COVER UP

Cover up Step out in style in a bridal jacket, cape or dress with statement sleeves this winter

Tulip dress and Iris slip, www.halfpennylondon.com Ella dress and Moto jacket, www.justinalexander.com Bridal jacket, www.rosaclara.es

White cotton dress with puff sleeves, www.bowendryden.co.uk Ritz dress and Swell cape, www.elizajanehowell.com Amelie dress, www.galialahav.com

THE CROWN AND THE gownDavid Emanuel shares his top tips to help you say “yes” to the dress

Fashion designer and broadcaster David Emanuel is a much-loved household name, regarded as the don of bridal fashion since creating that iconic wedding dress for Lady Diana Spencer 40 years ago. CWM’s Kelly Andrews caught up with him at the launch of Bromley Brides’ new Wonder Room to find out about his plans for celebrating this career milestone.

What advice would you give to a bride-to-be setting foot inside a bridal boutique for the very first time? Try to keep an open mind and be objective. Think about what you’ve got at home. You might have an evening dress and you love the shape. So, why don’t you think about that same shape for your wedding dress? A lot of brides get completely wound up, particularly the ones who’ve over-shopped. When they tell me they’ve tried on 200 dresses, there’s clearly something wrong there. Equally, they might come in with a set idea – “I want skin tight, I want sexy.” It’s interesting, as it changes. I’ll say to them, “Put it on and look in the mirror. On your wedding day, are you going to be comfortable?” Then of course, you’ve got to take the time of year into account, where it’s happening, where the party’s going to be and all of that.

What do you need to consider before you start shopping? It’s all to do with the personality and character of the bride. If she’s a showy girl, that’s lovely, put her in a showy frock, but if she’s quiet, put her in something more modest.

I go back mostly to Say Yes To The Dress, when the first question I ask is: “Do you have a budget?” She might say £3,000 and we can stretch to various styles with that. Then she’ll say, “I want more,” at which point the mother pipes up saying she’ll throw in another thousand. If they’d just said that in the beginning it would have been an

easier task. I tell you, that show kept me on my toes!

What are the common pitfalls that brides should avoid when dress shopping? Invariably, brides will go on the internet and they’ll see these very glamourous models wearing these fabulous dresses, and they’ll rip pages out of magazines, but are they being realistic? Look in the mirror and be honest with yourself, try to be objective. I know it’s difficult, but look at yourself and think: what do I really want?

You’ll go through various stages; you’re not going to get the first dress. I’ll suggest something, and the bride might say she couldn’t possibly, but I’ll insist she slip into it. Once she realises how great she looks, we go down a different path. So, keep an open mind, and let the girls at the boutique do their job, which is to make you look wonderful. You’ve got to trust them. Don’t forget: they’ve dressed hundreds of brides.

Based on your experience on Say Yes To The Dress UK, what’s your take on the ever expanding bridal entourage? Too much! You might have six people, with six points of view, six different tastes. No, we’re concerned with the bride. Sometimes, even the bride’s mum can’t get it, so you’ve got to rely on the very good stylists at your boutique, who are there to help you.

What are your tips for creating the ultimate timeless look? You want to keep it relatively simple, but dramatic. You see, an iconic wedding gown has to have something about it – Diana’s was a 25ft train. Well, it needed drama, this was St Pauls, it was enormous, you couldn’t do a simple, quiet little dress. Or like Meghan’s gown – the story on that dress was the embroidered flowers from the Commonwealth. Big veil, but that was her message, and that was a simple dress. It doesn’t have to be fantasy; you need simplicity for longevity.

Do you think the Covid-19 pandemic has had an effect on the way brides think? I think, if anything, it’s got to completely focus the brides, because they’re under pressure. They might have booked, then have to unbook, and they’ve got to replan. It’s changing by the day – guest numbers are limited, but you know what? That’s not a bad thing actually. Let’s think about it: you don’t have to worry about auntie Flossie and uncle Albert who you only see once every two years! All that pressure is gone. You really should want just the people who love you to be there. Then, if you want to have a bigger party next year, or whenever, the heat is taken off. It should be a joyous time, enjoy it.

Tell us about your involvement with Bromley Brides. When I found out (owner) Becky Griggs had been planning to expand and was still going ahead, I thought that was really courageous. I was blown away by the store the first time I came here, it looks great. I like people who take risks, good for her! The Wonder Room is camp and mad, great for a party. Get the dress, then celebrate it!

It’s the 40th anniversary of Princess Diana’s iconic wedding dress next year. Do you have any plans to mark the occasion? I never thought I’d be sitting here talking about 40 years! I don’t know where the time’s gone, it’s like a dream. A lot has happened in my life, and this is a very exciting time. We’ve been bombarded by people wanting to do interviews and documentaries, so we’ve got to sit down, let the dust settle and go through everything. When I travel the world, designing Diana’s wardrobe is my calling card – everyone knows who I am because of it. Everywhere I go, people talk very highly of her, and it’s exciting that people still want to do something for her.

