Q. I’m getting married in a few months time and I am in a bit of a panic because I’ve yet to choose my dress. I’m a size 8 with an athletic figure and I’m on a super tight budget of €250. I’d love to wear a romantic princess style gown but as my frame is quite slender I’m not sure if this is the right choice? Have you any tips to help me find my perfect wedding dress on a shoestring?
Sinead, Galway.
A. As you don’t have much cash to splurge, I’d suggest that start your hunt at Oxfam Bridal on Georges street, as they’ve a wonderful selection of designer wedding gowns - all at a wallet friendly price. High Street stores such as Debenhams and Monsoon also stock gorgeous, affordable wedding dresses and if you spot a style that you can’t afford - but really love - why not employ a local dressmaker to make a similar dress for you?
You’ve probably dreamt about walking down that aisle since you were a little girl, and now the big day is fast approaching, picking the right style to suit your figure is crucial.
As you are a slender frame, a dress with a full skirt will only swamp your tiny figure, so why not choose something a little more figure hugging to emphasise your enviable figure. The shape that I think that would suit you best is a long column dress; similar in style to the green 1930’s dress Kiera Knightly wore in Atonement. This bias cut dress is elegant yet sexy and the backless detail will add an element of drama and allure to your look.
Whether you're choosing a dress off the rack or having one made just for you, follow these tips when you are on the hunt for your dream dress.
Keep a file of photographs of dresses you like from bridal magazines, advertisements and boutique promotions handy when you shop. Choose a style appropriate for the ceremony. For a formal evening wedding, a floor-length dress in ivory, white, cream or champagne, often worn with gloves and a train, is an elegant choice.
Take a trusted, honest sister or friend who has your best interests at heart for feedback.
Try one of each basic shape - princess, ball gown, and sheath and empire waist - to see which flatters you most. Check that you can walk, turn, sit and bend comfortably, as well as lift your arms and hug loved ones without splitting a seam. Comfort and confidence are vital on this day of days.
Shop at bridal boutiques or department stores for a wide array of styles. Try on a few designer gowns first so you recognise the quality, then choose a dress based on your budget. You can also try looking in stores that specialise in evening and debs wear, by choosing an evening gown in white or crème - you can get an amazing dress, at a fraction of the cost, simply because you are not shopping at a traditional wedding shop.
Remember to…
1. Keep an open mind. You may think you love and want a certain gown and end up in something completely different.
2. Trust your girlfriends, but trust your heart in the end. If you have to be convinced that it looks good, it doesn't look good.
3. People who open small boutiques are here to help. Relax and trust your dressmaker.
4. Wear your dress for at least 20 minutes in the salon to be sure you're comfortable in it. You certainly don't want to be uncomfortable on this most special day.
5. Shop outside the box. Go to vintage stores such as The Goddess Rooms in Greystones (their stock has to be seen to be believed) or EBay to find that special dress without spending a fortune.
