Freya Rose, Elizabeth Messina
PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD
Every outfit needs a killer pair of shoes and your wedding day look is no different. However, striking that fine balance between style and comfort can be tricky - especially when you consider the amount of time you'll spend on your feet socialising, dancing, not to mention that all-important walk down the aisle!
Sky-scraping stilettos are best left to seasoned high heel fans so, if you don't regularly don heels but fancy rocking a pair on your wedding day, go for smaller heels or a wedge. Once you've picked your pair, wear them around the house to break them in. Nobody wants to be hobbling around with blisters on their wedding day. If you're struggling to decide between heels and flats, consider wearing a pair of heels during the ceremony and then swap over to flats for the evening when the party kicks off.
Perhaps, you're decidedly anti-heels? Well you're in luck! Gone are the days when a pair of elegant heels was the only option for brides. There's now a dizzying choice of bridal flats available, from sweet ballet pumps and brogues to beachy sandals. You might even go super-casual and team your dress with a pair of trainers, whether it's a pair of personalised Converse or, for a traditional twist, a floral or lace design.
Once you've decided what style of shoe you're after, it's time to hit the shops. Shoe shopping can be a pain (literally!) so, to get the most out of it, we advise going in the afternoon or evening when your feet are already slightly swollen from going about your business all day. This will give you a more realistic view of how your shoes will fit on the day.
If you need some inspiration, take a look at the current hot-to-trot trends. Super-stylish and practical to boot, block heels are a great option if you're new to heels, as they're much sturdier than their spiky stiletto counterpart. Glitter, knots and lace are also having a moment, so pick a pair of shoes with these chic details to bring your look bang up-to-date. For an alternative vibe, go for a bright colour, perhaps one that matches your bridesmaids' dresses or your bouquet to pull the look together. For less drama but just as much style, we love subtle prints: choose florals for a romantic wedding day look.
Debbie Carlisle, Emma Solley
GET YOUR ROCKS ON
If you're firmly in the gold or silver camp - listen up! Metals tend to look better with some colours than others. Generally speaking, a white dress looks best with silver or platinum whereas an ivory gown is best matched with gold. If your dress has metallic detailing on it, such as beading, it's usually best to match your jewellery or you'll risk a clash. If in doubt, try on a few different options with your dress and see which works best for you.
Use your dress as a guide when choosing your jewellery. If your dress features an ornate neckline, a blingy necklace could detract from that. But if your gown is fairly simple in style, a statement necklace could add an element of detail. A strapless dress and up do looks incredibly elegant with a pair of drop earrings. But if you're rocking a more laid-back, beachy look, simple studs will do the trick.
The key thing to remember is that the jewellery is a reflection of your style. Whether that means rocking the family heirlooms or going all-out for bling, wear whatever makes you feel like you.
LIFT THE VEIL
The veil is the ultimate bridal accessory. From petite shoulder veils to a dramatic cathedral-length affair, there is a style out there for every bride. If you've already chosen your dress, try and match the shade of your veil as closely as possible to ensure it looks like an extension of your outfit, rather than an awkward add-on.
Consider the style of your dress, too. If it's ornate or features lots of details, a simple, sheer veil should prevail. Your size may also dictate the length of the veil: floor-length veils elongate brides, whereas mid-length styles can have the opposite effect. A birdcage style veil is a fun way to add a retro vibe and suits all heights. Your best bet? Head to a boutique with your gown and play dress-up...as if you needed an excuse!
Hermione Harbutt, Amy Fanton
THE HAIR NECESSITIES
In most cases, it's worth deciding on your hairstyle and then selecting a headpiece to compliment your do. However, if you have your heart set on a specific headpiece, for example, a vintage tiara or a precious family heirloom, schedule an appointment with your hairdresser to discuss which styles would work well.
When it comes to finding the right accessory, think about what would work well with your type of hair. Avoid going for colours in a similar shade to your hair as they will blend in and go unnoticed. Similarly, you might love the look of dainty crystals or barely-there flowers, but if you've got very thick hair they could end up getting lost.
There is a huge trend for softer, relaxed headpieces such as pretty flower crowns, delicate hair vines and feather details at the moment; these work perfectly for a relaxed summer wedding. For a more formal look, consider structured fascinators, sparkly tiaras or gilt hair combs or clips.
TAKE COVER
As we all know, the weather down here in the glorious South West can be unpredictable and, even if you manage to land a scorcher of a day, there is no guarantee you won't be visited by mizzle later on in the proceedings. But don't let a shift in temperature ruin your beach photo shoot or garden cocktails.
Our advice? Be prepared with a stylish cover-up. From a simple bolero to a glam faux fur stole, there are plenty of chic choices available. Vintage-loving brides might consider an elegant beaded capelet; a sequinned bolero with scalloped edges is also a great look for retro lovers. Add a touch of drama (and some serious warmth!) with a faux fur stole or keep things simple with a pared-back lace jacket.
Once you've settled on your accessories, try everything on together to make sure you're completely happy with your look. Above all, remember that rules are made to be broken so, as long as you're happy and you feel like yourself, that's all that matters. Happy shopping!
Kye Tew, Olivia Whitbread-Roberts
DAZZLING DESIGNS
Crown your gown with a so-you piece from these talented designers
ERIN COX
Erin Cox lovingly crafts exquisite pieces from her studio in the heart of Exeter.
From standout wedding bands and engagement rings to necklaces, earrings, pendants and bracelets, Erin's distinctive style ensures something insanely beautiful and truly unique to complete your bridal ensemble.
www.erincox.co.uk
HOLLY YOUNG MILLINERY
Up-and-coming milliner Holly Young handcrafts a wide range of headwear - from whimsical headdresses and delicate lace hair combs and bands through to flamboyant floral designs and her signature feather accessories - from her Cornish studio. Just the ticket for a so-you look.
www.hollyyoungboutique.com
KYE TEW JEWELLERY
Boho vibes or deco decadence? Whatever your wedding whim, Exeter-based Kye Tew has a unique piece to suit. Creating a range of jewellery using vintage, antique and pre-loved pieces, Kye's signature headdresses - crafted from pearls, turquoise and antique jewels - make a showstopping finishing touch.
www.kyetewjewellery.co.uk
Holly Young Millinery, Griffin Photography
THE LUCKY SIXPENCE
Based in Devon, designer-maker Janie of The Lucky Sixpence makes beautifully bespoke headwear and jewellery in a range of looks from vintage to modern, luxe to boho and romantic to classic. Either choose from the ready-to-wear range or have something completely unique designed especially for you.
www.theluckysixpence.co.uk
HERMIONE HARBUTT
Renowned for her delicate, feminine and oh-so romantic designs, celebrated designer Hermione Harbutt uses the finest pearls, Swarovski crystals, gemstones and diamonds to craft her utterly beautiful jewellery and headpieces.
www.hermioneharbutt.com
SCARLETT VINTAGE
Based in Torbay, Scarlett Vintage handcrafts a gorgeous range of bridal accessories from hairpins, clips and combs to flower vines, circlets, belts and personalised garters. Blending contemporary, fun and funky design with an effortlessly stylish vibe, pop into Truly Delightful in Totnes to view and try on the collection.
www.scarlettvintage.co.uk
words Abby Driver
Copyright Wed magazine 2016
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