WED’S WISH LIST

wed’s

From dreamy dresses to sweet flower girl frocks, here’s our pick of the latest bridal must-haves

words Rebecca Matthews

wish list

NEW ROMANTICS

Located in The House That Moved, a 15th century building in Exeter’s historical West Quarter, Pirouette offers a highly personal service in a unique and intimate setting.

Long-standing stockists of some of wedding world’s most celebrated designers, the rails are full of exquisite gowns from Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram and Sottero & Midgley. With the arrival of the latest collections, brides-to-be can expect to be wowed by some irresistible designs. Essex from Sottero & Midgley, for example, is a confection of shimmery tulle with floral lace and a plunge neckline, while Maggie Sottero’s Fernanda is all sleek, sleeved crepe with elegant button detailing down the train. For boho queens, there’s the chic silhouette and delicate floral detailing of Rebecca Ingram’s Fleur Lynette, while Maggie Sottero’s Winter blends whimsical lace and fairytale vibes with detachable illusion lace sleeves for a timelessly beautiful statement.

With further dazzling choice in the form of off-the-shoulder glamour, vintage-inspired embellishment and boho laces, the boutique offers a dream dress for brides of all styles. There’s also finishing touches galore, with shoes, veils and jewels, ensuring a decidedly ‘you’ ensemble. pirouettethecollection.com

IVORY DREAMS

A year has passed since Plymouth’s luxe bridal boutique, The Ivory Lounge, opened its doors for the first time – and what a year it’s been. “It has been such an incredible year, with five-star reviews all round,” enthuses manager, Rachael Crossley.

Home to one of the biggest names in bridal fashion, the boutique has earned a glowing reputation for combining fashion-forward design with impeccably crafted gowns and stellar service. The Vera Wang Bride dresses, in particular, have been causing a stir with style-savvy brides: Lucille is a veritable work of art with its bustier bodice and sculptured fishtail skirt; we love the corset bodice, nude tones and floral lace of Hortense; then there’s playful drama of Babette, its gorgeous bustle of organza and tulle contrasting with the clean lines of the skirt.

A dreamlike selection of dresses from Ellis Bridals can also be found in-store, from ballgowns through to sleek fit and flare cuts finished with dazzling beadwork, delicate lace and sculptural bows. And, for those seeking a relaxed, modern dress, Kelsey Rose has a range of silhouettes with light, playful skirts made for dancing, delicate beaded detailing and a touch of sparkle. theivorylounge.co.uk

A flurry of gowns from the stellar new designers have landed at Pretty Smithy Bridal – and they’re going down a treat with brides at the Paignton boutique.

The latest arrivals from GAIA Bridal are particularly dreamy: designed in the UK and crafted with fine fabrics and exquisite detailing, the confections of tulle, beaded lace and exposed boning are the very picture of modern romance.

New arrival Eliza blends an illusion-effect bodice with hand-beaded lace appliqués and polka dot tulle for a prettily romantic look, while Wren is a fit and flare fusion of luxe crepe and lace with sparkling accents – perfect for brides seeking a form-fitting gown with plenty of wow factor.

Meanwhile, the new gowns from Wilderly are a must for freespirited brides seeking ethereal silhouettes, striking lace and bohemian accents. We love the clean lines and keyhole back of Marlowe, the stunning lace, open back and tassel tie of Archer and the empire line and appliquéd detailing of Millie.

With new arrivals from their dedicated curvy designers in sizes 14-36 – including some timelessly romantic designs from True Curve – and tea-length frocks from Brighton Belle, there’s a veritable feast of fashions to be found in-store.

prettysmithybridal.co.uk

PRETTY IN PINK

Step out in style on your wedding day in a pair of pink shoes by Emmy London. From blush velvet courts and decadent embellished heels to pink suede shoes topped with satin bows, these handcrafted creations are stylish, luxurious and seriously pretty! emmylondon.com

DARLING BUDS

Devon-based Claire Austin has unveiled her beautiful new bridal collection. Handcrafted in her seaside studio, the exquisite range of bridal accessories is awash with dainty ceramic flowers, Czech glass beads, diamantes and crystals: think bloom-filled crowns, ethereal hairpins and statement earrings. Each of the brilliantly versatile pieces can be customised to fit your vision, so make an appointment with Claire to create the finishing touches of your dreams. claireaustinengland.com Photography Mimosa Photography / Venue Kingston Estate Make-up Michelle Lopez / Hair April Natalie Hair Model instagram.com/xfredi / Flowers Bearded Florista Dress Stella York, Brides at Waterfields Seeking a bridal gift with a difference? The new bridal fairies from bridal wear designer Caroline Fricker are a joy to behold. Handmade with the finest silks, French lace, embroidered organza and vintage embellishments, each unique fairy bride comes with wings, a magic wand and beaded tiara with a choice of hair colour – an adorable family heirloom to mark this oh-so special chapter. florialice.com

LITTLE MIX

We’re loving these super-sweet dresses from TH&TH Girl. Crafted from frothy tulle and light chiffon, the collection of frocks and tutus come in a choice of shades ranging from blush and pistachio to silver mist and smoked orchid. With adult dresses available in the same colours, you can choose a perfect match – or mix it up with a palette of complementary shades for a picture-perfect bridal party. thandth-girl.com