Jocelyn Banks Designer

Jocelyn Banks Designer is a couture studio in Lydney, in the Forest of Dean, making bespoke wedding dresses designed and made individually to fit each bride. Jocelyn has worked in fashion since 1988, trained at Stafford Art College and moved to Gloucestershire in 2003, and is a corsetry specialist.

Each commission starts with a free consultation, in the studio or online, to talk through colours, fabrics, silhouettes and ideas. Jocelyn then drafts a pattern block from the bride's measurements and makes a calico toile, with fittings to refine the fit before the final silks, laces and embellishments are used.

Alongside wedding gowns, the studio makes bridesmaids' dresses, mother of the bride or groom outfits, men's wedding suits, veils, hats and garters. A piece usually takes about three months, and the studio suggests allowing between six and twelve months before the wedding.