Over 16,000 hand-tooled, teardrop-shaped “scales” were employed by visionary designer Bethany Cordwell to create the unique texture of her head-turning dress. The pink and black shapes were cut from reflective plastic document folders and individually sewn together, layer upon layer, to achieve a fluttery, futuristic effect that catches the light.

The simple strapless style with its short circle skirt is a smart vehicle to showcase her creativity, tempering the elaborate finish. Topped off with a coordinating fascinator, evocative of the wings of some rare bird, the overall effect is simply extraordinary.