Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - September/October 2020 (Issue 82)

70 AMY HALL The Bridal Hall, Elson, Hampshire www.thebridalhall.co.uk I have no idea what kind of wedding dress I’m looking for, where should I start? Begin by trying on different shape gowns with varied types of skirt, strapless or straps. There may also be a fabric or detail that stands out to you on the rail; which is always a good starting point. Even before trying anything on, identify elements you want to include or any parts of your body you want to emphasise or camouflage, to help narrow down the options. During the appointment, as you’re chatting and ideas start to flow, other gowns will be brought into the dressing room for you to try on and ultimately you will find your perfect one. What kind of fabrics are most suitable for an autumn/winter wedding? You don’t have to limit your choice of fabric, style or length of your dress depending on the season. However, there are some stunning sleeved gowns, fabulous boleros and fur shrugs available to keep you cozy when it’s cold. What other colours are available as an alternative to traditional white? Actually I’d say ivory is the new ’traditional’ and white is now seen as an alternative colour. There are plenty of other options too, including champagne, blush, mocha, full floral and even black; your day, your style, your gown! NIKKI SPURRELL Bridal Treasures, Whitwell, Isle of Wight www.bridaltreasuresiow.co.uk When should I order my dress? Many designers will need about 24 weeks to order and make your wedding dress, and it’s advisable to have it in-store two to three months before the day ready for your fitting and to allow for any last-minute alterations. What’s the best way to get ideas before going shopping? Doing your homework is really important, browse through local wedding magazines, social media and online for pictures and information to bring to your bridal consultation. Look at styles and silhouettes, search different designers and check out current wedding trends. Research different bridal boutiques in your area to see what they offer and the dresses they stock. Bridal magazines are a great source of information, you can read about what’s in fashion now, what to expect next season and photos in print help no end. Make use of all these options to gather ideas and find out what you do and don’t like. Collate a folder or moodboard of inspiration so you can share your vision with the bridal consultant. What kind of budget do I need to allow? This is down to personal choice, whether you plan to splurge or stick to a maximum spend. The price of the dress will depend on many different factors including the designer, the style of the gown, the amount of bling, whether it’s just- in or a previous-season style. Many stores also offer off-the-rail collections of new or pre-loved dresses, often for less than £1,000. Your budget will be determined by many different factors and we advise setting a price point you can afford and sticking to it, whatever it might be. Don’t feel pressured into increasing your limit, even ’just a little’, as you might regret spending more than you expected to later on. On the other hand, if you’ve decided it’s all about the dress, absolutely – go for it! But don’t buy it for the price tag, always choose the dress you love most. The one motto we always stick to is, ’buy with your heart’ and, whatever your budget allows, you WILL find the one . Prudence gown by Bianco Evento Shrug by Bianco Evento