Belle Grâce – A La Gala

On By ResaIn Art Gowns Events, Galas

Robin needed a gown. It was time for ECAD, The Explorers Club Annual Dinner in New York City.

Robin emailed me via my website. She had been searching on line for an interesting gown source. The message read, “tell me more about your gowns”. Robin was enthralled by the fact they are made from: reused, repurposed, new old stock, etc. materials.

Included in the mail was her purpose, phone and other info which made it super easy to check her out. She was a valid contender to wear an Art Gown. After a personable phone conversation, we decided on Belle Grâce.

To review Belle Grâce, or see her for the first time click on her pic below.

 My judy is built for someone who is about 5’6″ & a size 6. Robin is 5’9″ and about a size 10. No worries! The Art Gowns are built in components: top, skirt, tail & often a bussell

First thing was to detach the tail. Who could walk and dance an entire evening in an Art Gowns tail?

Belle Grâce stands in a pool of handkerchief hem. The great thing about Robin’s height is the handkerchief hem was now enough off the ground that I merely had to tie overhand knots in the longest points.

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We decided she would need to wear a strapless bra, so I designed a strap across the back to cover the bra’s back. A second thin strap was added for extra support.

By the time the beautiful and vivacious Robin returned for her second fitting, I had converted Belle Grâce’s tail into a stole. Skirt hooks and bussell snaps had been repositioned. Back straps had been built and positioned. Knots were tied in the handkerchief hem.

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WHEN ROBIN PICKED UP THE GOWN I ONLY HAD TO PERFCT BAR PLACEMENTS IN THE BACK.

TADA!

Robin Brooks is an elected executive of the Canadian Chapter of The Explorers Club. She is the regional director for Ontario/Nunavit. Click on her pic below to view the page.

To check out The Explorers Club (established 1904) click on the pic below of Robin tripping the light fantastic.

Thank you, Robin! I am ecstatic.

120 thoughts on “Belle Grâce – A La Gala”

  1. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

    That’s a great story. I was under the impression that you two knew each other and it just happened the Robin was going to the GALA. She did your gown and great honor as it did for her. She was beautiful in it. It improves the world when your gowns get out and about.

    Reply

    1. Aww, Thank you Tim! Yes, I’m thrilled about & with the entire Robin experience.

      Belle Grâce is a beauty, reminds me of Grace Kelly. Holly helped me pick her name, knowing she was inspired by many of your fabulous photos & dedicated to you.

      I trust you and Laurie had a special day, yesterday! xo

      Reply

    1. John!
      Thank you! It was a wonderful experience working with Robin. I was over the moon when she sent me shots from the event. She looks gorgeous, radiant and what a fantastic backdrop!
      💃🏽🐂🐂🐂🐂💃🏽

      Reply

            1. Ahh, I’m sending a different 🐂 in today.
              Charlotte is busy, and like me has Catch Up blogging days.
              She was by yesterday, and we are both thrilled that her gown is 80% done.
              She also read my book review on “The Last Drive”.

              As it was 2 posts ago, and I seem to only be doing a post a month recently. I thought I’d share the 🐂 with you!

              “Two of my favourite blog friends in a post together, how fabulous. Love Sam’s gowns especially the Roman one and the stars of course. Great book review turned into a fun interview. Xxx”

              Reply

  5. Wow, Resa. Robin looks amazing in this gown, just like a fairy princess. I remember this dress. I loved the frothy skirt and smooth bodice when I first saw it. I am so pleased to see these wonderful pictures.

    Reply

    1. Robin is a fairy princess, in a way. She flew into my life and away in an Art Gown.
      She immediately saw what I want all to see. Rags can be riches. We don’t need to strip earth of more new product to create … in Art Gowns case …. beauty and glamour.
      Thank you, Roberta!!

      Reply

  6. Darling Resa, such a lovely exciting combination. Your beautiful Belle Grace and gorgeous Robin. She is perfect for this perfect gown. I’m awestruck at how amazing this gown is and how perfectly Robin wears it. Congratulations to you both.
    xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Thank you dear Meece!
      I’m thrilled to see my creation on Robin. I was ecstatic when she sent me pics from NYC! What and amazing background!

      Thank you so much for helping me name Belle Grâce. I still remember us thinking it reminded us of Grace Kelly.
      xoxoxo

      Reply

        1. It’s crazy!
          I feel like I won and award or something.
          Finally, an Art Gown left home to make her way in the world.
          Thank you dearest Holly! You’ve been inspiring me for a long time.
          xoxoxo

          Reply

          1. I’m so thrilled Belle Grace made its way out where it belongs , NYC… all your beautiful designs should be walked down the Paris and Milan catwalks , they are gorgeous and made with love and should be worn with love for the world to enjoy . Adore you dear Meece. Your threads are golden and magical!
            xoxoxo

            Reply

            1. Thank you, dear Meece!
              It is exciting to see an Art Gown in NYC!
              Perhaps this is a sign of things to come!

              Hey, Dale is the only AGM with no dedicated Art Gown. Hers is after Charlotte’s. I have the fabrics. Just mailed a pic of the fabrics!
              xoxoxoxo
              Thank you for the reblog!!!

