Mum’s the word Let’s not forget those other important leading ladies – the mums. They’re in the spotlight too and for some it can be pretty daunting, especially for those not used to wearing special occasionwear. Just knowing where to start can be a major hurdle, so getting expert help can be a real godsend. Kim Burr, owner of Burr Bridal shop in Cambridge, has many years’ experience in the industry. She says, “Not all mums feel happy to stand out on their daughter or son’s wedding day. They might be shy or not very body-confident and we love to help find flattering styles and colours to suit them. We also advise on accessories, which can make or break an outfit.” KIM’S TOP TIPS ❤ When you’re out shopping, be open to trying different things on and you may be happily surprised. ❤ Bring your wedding shoes or heels with you to get the full effect. ❤ Wear Spanx, they really do help. ❤ Take someone with you, ideally not your other half, as they’re likely to say you look lovely in everything, ❤ Don’t try to match colours exactly to the bridesmaids – blending ‘yes’, not clashing ‘absolutely’. HATS ON Hat or no hat? It’s not an everyday dilemma and it can be hard to decide but if you can’t find what you want in the shops, you can always have one made to match your wedding outfit perfectly. What’s more, a statement hat is a great way to stand out and helps distinguish the mums from other wedding guests. Anne Reeder of Ipswich-based Anne Reeder Millinery specialises in bespoke hats and headpieces for weddings and special occasions and has a ready-to-wear range too. She says, “My bespoke hats can be like the ones in my collection or individually designed, but they are all one-off pieces so no two are exactly the same. I’m always aware that some people love wearing hats and headpieces while others try to avoid it unless absolutely necessary! So, when designing individual headwear I take this into account, along with the customer’s face and body shape and personality.” Anne designs new collections every year and keeps up to date with all the latest trends. She says, “The classic styles continue to be popular for weddings including hats with big brims, saucer- and button-style headpieces along with halo hats trimmed with flowers, bows and lots of feathers. The colours for spring/summer 2022 are bright and bold, often with neon hues. My latest collection reflects this with fabulous raspberry pink and red shades trimmed with orange or lime green, as well as bright yellow, blue, black and white. With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations this year, there are also shapes inspired by the special anniversary emblem and Royal Jubilee rose.” To find out more visit www.annereedermillinery.co.uk THE FINISHING TOUCH With the wedding season in full swing, fascinators are proving to be a popular finishing piece to any outfit with many opting for a bespoke piece made entirely to match their colour scheme. “Many brides and guests are looking for something a little different with a big focus on vintage-style pieces highlighting floral styling and veiling to recreate the sophistication of bygone eras,” reports Amanda Sutherland designer and creator of www.asutherlandfascinators.co.uk “Having created beautiful fascinators for more than 20 years, I have noticed the trend has gone from large and vibrant pieces to far more subtle designs in the form of hair ornaments with the added advantage of being able to wear them all day,” she adds. Psst… Burr Bridal offers a range of quality flowergirl dresses by British designers too. Find out more at www.burrbridal.co.uk Dresses by John Charles 54
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