Winter/Fall Collections 2012

Whilst working on my own Winter/Fall collection 2012 it was a delight to see that Prada had taken the victorian gentleman as their inspiration. Click here to see what they are up to.

I've been working on a new style polonaise style jacket with matching bodice and a skirt, overskirt and detachable train, all in ivory taffeta, lace and chiffon. This gown can be worn with or without a bustle and takes its inspiration from the late 1880's. Also, a slight departure for me; an eliptical crinoline/hoops with trained skirt and a bodice dating to around the 1860's and made from soft white cotton lawn trimmed with lace.

Photographs will follow with a preview here soon. Talking of previews I received the proofs of the pages for  'Steampunk Fashion by Samuel Radcliffe  with Graffito Books'







Publication Date: January 1, 2013

Cutting-edge designs from 30 of the top fashion studios working in steampunk
'The global movement that is steampunk has taken the worlds of art, sculpture, jewelry, and now fashion by storm. The designers in this collection represent the most innovative steampunk designers working today, and they come from Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, London, Tokyo, Berlin, Barcelona, Paris, Mosow, Rio, and more. Their offerings range from stunning haute couture to remarkable club looks and punky streetwear. Fantastic images of heavenly and astounding creations are at the core of this book, but it also features detailed biographies of the studios, their sources of inspiration, and their views on the movement. This is an essential resource for all fashion students and everyone on the scene, or for those simply looking for inspiration on how to dress.'

Available to re-order from:
USA http://www.amazon.com/Steampunk-Fashion-Samuel-Ratcliffe/dp/0956028446
UK http://www.amazon.co.uk/Steampunk-Fashion-Samuel-Ratcliffe/dp/0956028446/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1340703309&sr=8-1-fkmr0

Winter Wedding Dress Ideas.

I've always been a fan of winter; the cosy evenings by the fire, snuggling down with a good book, an afternoon working on a gorgeous wedding gown for a client whilst half watching an old black and white movie. So it was no wonder that I chose to have my own wedding in early February.  As a designer and maker of sumptious gowns it went without question that I would make my own dress.

The surprise for all was that it turned out not to be a heavily detailed big bustle affair of the kind that I have become well known for but, a simple crushed silk velvet ivory regency gown worn with a black velvet trained and hooded cloak lined with red silk.  Getting married in Brighton known for George IV's Royal Pavilion as well as in a regency church built by his very possible first wife Maria Fitzherbert my choice of gown design was almost chosen for me! But what options are there for the bride who wants to marry during the winter months, keep warm and show off the dress of her dreams?

Don't feel forced into wearing a coverall just because the weather is cold! A faux fur stole or cashmere wrap will add style and drama to your gown as well as keep you warm.

Chose a dress style with sleeves. Elbow length sleeves trimmed with lace. Sweeping romantic mediaeval style sleeves which you can also snuggle in to.

Long Gloves. Opera style gloves will not only look elegant, but will act as a sleeve to a short sleeved or non sleeved gown.

Chose a heavier fabric or warmer lining for your gown. Battenberg lace for example will keep you warmer than a more delicate type like Chantilly lace. Heavier weight silks, satins and velvets will look sumptious.  Have lighter fabrics backed or interlined (they should be in a bodice anyway!) to add warmth.

 Make a feature of beautiful layered up ball gown skirts. You can still have the fairytale tulle ball gown skirt, but line it or wear a petticoat of warmer stuff.

Faux fur for decoration, cuffs, collar, hat and muff.

For a gown that truly stands out against the snow, choose a style that has plenty of embellishments. An ornately decorated bodice is flattering and fun, while allover shine (like a sparkly tulle ball gown) is fairy tale-worthy. And don't feel limited to crystals - pearls, sequins, and the fabric itself can also add some amazing sparkle.

Colour, whether the shade is a bold departure from traditional white or a more subtle, understated hue, a colorful gown will add drama to your wedding day look.

 

Kensal Green Skirts by Victorian Gothic Photograph by Mademoiselle Chatte at Schwetzinger Schlossgarten Germany.