GIS FOR GOWNS There are so many silhouettes and styles to choose from, so start by having a look in your own wardrobe to see what vibe you usually veer towards for a special occasion or what you know feels comfortable on your body. If you’re not used to something fitted, your wedding day might not be the time to try – so avoid the fit and flares and look at the A-lines. Likewise, think about your overall vision. For example, a boho rustic event cries out for something relaxed, soft, non-structured and flowing. HIS FOR HAPPY TEARS Fear not, when you find the one all is not necessarily as we see it on TV with much arm flapping and tears. If you’re not the emotional sort, it’s unlikely you’ll suddenly start while you’re dress shopping, and that’s completely fine. Sometimes, it will simply be a case of weighing up your options and feeling satisfied with your decision. As long as you feel comfortable in that, there’s no reason to doubt it, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! I IS FOR IVORY Here comes the bride, all dressed in white... or is she? While Queen Victoria made it popular for the bride to wear white, having done so on her own wedding day, commitment to this tradition has by and large been relegated to the annals of history. More popular hues now are warmer ones such as ivory of course, as well as moscato, almond, rum and champagne. If you’re feeling daring you could even go floral or with something bold. Just ensure the colour complements your skin tone and doesn’t wash you out. J IS FOR JEWELLERY The fun doesn’t end when you order your dress, as now you get to start shopping for your accessories. It’s generally recommended to do this after you’ve decided on your attire as it’s easier to make the jewellery work with the dress rather than the other way around. The right piece can elevate your look or solve any niggles you may have. Your choice can depend on your neckline, hairstyle and detail on your dress. K IS FOR KICK UP YOUR HEELS Once you’ve ordered your gown, it’s time to give your footwear some serious thought. You’ll need to have your shoes in the bag by the time your alterations appointment comes round as it’s important to make sure the seamstress knows the exact length the dress needs to be, and heels versus flats will make quite the difference. Make sure you’re comfortable. If you generally live and die in trainers, there are some gorgeous bridal options out there. Alternatively, many brides choose to make their shoes their wedding-day treat to themselves and spend months saving for the ultimate Jimmy Choos. Your footwear offers another opportunity to put your own stamp on your attire and Brighton-based brand Irregular Choice always proves a popular choice amongst those looking to add a super-fun twist. LIS FOR LACE Lace has long been used in wedding dresses thanks to its luxurious nature, having historically been labour-intensive to produce. Once again Queen Vic is in part responsible for its popularity, having sported handmade lace on her wedding dress. But if you’re now thinking of grandma’s doilies – stop! Modern lace is as varied as it is beautiful. Alencon, eyelet, Chantilly, embroidered, guipure (sometimes called Venetian), soft knit, and point d’esprit are all popular with today’s designers, covering a myriad of styles. MIS FOR MONEY It’s easy to get swept up in all the gorgeous gowns on offer, so how to avoid busting the budget and before that, how to settle on one? There’s a general rule of thumb out there on the internet that says you should allocate five to 10 per cent of your overall budget to the dress but it really does depend on what you feel comfortable with and whether this is one of your non-negotiable elements. We recommend above all that you’re realistic about what you want and the rest will fall into place. For example, if you love lots of detailing and heavy beading, an acceptance that this isn’t going to come cheap will stand you in good stead, it’s then up to you whether you want to compromise. www.azazie.com 64
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=