How to Make a Gothic Wedding Dress

While the term Gothic typically generates thoughts of all black fashion, this does not necessarily have to be the case to have a truly Gothic wedding dress. Gothic wedding dresses come in a variety of colors and are typically very ornate, with details reminiscent of the Renaissance as well as classic vampiresses. Lace, corsets, trumpet sleeves and skirts, as well as ribbons and ruffles, are all appropriate.

Things You'll Need

• Multiple yards of fabric
• Lace
• Ribbon
• Thread
• Sewing machine

Instructions

Creating a Gothic Wedding Dress

1. Choose a dress silhouette that has a long flowing skirt: a ballgown or A-line shape works best. Use a classic and vintage-looking material, such as lace or satin, for the base of your dress.

2. Add long, flowing sleeves to the dress: trumpet or flowing sleeves with numerous rolls of fabric and ruffles are ideal. Design the dress so that the sleeves cascade down the arm and over the hands.

3. Add a high collar. Though out of style today, a high lace collar is a classic and regal choice for a Gothic wedding dress.

4. Add details to make the dress more ornate and elaborate. Sew your dress with visible seams, to give the torso, bust and arms shape. Add layers of lace in the skirt, neck, bust and arms to give the dress a romantic and deeply sensual feel. Add ribbons, to tie up a corset for example, and use spots of color to further add to the Gothic appeal -- for a primarily red dress, for example, add black embroidery or designs on the skirt.

Tips & Warnings

• Off-the-shoulder sleeves or straps, or a basic strapless dress would also work fine.

• Accessorize with elaborate costume jewelery, high-heeled lace boots and silk or satin gloves to add to the overall ensemble.

References

• Gothic Wedding Dresses