Q&A Fashion Look and feel your big-day best with help from the professionals ALL IN THE DETAIL I do love my unembellished dress, but I’m now worried it’s a bit too plain. How can I use accessories to give it more oomph? Heather says: My first suggestion would be to add a sparkly belt. It can be wide or thin, lacy or beaded, and even made detachable if you want to have a different look for the evening without buying another outfit. This is also a good way of emphasising your waist and drawing the eye away from the plainness of the dress. You could even have a coloured sash that complements the colour of your bridesmaids’ dresses, or the groom’s suit. Another great way of utilising accessories as embellishment is to use contrasting veils and head pieces. For example, a twinkly veil adds an extra layer to the dress that can later be taken off. Head pieces, either hair combs, slides or vines twinkle looking amazing in photographs – use it to your advantage! If you don’t like sparkle or it doesn’t work with your theme, try adding fresh flowers or a laceedged veil to your hair. Even the flowers in your bouquet could work to make your dress special. YOU DO HUE I don’t want to wear white or ivory, but still want to look bridal. What options do I have? Ali says: Not everyone suits brilliant white, and ivory comes in so many shades it can be hard to find the right one. This is where your expert bridal consultant can help. Many brides opt for gowns with a subtle hint of colour. There are plenty of shades to choose from, not just blush. There are warm, neutral and cool colours to complement every skin tone, eye and hair colour. Overlays, in complementary shades of ivory are also an option. They mute the colour and help any details to stand out, meaning you can get that bridal look without wearing entirely white or ivory. A friend of mine wore a wine-red gown – it suited her dark hair and pale complexion to a tee. It was a satin A-line gown with a long train, which she bustled for the evening reception. So, she still had the bridal style and silhouette that suited her, but was also able to rock a frock in the best shade for her. Pastel prints, highlighted textures and coloured embroidery are popular. Meanwhile, nude linings overlaid with intricate fabrics let the design stand out – ideal if you want a bold contrast. Don’t be afraid to opt for a coloured gown though, we can always match your veil to your dress allowing you to have the bridal look you love and crucially a feel that’s right for you. CONTACT OUR EXPERTS Heather Laver, www.thebridallounge.co.uk Ali Hamilton, www.blueandsixpence.co.uk 78
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