Choosing the right bridal gown for you

I meet a lot of brides when I am on my stand at the twice yearly National Wedding Show. Choosing a wedding dress is one of the biggest and most exciting decisions brides-to-be will make and those at the show will be looking for inspiration for their special dress.

Traditional boned wedding gown with train by Elizabeth Bessant couture

My advice is to take time to think over your options before putting a deposit on a bridal gown.

There is so much to think about… Frequently planning a wedding starts as early as two years ahead in order to secure the preferred venue, florist and caterer. It’s important not to get too influenced by current trends as these may have come and gone by the time your wedding day arrives.

Trends are hard to predict that far ahead even for those of us in the industry.

I could tell you that in 2018 black is the new white for brides who want to make a statement, and for those of you who want to create an edgy look black applied to a gown sparingly can be very effective. Wide ruffles have found their way onto the bridal catwalk, and these are a pretty way to add dimension to a slim silhouette. Corsets are trending but with a new slant – transparent fabrics such as lace with exposed bones – sexy yes, tasteful I’m not so sure!

And there are also a lot of really pretty palest blue dresses – “Something Blue” as the tradition states.

But when it comes to your wedding day, for me it should be about finding the right dress for you! Here are my tips:

Palest blue lace wedding dress with detachable overskirt by Elizabeth Bessant couture

1. A visit to one of the bigger wedding shows is a good start because you will see and be able to try on a huge variety of dresses from boutiques and designers around the country. Many offer show discounts if you order while there.

2. Remember when you are trying on dresses that often the person assisting you will not be the designer, more than likely she will be a sales assistant chasing a sale. After trying on three or four different dresses, if she tells you each one is perfect don’t believe it. It is a good idea to have someone with you such as your mum or bridesmaid who will be honest. Do try a few styles as you will soon be able to eliminate shapes, fabrics and colours that don’t work for you.

3. Take your time, especially if you are tempted to order your dress at a show. Consider where in the country will you have to travel to for fittings and how many times because this will add to the cost. At this point, taking time out for a coffee break is a good idea because it is not uncommon for brides to change their mind and end up buying a second dress. Have you ever wondered where the new wedding dresses on Ebay come from – it is not just cancelled weddings!

4. If you are having difficulty finding your dream dress or you would like a couture wedding dress specially made so that you can input your ideas, remember that word of mouth is the most reliable recommendation. Try and find a designer who has worked with another bride. Photographs and testimonials are all very well and good but take the time to visit the designer for a chat as chemistry is so important. If you don’t jell it will be a miserable experience. Also having a couture dress made especially for you will mean a lot more fittings so allow plenty of time.

5. If you really can’t cope with making the decision yourself then engage a stylist who has experience in bridal wear to go shopping with you. This will cost from £50 an hour but is a lot cheaper than an expensive mistake.