This ensemble is definitely all about “something old, something new.” Jessica wanted some of her existing items repurposed and integrated into this ensemble. We built the corset, blouse and bolero jacket as brand new pieces. Kyle’s vest is also a new item that we made, a double breasted black canvas waistcoat with silver buttons. Her white lace skirt was originally a full length dress and a family heirloom. She also owned a short black petticoat. I recut and made her lace dress into a full length skirt with a new waistband, and her black knee-length petticoat became a new ruffle of a new, full length underskirt.

This dress and vest are a lovely departure from steampunk’s usual sepia tones. Jessica and I discussed Cecil Beaton’s wonderful designs for the film, My Fair Lady, particularly the scenes at the racetrack. All the ladies and gentlemen wear black and white in these scenes, with fantastic dresses, hats and accessories.

All wedding attire becomes a piece of history, by definition. Wedding outfits are super satisfying to make whenever the couple wants to take their look out a slightly different door, say historic, fantasy, sci fi, steampunk, etc. So when we create suits and dresses that articulate an impossible world or replicate some earthly historic period, we’ve just doubled-down on the cool factor. We are helping people re-imagine, re-live or recreate history with clothing that’s used in new ceremonies and new contexts. It’s really fun. It’s also awesome to custom build for grooms. They’re often so overlooked.