Affordable Chic is pleased to offer a new line of handmade Christening gowns and heirloom infant’s clothing designed and crafted by Martha Carrington.
Detail of christening gown with matching bonnet.
Christening dress and bonnet.
Having sewn since she was a little girl, Martha earned a degree in Home Economics in Textiles and Design from the University of Tennessee. She traveled the world with her husband, who was an officer with Army Intelligence, until they settled back in her hometown of Maryville, TN, where she opened a bridal shop.
Something old, something new, something blue… from Vintage Bride.
For 41 years, Martha designed for her brides. She designed a line of flower girl and First Communion dresses as well as custom Christening gowns, some from family bridal gowns brought in by her customers.
Detail of christening outfit. Skirt is detachable to show romper underneath.
Her Christening gowns are as multi-layered as her wedding dresses, with detachable skirts, slips, and under-skirts created with the same detail as the outer dress.
Detail of underskirt.
Some of these dresses can be refashioned for later ceremonies, as the child grows.
Romper underneath detachable christening gown skirt.
Having sold her bridal shop a year ago, Martha focused on sewing for infants and children.
Christening outfit for a boy. Skirt detaches to reveal a romper than can be worn separately.
We are pleased to offer a selection of her Christening gowns with matching bonnets, as well as infant’s clothing featuring a variety of French laces, antique laces, and fine fabrics such as silk, linen, and batiste.
Detail of christening dress showing separate slip.
Her one-of-a-kind designs are created using heirloom sewing techniques, including inset laces, pin tucks, embroidered details and vintage pearl buttons. Some of the gowns feature embroidered Bible verses.
Detail of embroidery on christening gown.
In addition to her Christening gowns and heirloom clothing, Martha has created a line of vintage patterned toys, dolls, baby quilts, and pillows.
Handmade dolls can be custom-made to match your child’s outfit!
Embroidered pillows for the rocking chair in the nursery.
Please stop by Affordable Chic soon to see these beautiful gowns for yourself! Gowns can be custom-designed from your wedding dress, as well, with special Bible verses and other family details, to be treasured for generations to come.