Hitch up those garter belts! Taiwanese-born Karla Hour, owner of the Karla Hour Couture and F.C. Couture bridal services companies, is offering a return to traditionally elegant bridal gowns and accessories.

For the past 19 years, Hour has been the head freelance ready-to-wear freelance designer for four Asian and European fashion houses.

After moving to San Francisco in the mid-80's, Hour developed four of her own ready-to-wear lines while continuing to do custom couture bridal work. By 1991, she streamlined her business so she could specialize in fine couture design and detail work.

Karla Hour Couture, a full service bridal salon, specialized in high-end custom designs from the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Lacroix and Dior.

F.C. Couture specialized in mid-range ready-to-wear bridal lines, including an extensive rental collection. Summer brides looking for simple elegance and personal service from a San Francisco-based designer can contact Karla Hour at (415) 921-7622.