Snezana, the Unconventional Bride

When I met with Snezana for our initial consultation, she handed me a sketch she had drawn out of her concept for her wedding dress. I was a bit taken aback. The dress was completely unconventional, and practically bursting at the seams with whimsy. She was to be married in the Rose Garden at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, in a Guerrilla style wedding. Her design fit the bill.

Snezana was inspired by beetles, which was apparent in her design. The dress had two beetle wings that jutted out from the back skirt, very similar to a gentleman's evening coat tails. The front was to be comprised of wide swaths of layered pleats and ruffles.

The design was eclectic, as were her choice of materials. She had chosen an array of jewel toned, iridescent silks in basketweaves and brocades. The colors were indeed reminiscent of beetle wings. Dotted net for a sheer back, yards of tulle, and lace appliques to be used as epaulettes. She then showed me the crowning touch; a sepia toned antique photo of an Edwardian lady, screened onto a piece of muslin. This was to be placed center back, framed by loosely interwoven ties of silk.

Lace appliques to be used as epaulettes

Antique photo to be placed center back

While in fashion school, we were often asked to create garments that "got away from the body." Meaning, to create volume in unconventional places, to consider silhouette and to try something new. Snezana's wedding dress did just that. It was a study in volume, form, and play with color and texture. Though the design was Snezana's, we worked together to decide which fabric worked best here or there; what proportions of the varying design elements would create the best silhouette.  

This dress remains one of my favorite projects. It was a fun dress to create, and Snezana was a joy to work with. The finished garment was eclectic yet harmonious, truly fit for a rose garden wedding.