GIS FOR GOWNS Start your search by having a look in your own wardrobe to see what silhouettes and styles you usually veer towards for a special occasion. You know what feels comfortable on your own body. If you’re not used to something fitted, your wedding day might not be the time to try – so avoid the mermaids 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 seen 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’ll simply be a case of weighing up your options and feeling satisfied with your decision. As long as you feel comfortable, there’s no reason to doubt your instincts, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! I IS FOR IVORY While Queen Victoria made it popular for brides 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. Hayley says, “White has always been difficult to wear in certain fabrics and most bridal shops will stick to ivory now with just a couple of white gowns in their sample collections. Becoming evermore popular are warmer hues such as moscato, almond, rum and champagne.” Victoria tells us, “When looking at colours, it’s vital to find one that works with your skin tone. You don’t want to get your photos back and realise your dress leaves you looking pale or brings out your pink undertones. A new dress of ours, Helga by Abella, has been created in a soft champagne, which can warm a skin tone beautifully and for the more daring bride, our Cinderella-inspired dress comes in a soft shade of blue, which is flattering to many skin tones” 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. Vicky says, “Your choice can depend on your neckline, hairstyle and detail on your dress. We always offer an accessories appointment, so you can try all your options.” K IS FOR KENT Sure, we’re a bit biased but we believe Kent has some of the best bridal boutiques in the land. By shopping local you’re supporting nearby businesses and benefiting from the attentive, one-to-one service they so expertly provide. You’ll be treated as the special person you are and shopping for the one will be an experience to treasure. L IS FOR LACE Lace has long been used in wedding dresses largely thanks to its luxurious nature, having historically been labourintensive to produce. Once again Queen Vic is in part responsible for its popularity, sporting 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 styles from chic and traditional to vintage and boho. 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 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. 7272 Stella York, available at Victoria Grace Bridal Cinderella, available at Victoria Elaine Bridal Helga, available at Victoria Elaine Bridal Maggie Sottero, available at Victoria’s Bridal Boutique BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 83
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