SUSAN HIRST OF BRIDAL APPAREL LEEDS SAYS… Tell us about your boutique We’re a small, family-run bridal boutique and our focus is on the experience the bride and her guests have when visiting our setting. What key piece of advice would you give to brides when dress shopping? I explain to the bride that this day is a day to gain experience as to what dress will suit your body shape so that she’s comfortable as well as looking stunning. We always say, “Feel how you feel, before you look how you look.” This way, if you feel good, you’re very likely to look amazing. We found that heavy, uncomfortable boning went out the day Covid came in. The bride’s mindset changed and yes, they want to look amazing but they really want something they can wear and have a brilliant day in too. The dress has to suit the venue. I know that may sound silly but if it’s a barn or outside venue then soft flowing natural boho styles work perfectly. A church often suits something more traditional with the big train and veil. We like to educate our brides about all the options that are open to them along with a sit-down chat for about 10 minutes to get to know the bride’s likes and dislikes. What are your top trend tips for 2022? The year 2022 will be very mixed from what I can see from the Harrogate and London Bridal exhibitions – expect very simple dresses as well as very over the top beaded full skirts. Black is also making a comeback. We’re also doing a catsuit next year that I’m sure will be popular! 0113 250 1616 | www.bridalapparelleeds.co.uk KATE FEARNLEY OF KATE FEARNLEY BOUTIQUE SAYS… Tell us about your boutique We’ve recently moved the business to a lovely converted station building in Stokesley, north Yorkshire. Everything is designed and made from our studio which is situated above the boutique. The boutique is light and fresh with beautiful views of the Yorkshire hills. Inside there are two separate ground floor showrooms, one for all bridal collections and the other for our occasionwear samples. The interior is a romantic and modern mix with velvet and chrome fittings. We work by appointment and offer a bespoke option to our ready to wear collections which can now be seen in selected UK stockists. What key piece of advice would you give to brides when dress shopping? Be open minded on styles and shapes and try different looks outside of your comfort zone to find the right style for you. Don’t have too many people at your initial appointment when trying styles on so you can concentrate on what you like without too many opinions. What’s your favourite dress in the boutique? Petal is one of my favourites as it’s fashion forward and very easy to wear. The illusion top and 3D flower cascade down the crepe satin circular skirt with pockets works really well for the modern bride. What are your trend predictions for 2022? Less formal styles, sleeve detailing, floral and feather embroidery detailing, flowing skirts with pockets. 01642 638 477 | https://katefearnley.com Bianco Evento Bianco Evento https://www.nataliepluck.com https://www.nataliepluck.com 65 BRIDAL BOUTIQUES
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