Picking a pattern

After much deliberation, I am coming closer to picking a design for my dress! I have two patterns picked out, one for the ceremony and one for the reception, and yes, I know I might be crazy but I do think I want two dresses. I think maybe I can use the sparkly belt with both to tie the looks together. I may still change my mind, but I do really like these both.

I love the 1930's bias cut design of this ceremony dress pattern. I was thinking of using satin for the bodice and through to the hips, and then a flowy silk chiffon for the full skirt so it will move nicely when I walk. I am not sure if I like the bodice part of this design though (B or C), its kind of boring. I would like an open back, but the front could be more interesting, I think. What do you all think about the top of this dress? Would something with cap sleeves be nicer? I do think this will look super nice with the belt I am planning.



A shorter reception dress will let me dance so much more comfortably! I plan on dancing a lot :) And for a reception dress, I totally love this pattern! I think a white on cream brocade, of a substantial thickness, would be lovely! I would want to use horsehair bias tape for the skirt's bottom seam so that the skirt looks full, and maybe a tulle 1/2 slip underneath. Do you think this might not look so good with the belt though? I think the belt may be too wide, and how would satin (assuming the belt will be made of satin) look with a brocade dress? And...is the dress a little too skimpy looking? It is strapless, I would hate to have to pull it up all night!







As for a different bodice for the ceremony gown, I really love this dress that was designed and created by Janey-jane. I really like the cowl draping with an open back, and the twisted front. Unfortunately, I have no idea how to make a front twist like that, but the back looks do-able.

Britex Fabrics!

I recently went to Britex fabrics in Union Square, just to look at what they have for fabric selection, and wow was I impressed!!! Their fabric is of such high quality, and they just seem to have every type type of fabric in all colors of the rainbow. It was quite amazing. And a little overwhelming! They also have an amazing selection of trims (like antique french lace!), and feathers and rhinestone buttons! I ended up purchasing what I plan to turn into a belt for my dress:

Since this is so sparkly, I really think the dress should be mainly satin and silk as opposed to lace, as I was originally planning. I think this will make the project more simple too, since I think this is so lovely on its own :)

Inspiration from the past

So I have spent many hours looking at lovely wedding dresses online for inspiration (and as procrastination from homework!). Some of my favorite designs that I have found online are clearly inspired from the 1920s and 1930's.
I love the intricate detail, amazing Spanish lace, and creamy color of Yolan Cris's dresses! Unfortunately, even if I wanted to buy one I couldn't since they are only sold in Europe. I think the first one here is my favorite :)

I am also in love with Jenny Packham's dresses. The flowing satin and tasteful beading and crystals are so nice!I love the 1930's fitted styles and true waist-level belts. And also again, lots of these pretty dresses are sold in Europe.

And from BHLDN (same company behind Free People and Anthropologie). Very interesting and fun dresses!