              Reply

  7. Resa – I am beyond excited to read that Belle Grace has become an universal symbol that “Rags can be riches”. I agree wholeheartedly that we don’t need to strip our precious earth of more new product. Glamour and sophistication comes from the heart and spreads energy and hope to our community. Thank you, Resa, for your visionary leadership. Robin looks amazing. And the photographs captured a pivotal moments. Sending many hugs along with my gratitude for all you do.

    Reply

    1. Dear Rebecca,

      Thank you for your support in my “Rags can be riches” art.
      Now that you have said that, I know “Rags are riches”. They are for me, anyway.
      “The Art of Glamorous Fantasy” has become a reality….”The Art of Sustainable Glamour”.

      Robin is a rare wind, and I’m grateful she blew into my life.
      Sending more hugs and gratitude to you for all you do!

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Dave!

      Robin is perfect for Belle Grâce. I’m thrilled you got to see this post. It’s a bit of a hope come true. Art Gowns out in the world, showing beauty need not strip the planet of new resources.

      Reply

  9. Oh, dahling, I am also ecstatic seeing your amazing Belle Grâce on Robin! You already know how much I loved Belle Grâce but your alterations for Robin are ingenious. I bet Robin was overwhelmed wearing it and she looks so beautiful in it [that joyful smile says it all!]. I’m so proud of you dahling and your Art Gowns should be out there making people happy!
    Bravo to a great artists and bravo to a beautiful lady wearing it so well!
    Love and many hugs and …well, Hera can’t be far from such an event so… prepare! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Thank you dahling!
      It’s taken awhile for someone to embrace the idea that a gown can be made from leftovers, and that it can be the belle of the ball at any Gala.
      Then, actually wear one!
      I am thrilled about the whole Robin thing.
      I know, her smile is so genuinely happy.
      Art Gowns might be an odd art, but it’s art.
      OMG!!! Hera!!!
      I haven’t started making Art Bathing Suits…. yet!
      xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽xoxo🧽

      Reply

      1. Well, the very first time I saw your ART [they are ART with the full meaning of the word!] Gowns I thought how wonderful it would be to wear them! So… I know my wish will come true one day! 😉
        ❤️💗❤️💗❤️💗❤️💗❤️💗❤️💗❤️💗❤️
        As for Art Bathing Suits, I know of a model who’d be willing to pose for you but she is a bit furry! 🐾
        xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

        Reply

  11. I cannot tell you how happy I am that one of your creations went out into the world in this fashion (he he he). Robin looks absolutely gorgeous and your modifications to the gown… well, it looks like it was made that way! You truly are a Sorceress of the Cloth! xoxoxo

    Reply

    1. Me too! I’m happy too! ⚡️💥
      It all worked out so well!
      It’s gonna take AI a lot more A & a lot more I to replace me!
      I’m about 80% through Charlotte’s gown. It’s all about decorating the tail now…icing the cake if you will.
      I’m so excited, that I have the fabrics for your dedicated gown standing by.
      I also went to the jobbers across the street. I spent over an hour going through the left over zippers bins. Imagine —- 10 ” zippers for $1.00 each!
      Nothing like NOS! (new old stock)
      I bought 23 of them for your Art Gown, and I earned the $ selling something old of mine.
      I just love this repurposing/recycling reality! xoxoxo

      Reply

      1. How can you not be?
        And AI ain’t got a chance!
        That is so exciting! Will be looking forward to seeing Charlotte’s gown!
        And mine! Oh my goodness. I am so thrilled you are making one for me.
        That’s a lot of zippers!!
        I just love that you create such beauty with “leftovers” xoxoxo

        Reply

        1. Well, an Art Gown dedicated to you.
          I think I sent a pic of the fabrics awhile ago.
          Anyway, I keep it.
          All of the AGMs have an Art Gown dedicated to them, except you.

          Holly – Velvet Tango
          Gigi – Mademoiselle Emily
          Marina – Cecilia Lionheart
          Shey – Jade
          xoxoxo

          Reply

          1. Of course I mean dedicated to me. In my excitement, I missed adding those words.
            I love that you’ve included me.

            I knew they each had one dedicated to them over the years. I never thought I’d be added to your roster.
            xoxoxo

            Reply

            1. What? One AGM doesn’t have an AG?
              Thing is, they happen when they happen. I rely on not buying much… mostly donations, gifts, leftovers, some NOS, … hey – my friend Kat is sending me a gift of 250 aurora rhinestones… different sizes.

              Actually, it was in box of unused old materials that my friend Kat sent me, where I found the fabrics for your gown.
              I had already started Jade, and Charlotte’s gown was on deck.

              So… almost there. I take 2 -3 weeks recoup between gowns. I figure I’ll be starting yours mid summer. xoxoxo

              Reply

              1. 😀
                Of course they do and I would never even think of thinking anything! I wish I had kept all the costume jewelery I got from my mother-in-law. (I should check to make sure.) I’m sure you would put them to good use!

                That’s wonderful.

