The Vortex Dress

The Vortex dress is made using an evolution of our signature non-stitched hand-linking technique which was invented and developed at the ROBERTS | WOOD Studio.

These, non-stitched three-dimensional spiralling ‘vortex’ shapes, twist around the body, with projections of gossamer ruffles that burst out of the linked sections to create a halo of ruffles. They are designed using just one pattern piece that is cut multiple times, then all linked together by hand to form the overall “vortex” structure.

Commissioning an Vortex Dress

Design Process

In terms of the design process for commissioning an ‘X-ray Dress’, we have a few different  variations to select from (as indicated in the images on this page). The main characteristics of the dress you can influence are the hem length and shape, whether you want ruffles running down the sleeves and if you would like a train?

Also we offer the dress is a wide range of colours and will work with you to select the colour you want from a large colour range at our Italian silk supplier.

Fit and Fitting

In terms of fit and fittings, we aim to do everything remotely if we can, especially with our international clients.

The fit on the dress is relatively straightforward. The sleeveless dress is fitted mainly around the bust so we look to "fit" that part, along with the overall length. The construction technique, with the hand-linking, measure that there is a small amount of stretch, which also makes the fit process more straight forward.

Like the majority of our dress styles, the design is a relaxed fit with an ethereal look, so if you are looking for a tailoring or corset fit with then this is probably not the dress for you. We have a several standard sizes and most of our clients will fit into this range but we can make the dresses in almost any size. We start the fit process by asking your typical dress size and then take some basic measurements, such as bust, waist, hip and can usually recommend a size from there or suggest some design tweaks to give you the best dress option.

The dress is created by first making a simple shell/ base and then all the ruffles are pattern cut and attached by hand with a special linking method. The sculptural  and ethereal quality that results is due to the fact that the hand-linking process creates an organic and seamless effect that is at once both maximal and minimal.

If you have any specific fit requirements, we are able to build a 3D model of you and the dress shell to check specific measurements and can quote separately for this stage if needed (however we really only need to do this if you have a specific concern and this process is not normally needed). We have been making these dresses for about 7 years now so we are good at "fitting" them. 

Time

We need at least 6 months from confirming the order to shipping the dress to you. We only make a very limited number of dresses a year and often have a waiting list, so we recommend contacting us if you are considering commissioning one of our dresses (there is an enquiry form at the bottom of this webpage).

Price

The price is really dependent on the how much silk and handwork goes into the dress and if there are specific design or fitting requirements. But we recognise that it can be difficult make decisions if you don’t have any indication of price! So as indicative guide the prices* are £4,500 for our offset, calf length/above floor dress without sleeve ruffles , Our floor length dresses, with sleeve ruffles are £6,000 and our train length dresses start at £10,000

(Prices are inclusive of UK VAT, but do not included shipping or international duties. Prices based on standard sizing without pattern alterations)