Janet's mom Elle reached out to me to inquire on custom and if I work with old wedding dresses. Great QUESTION! I sure do!!! Upcycling is one of my favorite projects. I really enjoy deconstructing a gown to create something totally new.

When I met Janet and Elle, I was so excited! I was even more excited that Elle had a really beautiful dress to work with. Janet knew exactly what she wanted in regards to design, particularly the look of the front of the dress. She allowed me to suggest ideas for the back.

The original dress is circa 1980s. It had full coverage from head to toe with an insanely beautiful train! There were a lot of components on the dress that I could use to make Janet's dreams come true. The skirt on the original dress is an A-Line. Janet wanted more of an ethereal floaty feel. I literally cut panels into the old skirt and paneled in solid tulle. The new skirt gathered on the waistline and gave beautiful fullness. I added 2 more layers of fluid tulle between the top layer and lining. We used the original skirt lining as the base. The bodice I created a plunging neckline and scoop back. I used the original trim as straps and trim on he back scoop. I incorporated mom's (Elle) original belt into the design on the waist. I finished the look with a custom garter belt made out of the original lace trim.

This dress is absolutely one of my favorite designs! It is so unique and even so cool to look back on the original. I love the plunge which is perfect for Janet's Vegas Wedding!

Each fitting was so much fun and filled with compliments. It was such a great experience to work with you two. You both are beautiful inside and out! I hope you enjoyed VEGAS!

Thank You Janet, for allowing me to be apart of your day. xo Sheila

“You’re a miracle worker, truly! Thank you for making my dream a reality!”

— Janet

Janet - Upcyle