The Process of Design: Part 2 (Raquel)

In Part 2 of the Design Process, we move onto the fabrication of the muslin pattern and the fitting of this onto Raquel.
The first step is to take the Design, which was previously approved by Raquel, and create patterns that will be used to fabricate the actual gown. All of the patterns not only correspond to the gown, but more specifically to Raquels's measurements. In total, I usually take up to fifteen different measurements.
Next, I transfer the patterns onto a light weight cotton fabric called muslin. Here is where the physical dress takes shape. This preliminary dress is cut and sewn just as the final gown will be. It is at this stage that the first of the alterations will occur. Of course, because Raquel actually flies in from back East, we schedule two days of fittings to best utilize her time and schedule. This allows us to really pin point the fit of the gown and to establish what I will need to fabricate the final gown.

So now that the gown is on my Bride, I make any alterations to the Design to flatter a particular area over another, or maybe collectively we decide to eliminate a part of the gown altogether. In any case, this is the stage where all of the necessary changes can occur.
Now that we have made all of the adjustments to the muslin, I then take it apart and transfer this new information onto the final patterns. Once the patterns have been adjusted, we are ready for the next step...the creation of the actual gown from the inside out with what will be the final fabric.
Stay tuned for that when Raquel returns...

Fall 2012 Fabric Sneak Peek

As I come to the completion of my Fall 2012 Collection, I wanted to share a few of the fabrics which have inspired my design process and have added to the Moroccan flair of the gowns.  This first image is of a lace that was shown to me by one of my fabric vendors, that instantly captivated me and transported me to Morocco.

After that, I searched out other fabrics that would continue the inspiration and fit well with the design essence that I was already working with.  As you can see, there are rich golden-carmel silk dupionis, glimmering sand colored tule, and unusual architectural inspired laces.  All of these not only add to the exotic feel of this Collection,. but also inspire the direction that each gown takes.  Stay tuned for the Collection Release....

Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is here...the day of the year that should remind us of the love and passion that we share with our special someone...
It should be the day that you remember what made you fall in love with your partner, the day that your heart skipped an extra beat...
It is a day to remember what makes you laugh together, cry together, be together...
A day to rekindle, to forgive,  to say I'm sorry...
A day to make love and to be back in love.
So...make the best of it and make it last.  Remember to love...
Happy Valentine's to you all....

Fall 2012 Inspiration

The inspiration for my Fall 2012 Collection started with a beautiful piece of lace that was shown to me by one of my fabric vendors.  The unique shape reminded me of Persian Designs that encompass the architecture and culture of Morocco.  I love the rich vibrant colors that are part of the Moroccan landscape, the reds and oranges of the sun, the blues and greens of the sea, and the gold and silver that reminds me of sand. I remember once reading that there is something to "the Moroccan mystique" which is truly inspirational...and that is something that I find absolutely true.  So, without revealing too much, let your imagination run wild and look for the release of the new Collection soon!

Regards,

Alina

Bride's Choice Awards 2012!

 

Honored to once again have received the Bride's Choice Award from Wedding Wire!  This is the third year in a row that I have received this award and I am so excited and truly humbled that my Brides and Clients feel that I am worthy of such accolades!

Thank you so much to all my Brides, Clients, fans and supporters!  I look forward to a fantastic year as we have many amazing things already in the works and hope to share with you soon!  Thanks also to the Wedding Wire Network that is such a great support!

Regards...

Alina

Pasadena Magazine

Exciting News! The January issue of Pasadena Magazine features one of the gowns from my earlier Collections on the cover! Honored to have been chosen as this issue showcases wedding and event professionals in the Pasadena & surrounding area. Peek inside as there is also a featured profile page...
Enjoy....

Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays to all of our past, present and future Brides & Clients and thank you for allowing us to be such a wonderful part of your very special day!  We hope this Holiday Season brings happiness and joy to all of our family and friends, many of whom we have known for years and others that are new additions.   Thank you to everyone that have made this year successful on both a personal level as well as professionally,  as we look to the New Year for exciting opportunities, the expansion of the Collection and growth of the Alina Pizzano label!
Cheers,
Alina & Jameel