Lee & McCabe started from my own wedding journey. As a former bride who was planning her dream wedding, I spent a lot of money on bridal outfits that were only worn once. I spent anywhere from $200 - $800 per outfit (not including my wedding dress) for each of my bridal events - from my engagement outfit to the after party look. Planning a wedding is a big investment and when I look back on my wedding journey, I wish I invested in a few pieces that I was able to wear beyond my special day.
A slip dress is one of the most versatile pieces so I wanted to create timeless bridal slip dresses that weren’t just for one bridal moment but could be worn again and again—for a romantic honeymoon dinner, an anniversary celebration, or even a chic brunch with the girls. Bridal fashion should feel effortless, elegant, and versatile, not wasteful or tucked away in the back of a closet after one wear. From there, Lee & McCabe was born. Lee was my maiden name and McCabe is now my new last time.
I had a background working in fashion but did not know anything about design. So I worked with my friend Diana who helped me sketch my vision (photo below). I wanted to design a classic and timeless ivory slip dress but also wanted to create a more unique piece for the bride who was looking for something nontraditional.
I went back and forth with our factory and always asked for photos to see the progress. Below are photos I received for our signature Amore ivory slip dress. I had two samples made with different fabrics so I could decide which fabric I liked more. I went with option 2 because the fabric was super buttery and soft.
My talented cousin drew the floral pattern for our East Meets West floral dress which is inspired from my wedding. We added a light red hue to the flowers to pay hommage to my Chinese culture. How beautiful is the floral pattern that my cousin drew?!
After a year and half of planning, designing, and multiple rounds of fit tests while working full time in real estate marketing, I launched my bridal brand Lee & McCabe December 2024 with two styles - Amore Ivory Slip Dress and The East Meets West Floral Dress. These bridal dresses are made for any bridal moment - from engagement shoots to the perfect bridal getting ready outfit the morning of your special day. Brides deserve dresses they can wear again, so we made them and know you will cherish them for years to come!
xoxo
Tiffany Lee McCabe