Project Title: The Tailored Dress – Gingham Dress with Mother of Pearl buttons
Project Description:
This dress is a playful reimagining of classic British tailoring through the fantastical lens of Alice in Wonderland. Drawing inspiration from Victorian fashion and the theatrical charm of the Tweedledee and Tweedledum characters, the piece merges historical reference with contemporary irreverence—resulting in a tailored yet whimsical garment that balances structure and fantasy.
At the heart of the design is a deep appreciation for silhouette and detail. The elongated collar nods to formal Victorian menswear, while the exaggerated double puff sleeves bring a sense of theatrical volume to the upper body—like costume and couture in conversation. The symmetrical column of 32 vintage mother of pearl buttons, running from collar to hem, offers a rhythmic visual anchor while celebrating the art of closure as ornament.
Cut in a bold navy-and-white gingham pattern, the dress captures the graphic spirit of the Tweedle characters without becoming costume. The precision of its tailoring contrasts with the childlike softness of its proportions, allowing the garment to feel both sharply considered and joyfully animated. It is fully lined in satin for comfort and structure, and crafted from 100% tailoring-weight cotton—a natural fiber chosen for its durability and breathability.
Designed to stand alone or be layered, the piece encourages styling as a form of storytelling. Whether worn with heavy boots and a coat or paired with tights and flats, the dress retains its identity as a character in its own right. Through conscious material choices and the reuse of vintage fastenings, this garment reflects a commitment to sustainability—not just in fiber, but in spirit. It is made to last, made to play, and made to be remembered.
Date: March 2025
Medium: 100% Tailoring weight cotton, Satin lining, 32 Mother of pearl buttons
Class: Creative Technical Studio Two (creative woven dress project) + Design Studio Tow (Look 5 in final line up collection)
