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I'm getting married in early spring and feel this is a pretty pathetic question, considering the number of websites and magazines devoted to the subject, but I don't know where to find the dress I'm looking for. I don't want a wedding dress as such - no white, cream, or ivory. I'd like something bias-cut, three-quarter length, perhaps a bit floaty with short or no sleeves but not strappy, in pale mauve or eau de nil, and perhaps some embroidery or beading. Going to London isn't a problem, and I was thinking in the region of £700. I don't think it's a pathetic question at all. I occasionally get sent bridal magazines, and although they're great and fulfil a purpose, if I were to get married again now, these magazines would have nothing in there for me. I'm going to suggest some good little boutiques/ labels that aren't bridal collections but usually do lovely dresses that you can wear to get married in. The key is to visit the shops at the right time, when the new season collections arrive (generally early to mid-February). Don't be afraid to phone the shops in advance, especially if you're planning a special trip, to find out just when the spring/ summer collections are coming in. Also, tell them what you're looking for, as collections go into the shops in phases; ie with some designers, floaty dresses might appear in March not February. Almost all boutiques selling designer clothes now also have 'look books' which show the designers' work so you can see if something that isn't in the shop yet might be suitable for you. Your very first stops should be Elspeth Gibson and Ben de Lisi, two of my favourite designers. Elspeth always has some divine little dress in her collection that are perfect for brides and within your budget. Her main shop - and the best place to go if you can - is at 7 Pont Street, London SW1 (020 7235 0601), but the collection is also sold elsewhere, so call for more details. Ben de Lisi is not far away at 40 Elizabeth Street, London SW1 (020 7730 2994). Ben is the master of gorgeous slinky dresses, starting at £500. Heavily beaded ones cost around £850 but Ben de Lisi's are confident they can find something to suit your budget. If you find a style you like in their collection, but would like it in a different colour, they can more than likely make something up for you (as long as they have the fabric). If a dress does needto be made, this will take a month, so ring for an appointment (although for a browse you can just pop in). The other places to go, as they sell lots of different designer ranges under one roof, are Liberty, Regent Street, London W1 (020 7734 1234); Selfridges, Oxford Street, London W1 (020 7629 1234) or at the Trafford Centre, Manchester M17 (0161 629 1234). Finally, well within your budget is the Designer at Debenhams collection. Don't laugh - I know at least two people who have got married in a less-than-£200 dress from there and looked sensational. The designers that you'll find there this spring include Ben de Lisi, Edina Ronay, Pearce II Fionda and Maria Grachvogel. Your nearest store is in the Trafford Centre (0161 746 3000).
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Karan only does this at Christmastime, when she goes on vacation with her family. She sends her luggage and sking equipment so it will be waiting for her when she arrives. The only two extra pieces of clothing she takes with her when traveling by plane are pair of cashmere slippers and a big black cashmere shawl, which she uses on the plane as a blanket and as a shawl during the day or a wrap in the evening.
Designers are catching on to the fact that their typical customer isn't a standard size 5. Larger sizes are becoming more and more available. The size 20 woman doesn't have to be content with a tent - clothes that are pretty and fashionable are now made in larger sizes. An easy, smart outfit would be a vest, jacket and trousers that match. Buy these pieces separately and build up a wardrobe around them. |
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A dress with an Empire waistline will look good on all your attendants.
If you plan to have your dresses made by a dressmaker Vogue Pattern 1689 is
just the one (it has a special hidden baby-accommodator). The Vogue version can made strapless or with short sleeves.
As this will be a winter wedding a bolero jacket or a shawl in angora will
keep of the chill.
A flower printed skirt or madras check can be very versatile. Choose one in
your
favourite colours. With different coloured tops you can get a lot of
different looks. A pair of high heeled sandals adds a touch of sexiness.
You need to take a fresh look at your wardrobe. Get a couple of
friends round for the evening and have a fashion show. Go out and buy a
few fashion magazines and see what looks you can recreate. Throw out
anything that you haven't worn for a couple of years, don't kid yourself,
you're never going to wear them again.
For a woman, tailored shorts or skorts are an acceptable option but keep
them to a reasonable length. Worn with a
matching jacket and blouse you can still look smart. Make sure you wear the right
shoe, a flat casual - not heels.
For a smart casual look, the man around the office could wear a shirt
jacket, a waistcoat in linen and a white tee worn over casual trousers
or if it's okay with the boss, jeans.
Yes, it's true we shorter people have to watch what we wear. You can
give an illusion of being taller by keeping your skirt, stockings and
shoes the same colour.