Renowned fashion designer Claudia Twisk embarked on an extraordinary journey to design her own wedding dress, blending her professional expertise with personal vision. After years of working for prestigious brands such as The Row and Uniqlo, the Australian-born designer now resides in Paris, where she serves as a senior designer at A.P.C. Initially hesitant about creating her own gown due to concerns over time constraints and stress, Claudia ultimately embraced the challenge. Inspired by the theatricality of fashion as performance, she sought to craft a garment that would be a feast for the senses. With a clear vision and a team of creative collaborators, Claudia transformed her dream into reality, producing a unique and breathtaking wedding dress.

Claudia's initial plan was to find a vintage couture piece from John Galliano's Dior collection, but after months of searching, she decided to put her own spin on the concept. "I realized that I could draw inspiration from various designers and create something entirely original," she explained. This decision opened up new avenues for creativity. She began by selecting fabrics that would provide structure and shape, focusing on achieving the perfect silhouette. Working on a mannequin, Claudia meticulously crafted each element of the gown, ensuring it would fit her body perfectly. To assist with the intricate construction, she enlisted the help of modéliste Léa C Warrel and consulted with Yens Cuyvers, a designer at Courrèges, while Adele Lorenzo contributed exquisite embellishments to the bodice.

The process reminded Claudia of her student days, when the excitement of creation was paramount. "We were all so inspired by the project," she said. The collaboration brought together a wealth of talent and passion, resulting in a gown that was both personal and spectacular. Claudia's eight-year partner, Dimitri Limberopoulos, witnessed the transformation of her vision into reality, culminating in a wedding that celebrated their long-standing relationship and the creativity of their friends.

In the end, Claudia's decision to design her own wedding dress became a testament to her artistic vision and dedication. The final result was not just a garment but a work of art, embodying the spirit of fashion as performance. Surrounded by loved ones and fellow creatives, Claudia's wedding day was a celebration of love, creativity, and the power of bringing dreams to life through fashion.