IS FOR NECKLINES As there are many silhouettes to choose from, there’s also a whole world of necklines, each one 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 Vicky says, “Dresses are still taking a little longer to arrive than they did pre-Covid, so we’d advise ordering your dress no later than nine to 12 months before your wedding. This allows plenty of time for delivery, alterations and customisation.” Victoria from Victoria Elaine Bridal shares, “Brides often tell us they want to lose a bit of weight before the big day, but don’t delay the shopping or you may find your dream dress can’t be delivered in time. Be reassured though that they can be taken in by two sizes, sometimes more, during alterations. So, find the one and allow your stylist and seamstress to advise on the size.” PIS FOR PRELOVED If you’d rather invest your cash in other areas of the wedding, but don’t want to compromise on you 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. Check out www.bridesdressrevisited.com in Sevenoaks. QIS FOR QUICK Another budget-saving solution, or 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. Some boutiques such as Victoria Grace in Canterbury offer another option if you’re in a hurry. Hayley says, “We have a ready-to-wear collection in store. These gowns can be taken off the peg at heavily reduced prices, but are made by our designers so you’re not lacking in quality or fit.” 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 Hayley says, “Sleeves are becoming incredibly popular and the options are so flexible now. Lots of our gowns are available with or without them, with detachable sleeves allowing you to change the look from daytime to evening, and you can even choose the length. Our own seamstresses can also add to gowns that don’t already have them, which is a great idea if you’re conscious of your arms or feel like adding your own twist.” For more stylish sleeve inspiration check out our fashion feature from page 89. D3570 Essense of Australia, available at Victoria’s Bridal Boutique D3521 Essence of Australia, available at Victoria Grace Bridal BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 85
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