Events

Saturday, March10th 12-2PM The name “Suzanne Perron” issynonymous with exquisite detail. Her expertly tailored gowns—wornat the elaborate balls of Mardi Gras and down the aisle at NewOrleans weddings—draw from the legacy of couture design. Afteryears working alongside Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, Anna Sui, andRalph Rucci in New York, Louisiana native Perron returned home in2005 to open her own custom design business, specializing inonce-in-a-lifetime gowns for brides, debutantes, and Mardi Grasroyalty. Designing in Ivory and Whitecaptures the rise of this talented designer, from her firstSinger sewing machine to her success on Seventh Avenue to herpost-Katrina move to a city in need of "something beautiful,”as well as her design technique and meticulous craft. In addition toher personal story, Perron shares her process from the inside out—including her methods for creating crinolines and foundations; usingdraping and pattern making to transform a sketch into athree-dimensional form; manipulating fabric into pleats, pintucks,and folds; and hand sewing intricate beading, lace, embroidery, andflawless hems. Her techniques and breathtakingartistry are realized through a showcase of sixteen Suzanne Perrondesigns. Full-length and detail shots illustrate Perron’s gorgeoussilhouettes and masterful handwork. Each gown also has a story thatilluminates the client experience from the first sketch to the finalfitting. Designing in Ivory and Whiteserves as a testament to the ambition and skill required to designunique dresses, and will provide inspiration for independentdesigners, sewing hobbyists, and all who admire couture fashion. Suzanne Perron discusses and signs her book, Designing inIvory and White: Suzanne Perron Gowns From the Inside Out. If you are unable to attend,you must call the book shop to order signed books.