Your West Midlands Wedding- February / March 2021 (Issue 72)

Q&A Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best Fashion & Beauty MODERN ROMANCE Q – I’m looking for a fashion-forward dress that will wow our guests. Do you have any suggestions? Every bride has their own interpretation of the perfect gown, but there are some who are searching for a fashion-forward design that will leave their guests in awe. Here at TDR Bridal, we are all about standing out from the crowd and helping you find something that you never would have imaged yourself in but represents you perfectly. It’s that moment when you step out of your comfort zone that amazing things can happen, however, this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have the most extravagant and bold dress. In fact, sometimes it’s quite the opposite. This is your chance to look and feel confident and when a bride feels secure, she will ooze style and sass. While micro weddings and sleek, simple looks are on the rise, there are still so many brides-to-be desperate to express their adventurous side with sparkle and colour. The biggest trend at the moment is sleeves. These are the perfect way to add personality to your gown and work well with a range of styles. Puff sleeves are bang on trend with off-the-shoulder versions making a huge comeback. We’re not saying Princess Diana here, but it’s the modern-day equivalent. Necklines are becoming a predictable trend in 2021, with an increase in higher, more demure styles. The opposite of that is a very low V neck, almost to the waistline, which if done correctly can be utterly stunning. The sharp, square neckline is also becoming hugely popular in bridal, flattering the collarbones and shoulders and it works with heavy satin, full lace and simplistic crepe. We have seen an influx in the number of brides opting for a cape rather than a veil. Visually capes are a statement piece that add extra coverage, a dramatic train and create two looks. If you have had to postpone your 2020 wedding, think of this as an opportunity to express yourself even more with the latest fashion-forward trends. Remember your style must guide you towards your perfect dress, no matter what is currently on-trend, be you and you’re sure to wow your guests. Rebecca Baddeley | Wedding dress expert www.thedressingroomsbridal.co.uk THE PERFECT FIT Q – How do I choose the right foundation for my skin type? Picking a foundation is hard as it comes in countless shades and formulas. If you have oily skin, use a powder foundation or an oil- free liquid version. These contain powders that absorb oil, leaving you with a smooth, matte finish. Mineral foundations also work well because the dry particles tend to absorb moisture and prevent any shine. Alternatively, if you have combination skin which is oily in some places and dry in others, then you may have a tougher job finding something to suit. I recommend mixing foundations to create a product that suits your needs. Those of you who have sensitive skin or struggle with acne, it’s best to avoid certain ingredients that can irritate your skin such as alcohol and fragrance based products. There are a few tests you can do to determine if your undertone is warm, cool or neutral. This involves assessing your hair and eye colour, what hue you look best in, how you react to the sun and the shade of your veins. Naturally black, brown or blonde hair combined with green, grey or blue eyes is an indication of a cool undertone. Alternatively, hazel, brown or amber eyes combined with black, auburn or strawberry blonde hair indicates a warm undertone. Cool people tend to turn pink or burn easily in the sun while those who are warm will bronze or tan. Blue veins on the inner wrist indicate cool; green veins suggest warm and bluish-green is neutral. Use this information to select some foundations to try out. The best place to test them is by dabbing some swatches on your jawline. This area will be truer to your natural undertone and give you an idea of how the foundation will look against your neck. Do not try it on the back of your hand and ensure you are near natural light to see the true match of the colour. Laura Timms | Hair and make-up artist www.lauratimms.co.uk STRUT YOUR STUFF Q – What are the latest styles and trends in menswear? With the current climate and lockdown raging strong, it can be hard to tell what the trends in menswear might be. Suits are on the way out since there are no weddings taking place and people aren’t going into the office anymore, so grooms may opt for something more casual. It’s a popular trend for weddings, and with more people spending time at home it’s ideal for people who need to look smart on video chats but still feel comfortable. Lisa Bull | Menswear specialist www.cavani.co.uk JUST FOR YOU Q – My hubby-to-be and I are looking for statement pieces of jewellery to wear on our big day. Do you have any suggestions? Statement jewellery is the perfect way to complete your wedding day look, and there are so many different options to choose from. You could go all out and have a bespoke tiara, keep it classy with a beautiful pair of earrings or try something a little different like a contemporary statement bracelet. Your hubby-to-be might opt for cufflinks, a tie pin or perhaps a hatpin. If you’re looking for something special, why not have a bespoke piece made with your style in mind? Bespoke jewellery is a great way to tell your story on your wedding day, and you can get the most out of your jewels by choosing a piece that you’ll be able to wear again and again. The design can be inspired by the place you met or your favourite holiday together. The possibilities are endless. Elizabeth Terzza | Jeweller www.elizabethterzza.com 96