Carien Otto is the designer behind this incredible dress. I saw a picture of it from a friend and I immediately wanted to contact Carien and work with her. The image I had in mind was a "Cinderella" themed shoot, with the model running down the stairs. Except in my take, Cinderella is not quite in a rush to get away. 

I contacted Carien with my idea and she immediately agreed to meet up and do the styled shoot with me. We immediately searched for a location and we found this beautiful church in Alberton. It had the beautiful steps as well as the tall columns going up, giving it a royal setting. 

I also asked Carien what she had in mind when she designed the dress and what the inspiration behind it was. This is what she said.

1. What was the inspiration behind the dress?

My inspiration: palace full of flowers in a mythical land far, far away....

2. Who did you make it for?

I made it for an assignment in my 2nd year ( my first ball gown)

3. Where did you see it being worn?

It was worn in the 2015 miss South Africa pageant. The dress is made of a floral pattern duchess satin and hand beaded and painted lace.

4.  What is the dress made of? Can you describe it a little?

 the dress consists out of 2 full circles patterns to create a full fairytale skirt.The bodice is covered with a golden lace wich i then painted the top lace flowers the same colours that you see in the floral fabric to create a ombre look. I then beaded the lace with pearls and chopped bugles to create texture and shine.  

Thanks so much to everyone involved with setting up this shoot. The model, Carien's mom and also my assistant. I had a great time and learned a lot in this process.