by Karen Vander

Vivienne Westwood’s dress
When one thinks of couture, your mind doesn’t really go to wedding gowns. In fact, I’m quite sure it doesn’t even go the bridal direction. Haute Couture as many would think would be referring to extremely elaborate, customized and not too mention incredibly expensive clothing. That is true. Vivienne Westwood is a designer known for her quirky, awe inspiring pieces that not only captures one’s fancy but captivates people into signing that thousand dollar check to purchase said piece. Perhaps her most famous creation, as of right now, is the wedding gown worn by Sarah Jessica Parker in the movie version of Sex and The City.

Vivienne Westwood collection
Vivienne Westwood isn’t exactly as well known as Vera Wang, for example, when it comes to wedding gowns. But this isn’t the first time she’s created such a high profile gown for a celebrity. There was the infamous gown that Vivienne Westwood for Burlesque Diva, Dita Von Teese. It was purple, elaborate and bordering on Goth but on Dita Von Teese, it was heaven and absolutely fabulous! Although I’m inclined to believe that not many brides can perhaps pull of such an extreme look. Pat Field, Sex and the City’s wardrobe stylist has said that Carrie (SJP) has always been the more eclectic one in the foursome and as such a Vivienne Westwood gown was absolutely fitting for her. It wasn’t traditional and yet it was still classy. Very much like Sarah Jessica Parker’s character on the show.

Sarah Jessica Parker, as Carrie Bradshaw, in a Vivienne Westwood dress
The gorgeous beige creation became the talk of tinsel town for weeks after the movie premiered. It wasn’t traditional by any means but neither is it way out there. The construction of the gown was impeccable and the layers were just a sight to behold. It looked so delicate as if it was made of paper and the sheen was enough to blind all couture loving women out there. Even the gaudy feathered head-piece on SJP’s head couldn’t ruin the look. It was that beautiful. This is why many women, after seeing the movie, all coveted the same thing: That dress. The point is who wouldn’t? The dress was beautiful enough to make any woman feel like a princess bride.

Photo source: Celebutopia - Kim Cattrall’s Vivienne Westwood dress

The most influential British fashion designer of the twentieth century, revels in incendiary provocation and a defiance of convention but nonetheless finds beauty and inspiration in the past. I love any wedding dress designer that incorporates colors into their lineup.
But of course, not every woman is built like Carrie Bradshaw and neither do most women have the cash to spend on such a lavish wedding gown. So what’s a bride on a budget to do? No, honey, you are not to steal that gown and neither will you be robbing a bank. You simply find a less expensive alternative that is flattering to your body type. You can find a nice wedding dress with the same layered, ball gown skirt. There are a lot. But if you prefer a sexier look then you should try a “mermaid” skirt which is tight around the hips and widens as it goes down to your feet. Opt for something strapless to show off a bit of skin and wear some classic accessories like pearls to accentuate the look. You just have to do a bit of searching to find that perfect wedding gown for you.