What was it like to work with Princess Diana? She was the sweetest girl, as divine as you saw her, no different. It wasn’t all done for the TV and press, she really was lovely. One time we were doing a fitting at Buckingham Palace and we didn’t have our van with us that day, so she asked us how we were getting back. We were planning to call a black cab, but she insisted on taking us herself. She had this little Ford, so we climbed in - Diana driving, me in the front and Elizabeth in the back. It was hysterical, when we stopped at traffic lights, people were aghast. There she was, giggling, it was so much fun. That’s what I remember about her, the fun.

I was very fortunate, very honoured and lucky to design several foreign tours for her, and there were a lot of clothes to be done. She’d ring on a Monday and say, “Hi, it’s me.” She’d go on to say that she’d got something special and had nothing to wear, so I quickly had to think. We’d turn up the next day with sketches and some fabrics, and by Friday it was all wrapped and sent for her to wear that evening. We had to turn it around fast, and do you know, without fail she’d always say, “Thank you so much, I know you worked so hard.” It was touching. If you’re lucky along this road, you’ll meet one or two special people and she was one of them.

You’ve dressed plenty of famous bodies over the years, who was your most memorable? I was in Paris, as Elizabeth Taylor couldn’t come to London for a fitting. She was at the George V Hotel in a huge suite, and I put her in a chocolate brown Chantilly lace cocktail dress. She looked fabulous and I didn’t have to put one pin in it. She threw open the double doors, and burst through them crying, “Franco, Franco, what do you think?” There he was, Franco Zeffirelli, the film director! All I could think was: “OK David, keep calm.” He loved the dress, but, she said, there was just one little problem. She would be wearing it to the White House and might have to dance with the President, but wasn’t sure she could. With that I grabbed her and spun her around the whole suite. “I think I can dance in this dress,” she said when we stopped waltzing.

Listen, when those eyes fixed on you it was all over. She was special, she was real. It’s magic, private moments like that, which make your career, they’re precious. As I’m saying it, I could be back there, it seems like yesterday. Yet, I can’t believe… 40 years!

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• Ladybaird Bridal • White Rose • Richard Designs • Phoenix Bridal • Bianco Evento • AnnyLin • Millie May • Our own Capsule

Collection

SIZES FROM 8 TO 28, AVAILABLE TO TRY ON.

A Family Affair is a family run bridal boutique based in Kendal - The heart of The Lake District. We have been trading for over 24 years. We have stood the test of time because we are passionate about what we do.

We also have dresses by the following designers, who specialise in wedding dresses for the curvier lady.

White Rose Graceful Phoenix Envy Millie Grace We are very excited to announce the opening of our new menswear shop at 26-28 Finkle Street, Kendal. Visit Chapmans Quality Menswear, supplier of: Marc Darcy House of Cavani Formalwear Hire (Cameron Ross and Peter Posh) Highland Wear Hire (Cameron Ross) We also provide a selection of jeans, shirts, shoes, belts and more

BRIDAL BOUTIQUES Searching for the one

Finding the perfect wedding dress

When it comes to dress shopping, there’s a lot of pressure to find the perfect gown. You want something that’s going to make you feel like a bride but also complement your figure and personality. To help, we’re asked some of the region’s finest boutiques to send in their favourite seasonal picks.

Winter luxe

Step into spring

Name and designer: Maxine Description: This stunning boho-inspired gown has a cape added to the back to give it a magical essence. Available at: www.roxannehalenko.com Name and designer: Dreama (69580) by Ronald Joyce Description: Ideal for a winter wedding, this design has a fit and flare silhouette and long fluted sleeves to help keep you warm. Available at: www.orchiddesignsuk.com Name and designer: Amber by Sassi Holford Description: This long-sleeved wedding dress is made from silk, satin chiffon and provides fluid movement so you can dance the night away in style. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Name and designer: Beatrix Description: Named after designer, Roxanne Halenko’s baby girl this gown oozes class and elegance with lots of fine details. Available at: www.roxannehalenko.com Name and designer: Celeste (EK1337) by Eddy K Description: The detailed body leads to a flowing tulle skirt. It has detachable sleeves for the cooler weather and can be used to create two looks. Available at: www.orchiddesignsuk.com Name and designer: Baylee (D2621) by Elbeth Gillis Description: Whether you’re getting married on a late summer afternoon or spring morning, this versatile ballgown is sure to turn heads. Made of dupion silk, the gentle V-neck is mirrored by an open back with thin shoulder straps. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com 85 

