Summer wedding-Florida, 2003

Design challenge: This Southern bride wanted to feel sexy and elegant, with complete freedom of movement and absolutely no tight seams or restrictions. (The tightest thing she wanted to wear was the garter belt!)

Inspiration: 1930s silk evening-wear

The gown: Ivory silk crepe-back satin. China silk lining (a fabric "so fine it can slip through a wedding ring") with matching bodice inlay. Bugle-beaded straps with bead detailing on bodice. Godet-train skirt. Low back with fabric-covered buttons at center back. Bias drape. Contour seaming over hips.