Tapestry: Design Inspiration and Size Guide!

Dear Kittens,

It is with the utmost delight that we invite you to indulge in a journey through time, where we find ourselves in the 18th century, a period marked by opulence, refinement, and, most enchantingly, the exquisite art of French tapestries. Picture, if you will, grand salons adorned with gilded mirrors and walls festooned with tapestries depicting nature's beauty.

The past has a delightful way of entwining with the present, and today, these tapestries are not merely relics of times past. Instead, they are the muse behind a most charming revival in the realm of vintage fashion. It appears that our beloved streets are blossoming with a new wave of dresses inspired by these historical masterpieces, each garment paying homage to the allure of floral elegance. 

Image courtesy of Pinterest 

The Art of Tapestry

During the golden age of tapestry, which spanned from the 1350s to the end of the 18th century, French artisans achieved a level of craftsmanship so exquisite that their works could transport viewers to idyllic garden paradises. These tapestries, often large and meticulously woven, served both practical and aesthetic purposes. They were designed to keep out the cold in draughty medieval castles, while also providing a form of visual storytelling that captivated the imagination.

In the 1700s, these tapestries became true symbols of luxury, adorning the walls of grand châteaux and noble estates. Rich with vivid hues and intricate details, they depicted lush scenes filled with roses, tulips, and peonies, capturing the very essence of a spring garden in full bloom. As the flickering light from a fire or candle illuminated the room, onlookers would be drawn into the lifelike stories woven into the fabric—tales from the Bible, mythology, or classical lore. The better educated the viewer, the more these narratives resonated, making tapestries not just decorative items, but profound expressions of culture, art, and refinement.

Fontainebleau Anne of Austria’s Reception Room © Alastair McKenzie

Today, this same exquisite craftsmanship finds a new life in the world of fashion. The talented Alana, designer of all things Kitten, has unveiled the enchanting 'Tapestry' collection. With a keen eye for the past and a flair for the present, Alana has breathed new life into these floral motifs, infusing them into dresses that echo the elegance of the 18th century while speaking directly to the sensibilities of our modern age.

Image courtesy of The Tapestry House

 Vintage Fashion: A Blossoming Revival

Imagine stepping out in a dress that seems to have been conjured from the halls of a French château. These vintage-style dresses, with their flowing fabrics and delicate floral prints, evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia, yet remain effortlessly chic. Picture yourself at a garden tea party, an afternoon stroll in a picturesque park, or an evening under the twinkling lights of a fairground—each scene made all the more enchanting by the charm of these floral garments.  

The beauty of this trend lies in its seamless fusion of the old and the new. Vintage-inspired dresses draw upon the intricate patterns of 18th-century tapestries, blending them effortlessly with modern fabrics and vintage silhouettes. Whether it's a breezy summer dress with ruffled lace sleeves and a velvet-trimmed neckline, as seen in the 'Tapestry' Floral Dress, or the 'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress, with its feminine ruffle cascading down the front, these pieces pay homage to history while staying perfectly in step with the present.

Bringing the Past to Life

This connection between past and present is vividly alive at the Manufacture Nationale des Gobelins in Paris, where the art of tapestry-making continues to flourish. Now part of the French Ministry of Culture, the Gobelins is housed in a complex of four 17th-century buildings and an early 20th-century addition in the 13th arrondissement, south of the Seine. Visitors can explore this historic site either on a guided tour or individually, watching as skilled artisans continue to create the tapestries that have inspired fashion and art for centuries. This enduring tradition is a testament to the timeless appeal of these intricate designs, now reimagined in modern vintage-style fashion.

Manufacture des Gobelins

Picture a stroll through a bustling market, your dress swaying with each step, its floral patterns catching the sunlight. Imagine the compliments and admiring glances as you pass by, your outfit a beautiful homage to the artistry of the past. 'Tapestry' is a fashion statement; a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and the everlasting allure of flowers.

