Isn't It Romantic?

When looking for a fresh take on a traditional bridal gown, there's no better strategy that to revisit Winterhalter's amazing portraits. Since there is currently no art museum at hand, a google image search will have to do.



This little number, for instance, will do very nicely to set the mood. It's not as if you can see enough detail of the dress to copy it, even if you wanted to. And by the way, I wouldn't recommend it.





But you can't beat it's feeling of romantic luxury. Victorian splendor at it's finest. And best of all, that feeling of incredible lightness. Total fantasy. That was Winterhalter's genius. Actual Victorian clothes did NOT give that impression.





Yep, Baroness What's-Her-Name can sure put one in the mood to conjure up something grand. But that's about all she can put you in the mood for? Ever notice how those Victorian gals, even with the benefit of a world class portrait painter always look kind of doughy and insipid? Til Sargeant painted Madame X. Who looked like she actually had sex. A lot. And enjoyed it. No wonder that picture caused such an uproar. Oops, meandering. Focus, Focus.





Continue trolling through the Winterhalters til I start feeling that hoop skirts and crinolines don't look the slightest bit over the top. Til we're ready to pull out the sketchbook and give it a try.










And maybe come up with something like this. Chantilly lace corset bodice laced up in back with satin ribbons.


Mega-full ballgown skirt of silk organza with wide satin ribbons overlaid on it. But I draw the line at hoops. Absolutely not. Too "King and I." But I can build a petticoat so serious you'll never miss them.

• Glamorous, check.
• Romantic, double check.
• Commands space and attention, duh!

But despite it's retro feel and vintage heritage, it'd archetectural simplicity make it strangely modern without being trendy in the least.





And best of all, it captures that lighter than air, blow it away with a feather quality even though in reality it will be boned, buckramed, horsehaired and laced within a hair's breadth of swoon inducing. Just like in the good ole days.