TODAY'S WOMAN - Dress to thrill on the big day
Just like meeting the man you're exchanging your vows with, they say when you've found THE dress, you 'just know'.
But you still might have to kiss a whole bunch of frogs first and wriggle your way into gown after gown until you find that perfect match.
"The choice is vast and there are scores of dresses with the potential to be your one and only. It's far better to come along with an open mind and try on dresses in different shapes to see what works best on your figure, height and colouring," says Carol Gyte, owner of Blissful Daze bridal salon on Sheffield's Glossop Road.
Sometimes even hardened anti-meringue brides may be swayed once they first step into a flowing voluminous dress, and similarly those seeking gigantic trains can fall head-over-heels with a sleek fishtail frock.
And structured, figure-hugging dresses that really show off a girl's shape are big news on the bridal scene this year, says Carol.
In total contrast, there are elegant, Grecian-style, draped gowns and.dreamy dresses in floaty Silk chiffons with delicate Swarovski detailing.
Amanda Wakeley said a thousand words with Grecian draping and mesmerising asymmetric lines on the spring/summer bridal catwalks.
Jenny Packham, David Fielden, and Reem Acra showcased dazzling styles featuring twinkling sequins, crystals and metallic threads, proof indeed that designers have put the recession on the back-burner to make bridal gowns more opulent and statement-making than ever before.
Today's brides definitely want statement dresses and to turn away from the gloom of the recession for their special day, say Choola, the bridal boutique which launched on Ecclesall Road two years ago. It is proud to have brought the designs of David Fielden to Sheffield. "We have exclusivity throughout the North of England," explains Choola co-owner Ivan Pick. "We have ten of his designs.They are exquisite - and very unusual, with a strong contemporary take. It's a real move away from traditional bridal shapes and styles."
The search for your dress is a love affair you'll never forget. And whether you're a traditionalist, modernist or bling-fiend bride, your gorgeous gown awaits...
MRS TRADITIONALIST
If you've always dreamed of the big white princess wedding, now is your chance to wow your very own Prince Charming with a modern-day fairytale gown.
Think tumbling cascades of tulle, beaded bodice and never-ending train.
Designer Suzanne Neville, whose gowns are stocked by Freya Bridal on Sheffield's Rustlings Road and at Tickled Pink in Hatfield, Doncaster, says: "There has been a recent trend for lots of embellishment, which many of our gowns this season feature, especially Swarovski beading, bows and beautiful embroidery.
"Although I take these trends into account, my gowns are timeless and classic. I think it's more important to find a gown which you love and which suits your shape, rather than getting too involved with the latest trends."
The full-blown romance and extravangance of dresses designed by Ian Stuart are perfect for Mrs Traditionalist.
"Ian was trained at one of London's finest couture houses which specialised in creating gowns for socialites and the Royal family and has won numerous awards for his designs," says Carol Gyte, who has stocked the designer's collection for a number of years. "His gowns are theatrical, awe-inspiring and provocative.
Over at Choola, traditional types are falling for the creations of Lyn Ashworth. "Lyn's gown feature lots of knock-out lace, hourglass-fit corsets and ruffled skirts. It's tradition, but with a heavy dose of drama and glamour," says Ivan.
TRY: Ian Stuart Bride tulle gown, from 1,350; BHS Wedding Carissa gown, 495, Rosa Clara Rodeo gown with flower corsage, 4,900 at Liberty (020 7734 1234/www.liberty.co.uk).
MRS MODERN
Those seeking something different don't have to opt for a daring black gown a la Sarah Jessica Parker to stand out. Opt for clean lines, simple shapes, and futuristic detailing for a cutting-edge look to echo the catwalks. Quirky detailing and embroidery can also make you stand out from the traditional bridal brigade.
"Brides are looking for something unique more than unconventional," says Laura Lees, who offers a customising service for brides.
"In the sea of white dresses there is definitely a yearning for individuality. Embroidery lends itself to this perfectly, from personal embellishments, the name of your betrothed embroidered on the dress, through to an alternative to a veil, it's all about the detail."
Choola's newest label, Sharon Bowen, is for the bride who loves her fashion trends - and adores making an entrance, says Choola. Hand-made in Congleton, Cheshire, these dreamy gowns are lavished with jewel adornment and are heavily influenced by the international fashion catwalk. The current collection features full organza skirts, cut-out flower-work.
Blissful Daze have recently added the brand new wedding collection from French eveningwear supremos Ugo Zaldi.
The Paris-based Zaldi brand has created a stunningly beautiful, on-trend bridal collection from flowing silk chiffons lavished with Swarovski detail, at prices from around 800 to 1,400.
TRY: Amanda Wakeley Sposa silk tulle dress, 3,500(0207 590 9108/www.amandawakeley.com); Monsoon Klee dress, 200; David Fielden fishtail dress with sequin cascade, 4,444.
MRS MAGPIE
Your big day focus doesn't have to be all about the dress. If you're a self-confessed accessories addict, keep your gown pared-down and sparkle with jewels, pearls and diamonds. Splash out on statement shoes, jewellery or a head piece to make a decadent impact.
"If the dress is very ornate, you need a simple style of accessory, but if you're wearing a sleeker style, go to town with more elaborate jewellery," advises Ashley Wells, senior designer for The Earring Boutique, who has launched a new wedding collection.
"It's important not to over-complicate the look. Either wear earrings and a bracelet, or a necklace - if you have too much going on you lose the effect. Long chandelier earrings will really set off an asymmetric neckline."
TRY: Faith LuxuryB embellished t-bar shoes, 75 (0845 880 1195/www.faith.co.uk); Ebuni Flower Sensation hair comb, 22 (01623 858 999/www.ebuni.com); The Earring Boutique Oval Cascade Chandelier Earrings, 125 (01444 240024/www.theearringboutique.com).
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Friday 25 May 2012
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