Dress to Kilt Canada x Trend Custom Tailors

The team of Trend created a model dress named “Michelle” on behalf  of the 306 house. It is inspired by the dress-to-kilt theme. Intricately crafted, this eye-catching design for our patron, executed with meticulous attention paid to every detail. From the initial muslin fitting to the appropriate fabric selections, for the two-part silhouette, every aspect is important and considered.

The strength and vast lands of Scotland are embodied into two forms evident in the design of “Michelle”. 

The outer layer, the “drama” is almost like a petticoat crafted from a stiff silk organza which requires skilled draping. It is cut into an architectural eye-catching form, creating a form that is both inviting and voluminous, reminiscent of a blossoming flower. This design element adds a touch of majesty often associated with the Scottish-highlands and its castles.

The cultural emblems of Scotland, the tartan and the kilt have been linked to Scottish and Gaelic heritage since the 19th century. These two design elements are used to tie the dress to the theme, thus showcasing the careful consideration of the appropriateness of design for the occasion in the commissioning of this dress. 

The geometry of the tartan was used along with a thistle-inspired lace to create a classic silhouette, defined by piped geometric panels on the column dress in silk drawing references the colors in the “Buchanan tartan” used. The neckline is finished with the natural lace borders. The centre black closure of this neckline is via delicate silk covered buttons  which top off an invisible zipper.

The confidence of this patron in giving free reign to the design of the technical team and the skill of the house, results in a dress constructed using elements of space, materials and architecture to enhance and empower the proportions of a female body.