Once Upon a Time, there was a strange and beautiful shop lurking in the most unassuming of surrounds. It was a beacon for ladies of distinction requiring only the most obscure and original of gowns for their occasions of glamour.
The House of Bespoke Couture, nestled away in the Ballarat Central shopping centre, is simply the place to be if you're looking for a signature frock for that upcoming ball, dear Cinderella.
Not a single swan was harmed in the making of these gowns.
Of course, it's not just about balls. Fancy turning up to your wedding – or someone else's wedding for that matter – dressed up like the tragic Odette from
Swan Lake?
Or have you always harboured a secret desire to frock up like the wicked stepmother from
Sleeping Beauty?
Fit for a Queen...an evil, wicked Queen that is.
A simple Google search reveals just how well-regarded this business is in the haute community.
Gowns from The House of Bespoke Couture have turned up in a stage production of
Phantom of the Opera and more weddings than you could poke a fairy godmother's wand at.
Miss Havisham, anyone?
So how does it all work? Well, like the name says, this stuff is all bespoke, baby – made to order. You'll need to make an appointment to get fitted and bring along any ideas, pictures, lofty concepts and aspirations, and delusions of grandeur. And contrary to what you might think, you don't need to be a dame to have your wildest fantasies fashioned into fabric. The gents are catered for also.
And it's not just gowns – The House also crafts some wildly gorgeous shoes, bags and hats. Every detail you could possibly imagine in your most magical imaginings is catered for – The House will dye, bead and embellish your socks off. (Not that you'd be wearing anything less than the finest silk stockings with these numbers, of course.)
Bling, bling, bling.
Ah, then there are the veils. And tiaras. You can have yours made up from organza, guipur lace, beaded with Swarovski crystals and hand embroidered. Divine. And one doesn't need to have impended nuptials to grace this place.
Bridesmaids will also find perfectly gorgeous frocks here, as will high school leavers and debutantes. And they've got everything else covered too – from candlesticks to floral arrangements to chair covers. Swoon.
A virtual maze of organza, lace and chiffon.
The best part about this lavish, fantastical world is that its located in the most hidden and humble of locations in Ballarat – in the Target shopping centre. It's a beaut discovery.
The store operates more as a showroom – you will need to call to make an appointment. So call as soon as you can – your dashing prince can't wait much longer to kiss you, princess.
