Taunton and Chelsea-based wedding dress designer Sassi Holford shares her designs with Alexandra Richards on what Kate Middleton might be wearing up the aisle of Westminster Abbey this month

Taunton- and Chelsea-based wedding dress designer Sassi Holford shares her designs with Alexandra Richards on what Kate Middleton might be wearing up the aisle of Westminster Abbey this month

With the royal wedding on 29 April, all eyes will be on Kate Middleton and her choice of gown. At the time Somerset Life went to press there was speculation, albeit unconfirmed, as to who would be designing Kate’s dress, so we asked Sassi Holford to show us what she would design if she won the dress commission of the century. Sassi says, “The designer of Kate Middleton’s wedding gown has the difficult balancing act of producing a dress that meets the expectations of a royal wedding but also reflects the personality of a fashion-conscious, intelligent young woman. The practicalities of the occasion usually dictate that to match the size and splendour of Westminster Abbey the gown will be full skirted with a cathedral train. Although silk would be the first choice for most designers, the particular type is important since Kate will be sitting down during her journey from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey before walking up the aisle, so creasing is a big consideration.“My design has a graceful but flattering cross-over lace bodice with exquisite lace inset detailing on the hem. The shape is ‘fit and flair’ to accentuate Kate’s stunning figure, and the overall feel is understated elegance.”

Sassi Holford 6 The BridgeTauntonSomersetTA1 1UGtaunton@sassiholford.comwww.sassiholford.com 01823 256 308