DRESSED TO IMPRESS

Dressed BRIDAL BOUTIQUES TO IMPRESS Be inspired by the latest fashion trends and styles

Every bride wants to look her big-day best, so it’s essential to find a gown that looks beautiful and is comfortable, especially when it comes to dancing the night away. To help you find the one, we’ve asked top boutiques from around the counties to showcase trending gowns that are sure to get heads turning.

Dress: Virginia by Anna Kara Description: This fabulous and light-as-afeather wedding dress has statement sleeves made from delicately spotted tulle. The deep V-neckline features trailing floral appliqués, while the soft A-line skirt has layers of flowing chiffon for an easygoing feel. Available at: www.morgandaviesbridal.co.uk

Dress: Cheryl by Halfpenny London Description: This iconic dress is now available in two versions with a close-fitting bias-cut skirt or a slit skirt. Either way, the dramatic back is the star of this dress with long silk ties that can be fastened in numerous ways. Available at: www.morgandaviesbridal.co.uk

STATEMENT SLEEVES

Dress: 7497 by Stella York Description: Ethereal elegance comes alive in this stunning gown! The detachable offthe-shoulder sleeves and illusion tulle bring a whimsical feel. The sweetheart neckline and skirt flows effortlessly for an enchanting walk down the aisle. Available at: www.oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk

DRAMATIC BACKS

Dress: Cleopatra by Dando London Description: From the latest collection; this dress has a lace corset bodice that flows into a mermaid skirt with a dramatic open back and illusion panels on the hips. Available at: www.oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk Dress: Sharon by Enzoani Description: This romantic A-line gown showcases an illusion-padded corset bodice with exposed boning, a V-plunge illusion sweetheart neckline, flowy shimmering tulle and an organza skirt. Breathtaking 3D beaded floral motifs and floral embroidered lace beautifully trail down the dress and detachable off-theshoulder sleeves. Available at: https://lotterosebridal.co.uk

Dress: Suzanne by Enzoani Description: This luxurious sheath gown has a sexy illusion corset-style bodice, exquisite 3D floral motifs, illusion floral lace straps and a glamorous open back. The figure-hugging silhouette features sheer side panels and dazzling beadwork. Available at: https://lotterosebridal.co.uk

Dress: Filippa by Milla Nova Description: This dress cannot be outshone as far as details go. The strapless design has a fitted bodice and skirt embellished with twists of sequins and trails of appliqué leaves. The gown also has a dramatic coordinating bolero with a high neck and long sleeves. Available at: www.morgandaviesbridal.co.uk

Dress: Scarlett by Maggie Sottero Description: This dramatic ruby red dress is ideal for maximum impact. The soft satin provides flattering ruching on the bodice and a sweeping full skirt with a slit for a contemporary twist. Available at: www.morgandaviesbridal.co.uk Dress: Idole by Dando London Description: This stunning ballgown has 3D flower appliqués, long sleeves, a high neckline and a cut-out detail at the back. Finish your look with the gown’s matching full-length veil, which has fabulous 3D detailing. Available at: www.oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk

A DASH OF COLOUR

Dress: 7169 by Stella York Description: With floral lace over the subtle Moscato colour lining, long sleeves and visible boning in the bodice that adds a sexy yet utterly classic design – what’s not to love about this dress? Available at: www.oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk Dress: Donatella by Pronovias Description: The Renaissance look meets haute couture in this simply stunning dress in sensual crepe. Sea-of-pearls are scattered over the sweetheart neckline, waistline and statement Juliette sleeves. The illusion back finished with yet more pearls and a soft flowy train creates the perfect look from any angle. Available at: https://lotterosebridal.co.uk

Dress: Josefina by Morilee Description: This over-the-top ball gown features a delicately draped bodice with a romantic sweetheart neckline and matching detachable tie-back stole. The ruffled tulle skirt creates a fabulous texture with a subtle, swirling floral motif. Available at: https://lotterosebridal.co.uk

THE LOCAL BOUTIQUES INVOLVED

Jane Shorten | Morgan Davies | www.morgandaviesbridal.co.uk Ellie Harrington | Oliver’s Bridal & Formalwear | www.oliversbridalandformalwear.co.uk Charlotte Izzard-Cook | Lotte Rose Bridal | https://lotterosebridal.co.uk

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

FINDING THE ONE

Top tips and advice when it comes to dress shopping

TIME TO RESEARCH

We know how stressful finding your dream gown can be, so it’s important to look online for inspiration on what type of features you like or dislike – Pinterest will be your best friend. Many brides go into their appointment with a dress in mind but come out with something completely different, so be open minded and try on a few different styles to see what suits your body shape and personal style best.

STAY BUDGET FRIENDLY

Be open and honest with your stylist, who will help you select a beautiful dress that fits your price range. The worst thing you could do is fall in love with a gown only to find out that it’s well over your budget – don’t torture yourself if you can’t afford it. You will also need to remember to save some money for the accessories and alterations.

BE PREPARED

It’s essential to wear neutral underwear when trying gowns on, including a strapless bra – avoid bright or bold patterns at all costs! If you’re planning to wear shapewear on the day, bring this along to get the full effect. Also, wear heels that are similar to those you’ll be wearing on the day to see if any alterations will be needed. THE ENTOURAGE

It can be tricky deciding who to bring along to your bridal appointment but avoid bringing a whole crowd as everyone will have different opinions and it can become overwhelming very quickly. We suggest inviting only a select few most important to you, such as your mum, grandmother, siblings or closest friends. Make sure to call ahead to check how many people the boutique allows.

FINDING THE ONE

Search online for local companies or ask for referrals from loved ones when looking for boutiques to visit. Check out the suppliers’ websites and social media pages to ensure the stores stock styles or designers you like. Read reviews to find out what other brides thought of the team and the service offered throughout the whole experience. SEASONAL SPLENDOUR

Remember the time of year for your wedding when shopping for a gown. Think breathable fabrics in summer like chiffon, crepe, and tulle while avoiding long sleeves as you don’t want to be too hot on the day. For the colder months, Mikado, brocade and velvet are perfect materials. Be prepared and accessorise the gown with a bridal wrap or jacket for outdoor pictures.

My name is Carolyn and I am based in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, UK. I design and make Wedding stationery and gifts. I create my own collections or I can design bespoke to you. My design skiIls are broad including floral, graphic, sparkle, vintage, trends and contemporary styles that can be incorporated into numerous types of materials.

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