Your dress Q & A
I’ve seen the dress of my dreams. It comes in my size (20), but I am so worried about wearing a strapless dress. Can larger ladies really get away with it? Thanks. -
If you feel comfortable and beautiful in a strapless dress then you can wear it. Make sure that you choose the right underwear and that the bodice is well boned and fits you perfectly. I would suggest that a made-to-measure dress might be best, to make sure that it flatters your figure and that you feel a million dollars in it.
I am a really tall bride-to-be (6’3”), and I am really worried that I won’t find a dress that goes below my ankles. Where do you recommend I start my search? -
Manufactured dresses do generally come in one length, although some will cater for taller brides. If you go to a designer, the dress can be made to your exact measurements. If you are tall it is important to achieve the correct proportions and not just add onto the length of the dress.
I am getting married abroad and I have been told to choose a fabric that won’t stick to my legs in the heat. But which fabric? And should I wear a hoop to keep the dress off my legs? -
The best idea would be to wear a natural fibre fabric which would let your skin breathe. I would suggest 100% cotton or 100% silk. Man-made fabrics will only retain the heat. Hoops are handy for keeping you cool, but they only work with certain styles of dresses. Of course it’s up to you which style you go for, and you should consult your dress designer or shop about whether it would work.
6 of the best accessory ideas
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Shoes - A closed toe is much more elegant; we are seeing these shoes coming back into fashion in a big way
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Tiara - Make sure that you choose the right height for your height… always try it on with your dress, too
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Wraps - Tie the wrap behind your waist for a sophisticated look and to keep it on securely
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Chokers - Chose a choker that will work with the neckline of your dress – most necklines work with one quite well
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Earrings - Drop earrings can look elegant when the hair is worn up
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Hair Corsages - A great alternative to a tiara, they are feminine and modern and suit most styles of dress. Why not have one designed for you?
Fabric and styles - the latest trends
The in materials of the moment are natural, wild silks that travel well, are easy to press and perfect for a wedding abroad. Layers of French chiffon in tonal colours look fresh and feminine – perfect for a 20s or 30s-inspired wedding. Lace is also a key look this season. Make it feminine and vintage inspired for maximum effect. Lace can look fantastic at a candle-lit winter wedding. Long gone are the days of scratchy, heavy silks… today’s materials are soft and luxurious, and very easy to wear.
4 skirt line styles
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A-line - A very forgiving silhouette that just skims the hip and widens to the floor hiding big hips and thighs. This is a style that suits most body shapes and brides of all sizes. A popular shape of wedding dress
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Straight - A fantastic shape for a smaller, petite figure because it can add height and length. Often the makings of a column dress, which also look great on tall, slim people
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Fishtail - These are the gowns for the girl with confidence, the one who wants to achieve Hollywood glamour. This shape tends to accentuate curves
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Full circle - A full circle is for the bride who wants to wear the ‘Dior New Look’ of the late 1940s. Very fashionable and ‘current’. Doesn’t suit all body shapes so choose it with care
Do's and don'ts of dress fitting
- Do wear the correct underwear to your fittings – this is really important. A good bra is a must. You must have your shoes sorted by the second fitting in order to decide the hem length.
- Do also take along your jewellery so that you can have a trial run with these and your dress.
- Don't leave the house without these things!
- Don't invite the whole family to your fitting. Too many people will only be distracting and it will ruin the surprise for the big day.
- Don't arrive in a rush – your fitting should be a relaxed occasion. And don’t wear too much make-up because you’ll only risk damaging or soiling your dress.