                It will take the time it takes! xoxoxo

              2. I’m quite excited about it!
                It will be my first using a floral print fabric.
                Should I re-mail you the pic of the fabrics?
                xoxoxo

  13. Very cool to see an art gown doing what it was meant to do! A perfect fit, and I am not talking about the alterations you made. Congratulations to both of you for this great outing 🙂

    Reply
  16. Hyperion's avatar Hyperion

    It’s always thrilling when your art gowns find the perfect person to wear them. Robin and the Gown looked stunning together.

    Reply

    1. Thank you!
      I’m thrilled with this adventure.
      I agree whole heartedly. Robin and the gown are perfect for each other.
      xx
      I still can’t get to your blog by clicking on your name.

      Reply
      1. Hyperion's avatar Hyperion

        It’s always thrilling at your place. The adventures of the AGMs are delightful. I don’t know why gravatar doesn’t work. I’ve updated it to the latest link and it’s active. There has to be a problem with a cross linked file in my profile. In the mean time, try this link. 🤔

        https://hyperionsky.blog/

        Reply

    1. Thank you Alaedin!
      The best is that no new resources were stripped from the earth to create the beauty that the gorgeous Robin wore.
      Robin was thrilled to be seen in my converted cast offs. She’s a gem. 😍🥰🤙💖

      Reply

  20. Your gown tells her story so beautifully, Resa. Everything about this gallery of captures is stunning- from your gowns to Robin to the beautiful vibe that runs through it all.

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Marc!
      It was a thrill and a wonderful experience to have Robin wear Belle Grâce to a Gala. I hope more embrace the idea that beauty does not need to strip the planet of new precious resources.
      MUAH!

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Merril! It was a wonderful experience. Hopefully more will want to be dressed in my glamorous converted cast offs, soon!
      No need to strip the earth of new resources to create beauty. 💙

      Reply

    1. Thank you so much, Lauren!
      Well, I’m trying my best to put my talent and learned abilities to a good use.
      Glamour need not use new resources from the planet.
      Robin saw what I am doing, and embraced it. I call her my Contessa.
      Now, more need to wear my trash to treasure gowns. ❤️🌷❤️❤️🌷❤️

      Reply

    1. It is magic, Brian! Robin found me. The Explorers Club supports many eco causes. A gown made out of repurposed, NOS (new old stock), recycled fabrics and notions was in the right spirit for the event. 😘🤗

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Diana!
      Finally someone embraced the idea that glamour can be achieved without stripping the planet of new resources, and wore it to a Gala!
      I’m chuffed! 😘🤗

      Reply

  28. She looks fabulous what a great colour for Robin. The photo is super in front of that cruise boat. I’m so excited my gown is 80% done I can’t wait. You must love seeing your gowns bought to life and bringing so much enjoyment.

    Reply

    1. You’re right, Charlotte.
      It’s wonderful to see them modelled. However, seeing one at a Gala put me in heaven.
      I’m so looking forward to seeing you in your gown. I’ve done my best to pre-think alterations. I really think it’s going to work!!
      Of course my dream is that you get to preform in it!
      Soon!!!

      Reply

      1. It’s such a shame I don’t live around the corner from you ❤️. This next concert with George and his trio is exciting I’ve never worked with them all before and the last time we planned too covid cancelled the concert. I’ve got to find some extra hours in a week to get everything ready in time.

        Reply

        1. Agree!
          I would drape you in drama and glamour, as required! ❤️
          I’m sure your work with the Trio will be an amazing experience for you and them.
          What a treat for them for you to be singing!
          Extra hours are tough, but you’ll find them!

          Reply

  30. Resa, once again you’ve reignited my girlhood dreams of designing gowns. I love this post and the descriptions of the alterations you made to customize the gown to Robin. Her joy in the gown shines through. The various soft champagne tones are perfect for it. That you transformed the train into a shawl made me want to cheer. Thank you for this wonderful post. Hugs.

    Reply

    1. Thank you, dear Teagan!
      I never knew I wanted to design gowns, but here I am. AND the best is that these gems of the clothing world are made from left overs. No new resources are used.
      That you see the beauty in remodelling the Art Gowns, makes me want to cheer. After all, all art includes a certain amount of craft. HUGS!

      Reply

  31. Omg, it’s gorgeous! Thanks for going through the process of adjusting the dress size with us. Whodathunk you had the dress in detachable pieces. Brilliant and Robin looks beautiful in it. ❤ xx

    Reply

    1. Thank you Debby! I’m thrilled with Robin in the gown.
      The first time I thought of making gowns in components was years ago.I had been hired to do sewing and alterations for Bette Midler.
      She is so tiny! Nonetheless she bought lots of designer stuff in Yorkville, and was swimming in everything. Not only did I have to take everything in, but the dresses had to be shortened through the body, way beyond just a hem.
      Experience, as you know, is the teacher!
      xxxxx

      Reply

      1. Wow Resa, how fascinating. What a trip sewing for Bette Midler! Your gown component structure is amazing. Thanks for sharing your beautiful work with us. ❤ xox

        Reply

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