Q&A Fashion Look and feel your big-day best with help from the experts FABULOUS FASHIONISTA I don’t think a traditional gown is for me. I want to stand out from the crowd in something with an unusual edge. What can you recommend? Hanni Frankland from My Funny Valentine (www.mfvbridal.com) says: I have so many favourites in store and change my mind weekly, but right now I am obsessed with our new gown Julian by Pronovias, which could work perfectly for you. Her stunning jacquard fabric is unusual, yet classic, and she has the most beautiful square neckline and full skirt! She also has the option of a detachable flower to make her even more fun! Although we will always adore an ivory gown, if you want to steer clear of the traditional colour there are so many other options including various nude and blush tones, which mean the lace and detail on your gown really stand out. They can also be a little more flattering on different skin tones than a pure white dress. Although not many bridal designers make dresses in a true white tone any longer and tend to use ivory or off white, as pure white can photograph a little blue and be trickier to wear. As well as the nude colours, many of our designers have options for black or a bolder colour like red or hot pink in their designs and can often make custom changes to alter the fabric of your chosen gown to these colours if they don’t come in it already. Always ask your bridal stylist of what options you have and be sure to have fun with it! Be true to your own personal style even on your wedding day, after all your wedding dress should be all about you! GREEN FASHION How can I be sustainably minded when shopping for my dress and bridesmaids’ dresses? Joanne Maloney from A Bridal Story (www.abridalstory.co.uk) says: Look for boutiques that have preloved or reimagined dresses for you to choose from. For example, we have a collection of dresses that we’ve brought back to life from discontinued sample dresses that give our brides unique and sustainable choices. Also, have a look at bridal designer websites for their sustainability statement and choose one that fits your values. Many designers are now using fabrics from old samples or recycled fabrics, which means less going to landfill and they will be able to tell you where your local stockist is. Finally, I’d say think about the styles you choose. Could it be worn again or could it be altered to wear on another occasion? We offer a consultation service to redesign/repurpose your wedding or bridesmaid dress so that it’s not stuck in a wardrobe or loft! You can say “yes” to it again, imagine that! 49 EXPERT ADVICE
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