INDIE DESIGNER SHOPS: those little places they used to call boutiques . . . .

Yesterday's posts on Instagram got me thinking about bridal gown shopping off the beaten path of your average salon.  Because brides are changing so are designers, myself included.  Fashion historian that I am, I'm glad to see the reinvention of the homegrown designer boutique whether it is digital, brick and mortar or a combination of both. Etsy boutiques have become the best fashion labs for designers as well as clients.  My own little workspace/studio and the brides I work with have been one of my greatest sources of joy.  No matter where you live in the world, I'm sure your area has more than a couple Etsy designers who open up their stores or in-home boutiques to clients.    With a little imagination and the help of professionals, you might be able to put some stunning looks together.

Header Photo: Dresses from The Forever Boho Collection  ABOVE: Laura in The OPAL Dress

BELOW: The images below were taken by photographer, Joy Strotz in my studio one day when we were preparing for a shoot with the lovely Sabrina. So nicely shot, I thought I'd share my many years of observance a little of what a bride to be goes through that first fit appointment. As a rule most are experiencing a lot of emotions--all happy and good--and the dressis a symbol of everything she's feeling. Even the most practical bride melts when she sees herself for the first time in the dress she knows is going to be hers . . . .

These dresses are from The Bouffant Collection and mostly in taffetas and satins, ideal fabrics for those styles Jackie, Grace and Audrey made so chic. Bouffant is based on a bell shaped or petal skirt that poufs at the hips via pleats or gathers (usually pleats). Also you'll find the fitted sheath style--as snug up top in the bodice as it is at the hemline-- a perfect candidate for heavier luxe fabrics that hold shape well.