A boned bodice with sweetheart neckline covered with delicate French Chantilly lace . The lace layer has a boat neckline and elbow length sleeves. The a-line skirt is layered satin and silk organza with a small train and slate grey silk-satin sash. The back closed with a concealed zip and feature cover buttons.
Photography by?www.barryholder.co.uk
Harriet’s ensemble was finished with a short two-tier veil trimmed with the pretty scalloped lace edging to match her bodice.
Original design sketch
Harriet’s dress fastened with a concealed zip at the back but inside a hidden lace up corset created shape and provided support.
The back of Harriet’s dress came with a bustle-up for the train so it could be hooked out of the way for dancing or walking outside.
Making Harriet’s Dress
A picture from the ‘toile’ or practice run fitting. The dress is made from cheap fabrics to check fit and style before cutting into silks and expensive lace.
Harriet in the finished dress at her final fitting. The picture on the right shows the train hooked up as if for dancing.
Harriet in the finished dress at her final fitting. Wearing the matching veil as well and a detail of the back fastening with concealed zip, cover buttons and sash.
The dress came with a wrist loop so the train can be picked up and carried away from the dust when that is helpful. A hidden ‘something blue’ was sewn on to peek out when the train is lifted up.