Designing a Custom Wedding Outfit

Christine Boyle

Creative Director - Sewing Tutor

Custom Wedding Outfit

LET’S MEET LUCY

Every so often, a project lands in my hands that feels like pure magic from the start. This one began when Lucy brought me a few pieces she loved — a beautiful Moroccan shawl, a black and white stripy skirt, and a simple black top. These were to be transformed into a show stopper for her brothers wedding. We chatted, I took measurements, made a quick sketch, and took notes of how Lucy wanted it to look and how she wanted it to make her feel. She wanted it to be versatile and worn again as separates.

Vibrant flowers in a yellow vase in my studio encouraged my creativity! Lucy trusted me and gave me freedom to design. Hints of Frida Kahlo’s fearless use of colour and pattern, became my inspiration.
The shawl was a soft black viscose, embroidered with bright yellow, red, blue, purple, orange, and pink wool. It was bold, full of energy, and had a wonderful hand-crafted character.

The diagonal lines of the black and white skirt kept it modern and fresh. I removed the original wide sleeves from the wrap top and used them as a template for new ones made from the Moroccan shawl.

💡 Christine's Tip Use the mannequin to plan your design.

CUSTOMISE YOUR LOOK

Lucy customised her black handbag with colourful elements of the Moroccan shawl. I love how she has accessorised with a bright big adding a bold yellow necklace, bangles and earrings bringing her outfit together in a way that is both elegant and joyful.

“Everything I had in my head, you’ve turned into reality."
- LUCY, COMMISSIONING CLIENT

SEWING COMMISSIONS

When she tried it on, Lucy turned to me and said, “Everything I had in my head, you’ve turned into reality.” Moments like that are why I love what I do.

Creating a one-off outfit that reflects someone’s personality and story is incredibly rewarding. If you have a special event coming up and want something designed just for you, I offer a custom design and creation service — we can start with your ideas, your fabrics, or even favourite garments that deserve a new life.

If you have an idea for a custom design or would like to sew it yourself – get in touch!

Visit Commissions

Sleeves off, before transformation

New sleeves and planning the bodice

Cutting up the shawl and adding shoulder details

The flowers inspire my design

Adding some back detail

All those colours

Lucy added the necklace and hand decorated bag

Lucy gives a twirl!

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   Based on 176 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Ann Gillespie 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had my Janome sewing machine serviced by Brian. He did an amazing job, within 24 hrs, and my machine is now like new.  Brian and Christine are such a lovely couple, friendly and welcoming, very knowledgeable and professional.  I found them inspirational.  Christine demonstrated stitches and types of needles and at the end a little gift which means so much to me.  I would recommend them very highly. Ann
  
 
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   Georgia McStravick 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot thank Christine and Brian at Colour and Cloth enough! They recently repaired my Granny Teresa’s vintage Singer sewing machine, which holds so much sentimental value for our family. I felt in such capable, knowledgeable hands from first speaking with them. They explained every detail clearly and made sure to show me the machine working perfectly before I left. A huge bonus was their amazing website—being able to check live updates on the progress of the repair was brilliant and kept me informed every step of the way. Outstanding service, I couldn’t recommend Colour and Cloth more!
  
 
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   Danni 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've just completed a 6 week beginners course with Christine in Colour and Cloth. I had never used a sewing machine before booking the course and was nervous going into it but Christine put me at ease from the very beginning. The course was really enjoyable and the 6 weeks flew in, I learned so much during my time and made a lovely skirt for myself. I would definitely recommend Colour and Cloth to anyone interested in sewing. Christine's knowledge was invaluable and I will definitely be booking another course.
  
 
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   Jackie O'Hara 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service … very fast turn around .. great reception.. Brian cares about sewing machines.
  
 
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   Janet McNamee 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Left two sewing machines in with Brian for repair/servicing.  His knowledge and attention to detail was very reassuring.  Both machines are now working perfectly.  I would thoroughly recommend.
  
 
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   Elaine Price 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What lovely people to deal with. I left in my sewing machine to be serviced. My machine is  an older singer model. Im so happy that Brian was able to do a good job servcing  it and  sort out its problems within the mechanism. Also lots of great advice. Great job. Thank you. Very happy
  
 
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   Lucy Johnston 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Contacted Brian to book in my Pfaff machine for repair. He got back to me almost immediately and had it fixed within 48 hours. An excellent job and customer service. Brian and Christine are such a lovely couple and it was a pleasure to meet them. I'll definitely use the service again.
  
 
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   Cal Wright 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was such a wonderful experience! The skills and knowledge I have taken away will propel any future creations immensely. I’ll never look at the Sewing Bee in the same light! I honestly believe these are life skills, honed and taught in the most easily understood way by Christine… such an honestly beautiful person who truly has the patience of a saint. These past 6 weeks will stay with me a lifetime… tho I do hope to complete another course at some stage again. Highly recommend to anyone with no or a lot of sewing skill or knowledge. You will thoroughly love it!  Fabulous!!! Also had my sewing machine given the once over… cleaned and serviced… by Brian - again, highly recommend! My sewing machine now runs so smoothly, with an excellent timely turnaround. Thank you both of you!
  
 
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   Caroline Colgan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a lovely time with Christine.  She helped me on a mission to adjust and repair jeans I had been looking to have fixed for a long time. Christine's advice was incredible and I went home and completed the adjustments. I also bought a fabulous sewing machine which has been brilliant
  
 
  
  
 
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