The creation of Kosibah Bride Moriyike’s couture reception gown from sketch to dancing into the reception Hall.

Moriyike wanted a gown she would change into to dance into her wedding Reception. Since her first dress would be white, she wanted some colour in the dress. I designed a gown with a removable overskirt that had enough drama for the occasion, which could then be removed for the more relaxed part at the latter part of the evening and could be worn again for another occasion.

The appliqués on the gown were cut out from a piece of lace fabric and hand sewn in place on the gown.

Please play the video to view the process.

Sketch of Moriyike’s Recepion gown
Trying on the toile (prototype) to ensure a perfect fit
Sourcing the beaded lace fabric from where the appliqués will be harvested
The appliques pinned on the back bodice pieces
The appliques are then hand-stitched into place
Draping the bodice on the dress stand
Draping the bodice
The draped bodice is then taken off the dress stand
The drape folds and more appliques are hand-stitched into place
Appliques pinned unto the skirt area of the gown
The appliques stitched into place
The bodice and skirt pieces pinned unto the dress stand
Back view of the skirt piece
The gown completed
The gown completed
The dress in its Kosibah garment bag
The overskirt
The dress and the overskirt
Dressing Moriyike assisted by Bridal Stylist Segun Gele
Yemi and Moriyike (without the overskirt)
Yemi and Moriyike (with the overskirt)

What are your thoughts or questions about the process involved in the creation of this gown? Please leave your comments below.