Elizabeth Fillmore`s "Ava"
This is Elizabeth Fillmore’s “Ava” Gown, (Style Code: 2201B WC# 41363), in ivory color faille taffeta. I am currently posting my gown on ebay at:
Http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=020&item=300031521810&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMESE%3AIT&rd=1
I purchased this gown from a bridal boutique in Orange County (The White Dress) and wore it in my August, 2006 wedding. I purchased the gown in a size 6 and had it altered down to my size. I am a street-size 2-4. I am 5’6” and wore 4” heels.
I have attached several pictures of myself in the gown (both unbustled and bustled).
This gown is a current style, available in high-end bridal boutiques and retails for over $4500.00. I find the faille taffeta to be a richer and more classic look than the silk satin. It is also a heavier fabric and therefore a lot more durable. The only evidence of the gown having been worn is some light dust along the hem of the gown which will be easily removed upon cleaning. I did not have the gown dry-cleaned after my wedding so that the integrity of the fabric will be better preserved for your alterations, dry-cleaning and pressing before your wedding day.
My alterations were done by a highly qualified seamstress who took every precaution to preserve the integrity of the gown. Her work was impeccable and the gown fit me like a glove. In addition to altering the gown down to my size, she performed the following alterations:
1. The train has been made detachable. In photo one (1), you can see how the train looks when it is unbustled, flowing down the back of the gown. If desired, this train can be bustled in a variety of ways. I, however, preferred to have the train removed after the ceremony and have just the gown itself bustled. (I have included photos of the gown both bustled and unbustled).
2. The bustling that you see in the photos is accomplished with the use of tiny hoops that my seamstress inserted in the underside of the gown. If you desire to bustle the gown in a different way, the hoops can either be removed, or simply remain unnoticed in the underside of the gown.
3. Cups were inserted into the bust of the gown, which could also be easily removed.
Following is a link to Fashion Stock.com where you can see the Ava gown from different angles:
Http://fashionstock.com/gallery/?direct=Bridal_Collections_Listed_by_Designer/Br
Idal_Shows_New_York_2003/ELIZABETH_FILMORE/Elizabeth_Filmore_Spring_2003
Please feel free to email me with any questions that you may have.
Congratulations on your engagement and good luck with all of your planning!!
Posted by Dawn; updated 09/24/06