EIS FOR ENTOURAGE “Whether you want the whole entourageand-champagne moment or something more cosy, relaxed and intimate is something you need to think about. Covid limited the number of people who could come along to a boutique appointment, which worked for many who could only bring the most important people with trusted opinions to help them choose. Ultimately, only you know how a dress makes you feel, so go with your gut feeling. This is definitely an emotional purchase rather than a practical one, and is all about your vision for yourself on your wedding day,” Claire tells us. A Rock that frock The ultimate A-Z guide to wedding-dress shopping IS FOR ALTERATIONS Once you’ve ordered your dream dress you’ll need to start looking for a seamstress to do your alterations. Even though you’ve ordered your size, chances are it’ll still need a little tweak here and there as dresses fit everyone differently. Often the bridal boutique will be able to make a recommendation or may even have one in house. If not, look on social media for those with plenty of good reviews. B IS FOR BODY BEAUTIFUL Claire Baldwin from Clara Fitz Bridal in Worthing (www.clarafitzbridal.com) says, “It’s so important to us here to have dresses to fit everyone and stock sizes from 8 to 28 in the boutique, but most styles can be ordered up to a 32. You all deserve to feel your most beautiful on your wedding day, so being able to get a true vision of how you’ll look is so important. Our Silhouette Collection by Romantica of Devon has everything from classic to boho.” CIS FOR CATWALK Our top tip for newly-engaged couples is to hit the wedding shows as soon as you can. It’s the best way to meet suppliers and assemble your W-day team. While you’re there, be sure to experience a catwalk show. It’ll help you find the inspiration you’ve been looking for from silhouettes, to fabrics and designers; as well as guiding you towards a boutique you might want to make an appointment with. F IS FOR FABRIC The fabric you end up opting for will largely be governed by the style you’ve fallen in love with. Gorgeous floaty chiffon and tulle are delicate, lightweight materials often found in soft, effortless, boho-chic gowns – ideal for summer nuptials. Sparkle tulles in particular have been on trend in 2022. Classic satins with modern twists too are very much en vogue when it comes to beautifully structured shapes and clean lines. “Sustainable fabrics such as organic lace, satin, Mikado and natural silk are set to be big in 2023,” says County Wedding Magazines’ fashion editor Claire Ridley. “Stretch crepe is the ultimate fabric for the modern bride with the sassy mermaid silhouette receiving an update thanks to this material, and sheathstyle gowns also made from it showcase sexy front splits.” www.pronovias.com © Romantica of Devon Media Available at Clara Fitz Bridal IS FOR DIARY Claire says, “For many brides looking for the perfect wedding dress can start out as an overwhelming shopping experience. Do your research on designers, styles and the price ranges bridal shops offer before you make an appointment. Bringing nude underwear with you and wearing minimal make-up are practical pointers, but all we ask really is that you bring an open mind and sense of fun! It’s important to us that you feel relaxed and enjoy the process.” D BRIDAL BOUTIQUES 63
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