Your Yorkshire Wedding - July/August 2019 (Issue 37)

76 Our local pros solve your problems DESIGNS ON YOU I’ve tried on lots of dresses but haven’t found one with all the elements I want. I think that bespoke might be the way to go, but what’s involved in the process? Lots of our brides find themselves in this predicament. Finding the most important dress of your life can be a daunting task, but with the guidance of a respected, experienced professional it can be the most wonderful experience. We offer a completely bespoke service, creating one-off haute couture gowns tailored to each client’s style and event. The choices are limitless and we can incorporate all the elements you want. There’s no compromising on your vision, and our incredibly talented seamstresses handcraft each gown in our Leeds premises. The initial consultation is very exciting and is the time to discuss ideas, your personal style and the logistics of your wedding. You’ll have a series of appointments to take your measurements, create a toile (a version of your dress made in cotton calico) and then perfect your dream dress. These multiple fittings at different stages ensure the utmost excellence in design, quality and fit. Anita Massarella | Anita Massarella Design anitamassarella.co.uk kerrywoodsphotography.com Mia Mia Bridal SUMMER BREEZE What’s the best style of dress for an al fresco summer wedding? It’s so important to think about your venue when choosing your gown, especially if you have outdoor nuptials planned. While finding the perfect shape for your body is the most important factor, you also need to consider ease of movement, material and how big your dress is. If you want something to show off your curves while still giving you room to move, then a fit- and-flare style is the perfect choice. If a more relaxed vibe is your thing, go for a looser A-line shape, which nips in at the waist and flows to the ground. How about a shorter style? This would be beautiful for a summery look. Find fabrics that are light and airy and seek out dresses with fewer layers of netting underneath as this can make you flustered on a hot day. If you like the idea of sleeves, opt for light lace or sheer materials rather than full fabric. Finally, be wise about the length of your train. At an outdoor wedding there are so many things it can get caught on, especially in the countryside. A shorter train will be much more practical. Stephanie Moran | Stephanie Moran Couture | stephaniemorancouture.com THE PERFECT FIT What dress styles and fabrics will suit my pear-shaped figure? Dress shopping is so exciting, but it can also be a minefield if you don’t know what suits your body shape. Whether you like it or not, you’ll be the focus of everyone’s attention on your special day so you want to feel like the very best version of yourself. Your bridal consultant is there to guide you and offer expertise – so make the most of them. A pear-shaped figure is when your hips are wider than your shoulders. The best way to flatter this body type is with a dress that highlights the waist and focuses attention on the bodice rather than the skirt. Look for an A-line or ballgown style that cinches in at the waist and accentuates your smallest point. The Eleanora design from Mia Mia Bridal’s Love Letters Collection is the perfect example of this look and also features a flattering sweetheart neckline. Kerensa Dyson | Bijou Bridal Boutique bijoubridalboutique.co.uk Fashion sugarbirdphoto.co.uk Q&A