Your Surrey Wedding- December 2020/January 2021 (Issue 86)

104 Q&A Local experts offer advice on how to look your big-day best this winter Fashion & beauty SANTA BABY Q – I want to incorporate my love of Christmas into mine and my bridesmaids’ accessories. Do you have any suggestions? Getting married at Christmas is a great way of incorporating this magical season into your wedding. Add rich colours and textures to your bridal party’s look and decorate the venue with plenty of wintry flowers, roaring fires, seductive candlelight and red wine. Popular hues for this time of year are rich burgundy, champagne white, gold and rich green but the choices are limitless from emerald and blue to grey, pink and silver. Small and delicately arranged red holly branches could be incorporated into your hair accessories and bouquet. White combined with darker shades work well this time of year, so take advantage of it. Your bridesmaids could go big on their accessories but don’t forget about the groom. The traditional white buttonhole could be replaced with berries or velvet poinsettia, which has a natural rich burgundy colour. Grey or burgundy suits looks fabulous this time of year, especially when decorated with purple or pink buttonholes. When choosing your bridal gown, don’t let white be your only option. If you like gold, champagne or any other off-white shades, then don’t be afraid to go for it. Look for dresses with long, lacy sleeves, gold elements or perhaps a gorgeous crystal sash. The mother-of-the-bride or groom can also shine by wearing rich velvety tones and deep colours. Inna Walker Headwear designer www.innawalker.co.uk WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Q – I’m looking for a dress that will keep me warm at my December wedding while still being fashionable. Do you have any suggestions of what I should look for? A bespoke velvet gown would be perfect for a winter celebration. Choose a soft, ivory velvet trim with luxurious faux fur and subtle hand-beading that will look magical when the crystals catch the light. We often make velvet capes for our winter brides, and they always look fabulous, especially if the hood is trimmed in faux fur. Opt for a gown with sleeves. You could choose a detachable top that you can be removed in the evening to create two different looks. Fabrics like silk satin or Mikado work well for this time of year. Corded or guipure lace looks fabulous, especially with hand-beaded crystals and seed pearls. A long simple veil will enhance your look. The finest and softest tulle will allow your gown to be seen and create a sense of mystery and drama. Alternatively, you could opt for a bespoke veil with coordinating embellishments. Sheila Harding Wedding dress expert www.boa-boutique.co.uk SNOW IS FALLING Q – I’d love to incorporate seasonal colours into my hair and make-up. Do you have any ideas? For an atmospheric winter wedding, consider wearing white, silver and lots of sparkle. A strong lipstick is always a good option and will ensure you don’t end up looking too pale. If you’re having a Christmas wedding, opt for reds and golds and top off your outfit with a white velvet cape. Linda Leonard Hair and make-up artist www.lindaleonard.co.uk