Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - May/June 2020 (Issue 80)

64 F rancesca Delaney, the wedding boutique- owning character of my novel, The Perfect Dress, has a particular mission in mind when choosing dresses for her brides. From 1930s full- length satin to crepe minis from the 1960s, she has the ability to ‘feel’ the wisdoms and stories woven into these vintage gowns, which she then matches to her customers, depending on what she thinks they need to make them happy. I had enormous fun researching the book and learned so much about wedding dresses and what they mean to their owners. Here is my guide to finding your own ‘perfect’ wedding dress – the one that sums you up and makes you feel amazing, whoever you are, whatever you’re into. There are many codes and conventions surrounding the concept of the wedding dress, some as old as time, some defined by fashion blogs and trends, so it can be hard to know where to start. Do you know your sheath from your empire line? Your mermaid from your trumpet skirt? If you’re not sure what shapes and cuts suit you, study the clothing you already have in your wardrobe. That favourite top or dress that you love, the one that makes you feel super confident and beautiful – what is it that works so well? The waist? The fabric? The neckline? One of the most important garments you’ll ever wear, your wedding dress is a chance to really TO PERFECTION Dressed Author Louisa Leaman shares her inspired guide to finding the one