The inspiration
After becoming disillusioned with the bridal salons and looking at a gazillion strapless gowns, I stumbled upon this image. (Shown below courtesy of Etsy seller tractordog.) I love the attitude and energy! I wanted my wedding dress to be romantic and demure just like this! So I went on the hunt for something similar in ivory….
Dress
Vintage Wedding Dress from Etsy seller salvagelife
When buying a vintage dress, don't expect your size to be available! Vintage dresses are usually a one-off find. I carefully checked the measurements with the seller and knew it would fit a little too tight around the bust and about 6" too short. I took it to a seamstress and she added side panels under each arm and replaced the zip to make the bodice fit me exactly. To add length to the dress, I ordered another, similar Gunne Sax dress ($59.95 from eBay) and asked the seamstress to use it to add another tier to the bottom. I then had the dress dry cleaned and pressed to perfection!
When buying a vintage dress, don't expect your size to be available! Vintage dresses are usually a one-off find. I carefully checked the measurements with the seller and knew it would fit a little too tight around the bust and about 6" too short. I took it to a seamstress and she added side panels under each arm and replaced the zip to make the bodice fit me exactly. To add length to the dress, I ordered another, similar Gunne Sax dress ($59.95 from eBay) and asked the seamstress to use it to add another tier to the bottom. I then had the dress dry cleaned and pressed to perfection!
Sash
Ivory Silk Sash from Etsy seller FascinatingCreations
I replaced the thin cotton sash with a luxurious ivory silk one. I tacked it over the existing band at the front, then tied it in a bow at the back with long tails that hung almost to the floor.
I replaced the thin cotton sash with a luxurious ivory silk one. I tacked it over the existing band at the front, then tied it in a bow at the back with long tails that hung almost to the floor.
Bolero
Long Sleeved Wedding Bolero from Etsy seller Bonzie
I searched for a jacket with long sleeves and a dramatic neckline. I found this stunning silk bolero almost immediately and fell in love with it. I knew it would bring drama and a couture finish to my dress. (And warmth if needed on the day.) Bonzie sent silk samples from Ireland and gave me clear instructions on how to measure myself for a tailored fit. I later added 5 vintage pearl buttons to each cuff.
I searched for a jacket with long sleeves and a dramatic neckline. I found this stunning silk bolero almost immediately and fell in love with it. I knew it would bring drama and a couture finish to my dress. (And warmth if needed on the day.) Bonzie sent silk samples from Ireland and gave me clear instructions on how to measure myself for a tailored fit. I later added 5 vintage pearl buttons to each cuff.
Bag
Silk Clutch Bag from Etsy seller DavidandChiyo
I actually made some changes to this clutch. I removed the chiffon ruffles and added two lace strips more in keeping with the design of the dress.
I actually made some changes to this clutch. I removed the chiffon ruffles and added two lace strips more in keeping with the design of the dress.
Hair
Ivory Lily Wedding Headband from Etsy seller ThreadRare
$45.00
I needed something secure as I knew I'd likely be climbing bridges and jumping off boats to get to the ceremony! I requested a silk sample to ensure a perfect match with the bolero. The craftsmanship of the 5" flower is exquisite!
$45.00
I needed something secure as I knew I'd likely be climbing bridges and jumping off boats to get to the ceremony! I requested a silk sample to ensure a perfect match with the bolero. The craftsmanship of the 5" flower is exquisite!
Buttons
Vintage Pearl Buttons from Etsy seller Buttonsgalore
I ordered these buttons because they perfectly matched the ones on the bodice of the dress. I thought they might come in useful. In the end, I added them to my jacket, shoes and bouquet tie.
I ordered these buttons because they perfectly matched the ones on the bodice of the dress. I thought they might come in useful. In the end, I added them to my jacket, shoes and bouquet tie.
Shoes
Dove grey leather pumps from Steve Madden
I loved the combination of vintage flair and mary-jane charm. I added a silk ribbon and vintage pearl button to the front.
I loved the combination of vintage flair and mary-jane charm. I added a silk ribbon and vintage pearl button to the front.
Flowers
I bought fresh cut roses on the morning of the wedding. We cut all the stems to the same length, tightly tied them with wire and wrapped the stems in the original dress sash. Any left over roses were handed out to the guys for their button holes!