So, dear Kittens, let us embrace this floral renaissance and allow the beauty of 18th-century French tapestries to inspire our wardrobes. Let us step out in dresses that make us feel as if we have stepped out of a fairy tale. Fashion, after all, is not just about what we wear—it is about how it makes us feel. And with these vintage-inspired dresses, we can feel as if we are living in a French garden, where elegance and beauty are always in bloom. 

À bientôt, stay fabulous!

Join the Kittens of Kitten D'Amour, as they try on 'Tapestry' for you!

Kay Kitten (Bust: 79CM / Waist: 65.5cm / Hip: 91cm / Height: 172cm) 

'Tapestry' Floral Dress - size 4:
Kay looked fabulous in the 'Tapestry' Floral Dress, wearing her usual size 4! The dress fits snugly around the waist, cinching in just right before flaring out to create that perfect hourglass silhouette. She absolutely adored the buttery soft lace detailing on the neckline and sleeves—not only does it add a touch of elegance, but it’s also super comfy without any of the usual itchiness you might expect from lace. The fabric is lovely and lightweight, making it ideal for the upcoming warmer months. This dress is an absolute must-have for your spring and summer wardrobe!

'Tapestry' Maxi Floral Dress (size 4):
Wow! Kay felt absolutely amazing in this 'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress! The fabric is incredibly soft to the touch, and it flows beautifully over your waist and hips. It’s one of those dresses that simply glides with the wind, making you feel like you’re walking on air. Photos can’t quite capture the magic of how this dress moves—you truly have to see it in person to appreciate its full beauty! Kay found that her usual size 4 fit her perfectly.

'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse - Size 4:
This Tulle Blouse is an absolute must-have! Kay chose her usual size 4 and couldn’t be happier. She loves how this blouse makes her feel—delicate and feminine, yet bold and sexy all at once. The 'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse comes with a singlet underneath for that extra bit of coverage, and it ties around the waist to give you that perfectly snatched fit. It’s the perfect blend of elegance and confidence!

'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt - Size 4
This stunning 'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt is truly a piece of art, from its perfectly fitted waist to the beautifully flared hips. Kay finds this design to be true to size, wearing her usual size 4, but keep in mind that the ‘Tapestry’ fabric doesn’t offer any stretch. So, if you’re in between sizes, it’s a good idea to size up to ensure a comfortable fit!

Jackie Kitten (Bust: 87cm / Waist: 74cm / Hip: 104cm / Height: 163cm)

'Tapestry' Floral Dress - Size 8:
Jackie found her usual size 8 to be the perfect fit in the 'Tapestry' Floral Dress! She’s absolutely loving the extra length—it gives the dress such an elegant flow. Plus, the soft and breezy cotton fabric makes it super comfortable and perfect for any occasion. Jackie is totally smitten with this dress!

'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress - Size 8:
Jackie went with her usual size 8 in the 'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress and found it to be super comfortable! If you’re after a more fitted style, she thinks you could even size down. Jackie is absolutely in love with the neckline—it adds such an elegant touch to the dress.

One thing to note: she did find the dress to be quite long, even with heels, so keep that in mind if you’re around her height (164cm). Overall, it’s a stunning piece that Jackie really enjoyed wearing!

'Tapestry' Cardigan (Burgundy) - Size Small:
Jackie wore her usual size small in the ‘Tapestry’ Cardigan and absolutely loved the intricate needlepoint detail! While the colour was a bit more muted than what she usually goes for, she found that it paired perfectly with the dress, adding a subtle elegance to the look.

Jackie felt amazing wearing it—the cardigan is so soft and cozy, making it an instant favourite for those cooler days. It’s the perfect finishing touch to any outfit!

Lola Kitten (Bust 104cm / Waist 76cm / Hip 112cm / Height 164cm)

'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress - Size 12:
Lola usually opts for a size 14 in maxi dresses, but she decided to size down for this one since the waist felt a bit loose in the 14. The result? A perfect fit that highlights just how romantic and dreamy this dress truly is!

