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Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31782, 12 September 1968, Page 3

A slim gown of Chantilly lace, embroidered in sparkling mother-of-pearl sequins, won 22-year-old, redheaded Mrs Sandra Sullivan, of Christchurch, the “Bride of the Year” title.

The poised, petite bride, who was married in January, was acclaimed by the popular vote of. a capacity audience at the Christchurch Soroptimist Club’s annual contest, held at the Horticultural Hall on Wednesday evening.

When asked to come forward, her husband, Mr Julian Sullivan, happily escorted Mrs Sullivan down the catwalk, and told the audience he was "delighted” with their choice. Mrs Sullivan, formerly Miss Khouri, won a wardrobe of clothes and Mr Sullivan will receive a suit, shirts and pyjamas. A dainty Swiss organza, embroidered with sprays at the hem and across the empireline bodice, fashioned the gown of the second-place winner, a slim brunette, Mrs Leslie Holmes, formerly Miss Bench, also of Christchurch. Her headgear was formed from sprays of lily of the valley, holding a full-length cage veil. Mrs Holmes’s prize was a model gown and stock ings. Long Train A pretty, blue-eyed blonde from Southbridge, Mrs Judy Haggerjam, won third place Starry French chiffon lace, ruched and dotted with crystals, covered the empire bodice and elbow-length sleeves of her gown which was of crystal tetron over satin Dior roses outlined her long, divided train. Mrs Hagger jam (Miss Gamble) won a pair of blankets. Although white was the most popular choice among the

47 entrants, several brides wore shades of ivory, and parchment, some deepening to pale gold. Elaborate French ribbon, Chantilly, and guipure laces were favoured fabrics. Richly embroidered satins contrasted plain raw silk, a fresh Swiss embroidered cotton, soft wool lace, and embroidered and appliqued organza. Band Of Lace Occasionally a small distinctive touch added individuality to the now classic A-line or empire line gowns. One young bride wore a band oi lace, on which the veil was at tached, over her head and fastened it under her chin; another threaded her long veil through a deep ring to form a striking tuft effect Pillboxes and flowered cloches were popular. Glittering beading, circled by bands of pearls, covered the deep yoke and long pointed cuffs of a silk gown with a medieval air, and traced a intricate scroll pattern down the front of a short-sleeved, Aiiine gown. A white lace crinoline gown, with nipped-in waist and tiered skirt, was worn by a blond bride who adhered faithfully to past romance, including ringlets and a wide hoop skirt. Beautifully Cut Simplicity was the key to the success of a very slim blonde who wore a graceful, beautifully cut frock of champagne crepe which opened to an inverted pleat from the bustline. Her dark glassses added to the striking effect. Dainty bouquets were supplied by local florists, and the three-tiered wedding cake given by a Christchurch firm to add atmosphere to the de-

cor was presented to the children of Nazareth House by the club. » While the votes were being counted a fashion parade, showing the garments given by sponsors, was presented. Mr Christopher Doig gave several vocal items and Mr David Bradford and his assistants created hairstyles with wigs. Incidental music was supplied by the Harley Scott Trio. The photograph shows Mr Sullivan escorting Mrs Sullivan down the ramp after she was announced “Bride of the Year.”