The dress decision

STORY: CAITLYN GRANT // PHOTOGRAPHY: LOVE BY SHAE PHOTOGRAPHY

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

THE PRESSURE FOR PERFECTION ON YOUR BIG DAY CAN SOMETIMES MAKE EVEN THE SMALLEST DECISION SEEM OVERWHELMING.

So when it comes to the big decisions, such as picking the perfect dress to say your ‘I dos’, the world can very quickly fall apart.

And once you’ve found the dress, the pressure is on to find the right accessories.

Before you panic, take a deep breath because Bride & Groom sat down with wedding dress expert Debbie Grove, owner of Deblu’s, to talk tips, trends and tricks for finding the right dress and accessories for you. STRAP IN

Straying away from the strapless look, brides are opting for a more covered choice with long sleeves making the rounds. Often made of lace, long sleeves can add a touch of elegance to any gown.

If you’re on the fence over sleeves, fear not, the option of having both strapless and sleeved is very real.

Adding a long-sleeved lace top over your gown adds versatility to any dress and gives the option for removal at any point during your big day, with the added bonus of two dresses for the price of one.

For something a little bit different, go for a bell sleeve to enhance that rustic vibe.

COLOUR ME PINK, OR IVORY, EVEN POSSIBLY CAPPUCCINO

Saying goodbye to the traditional white, gowns of today are varied in size, shape and most importantly, colour.

Reminiscent of debutante balls, brides are slipping away from the stark white vision of tulle and falling more into the elegance of ivory.

A versatile shade, the ivory dress works wonders on any skin tone and still holds the advantage of photographing as white.

With the boho theme so prevalent in weddings of today, differing colours are also having their moment.

Making an appearance are cappuccino frocks, nudes, and even the occasional beige dress is popping up on the wedding scene. ACCESSORIES ARE KEY

Less isn’t always more when it comes to bridal accessories.

Your wedding look is what you make it, and accessories can be your best friend.

The addition of a flower crown studded with soft tones and greenery can make a gorgeous contrast to any pale gown, ensuring a rustic touch in tying the day together.

If you’re after a more traditional look, a veil adds an unmatched touch of timelessness.

Brides of today tend to steer away from a layered veil over the face, instead going for a simple one-tier veil made of soft tulle, to be draped gracefully over the back. DON’T BE AFRAID TO LOOSEN UP

Go with the flow when choosing your gown.

There’s a lot that goes into selecting your gown’s shape, and if you’re after a no-fuss frock, flowy is your go-to.

Go with the flow but make it your own by adding a structured bodice, which will add an element of shape which the dress may have been lacking.

Not only is it a winner in terms of comfort, but the loose gown also guarantees you an ethereal, boho charm.

You’ll also be thanking yourself for that bit of extra leg-room when undertaking your first dance as a newlywed!