Summer loving

Name and designer: Gatsby Description: This bridesmaid’s dress in sage green has an open back with crystal detailing and a ruched behind. Available at: www.roxannehalenko.com Name and designer: Valentina by Eddy K Description: Great for a beach wedding, this gown has a detailed tulle slip to create two different looks. Available at: www.orchiddesignsuk.com Name and designer: Sienna (7000.38) by Savin London Description: Inspired by the season, this design is ideal for brides-to-be who want something more modern. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Name and designer: Willa (7000.65) by Savin London Description: Decorated with beautiful flowers, this gown has a structured bodice and delicate skirt. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com Name and designer: Hannah (CC1725) by Caroline Castigliano Description: Made in exquisite Italian polka-dot jacquard fabric, this dress has architectural lines and pleats. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com Name and designer: Charlotte (D3021) by Elbeth Gillis Description: This strapless design in Mikado has hidden pockets and a side slit to add convenience and style. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Name and designer: Jennifer Description: This gown has flares of tulle at the bottom to give it extra volume and is paired with a gorgeous belt to pull the look together. Available at: www.roxannehalenko.com Name and designer: Dileta (69589) by Ronald Joyce Description: Dileta is a ballgown with a sweetheart neckline and detailed straps. Available at: www.orchiddesignsuk.com Name and designer: Manet by Halfpenny London Description: Part of The Painter Collection, this light tulle shrug is a beautiful cover-up that will add a sophisticated touch to any look. Here it’s shown with strapless dress, Oliver, and a Christian Petal skirt. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Name and designer: Oak by Halfpenny London Description: The main feature of this design is the charming bow at the back, which complements the satin material perfectly. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com Name and designer: Elodie by Caroline Castigliano Description: Truly timeless, this Italian jacquard Provenza bridal gown features a striking off-the-shoulder cuff and boned corset. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Name and designer: Kayla (7000.62) by Savin London Description: This dress has three-quarterlength sleeves and a flower-inspired skirt. Available at: www.elisabellebridal.com

Contact the experts

Orchid Designs, www.orchiddesignsuk.com Roxanne Halenko, www.roxannehalenko.com Elisa Belle Bridal Boutique, www.elisabellebridal.com

Q&A Fashion & beauty

Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best this winter

WINTER LUXE

Q – We’re having a winter wedding, and I’d love to incorporate some of the season’s colours into my hair and makeup. Do you have any suggestions?

Winter weddings can be magical and with so much choice for your hair and make-up, it’s hard to know where to start! To help, I’ve put together some of my top tips: ❤ Simple but effective works best. I recommend choosing either a bold eye or lip, so your look doesn’t become overpowering. ❤ Choose a style that suits you and be confident. If you’ve booked a hair or make-up artist they’ll be able to help you decide on a look. ❤ Select what hair accessories you’ll be wearing, such as a headband, tiara or flowers. This can be an easy way of incorporating your chosen colours or even just a hint of them. ❤ Plum goes perfectly with this time of year and works with most skin tones. You could add this hue to your lips, eyeshadow or if you’re feeling adventurous, even you’re eyeliner. ❤ A gold-based highlighter looks beautiful paired with a soft blush. ❤ Use these ideas for your bridesmaids as well to tie the whole look together. ❤ Always have a hair and make-up trial, preferably on the same day. Communicate with your supplier about what you want and any concerns you may have. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and remember they’ll be able to advise what is best for you. It’s their job, after all. ❤ I always say that make-up is there to enhance and help you feel like the best version of you, especially on your big day.

SNOW IS FALLING

Q – I’m worried about the weather ruining my hair at our December wedding. Do you have ideas or styles I should go for to ensure I look great all day?

I’m based in the Lake District, so I’m used to doing weddings where the weather is unpredictable. The style that usually works well in the damp is an up do. If you want an allday hold without having to worry, then it’s definitely the best option. It can still be soft, and with good hairspray, it will protect from the weather without looking sticky or too sleek.

If you want to leave your hair down, then pin it to one side to help protect from the wind or just take the front section back. Using good products on wet hair before styling can help it hold too. I love the Redken Frizz Dismiss, especially for preparation on curly hair and Elnett Hairspray, which may be old fashioned, but still works wonders in wet weather.

Gemma Louise Hair stylist www.hairforawedding.com

A GRAND ENTRANCE

Q – I’m asking our guests to dress in festive colours at our upcoming wedding, and my mum wants to do the same while standing out from the crowd. Do you have any ideas about what she should wear?

Generally, we tend to find that what makes the mother-of-the-bride stand out isn’t necessarily the colour she wears, but the style and formality of the outfit. Her dress should be special and make her look and feel fabulous on your big day. We have some incredibly beautiful options available in different fabrics and a whole host of show-stopping styles, from standalone dresses to chic two-piece dresses and jackets.

Everyone is different, and we always suggest your mum tries on a variety of styles, shapes and colours to find the look that best suits her and reflects her style and personality. Whether that be rich jewel hues, opulent golds, creams, silvers, lace, beading, a headpiece or stunning shoes, your mum won’t be short of gorgeous options for your festive wedding.