This is Part 2 of the bridalwear feature where I have asked leading couture bridal wear designers to select their favourite gown from their collection and to recommend hairstyles or accessories to complement the look of their chosen gown.
Today I have the pleasure of introducing Nottingham based couture bridalwear designer Elizabeth Stuart.
While planning her wedding in 2009, Elizabeth came to the conclusion that the dress for her didn't exist...She remembers thinking how similar they all looked. In fact, Elizabeth recalls the store assistant holding up two gowns as possible options and she genuinely thought she had two of the same dress...if the uniqueness of the dress came first; then the quality of the fabric definitely ran a close second as Elizabeth wanted to feel as beautiful as she looked.
Elizabeth tells me that she wanted a dress that was fashion forward, completely unique, luxurious, and sophisticated all rolled into one! She's not alone and has had many brides discuss the same difficulty they had when looking for the perfect dress.
"As a result Elizabeth Stuart Bride have put together a collection, that allows a bride, to be set apart from the rest with fun, playful, yet luxurious skirts, soft feminine structured bodices, beautiful beaded accents...and finally an aspect of independence and sensuality that defines your new and wonderful beginning."
Elizabeth has selected the fabulous Adorabella from her Fall 2012 Collection.
This beautiful gown with its satin faced organza petals and voluptuous silk tulle skirt will transform any bride into a beautiful swan princess, perfect for creating a 'wow' factor at a traditional church wedding in off-white or for the ultimate in chic at a city wedding in grey.
"This dress would also be perfect for a large outdoor wedding with lots of beautiful flowers, the bride could even incorporate some of these into loose Mermaid like waves to create a beautiful boho chic style."
Adorella on the catwalk at this year's White Gallery event in London.
Elizabeth's advice is that very little styling is necessary with this fabulous statement gown. However, she suggests, "a low-profile chunky statement headpiece with rhinestones incorporated into a fierce up do would take even the chicest of brides from Princess to Prima Donna!"
Take a look at these fabulous Polly Edwards headdresses that Elizabeth has selected to complement Adorella.
Left - Patchouli and Right - Renee - from Polly Edwards
For brides who don't wish to wear a headpiece, Elizabeth recommends a set of statement chandelier earrings or a beautiful rhinestone cuff which would pair nicely with the contemporary feel of the dress maintaining a youthful fresh look.
The chapel length train of Adorella allows for that traditional edge while the keyhole back is sexy and sophisticated.
Thank you so much to Elizabeth for taking time out of her busy schedule to contribute to this feature. Thanks also to Sam in Elizabeth's team for his invaluable help and to Polly Edwards for providing the images of her beautiful headdresses.
Let me know what you think of Elizabeth's selected gown and styling recommendations by leaving your comments below.
Don't forget that throughout this week over on our Facebook page we are focusing on bridal fashion so if you're looking for more inspiration please visit our page here and take a look.
Until next time.....
Val x
Photo credit - The White Gallery for the images of Adorella on the White Gallery catwalk
Weddings are steeped in ritual, customs and tradition. Everything from where you spend the night before to what you wear and how you enter the ceremony is influenced by these things. Most wedding traditions in the UK have a long history, and although they’ve evolved a lot over time, many of them still seem more suited to the past than the present day.
Dec 31, 2024
Food, glorious food! Feasting and dining together is a central part of any wedding celebration. If you’ve never planned a large event, it can feel like a lot to get your head around, especially if your wedding is taking place over a few days. On top of the logistics of serving food at your wedding, there’s just so much choice these days. Where do you start?!
Dec 15, 2024
A marquee wedding offers masses of flexibility. As well as the freedom to host your celebration in a dream location without the constraints of a permanent building, there’s scope to personalise the space and make it your own. However, many couples underestimate the work involved in planning a marquee wedding. There are lots of practical things to consider, so let’s dive into a few of them.
Nov 15, 2024
