Creative Couture for bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, pageboy outfits, headdresses and going away outfits. The complete service for your wedding outfits. Established since 1969.

Exclusive designs - mainly in silk - are the speciality of Christine Abram who has run her business Creative Couture, from a pretty pink cottage in the Essex village of Coggeshall. To a basic design chosen by the bride, Christine adds individual touches such as lace, applique lace, bows and covered buttons and can also arrange for beading to be done.

All Christine's dresses are hand-finished with the inside edged in lace which can be seen when the bride lifts the dress to walk. Full net petticoats are stitched into the dress so that it is one item, then Christine adds the final, personal touch. She embroiders the date of the wedding and the couple's initials somewhere appropriate before presenting the gown on a padded coathanger.

Having made an appointment, a bride will visit Christine at home to discuss the style of dress that she requires.

"She normally has a pretty good idea of what she wants, and shows me a picture or a drawing, we have a chat and work out what to do - I don't impose designs on anyone".

Christine, then lets the bride choose her fabric, either from Christine's own selection or from any other supplier. Christine enjoys doing the loops, pin tucks and fancy work which 'looks complicated but is just a matter of keeping your cool'. She also makes up a wide range of ballgowns in every conceivable colour of silk.