The X-Ray Dress

One of our signature styles is the ‘X-Ray Dress’ which is made of transparent 100% silk organza. The X-ray dress is so named because the delicate and structural chains of non-stitched ruffles resemble the bones on an X-ray, seen through translucent skin.

The ruffles on the dress are all attached by hand using our special couture non-stitched hand linking technique that was developed by designer Katie Roberts-Wood whilst studying at the Royal College of Art. The hand-linking process involves our special pattern cutting methods, combined with a handwork technique which links the fabric together. The method used to create the ruffles is completely unique in that it doesn’t require stitching.

The technique becomes apparent when you look through the surface of the garment and see how intricately it has been put together. The construction method of the dress is crucial to creating the signature visual identity of the garment.

Commissioning an X-Ray 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

The fit on the dress is very straightforward. The dress has an oversized silhouette so the main thing we look to "fit" is the overall length and the sleeve length. In a way, the aim was to create a beautiful garment that was independent of a specific fitting requirements; one which could be as inclusive as possible. 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 digital 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).

In terms of fit and fittings, we do everything remotely, which is especially important for our international clients. Whilst we don’t offer an in person fitting service, our extensive experience of making these dresses for about 7 years means we are good at "fitting" them with the process described above.

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)