Introducing: Scarlet-Tayla

If the Belle Epoque is your aesthetic and Queencore your vibe, then Scarlet Tayla just might be the secret weapon to help you fulfil your dark fairy-tale dreams. Zoe uses her love of period couture to infuse her designs and loves nothing more than turning your wedding dress ideas into the perfect bespoke creation.

Zoe will be showcasing her gorgeous creations with us at the TilDeath Gothic Luxe Wedding Fair on Sunday 22nd January at the Left Bank in Leeds - so make sure you get yourself tickets so come and see her exceptional quality and craftmanship in person

What do you do?

I work on a one to one basis with my customers to make them the wedding attire of their dreams. I design and source fabrics, I make the patterns, cut the fabric, sew the garments, do the fittings, sew any embellishments. I take my inspiration from all over the place but particularly love period costume.

How did you get into this?

I started sewing when I was 12. My mum used to make summer clothes for me and my sisters and i used to watch her. One day she showed me how to do it myself. She used to make patterns from old newspapers. She taught me all my basic sewing skills and gets called in to help out occassionally even though she tells me she’s not good enough. I started making wedding dresses because my cousin asked me to over 23 years ago, but i was more into making alternative club wear alongside other jobs.

What’s the process of working with you?

I offer a free first consultation where you can come and discuss what you want and look through fabric samples. These consultations can be done via Zoom if you are away from me.

If you decide to book with me, measurements will be taken unless there is along time before it is needed and a payment plan will be arranged.

I will then make a toile (rough copy of garmet in cheap fabrics to get the right fit) we will then arrange a fitting for you. At this fitting we will make sure that you are happy with the fit and I will pin and make notes.

I will then make the real garment for you to try on, at this point no linings are in it and no embellishments are on. At this fitting anything needing to be changed will again be pinned and noted written (usually any alterations needed at this stage is a fluctuation of size or fabrics giving more than on the toile fabrics)

The number of fittings required depends on the style of garment.

At the last fitting any embellishments will be pinned in place so you can have them where you think they look best. I will then finish your garment off and then you can collect your finished garment. It is recommended that you try it on again to make sure you are happy with it before you leave.

How soon do people need to book you?

Ideally I like 6 months notice, however it depends on time of year. I’m usually a lot busier from April-September and already have a booking for 2025, some people book way in advance so they know I can do it. But if you have less time please still contact me as I may be able to squeeze you in.

What piece of advice would you give?

Think about what things you like and what styles you like. Send me as much info as possible, the more pics of necklines, sleeves, skirt styles you like the more idea I have for what you are looking for. My biggest advice is ‘be you’ don’t choose something because of someone else or because it’s the current trend, choose it because you want it. If you have what you want you will feel more confident.