Your East Midlands Wedding - June/July 2020 (Issue 38)

SAY YES TO THE DRESS Q: I want to start looking for a wedding dress, but I’m looking to lose weight. What advice do you have for this? I’ve been working with brides here now for 15 years and I have seen every shape and size and have never failed to find a style that did not suit anyone. It’s only natural for most brides to want to lose weight and to look and feel their absolute best on their wedding day! My advice is to set yourself a goal and be realistic. If you decide to order or purchase a gown that’s smaller than your current size then be focused and committed to achieving that goal. I’ve seen many brides who have had the best of intentions and ordered a smaller gown only to find that it does not fit and the upset it causes. Remember that most dresses can be taken in two sizes. Some gowns also come with the option of a corset back which allows more flexibility with the fit. Choose yourself a style of gown that you love yourself in now. If you’re unsure of how much weight you’ll lose then order or purchase the size you are currently. That way you will still feel and look amazing in it if you don’t lose weight and the gown can be altered if you do. Remember, no one but you will ever know the size of your gown – only how you look in it. Jo Hilton | Bradgate Brides Ltd | www.bradgatebrides.com DRESSED TO IMPRESS I’m looking for the perfect dress to suit my plus sized figure, what would you suggest? No matter what size clothes you currently fit into, when it comes to buying your wedding dress expect that you’ll likely need a bigger size as bridal dresses are often made smaller than what you’d find on the high street. Have in mind that it’s always better to have a dress too big which needs taking in than a dress which can’t be altered. Most brides I meet tend to be on a diet or exercise regime, as they want to feel great for their wedding day and worry about sizing. That’s why there are talented seamstresses out there who can take in your gown from being a generic size to one that custom highlights the best of your body. For curvy brides, consider the universally flattering A-line style with its fitted bodice and waist. The cut of fabric gradually skimming over the hips – creating a flattering balance of your proportions. Fitted styles for a curvy bride can also work well when it flares out in a trumpet or mermaid-style. Both of these providing fullness of skirt at the bottom, thus maintaining that important silhouette balance but with the glorious addition of accentuating the hips. Be mindful when seeking fully fitted styles as these dresses will work to accentuate all of your curves rather than achieving the appearance of a slimmer frame – a mistaken belief many brides hold. Though we say why not flaunt those curves if you’ve got them! For brides blessed (or cursed) by a big bust, then a well-fitting bra and a structured dress will be essential to containing and shaping, whilst safeguarding against any potentially embarrassing boob slips. Lastly, choose a dress you feel comfortable in and will let you enjoy your day. Angela Robson | Iconic Bride | https://iconicbride.co.uk www.mag giesottero.com www.sophiatolli.com LOOKING YOUR BEST 79