Weddings

If you want to know something about what makes a success when it comes to that all important dress then it makes sense to talk to Susan Brodie, who has over 25 years experience of guiding excited ladies towards their special day. Her shop, Wedding Belles on Darwen Street, Blackburn has seen every conceivable fashion come and go over the last quarter of a century. 

Inside Lancashire went to visit Susan in her shop and asked her to give us her expert opinion on what will be the in thing for 2012 and to let us see the dresses she’s most excited about: "Lace is proving to be popular and that has probably come following last year’s Royal wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William. (The wedding dress was a handmade lace appliqué which detailed a daffodil, rose, shamrock and thistle design.)

Everyone wants their wedding to be one of their most memorable days ever and when brides come in to my shop, I’d like to feel that we can accommodate just about everyone. We stock sizes from 10 to 30 in different styles to suit all shapes and sizes and we stock large dress sizes for people to try on. (many other shops don't, so be sure to check before making a disappointing trip!) Sometimes customers know exactly what they want but I still like to advise them to try on all styles because you never know until you try it on. Here are my general guidelines to follow.”

A-Line
A-line tends to be popular because it suits practically everyone. If you choose a fitted bodice with this style it creates an illusion of a slimmer waist and flatters the bust. If you have hips, this style will cover them up and if you don’t, it will look like you do.

Ballerina Style
This is a full skirt. If you have slim hips and full bust this style balances you out and is possibly one of the most romantic styles. If you are not full busted, or you are petite, you could get lost in the dress.

Fishtail or mermaid
This figure hugging style is set to be the big seller for 2012 and is ideal for curvy girls, but don’t forget to make sure you can sit while wearing it. I wouldn’t recommend it for pear or apple shaped girls.

Strapless, Sleeves, Sweetheart or Vneckline
Strapless is the trend for 2012 and it gives you the opportunity to show off a long neck, good shoulders and toned arms. However, my advice is do not leave everything uncovered unless you are completely happy with how you look. Full busts will not be supported with this style. Sleeves three quarter or long in sheer fabric or lace may suit fuller arms. Sweetheart necklines usually work ok with fuller busts. V-necklines are particularly complimentary for fuller busts.

Even with these guides, different shapes and sizes can be accommodated by accessories for example, heeled shoes for a little extra height, decorative necklace to cover neck blemishes, sleeved matching jackets for strapless dresses. www.weddingbelles.ltd.uk or phone 01254 582299