I never imagined I would end up in a fuller skirt, with any sort of lace on the bodice. I’d pictured a high neck or halter, super sleek, fitted dress. As someone who likes to know every single option, I was definitely the type to try on dozens of dresses (maybe close to 100). But on the first day of dress hunting, at a little shop in NYC called Designer Loft, the stylist there asked if I would humor her and try on this dress. So of course I gave it a try! And the moment it was on, it felt transformative. And with every dress I tried on in the weeks to come, I found myself comparing it to that one, even though I was nervous about taking a dress with so much crinoline and organza on a transatlantic flight for our wedding in Italy. But it was the perfect dress for me. The bodice, it turns out, is made of a special kind of applique called Guipure. When I found out it was an Italian technique, it seemed like a sign!
Our wedding was in Florence, Italy, in a gorgeous villa up behind Piazzale Michelangelo. We spent four full days with our nearest and dearest people, enjoying all the incredible food, wines and Aperol spritzes, and views Villa Agape had to offer. I even wrote a travel guide and organized walking tours throughout the city so our guests could get to know and love Florence as much as we do. This gorgeous dress fit in beautifully in the villa setting. I loved how the skirt moved (it practically floated) through the Italian gardens, and in the heat, I was grateful for the open back and lighter bodice.
