After All, It's a Small World

Perhaps this is the rationale behind so many designers' decision to manufacture their "couture" gowns in large factories on the other side of the planet.

Now we have nothing against free trade or open markets.  In fact, most of the exquisite fabrics we use come from France, Italy, England and China.  But our gowns are constucted, one by one,  in the building where they were designed. To create dresses that are beautiful both inside and out, we follow the same strict guidelines as haute couturiers in Paris.

Hey wait - Paris is on the other side of the planet.      It is a small world after all.

Staying Clever

Ten years ago we started our business with a simple idea: Make beautiful and affordable couture wedding dresses for the sophisticated, modern bride.

We called it Clever Couture.

Today, while most designers have chosen to manufacture in large overseas factories, we still construct each gown, one by one, in our San Francisco design studio. 

We've been told our methods are old-fashioned.  Well, our methods, perhaps. Our gowns? Never.

 

2010 Insprirations and Levels of Luxury

Inspirations for 2010 were abounding.   I found myself obsessing on Artsy Bohemian Luxe influences for Beau & Ashbury,  the Art of Japanese paper folding as seen in Origami, Presley & Mimi,  the charming, post war fashions of the 50's for January, Betty & June, and the lure of Zen-like simplicity and calm in Kai & Ballet.

Appointments

If you live in or are planning a visit to San Francisco and would like to see our gowns in person, give us a call: 415.956.5657

 

The Journal

February 3, 2010

On Saturday February 6th local pastry artist Stephanie Masquelier, founder of Flours, will be hosting a cake tasting in our San Francisco salon.

Stephanie’s cakes are delicious, and beautifully executed. We think her original flavors, like "Nutty"- Maple & Walnut and " Tropical" - Pineapple & Coconut are irresistible, and she can customize a flavor to satisfy your wedding day sweet tooth.

Stop by to meet Stephanie, and enjoy a confectionery treat or two!

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January 25, 2010

"I loved wearing the dress and got a lot of compliments on how beautiful it was." - Juniper.

It is always a pleasure when our brides' share their wedding day photos and offer their kind words of praise!

This playful love story of Juniper & Michael is our first "Real Clever Bride" feature.

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Juniper and Michael posed for this alternative post-wedding shoot with talented photographer Kelty of Steep Street Photography.   www.steepstreet.com  The images were taken in various Bay Area locations including the couple's own backyard.

June 29, 2009

Our halter style Harper is the #1 gown  featured on "The Hot List" in  the current issue (Summer 2009) of Martha Stewart Weddings.   All of the gowns are lovely choices, but we are very proud that ours is also the most affordable.

Advice

May 29, 2009

It can be overwhelming with the many styles a bride will consider when deciding which "bridal hairstyle and makeup " look is best for them. Once your fabulous wedding gown is chosen, the next most important thing is your bridal beauty.

Collecting ideas from bridal and fashion magazines will be key for your makeup and hairstylist

Do you want your look to be sophisticated, classic chic, 1940's retro era, modern elegance or natural beauty? Collecting ideas from bridal and fashion magazines will be key for your makeup and hairstylist when creating your desired beauty look for your trial run. Stay away from styles that are too trendy as these can appear to be dated looking, 10 years from now on the pages of your beautiful wedding album.

May 21, 2009

Q: “I’m a plus-size bride and am having trouble finding a flattering dress. Any idea of what I should look for?” —Katherine, Seattle

A: In the past, I have helped many plus-sized brides find their ultimate gown. It is a process of finding out what you have envisioned and melding that idea with what looks flattering on curvier figures. There are many gown silhouettes that can look great, depending on what you would like to highlight and what you would like to hide.

Here are my Top 10 suggestions for finding the perfect dress for you: