Starting points

This is probaly the most important clothing purchase of your life so it is crucial you get it right! Your gown or outfit should be a reflection of who you are: your personality and your style. You may already have a strong sense of style, or you may not. For example, your religion or nationality may be something you want reflected. Your ethnicity may even be a dictating factor. What image do you have in you mind about how you'll look on your wedding day? Is there an "inner-bride" in there who can help you? Who are your style icons?

Do you imagine yourself in a full gown with diaphanous layers of tulle, lace, organza and chiffon? Will the dress sparkle with crystals or shimmer with pearls? Will it be a dress at all? It could be a tailored suit or an evening dress. Perhaps sleek, simple but sexy is how you imagine your look. Do you envisage you'll wear long or short? Do you want a veil and a train, if so how long will they be? Off-the-shoulder, sleeves, a shrug or jacket? Perhaps if it's winter you've a burning desire to wear fur. Maybe you've a penchant for feathers. Will you wear white? If taking the designer route this is all food for thought as each designer has a "signature look". If you want retro with a twist, you'll recognise it when you see it, so that the designer will be an excellent starting point. Check designers' web sites to see if they are designing clothes in styles and fabrics you like. Browsing through magazines will also give you a good idea of the latest bridal fashions and what is available and where. You may also find yourself drawn to particular styles.

We suggest to you assess what's already in your wardrobe and works for you. Also keep an open mind and don't have too many preconceived ideas about styles and cuts, especially if you are having a dress made for you which can make a huge difference to what will suit you.

There are also a few practicalities to take into account that will help you narrow down the search. These include the venue, the type of ceremony and the time of year. Think about how long you will be in your wedding dress, and what it has to go through. Also ask your self what the temperature will be. Will you be getting into a boat, into a helicopter or stepping up into a horse drawn carriage? Will you be dancing and vigorously?

You might be taking your wedding vows in a special venue or location and want this reflected in your gown. You may also have family jewellery that you know you want to wear. Whether having something exclsively designed or choosing from an existing collection these are factors to take into consideration.You can also ask your groom to look through magazines and lett him tell you the gown he likes and hates and thereby give you an idea of how he might like to see you. Your intended might hate laces and frills or dream of a Cinderella bride. He may love the idea of lifting your veil for your first legal kiss, or think that naff. We amagine, it would be good to know!