The Art of the Wedding Dress
For something different, something unique and something creative look no further than Anna-Maria D’Amato. As sole designer you get the fabulous experience of a one on one personal touch from start to finish in the journey to creating your gown.
With her established career in costume for film and television, Anna-Maria takes her influences from historical cut and design. “As a child I always designed costumes. I grew up watching classic movies, Gone With the Wind and My Fair Lady. I always wanted to be part of a costume department.” In 1998, Anna-Maria graduated with a B.A. Honors Degree in Costume for the Stage & Screen from Bournemouth Institute of Art. She has had the good fortune to work in the film industry ever since, including grand costume pieces, Phantom of the Opera, The Golden Age and Sweeney Todd.
It was while making a friend’s wedding dress, based on a 1950s design, that Anna-Maria realised her next dream, combing costume and bridal.
“I love history and romance, fashion and film. To be able to put all these into a gown is where my enthusiasm lies”.
My Brides
“What I love about my brides is that they are often just as passionate about costume and film as I, and want to re-create that magic on their wedding day. From the moment I opened my design studio my first bride wanted a Marie Antoinette gown, next came a Scarlet O’Hara Southern Bell, and a bride inspired by Princess Omedala from Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. Over the years I’ve re-created a feast of Oscar winning gowns, most recently a replica of a dress from the film, The Phantom of the Opera, worn by close friend Emmy Rossum as the character Christine. I was lucky as I worked as Emmy’s dresser on the movie and knew the dress and undergarments off by heart.”
Corsets
Anna-Maria is however completely mad about corsets.
Trained in the art of Corset making, all corsets are cut using historical techniques, and made with steel-boning to get the desired hour-glass shape.
These luxurious corsets give a waist cinch between 2 and 4 inches, and are sumptuously matched with Anna-Maria’s ‘Peek-a-Boo’ panties collection and glamorous bustle skirts.
Your Gown
Each gown is individually designed and made to suit you. Whether you are after a historical twist or a modern chic silhouette, Anna-Maria allows you the freedom to pick everything from design, fabrics and decoration. For this unique and exclusive service brides are first given a consultation. Design and fabric samples are followed by a toile to ensure perfect fit and approval before finalising your design. “I can assure a personal service which is both an easy and enjoyable process in creating your gown on your special day”.
Finishing Touches
Vital accessories are found in hand-made tulle veils, garters and stockings. An exquisite range of hair accessories for brides and bridesmaids are inspired by the past. For honeymoon lingerie there are vintage trimmed satin knickers. Fine embroidery and beading are used to produce magical hand-crafted pieces both on bridal attire and accessories.
So whatever your influences please come along and see what a wonderful journey your design ideas will take you on………………
Best Wishes
Anna-Maria D’Amato xxx
