Frill Seeker  - Claude Herve - True Vintage

Sometimes I receive donations of vintage gowns from the original brides who don't want their dresses to be hidden away in a cupboard or the loft. 

You can imagine I was delighted when Penny asked me to find a new bride for her gorgeous 1980s white Broderie Anglaise dress from her wedding in 1985. Before she sent it to me, Penny tried it on and it still fits her!

If you are the sort of bride that's pinning vintage Laura Ashley editorial shoots rather than royal weddings then this is for you.

This is a fascinating dress because, although it dates from 1985, it isn't following the Diana-inspired bridal trend that dominated most wedding shops. Instead, it looks nostalgic, borrowing heavily from the Edwardian revival, the 1970s prairie movement and the romantic period dramas that were everywhere in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The collar is the real star. It's beautifully proportioned and framed with larger floral broderie than the body of the gown, giving it depth. The skirt has just enough fullness to move well without becoming cumbersome, and the deep ruffle around the hem balances the generous sleeves perfectly.

There are ruffles - and I count 5 different types of white broderie anglaise in this French vintage bridal design by French label Claude Herve, which was known for its quality of fabric and cut. You don't get fabrics like this any more - it's such a high quaility cotton lace which gives a crispness to the ruffles and helps the train to sit beautifully.

V neck with deep lace ruffle, puffed sleeves ending with more lace ruffles, an A line skirt with a deep ruffle all round the hem which has a small puddle train. She's period perfect and Penny hopes she'll find a bride who will enjoy having her 'I do' moment in this glorious gown.

Please check the detailed measurements, as sadly there's no room to let this one out at all.

This is a romantic dress - perfect for an outdoor ceremony or an elopment, but I can also see her in a rural church decorated with wild flowers.

You can make Penny's wish for a new bride for her beautiful gown come true!

Available to try on in the Aberdeen salon or buy online with worldwide shipping.