Even if you don’t have a family member’s wedding dress at your disposal, you can still wear a reimagined vintage gown on your big day.
Maybelle Atelier in Maplewood does exactly that. Founder Christine Carlson can not only update heirloom gowns from mom or grandma, but she also sources vintage dresses to create one-of-a-kind wedding gowns that are sustainably minded, stylish and special.
Maybelle’s reimagined collection consists of dresses from the 1940s to the 1960s that have undergone extensive transformations.
“They are not simply altered; they are redraped and retailored with new linings and zippers and complemented by exquisite deadstock fabrics to highlight their original French laces, silk organza and other fine details,” says Christine. They are not created with a specific client in mind and can be altered for each customer. They range from $2,500 to $4,000.
Maybelle also sells a curated vintage collection dating from the 1920s to the 1990s, with prices starting at $499.
Christine, who worked as a designer in the bridal industry for many years, was inspired by her environmentally conscious Gen Z daughters—and her love of designing wedding gowns—to step out on her own and open Maybelle in 2021.
“These are special,” says Christine. “If you buy a dress like this, you’re not going to see it on anyone else.”
In September, Maybelle is launching a collection of modern gowns with a vintage aesthetic. The gowns will be made in New York City and available to order in sizes 00 to 26. All customizations and tailoring will be done in house in Maplewood.
Sign up for our Something New newsletter for weekly wedding ideas, inspiration and advice from New Jersey Bride—sent right to your inbox!
