroidery, or devoré.
- Choose cloth as early in the proceedings as possible, and also plan the fitting schedule well in advance. Time flies, and if fabric stocks are limited your selected cloth could be snapped up. Fortunately, suppliers will often reserve lengths of fabric against a deposit whilst you decide on the design, and the pattern is cut.
- Remember to include your intended jewellery in the discussion. Bodices can be shaped to show a necklace off to better effect, brooches can be secured to protect the dress fabric, and a headress can be fashioned around an existing tiara.
- Plan the undergarments with your designer. They will be integral to the final design, so remember to bring them to your fittings. I am pleased to be able to send my clients to Rigby & Peller.
- Don’t leave your choice of shoes to the last minute. You will need them at the final fittings for a perfect hemline. Also, it can take weeks if they need to be dyed. Make sure to wear them a few times before the day arrives, you may be grateful when it comes to the last waltz!
- I have attended many a wedding where there have been accidents as a hem was caught on a heel or a garment gets unexpectedly snagged. Make sure you have a small sewing kit to hand, including safety pins.
- Don’t leave the men out of the planning. Often ideas for co-ordinating their garments or accessories come too late in the day to be able to take effective action. Waistcoats, bow ties, pocket squares, cravats, braces and buttonholes; all can lend a unifying feel to the bridal party.
- Clients sometimes ask me to remodel or recondition vintage pieces, or perhaps refurbish a wedding dress worn by their mother. This is achievable and often gives an added poignancy to an event, but be prepared for specialist alteration work which can be extensive. Depending upon how the garment has been cared for this can prove a costly exercise particularly if special fabrics, beads, fastenings or trimmings need to be sourced and applied.
- Think ahead and consider how any garments might be merged into your regular wardrobe after the wedding. Shawls and jackets can be used as staple garments after the event, shoes can be re-coloured, and dresses can be re-cut or re-dyed.
- Finally, don’t forget the last minute extras – garter, head dress, gloves, shawl or jacket, or a second outfit for the reception.
Good Luck!
Photo: thanks to Lucie Campbell, New Bond Street, London
Tags: Add new tag, bespoke, bridal, lingerie, rings, suit, wedding, wedding dress
