The Perfect Accessory for A Black Wedding Dress

Bouton d’Or Cymbeline 2008

cymbeline black wedding dress

Since posting about the Black Wedding Dress trend a little while back, I’ve received tons of emails from brides who have decided to “go for it”, but are now wondering about their bouquet. Some brides are choosing dramatic red rose bouquets, and some, sleek calla lilies in white or black. I think that after making such a bold statement with the black dress, any other accouterment - flowers included- would have to be understated yet exceptional. Which is why I was so excited today when I spotted these gorgeous fans by designer Olivia Oberlin. Originally a clothes designer, Olivia fell in love with fans in the mid-90’s, and went on to study for two years with a Master Fan-maker under the patronage of the French Ministry of Culture. Now she and her assistants custom create fans for customers all over the world. She uses antique as well as contemporary materials, and works carefully to make every fan exactly to her client’s wishes. Her collections have names like “Temptation” and “Eden” and are made out of things like peacock feathers, shantung and sequins. One of her fans would make a great accessory to carry down the aisle, during a wedding reception or on the dance floor at the after-party. They could also be offered as a beautiful bridesmaids gift, or simply as a lovely souvenir of Paris.

shantung & sequins, olivia oberlin

shantung & sequins, olivia oberlin

linen & pheasant feathers, olivia oberlin

linen & pheasant feathers, olivia oberlin

taffetta & coq feathers, olivia oberlin

taffetta & coq feathers, olivia oberlin

lace & peacock feather, olivia oberlin

lace & peacock feather, olivia oberlin

4 Responses to “The Perfect Accessory for A Black Wedding Dress”


  1. 1 Polka Dot Bride

    I love the idea of a fan..feels very exotic!

  2. 2 Octavine Illustration

    this dress is absolutely exquitsite. i love the idea of black for a wedding dress. and the fan adds just the right bit of color.

    i’m so glad to find your site. i am a french art deco enthusiast and base all my art (including custom wedding invitations) and font design on this period.

    i only wish i had found you before i got married!

  3. 3 Heidi @ Zenadia Design

    What a fantastic idea! I love the red fan with the feathers at the top. Very glamorous.

  4. 4 tamie

    I absolutely love this dress and the fans. I have always been fascinated by 18th century fashion. Very dark but sultry. Loves it ;)

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