Silk Ballgown Wedding Dress with gathered Panniers

Alex was eventually convinced to include the large silk bows at either hip to enhance the panniers, which give a ballgown-like feel.
The pannier shape is held by a caged petticoat underneath which is easy and lightweight to wear.

Lucky for me, Alex spied my Lily Wedding Dress Design soon after she got engaged and called me in anticipation. She booked her flight and travelled from Edinburgh to see me at my studio in Epsom to try the Lily Dress - no others. SEEN HERE

Within moments she had decided - or rather - confirmed, it was ‘The One”.

Even though this was a “made to measure’ wedding dress design, working from an existing pattern, a mock up toile was made to make sure the proportions we perfect for Alex.
The Lily dress has a simple v-neck and thin silk straps - we customised the neckline to make a little higher for Alex so it wasn’t so plunging.
The position of the hip panniers was raised slightly to to best suit Alex’s height and frame.

The Lily wedding dress sample was originally made in a moire fabric which is like a pretty water mark created by the weave, however this was potentially a little too heavy for the Mediterranean weather. Instead, we chose one of my favourite structured fabrics - silk Zibeline which has an ethereal glow without being shiny - nor matte.

I loved working with Alex, and her appreciation and exploration of fashion and style - and that she took the time to search me out and make the journey to see me.

Alex

“From the moment I got engaged, there was no question in my mind—I wanted Charlotte to design my wedding dress. Her designs are nothing short of extraordinary: dreamy, unique, and truly one of a kind. I fell in love with the Lily dress the instant I saw it, and even now, I have to pinch myself when I see photos of myself wearing it.

As someone who always seeks out distinctive, special pieces in fashion, I knew my wedding dress had to reflect that same spirit. Charlotte brought my vision to life in the most magical way. Her talent was matched by her kindness and attentiveness throughout the entire process. She took great care to in creating the exact dress I had envisioned. Visiting her was always a pleasure, and even with just two consultations, she crafted an utterly magnificent dress—a testament to her remarkable talent.”