IS FOR NECKLINES Just as there are many silhouettes to choose from, there's a world of necklines, each having its part to play in complementing or accentuating your figure. Head to Google and research sweetheart, plunging, off-the-shoulder, high, halter, one-shoulder, V, illusion, boat, empire, queen, scoop... we could go on! OIS FOR ORDERING Hanni from My Funny Valentine Bridal says, “We’d recommend starting the search for your dress around 12 to 18 months before the big day. There’s a lot to think about, so it’s best not to delay! “What many don’t realise is that on top of the time it takes to find your dream dress, gowns are made to order and therefore can take at least six months to receive. On top of this, you want to incorporate time for unexpected delays, then enough to have a minimum of three dress fittings – yes, three!” Heather from The Bridal Lounge gives us another reason for shopping so far in advance: “Looking at dresses exactly a year before the wedding will give you a feel for what the weather will be like on your big day. If it’s really hot, then think about something strapless or without sleeves.” PIS FOR PRELOVED If you’d rather invest your cash in other areas of the wedding, but don’t want to compromise on your look, you may want to consider looking at preloved gowns. Kinder on the pocket, these dresses will have been worn only once, some not at all, and may be no older than last season. QIS FOR QUICK If you’re planning a short engagement or you’ve left it a little late in the day to hit the boutiques, don’t panic! Hanni tells us, “There are rush options available, as well as purchasing an off-the-peg gown, so try not to stress too much.” Heather agrees, “If you’re really lucky, your favourite dress may be in a UK warehouse somewhere! Talk to your stylist and see what options are available.” Another budget-saving solution, or an idea if you’re short on time, is a sample sale. At the end of the season, bridal boutiques will often hold special events where they sell their sample dresses at a reduced cost to give them room in the boutique for the new lines. You’ll be limited on size of course, so be prepared to spend more on alterations. But they’re ready and waiting for you to take away, so no year-in-advance ordering is required. N RIS FOR REVIEWS As you would when researching any supplier for your W-day team, check out your local bridal boutique’s reviews. They’re understandably proud of the kind words their past brides have shared, so many will have a tab on their website you can look through. Alternatively, Facebook is a good place to see what’s hot. If nothing else, they’ll help to reassure you that you’re in good hands if you’re nervous before your appointment. S IS FOR SLEEVES Sleeves are becoming incredibly popular and offer a multitude of flexible options. Emma and Sophie say, “Sleeves are something we’re really excited about for our brides. Over the last few years we’ve seen designers come up with new and exciting ways to update their gowns and detachable sleeves have been a huge hit. Giving you a more modest and romantic look for your aisle walk, a sleeve, be it long or a Bardot, completely updates a look, then gives you a fresh take on your gown when you take them off for the evening.” You could even talk to your seamstress about adding to gowns that don’t already have them if you’re self-conscious about your arms or just love the look. My Funny Valentine Bridal © www.withloverosephotography.co.u Sophia Tolli available at The Bridal Lounge BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 77
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