Karen Willis Holmes, Catalina

COMFORTABLE | FLATTERING | ELEGANT | TIMELESS | PHOTOGENIC

I absolutely loved this dress from the minute I first tried it on, I immediately got that "I feel beautiful" feeling. It was so comfortable and thanks to the firm bodice I never had to worry about my stomach—highly recommend for women with natural curves as it's super flattering. I chose to change the corset to covered buttons as I preferred the more modern look.

It has a classy straight strapless cut neckline which shows off your decollete (so you won't be worried about a nip-slip) and the asymmetrical A-Line skirt with a side slit for a hint of sensuality. I liked that it had both modest elegance for the ceremony and a bit of sexy flair for the reception (especially when dancing!) The skirt has a train which is manageable but still enough to make a statement. It comes with ties to tie up the bustle (neatly tied up the train at the back so you don't step on it) or a loop to hold the train over your arm if you wish. This meant that my train was almost spotless by the time I changed into my post-reception dress.

This is both designed and handmade in Sydney (as opposed to some of their other dresses made in India which makes it a little more expensive but the quality is worth it).

The dress retails for $4390 but this price does not include hemming/alterations. I spent about $890 on hemming, alterations and changing the standard corset to covered buttons (so the overall cost brand new is over $5k).

Also the fabric of this dress is so robust that when I got it professionally drycleaned, it looked brand new again, which means you can easily sell this again.

Happy to share more photos or if you would like to come try it on.

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Description of the dress from the KWH website:
Catalina is the classic gown you’ve dreamed about – with a twist. In true KWH fashion, Catalina meets modern with regal and produces a timeless look, but one that’s uniquely your own. It’s all in the small details here; from the centre detail on the straight, strapless neckline, to the ultra-flattering asymmetrical gathering that shapes your silhouette. Catalina features an A-Line skirt with contemporary flair; while the back is stunningly traditional, the front boasts a gorgeous split and structure to still show off your shape. Dramatic beauty is in each element on this stunning, satin-finished gown.