The captivating floral print, complete with beautiful birds, makes this dress a standout for any occasion. As a big fan of florals, Lola was completely smitten with the intricate details. Whether you’re attending a wedding or heading out for a romantic dinner with your special someone, Lola believes this dress is the perfect choice to make you feel enchanting!

'Tapestry' Floral Dress - Size 12:
Lola is absolutely smitten with this 'Tapestry' Floral Dress! Being between sizes 12 and 14, she was thrilled with how perfectly the size 12 fit her. The soft black lace and the V-neck shape are such lovely touches, adding elegance to the look, while the pink velvet trim brings in that extra bit of charm. And those lace ruffle sleeves? Simply delightful—who doesn’t love a pretty sleeve detail? To add even more volume and drama, Lola decided to pair the dress with two petticoats, making it truly pop! This dress is a must-have for anyone looking to combine style with comfort!

'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt - Size 12:
Lola usually wears a size 10 in skirts, but for this 'Tapestry' Floral Skirt, she decided to size up to a 12—and it was the perfect choice! Since the fabric doesn’t have any stretch, the size 12 fit her better, with the zipper sitting nice and flat at the back.

She’s absolutely captivated by the silhouette created by the gathered panels at each hip, which adds such a flattering shape. Lola is convinced this skirt is going to be one of her all-time favourite Kitten pieces in her wardrobe. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and charm to their collection!

'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse - Size 12:
Lola was absolutely enchanted by the elegance and detail of this 'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse! The delicate lace and charming black polka dots pair perfectly with the floral skirt, making it a standout combination.

She especially loved the pussy-bow tie at the neck and the flattering waist tie that cinches in for a beautiful silhouette. And let’s talk about those sleeves—dreamy and elegant! Lola felt they were so beautifully crafted that she didn’t need to accessorize the look at all. The lace at the elbow creates a gorgeous puffed effect that gathers at the wrist for a dramatic, eye-catching finish.  Lola wore size 12 in this blouse, finding the fit to be perfect!

'Tapestry' Cardigan (Black) - Size M:
Lola typically wears a medium, large, or sometimes even an X-Large depending on the fabric, but she found the medium size to be just right in this 'Tapestry' Cardigan! What truly caught her eye was the divine needlepoint patterning on the front, adding a touch of intricate elegance that makes this cardigan a standout piece.

Brooke Kitten (Bust: 101cm / Waist: 86cm / Hip: 104cm / Height: 162cm)

'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse – Size 12:
Brooke Kitten loves the fit of the size 12 in the 'Tapestry' Tulle Blouse! The singlet underneath fits nice and snug, while the beautiful tulle has just the right amount of stretch, making it super easy to button up perfectly.

The length is spot-on for pairing with high-waisted skirts and pants—so versatile! And the fabric? It’s absolutely gorgeous, looking perfect with both plain colours and printed designs. This blouse is a must-have for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit!

'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt – Size 12:
Brooke Kitten absolutely loves the fit of the size 12 in the 'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt! The waist is so slimming—Brooke can’t get enough of how cinched and fabulous it makes her look! She’s also head over heels for the colours in the print and is already imagining how perfectly it’ll pair with all her Kitten D’Amour tops for a fresh, springtime look!

'Tapestry' Floral Dress – Size 12:
Brooke Kitten is feeling fabulous in her usual size 12, which fits her perfectly! The black lace detailing is soft and flattering on the arms, adding just the right touch of elegance. And let’s not forget those perfectly placed pleats in the skirt—they create a lovely silhouette that’s both flattering and demure! This tea-length dress is all about comfort and style, making it a go-to for any occasion where you want to feel confident and chic!

'D'Amour' Follies Ruched Jersey Top (Pink) – Size L:
Brooke Kitten loves the fit of the size Large in the 'D'Amour' Follies Ruched Jersey Top! The stretchy material is super flattering, giving her that delicate and feminine vibe with the off-the-shoulder neckline. The arms fit nice and snug, which helps keep that lovely neckline perfectly in place.  Brooke loves that the sleeve can be pushed up to just below the elbow, for the perfect length!

