Neil Anderson from Orchid Bridal Studio knows all about finding the perfect wedding dress! He has a boutique full of the most gorgeous designs, so we sought his advice for finding ‘the one’!
‘Embarking on the journey of selecting a wedding dress can be both exciting and daunting,’ explains Neil. ‘A great starting point is to keep an open mind. Bridal stylists possess a wealth of experience, for example, here at Orchid Bridal Studio, we have been working with brides of all shapes and sizes for over 20 years. This wealth of experiences allows us to have a unique ability to envision what styles will flatter your figure and reflect your personality. While it’s important to come with ideas and inspiration, be prepared for recommendations that might initially seem outside your comfort zone. Sometimes, a stylist’s wild card suggestion could lead to an unexpected yet delightful surprise!’
Neil goes on to say, ‘Brides often have a specific vision but hesitate to explore alternatives. At Orchid, we ask if a bride is happy for us to suggest styles that complement their unique shape and style, all the while emphasising that the ultimate choice should be theirs. It’s not ours, or that of their nearest and dearest to impress on them what style of dress they should wear, so it’s important to tune out external opinions and focus on what makes you feel beautiful.’
What About Trends?
‘In recent seasons, off-the-shoulder gowns and simpler silhouettes have become quite popular. However, it’s essential to remember that trends are not one-size-fits-all. The right wedding dress should resonate with your individuality and personal style. After all, your wedding is a celebration of you, not merely a reflection of current fads’, advises Neil.
‘Additionally, many brides are now opting for two dresses, one for the ceremony and another for the reception. While this trend is growing, I believe that a single, stunning gown should be cherished throughout the day. With innovative options such as detachable sleeves and overlays, you can easily transform your look without needing a second dress.
Finishing Touches
‘Accessories play a pivotal role too when it comes to completing your bridal ensemble. We try to keep a theme running throughout your complete look and highly recommend having a hair trial when coming for your actual dress fitting, which gives you a better overall image of how your dress and accessories all work together.
‘A lot of our companies do design veils to match the dresses, and veils are more popular now than ever. As for a tiara or other headwear, this is dependant on the look of your gown and the style of your hair.
Dress Shopping
‘When preparing for your appointment, bring the people that are most important and whom you won’t choose your dress without. Also consider if you prefer to save the dress to the morning of your wedding to show bridesmaids, etc.
‘Wear plain underwear (it doesn’t have to be the underwear you will be wearing at this point) and shoes similar in height to your wedding day pair. This preparation helps create a polished look during fittings.
‘Lastly, be mindful of the timeline for ordering your dress, which typically takes six to eight months to arrive. And once you have your gown, cherish it in its breathable bag, keeping it safe and ready for your big day!’
Featured Image: Style 88390 Iselin from Justin Alexander at Orchid Bridal Studio
