Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 57 - November/December 2021 (Issue 89)

THE TOUCH personal Shop handmade in the region Sustainability is a global issue and increasingly influences the choices we make not only in our daily lives, but those all-important landmark occasions too. When it comes to weddings and finding the one, The Real Green Dress offers brides-to-be eco-friendly style that not only looks great but is kind to the planet too. Original, ethical, alternative and vintage are the cornerstones of the business providing different dresses for different brides. W edding trends come and go, but love for one-of-a-kind, special details is an enduring theme that’s currently going from strength to strength. Covid-restricted weddings have meant many couples have had more time, and budget, to dedicate to personal touches to add extra meaning, nostalgia or luxury to their big day. Even the little things can make all the difference. Whether it’s a beautiful gown, designed just for you, a bespoke ring to treasure or personalised stationery, getting married provides the perfect opportunity to shop handmade, whatever your budget. What’s more there’s an array of creatives on the doorstep ready to help. We showcase just some of what’s on offer. The one With two collections to choose from; Pure, featuring original restored vintage pieces, and Evolution, a unique collection of remodelled gowns, it offers the perfect blend of green recycling and glamour. Working from a converted farm building in Hampshire, Erica Arnold founded the business in 2012 and loves to get creative with designing and all the extra details that make the dresses so special. She says, “There are times when only hand-stitching will do, particularly when restoring or redesigning antique and vintage dresses. Pieces from the 1920s and earlier were embroidered by hand and the trimmings, fastenings and fiddly bits were done by hand too. On more contemporary gowns, a detail such as stitching in a zip by hand can really lift a dress, adding a couture element to what might originally have been a shop-bought garment. Rouleaux loops and fabric-covered buttons are another lovely detail. Recently I hand-stitched 47 buttons down the back of a sleek, fitted gown and remembered to warn the bride-to-be to allow extra time to get dressed!” To find out more visit www.realgreendress.com www.han alaurie.co.uk www.ma rtagillner.com HANDMADE 57