Your North West Wedding- Page number 88 - August/September 2021 (Issue 69)

TREND SETTER Q – What wedding dress styles, colours and embellishments are popular at the moment? Short wedding dresses are becoming a massive trend. You don’t have to wear the traditional tea-length design, you could opt for a high front and low back like Gwen Stefani’s Vera Wang gown or something like Lilly Allen’s vintage mini Dior dress. If that’s not for you, then how about ruffles? It can create extra detailing or you could go big with a ruffle mermaid skirt. Off-the-shoulder gowns are super flattering and very popular among most designers. Square necklines have also made a return thanks to Bridgerton setting a new trend. To create a statement, why not try trousers or a jumpsuit? Those of you who would rather stay with a full-length dress, try adding some detachable puffy sleeves as boho styles are on the rise. If you have a short gown, you can add on a detachable skirt with a train. Fashionable colours include a nude base with ivory lace detailing or a traditional off white. Plain gowns can be accessorised with a cape or shawl that has some beaded detailing on it. Alternatively, you can’t go wrong with a sash around the waist or accessories such as headbands, which can be paired with statement earrings. Remember the most important thing is that you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. Roxanne Halenko Dress designer www.roxannehalenko.com HAIR CARE HERO Q – How can I make sure my hair is in good condition for my wedding day? Planning your wedding is an exciting yet stressful experience that can take its toll on your hair. Healthy locks begin on the inside, so take vitamin supplements at least three months before the big day to help your hair thrive. Don’t overuse heat and use treatments to help maintain strength and moisture. Get your tresses cut one month before, giving it plenty of time to settle. Right before your wedding isn’t the time to try a drastic new style. Plan any extreme makeovers a year before the big day, allowing your hair time to grow if you don’t love it. Aim to have achieved your target shade at least eight weeks before with a touch up the week before to ensure the colour looks fresh. Choosing a style depends on the neckline of your dress. Ruffles and frills combined with fussy hair may appear too much. If your gown is minimal, consider a sleek style or soft, loose waves. Remember, you’re creating lasting memories that you will see in your photos for years to come, so don’t necessarily go for the latest trend as you may look back in 10 years and wonder what on earth you were thinking! Select a stylist you have complete confidence in and check out their previous work on real clients before booking. The time running up to your nuptials is when you should discuss your thoughts and ideas, plan whether you want to wear a veil and what will fit with your style. Take along pictures that inspire you and options you don’t like to your trial to ensure you and your stylist are on the same page. This will take away any unnecessary stress on your wedding morning. Most importantly, arrive on the day fed, watered and with clean, dry hair ready for your stylist to prep. Anna Murray Hair stylist www.joanna-murray.co.uk Q&A Fashion & beauty Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best www.mic kcooksonphotography.co.uk 88