Q. I’m getting married on a beach in Thailand in June and I want to wear a romantic dress that doesn’t cost the earth. As the wedding is on a beach something light and floaty looking would be perfect - can you help me find my dream wedding dress?
A. When Renee Zellweger got married on a Caribbean beach, she did so in a €8,000 designer dress but the good news is that you can look as good without having to spend a lot of money. Oxfam Bridal George's Street is the place where you can pick you can pick up incredible wedding gowns for a song. Discounts in these shops can be incredible – anywhere from 30 to 50 per cent, and more in some cases. Essentially, the experience also matches that of mainstream bridal stores; trained staff is on hand to help, and prospective brides and their entourage get a room to themselves.
Agnes Sage, store manager at Oxfam, Georges Street, says people are starting to realise the bargains they can find in charity shops. "The word is definitely getting around. Last year, we took in €16,000 here." Sage says 90pc of the dresses they have in stock come directly from shops which are either closing down or simply changing their collections, so there’s plenty of great labels to choose from whatever your taste or size.
When it comes to the style of dress that you choose - don't try too hard. Keep it relaxed with a floaty slip, bohemian styling and unfussy details - a pristine, stiff dress and diamond tiara would look ridiculous with the ocean lapping against the shore a few yards away. Gowns for beach weddings usually are not very flamboyant. The necklines can be wide or an off shoulder is the best choice. Assembling simple neck pieces in stones, diamonds or pearl sets is another idea.
If I were you, the first place that I would start looking is Monsoon. Not only do they have a divine selection of occasion wear but they also stock the prettiest wedding dresses that I’ve ever seen. Many of them of in shades such as oyster or crème but you could pick up something really pretty in antique gold or duck egg blue. Debenhams also has a marvellous selection of bridal wear as does Coast, where you can pick up something really special for around €300. For something really special you could try wearing a vintage wedding dress - the best to be found are usually at Jenny Vander on Drury Street or The Goddess Room in Greystones.
Choose lightweight fabrics such as chiffon and strapless styles or Grecian themed dresses will work especially well for this kind of romantic look. Keep hair and make up natural and soft to reflect the laid back vibe. Problem solved.
