THE FINAL FLOURISH

Check out our handy guide to accessorising the ultimate big-day look

To veil or not to veil? Gold or silver? Tiara or hair vine? These may well be the next batch of questions whizzing around your head once you’ve said “yes” to the dress. So, we talked to the region’s experts in all things bling to bring you the lowdown on completing your all-important look with flair.

I don’t want my face covered...

“Don’t worry, you don’t have to. If you want a simple veil that comes from the back of your head, you’ll be looking for a single tier. These are an elegant option and sit beautifully in your hair. If you do decide to opt for added drama though, why not cover your face while walking down the aisle and pull it back when you arrive beside your intended? In this case you’ll need a two-tier veil with blusher. This is the shorter piece of tulle that covers the face. Once pulled back it offers more volume from behind for a timeless look.”

https://joyce-jackson.co.uk www.pronovias.com https://livi-edwards.com

What lengths are available?

“The most common lengths from shortest to longest are: birdcage, waist, fingertip, chapel or train and cathedral. Alternatively, for dramatic impact look out for veils much longer than standard cathedral, which many designers do offer.”

What veil is right for my dress?

“If your gown has a detailed or plunging back, a shorter veil will avoid blocking this highlight. A cathedral-length plain soft Italian tulle would also work perfectly here. If on the other hand, you’re wearing a simple silhouette, you may want to jazz it up with the veil. There are plenty of options here from lace and sparkle, to pearls and flowers. We love it when a bride asks for a bespoke veil to match her dress as the design process is so much fun. ”

https://livi-edwards.com

To know a veil

Who better to turn to for advice on choosing the right veil than a bridal boutique owner? Allow us to introduce the lovely Hanni Frankland of My Funny Valentine (https://mfvbridal.com) in Chester. She’s here to guide you through this potentially confusing minefield.

www.pronovias.com

What are the alternatives?

“Capes and wings are a huge bridal trend and make an amazing statement. Ideal for a boho style, wings usually attach to the straps on the back of the dress and can be detached for two different looks. A cape also allows you to switch up your look. Again, they attach to the back or at the neck and come in lace or the same fabric as your dress.”

Hanni Frankland of My Funny Valentine (https://mfvbridal.com) says, “We’d recommend waiting until you’ve found your dress before choosing your hair accessories. What you select will also depend on how you plan to wear your hair, so it’s a good idea to know which accessories will work with that particular do.

“Look for something that best suits your bridal style, whether that be boho, romantic or total princess. Your choice will also depend on the height of your up do and whether you want the accessory to be easily removed or entwined like a hair vine. For example, a comb can be layered with the one attached to your veil and will sit neatly on top. Once you’re ready to remove the veil just pop the comb back in for some sparkle in the evening. Pins also work well as they’ll be scattered throughout your hair for a twinkly effect without affecting your veil.”

www.cassiem.co.uk www.bluebugphotos.com

www.cassiem.co.uk https://victoriapercival.com www.cassiem.co.uk

“Statement headbands are popular and add the wow factor. Whether you want Swarovski crystals, pearls or elegant 3D flowers, headbands can transform a look and complement your dress.” – Hanni

Cassie McClymont of Cassie M Bridal (www.cassiem.co.uk) says, “Where a chosen hair accessory will sit is a common concern. The typical place is directly onto the crown, but that’s not necessarily the best option with certain hairstyles. Why not try it over to one side instead? This will show off the full hair design and bring a little something different. If you really want to stand out with a modern take on the tiara, our bespoke pearl encrusted crown is a real showstopper. It suits both glossy flowing curls and the sleek bun beautifully.”

https://livi-edwards.com

SPARKLE AND SHINE

Francesca Kippax of Anuka Jewellery (https://anuka-jewellery.com) says, “Choosing key pieces of jewellery to bring your bridal look together is essential to get just right. Too much can throw off an outfit, whereas too little could leave it lacking that perfect touch.

Different dress styles allow for different jewellery looks – let’s break it down: ❤ Bohemian. This floaty, relaxed silhouette works well with gold hues. I’d recommend looking at organic hoop earrings and dainty layered necklaces. ❤ Simple. Make a statement with eyecatching earrings, or pair it right back with simple studs and a delicate necklace.

I love layering using a combination of studs, small ear crawlers and varying ear cuffs.

Wedding rings aren’t just the most important piece of jewellery you’ll wear for your big day, but for the rest of your life. So, take your time to think about what you really want. Francesca offers some excellent advice:

“Start by thinking about your style and budget. This is crucial as it’ll determine the type of ring that’s perfect for you. Once that’s decided, consider your metal preference – 18ct gold is used for its durability and this should be your choice for a delicate band.

“Do you want to incorporate precious stones and does it need to fit around an engagement ring? These are the next two questions you should be asking yourself. I’d strongly consider how your ring looks when worn alone too as it’s often the case over the years that engagement rings are worn less, so make sure a shaped band still looks strong.

“Finally, I’d recommend that you think about where and how your wedding bands are made. Are the materials sustainably and responsibly sourced? Where was it manufactured and is there full traceability?” Francesca demystifies the process of complementing your dress’ neckline... ❤ High. Stick only to a pair of earrings that complement the gown. ❤ Sweetheart, strapless or square. Keep it dainty with a 15-inch necklace that sits along your collarbone. Add a touch of sparkle or go for a coloured gemstone to match the bridesmaids’ dresses. ❤ V-neck. Layer it up or go for a single piece. You can afford to go longer in chain length here – a 16- or 18-inch necklace is ideal.

https://anuka-jewellery.com https://anuka-jewellery.com

https://anuka-jewellery.com https://anuka-jewellery.com

https://anuka-jewellery.com

For further wed-spiration and to keep up to date with the latest news and trends check out our County Wedding Magazines’ Twitter page What’s more, our editors are on hand to help brides-to-be with all their planning problems:

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My Funny Valentine Bridal is a brand new modern luxe bridal boutique, in the heart of the beautiful roman city of Chester. We cannot wait to welcome you to our beautiful new studio.

MFV Bridal offers a stunning collection of bridal gowns and accessories, sourced from top designers across the globe including Pronovias, Marchesa for Pronovias, Evie Young, Luna Novias, Madison James and Joyce Jackson Veils.

We are passionate, dedicated and complete bridal enthusiasts. We acknowledge that buying your wedding dress is often a once in a lifetime experience and not just a purchase. We therefore ensure that we offer a personalised, luxurious and one to one bridal service for every bride coming through our door.

Our architect designed studio reflects our vision and is modern, elegant and feminine. It is the perfect bridal haven, with a colour pallet of soft greys, pink and gold to ensure every bride visiting feels totally relaxed and truly enjoys the experience.

Our aim is that every bride feels at their most beautiful on their wedding day and we cannot wait to share such a magical experience with you.

64 NORTHGATE STREET, CHESTER, CH1 2HT

WWW.MFVBRIDAL.COM | 01244 638 778 HANNI@MFVBRIDAL.COM @MYFUNNYVALENTINEBRIDAL