Upcycling your mother's wedding dress through custom redesign is an excellent way to preserve memories and keep the dress in your family for generations. It’s also a way to create something unique that carries the nostalgia of the past while designing something fresh that reflects your style.

Preserving a Family Heirloom Through Custom Redesign

Taylor and her mom came to me with her mom’s 1980s dress. The classic ballgown organza skirt with sequin appliques was ethereal. The top with its oversized, poufy sleeves (famous for its era) and ruffled mock neck, not so much!

Taylor sent me her Pinterest boards before our meeting. The common theme running through her inspiration was a plunging strapless bodice. So, when they came to my studio with the dress, I had her put a bustier (a muslin I had) on top of the existing style to get an idea of what it would look like strapless. We also played around with a halter and tank bodice – but her heart was set on a strapless neckline. Lastly, a few minor tweaks to the skirt were agreed on.

A Perfect Fit For Your Wedding Day

Before she left, her key measurements were taken to create the new, bespoke gown. At this point in the process, I make a sketch for the client and provide an invoice detailing the design work and fabrications to be sourced.

Knowing that an exact match to the organza would be impossible, I was off to my fabric suppliers in the city to see what I could come up with. I found a crepe and the perfect hue of soft tulle to drape over it. This combo seamlessly ‘marries’ the skirt and bodice. Success!

The Unique Experience of Reimagining Your Mom’s Bridal Gown

 After the custom bodice pattern was draped, it was picked up from my patternmaker and cut in the studio. Next, it was off to my expert seamstress to put it all together. Then came the fun part, hand-placing the appliques along the neckline. I gave Taylor two layout options, and she chose (over zoom) the one we carefully stitched (design on the right!). At this point, we discussed a veil. She chose a dramatic cathedral-length; her fairy-tale wedding was being held at a castle after all!

Vintage Meets Modern

After much hard work, the dress was finally finished. The fit was perfect- Taylor knew she could comfortably and confidently dance all night! Finally, I gave her a sketch of her dress to take home so that she could remember this unique experience forever.

One-of-a-Kind Wedding Dress

At Maybelle, we believe each bride deserves an unforgettable experience and the perfect dress to match. That’s why we take the time to understand your unique style and preferences to create a custom piece that reflects your taste and personality. So reach out to us today and schedule a consultation so that we can understand how we can help make your vision a reality.