Named after the artificial grottos popular throughout Renaissance Florence, the birthplace of Botticelli, the Grotto Dress draws inspiration from the shell-encrusted interiors of these spaces. Constructed on a boned corset foundation and draped in chiffon, the garment combines structure with fluidity, echoing the contrast between architecture and the natural forms that defined historical grottos.
 
The surface is clad with hand-embroidered three-dimensional shells, applied across the body as though emerging from the garment itself. Each shell has been shaded through the use of multiple layers of organza, placed atop one another, complimenting glass beads have then been added on top, made to look like droplets glistening off the surface of a shell. At the waist, the chiffon is tucked into a disordered lattice, creating folds and intersections reminiscent of ocean currents and breaking waves. The one-shouldered silhouette falls into a softly draped skirt, with volume released along the left side to create movement and asymmetry throughout the form.
 
Colourway: Sea Moss
Fit: Structured through the bodice. Draped skirt.
Fabric Composition:
Base: Boned Corset
Outer: Chiffon
Shells: Silk Organza, Crepe, 
 
dry clean only