Sure, she could buy a dress for a few thousand dollars and look simply spectacular or she could spend a few hundred, use the other money elsewhere, and still look fabulous. However, Kirsten is faced with a third and very compelling possibility: Obtain an 80s monstrosity from an unnamed relative, rip it apart and turn it into something awesome!
Here begins the journey to make the perfect dress.
Here is the dress as it was presented to Kirsten. Sadly, we didn't think to include the hat in this picture. Take my word for it...it is awesome.
Notice the incredibly chic lace collar along with the pleated skirt (the height of sophistication). Also notice how the waistline of the skirt is a good 4 inches lower than where it should be. I don't feel the need to point out the puffy sleeves or the sequined applique...those speak for themselves.
First step: Detach the hideous demons that were the sleeves. This was no little feat...after 10-15 minutes of trying to kill the monster with a seam ripper, I realized that this task required something a little more serious. I brought out my trusty scissors and chopped the beasts off! Here they are weak and helpless, waiting to be made into straps.
Second step: Figure out a way to place the waistline where it should be: at the waist. So, raise the dress four inches (creating a more modest neckline) and taking the dress in where necessary. The beading and sequins needed to go, but that would come in due time.
Third step: Attach straps and figure out what to do with the back. Kirsten liked the look of the buttons, but not quite all 63 of them. So, attach straps, reinforce them, create a new line in the back, reattach buttons.
Because the structure of the dress became non-existent with the detachment of the sleeves, we chose to create the criss-cross straps for structural security.
Fourth step: Dry clean the dress and add the crinoline (or petticoat, or slip, whatever). Add the sash to tie in Wedding colors.
Fifth step: Bustle the back of the dress. We used several under bustles. Realize that the criss-cross straps are asinine and make the dress into a halter (creating easier movement for the bride).
Sixth step: Add the veil. Voila: the completed look in six easy steps!
The finished product. Doesn't she look stunning?
9 comments:
What an amazing transformation! That is incredible! I think you are awesome and this dress looks incredible!
Candace! I am amazed at your skills! That looks phenomenal and professional and amazing! I love it! it also amazes me that when I saw the initial dress, my mind went straight to where yours did to transform it. You did a phenomenal job! I am absolutely blown away by it! Fantastic! I love you!
Candace you did a great job!!! im very impressed!! i cant wait to see what dress you wear at your wedding!! have you guys set a date? :)
I have to tell you. This is truly amazing and inspiring. Good job.
~Emma
I have to tell you. This is truly amazing and inspiring. Good job.
~Emma
Wow, your skills astound me!
Now it's my turn to be impressed with your hidden talent. Nice work. And great writing, very amusing.
The dress is one more unneeded reminder of the awkward '80s. The only thing worth holding onto from that decade are the cartoons and the video games . . . okay and maybe a pair of high tops with the puffy button on the tongue that you push until your little thumbs are sore to make you jump higher. My first experience with the placebo effect.
Oh, my god. Candace, this is absolutely amazing! Kirsten looks so gorgeous! This is awe inspiring.
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