Tammy Kitten (Bust 86cm / Waist 64cm / Hips 91cm / Height 161cm)

‘Tapestry’ Floral Maxi Dress – Size 6:
Tammy Kitten found the 'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress to be an absolute dream! She went with her usual size 6, and it fit her perfectly. Tammy adored how the empire line gracefully flowed from the gathered bodice, creating a soft and flattering silhouette. One of her favourite features? The delicate ruffle, which drapes beautifully at the centre of the bust, adding just the right touch of elegance. The way the soft fabric falls gently, inspired by 18th-century French tapestries, gives this dress an ethereal, almost magical feel.

This Maxi is truly a work of art, with its stunning print of birds and flowers making you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. It’s incredibly romantic and perfect for so many occasions—especially for a dreamy date night!

'Tapestry' Floral Dress – Size 6:
Tammy is rocking her usual size 6 in the 'Tapestry' Floral Dress, but she suggests sizing up if you’re in between sizes or if you're a bit more generous in the bust—this fabric doesn’t have any stretch. The black lace forming a V at the neckline is oh-so-soft, and that pink velvet trim? Charming!

Let’s talk about those sleeves—who doesn’t love a little lace ruffle? It adds the perfect touch of elegance. The way the gathered panels fall beautifully over the hips is simply stunning. Oh, and did we mention the pockets? Yes, this darling dress has them, and it’s lined too, making it perfect for that vintage tea party look. Consider adding a shirred petticoat or two to complete the ensemble!

'D'Amour' Follies Ruched Jersey Top (Pink) – Size S:
Tammy is wearing the size small in the 'D'Amour' Follies Ruched Jersey Top, and guess what? If you’re after a snugger fit, there’s plenty of stretch in this fabric! Now, the real question is—what colour will you choose? Will it be the Pink, the Burgundy, or the classic Black? This fabulous top is perfect for mixing and matching with your Kitten D'Amour collection, giving you that effortlessly chic, dressy-casual look with your Kitten D'Amour Denim Jeans!

The ruching hugs all the right places, and Tammy loves wearing it slightly off the shoulder for that extra bit of sass. The jersey fabric is not only super comfortable but also incredibly stylish.

'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt – Size 8:
Tammy has opted for a size 8 for this gorgeous 'Tapestry' Floral Full Skirt! She decided to size up to make sure it sits just right at the waist, with the zipper laying nice and flat at the centre back. Tammy also tried the size 6 but found it a bit snug, especially since her torso is on the shorter side and the fabric has no stretch.

The navy background, adorned with pretty birds and flowers, is simply divine! The way the centre panel meets the gathered panel at the hip creates a lovely, flattering silhouette that continues around to the back. Tammy has styled her skirt with a shirred petticoat for that extra vintage flair!  The cotton is oh-so-soft and floaty, making it a dream to wear and feel against the skin. This skirt is perfect for twirling your way through any occasion!

Marlena Kitten (Bust 110cm / Waist 93cm / Hip 124cm / Height 170cm)

'Tapestry' Floral Maxi Dress – Size 14:
Marlena Kitten is enchanted by the whimsical style of the ‘Tapestry’ Floral Maxi Dress in size 14! The elegant ruffles and exquisite print add a divine touch, making this dress feel like something out of a fairy tale. The size 14 fits like a dream, offering plenty of room around the hips while still maintaining that flattering silhouette we all love.

For those with a larger bust (size E or bigger), Marlena suggests going without a bra to fully embrace the dress’s design and enjoy the ultimate comfort. This stunning Maxi Dress beautifully blends style with ease, making it a standout choice for any occasion!

‘Tapestry’ Floral Dress – Size 14:
Marlena Kitten is feeling fabulous in the ‘Tapestry’ Floral Dress, wearing her usual size 14! The fit is impeccable, hugging all the right places and showcasing that stunning design. The intricate lace details? Simply breathtaking! They add a touch of elegance that flatters the silhouette beautifully.

The length is just right, creating a balanced and feminine look that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, this dress is definitely a standout piece that’s sure to turn heads!