Katie's Surprise Heirloom Reconstruction

I can’t overstate just how much fun I had with Katie’s Heirloom Reconstruction! Getting to create something so fun and chic was a pleasure, as was working with such a sweet, smart and funny lady.

the inquiry

Katie reached out just as I was getting settled in Kansas City last summer. And I couldn’t have been more excited having one of my first clients in KCMO booking one of my favorite sewing services – especially considering the fun and sexy vision she had for her party dress!

the design

I knew Katie had a great sense of style and would be fun to work with when she told me she wanted to keep her mom’s puffed sleeves! Typically these are one of the first elements a client is eager to remove with an heirloom reconstruction. But keeping them helped make her dress so much more fun. And more interesting than it would have been without them.

She did provide some inspiration photos but ultimately let me play a bit. And I designed a simplified version of the original for her with a subtle but sexy sheer panel down the center. (Still classy and respectful of the heirloom, but also a little flirty.) Though in contrast to her ceremony dress, we made it a short, mini dress that would let her dance and enjoy her reception.

She loved the draft I created for her and was totally on board when I suggested making a puffed headband to pair with her dress. (Originally I was going to repurpose her mom’s headpiece for this, but ultimately I chose to leave it untouched. There was plenty of fabric and lace pieces to make it without changing it.)

the process

Creating this look for Katie took 5 appointments including the first consultation, final pick-up and 3 fittings.

The first consultation is largely for taking oodles of measurements, dropping off the gown, and working to finalize the design. And it was during this appointment that she revealed her heirloom reconstruction was not only going to be a total surprise for her mom, but also her grandmother – who made the gown. So both maker and wearer of this original beige silk dress – would also be surprised at the reception as well. Needless to say, I definitely felt the need to really nail it!

*Fun fact: Katie also shared that her mom and grandmother found the lace used on her mother’s gown…at a yard sale! What a find! This gown was truly an heirloom with a history and it was an honor to work on it.

The additional fittings are where the patterning is tested and fit is perfected. And because heirlooms are precious materials, I always recreate the larger parts with muslin fabric before cutting into the original. Once the base structure and fit were perfected, I was able to ensure the lace and details were also perfect and exactly how she preferred.

the results

Because Katie was super punctual and flexible, I had over 5 months to work with. And she still got to pick up her heirloom reconstruction and bespoke headband about 2 months ahead of her wedding date. And honestly, I’m not sure what part of the finished outfit made me the happiest. Because including the headband made it truly feel like an outfit and not just a dress with a matching accessory. Thankfully, as evident in the adorable photos from her pick up, she loved the final results as well. She even gave me a sweet thank you card and told me multiple times the experience was possibly her favorite part of her planning process. (The best and favorite compliment I get from brides.)

And then of course there are the incredible photos Mallorie McBride captured of the happy reveal at Katie’s wedding. The looks and smiles on her mom and grandmother’s faces give me the warm fuzzies every time I see them.

Take a look and enjoy for yourself! And if you have an heirloom that you’d love to see transformed, book your consultation today!