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How to choose the perfect wedding dress for your body type

February 6, 2019 No Comments

We’ve all imagined what our ‘perfect dress’ would look like and have idolised certain styles that would suit our body type, but sometimes what we want doesn’t always match up to the real thing.

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, there are a couple of things to consider (see how to find your perfect wedding dress according to experts), but a good way to start is figuring out your body type and what styles will suit you best.

THE BODY TYPES

1. Apple – Full bust with rounded torso and hips
2. Athletic – Tall, slim and a straight waistline
3. Curvy/hourglass – Defined waist, full bust and rounded hips
4. Pear – Wide hips and slim shoulders with a small waist
5. Petite – Slim and small frame
6. Tall – Over 1.75 m with a varying frame
7. Triangle – Broad shoulders and slim hips with a straight waist

THE DRESS TYPES

Mermaid

This style is perfect for an hourglass shape as it will accentuate your curves.

Sleek

Those with a tall and slim frame will suit this look beautifully and elegantly.

Tea-length

Tea-length dresses are perfect for those with an apple shape. They accentuate the frame and provide the look of having a longer torso and legs.

Ballgown

This stunning princess-inspired look will let athletic and pear frames shine by balancing the proportions of bust to hips.

V-neck

This particular neckline flatters larger busts, complementing an hourglass shape.

Halter neck

Having the focal point be your neck, halter necks give the allusion of narrow shoulders, suiting tall and athletic builds.

Strapless

Elegant and sweet, strapless dresses allow petite shapes to appear taller, while also flattering a smaller bust.

A-line

This style suits triangle shapes by balancing out the hips-to-bust ratio and giving a more defined waist.

Sweetheart

The sweetheart gives the allusion of smaller shoulders, suiting those with broad shoulders and fuller busts.

Picture: Unsplash

In Advice

How to find the perfect wedding dress, according to the experts

January 11, 2019 No Comments

So, you’ve found the love of your life. Now it’s time to find the other one – your wedding dress. Read our top tips from local experts before you head to the boutiques or meet a designer.

COLLECTION, COUTURE, HIRE OR PREVIOUSLY LOVED?

Each option has its own pros and cons. So it basically comes down to personal preference and budget. Buying or hiring a new or worn dress means that you can try on the dress before you buy it. But Natasha Holmes, owner and designer of Lou & Co, cautions: ‘Boutiques often only stock sample sizes, which isn’t the size of an average woman. If they don’t stock your size, don’t waste your time, as you simply cannot commit to a dress if you can’t try on the right size.’

If you have a dress made, Stephen of Stephen van Eeden Atelier advises you create a shortlist of potential designers and ‘make sure that their aesthetic and style reflect your personal style’. Having a dress made from scratch requires confidence in your designer, more time and, often, more money, but guarantees something unique.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

‘There is a big price difference between an off-the-rail gown and made-to-measure bespoke,’ says Stephen. Designers usually have a price range on their website and it’s worth knowing beforehand. Stephen suggests you look at the quality and finishing of a dress to see if it is fully lined and French seamed, as this determines the true cost.

If you’re buying or hiring, let the sales consultant know your budget. A good one won’t suggest anything outside of your budget but will find a way to incorporate what you want. Natasha adds: ‘Being honest will allow us to quickly rule out what you can’t afford and find a suitable dress in your price range.’

EARLY-BIRD BRIDE

Start shopping at least six months before your big day – even more if you intend on having your dress made. ‘Trends like lace appliqué take time,’ says Natasha. A boutique may have to order in your size or make alterations – and you don’t want to rush that process.

BYO

Wear a strapless nude bra and panties, even shapewear if you’ll be wearing it on your big day. ‘It’s easier to judge fit with a smooth silhouette,’ says Natasha, ‘and no one warns you about this, but you should be ready for the designer or consultant to see you in your undies! Wedding gowns are tricky to get in and out of.’

Remove any jewellery in case it catches. A simple necklace can change the entire neckline of a dress. Make an effort with your hair and make-up to get a sense of what you will look like on the day. Taking a pair of heels along is also recommended, but boutiques often have pairs to try on.

TRIBE VIBE

The first fitting can be overwhelming and you will want to be surrounded by your people. When fitting at Lou & Co, Natasha recommends that you bring along only two or three people whose opinions you value most, such as your mom, sister or best friend. ‘Too many opinions make it harder to know what’s right.’

ROME WASN’T BUILT IN A DAY

Chances are, you won’t find ‘The One’ at your first try-on session. Don’t be disheartened! There are always more boutiques and other designers to try. And, with every consultation, you will walk away knowing something new about the one you really want.

In Accessories

Moodboard: Vintage love for page boys & flower girls

December 14, 2018 No Comments

Don’t forget about the little ones! You want them to look sophisticated and chic, but still age-appropriate. Outfits and accessories inspired by vintage style is the perfect way to do just that.

One trend we love is to dress the kiddies as mini versions of the bride and groom!

Dress your ring bearer in a cute tux that matches the colours of the groom’s tux or suit.

Have the flower girl wear an accessory that matches the flowers; hair clips, floral crowns and corsages are popular.

In Advice

Top 10 bridesmaid dress trends of 2019

December 13, 2018 No Comments

The 2019 trends are here, and we are so excited to see what the new year has in store! When it comes to bridesmaid dress styles, modern themes are taking over with new and fresh looks that will give your bridal party a total make-over.

1. ONE SHOULDER

We’ve seen the return of this trend in everyday wear, and can’t help but swoon over the sophisticated style it brings in a bridesmaid gown.

2. TWO PIECES

Stunning two-piece sets allow your bridesmaids to mix and match their looks to your theme. This choice adds a playful side to your bridal party and is suited to a summer wedding.

3. DRAMATIC SLEEVES

Tie, cap and flared sleeves are all taking the wedding fashion scene by storm with their cute and playful appearances. Whether it’s dramatic flair or a statement you’re after, you are sure to find a creative sleeve style to suit your theme and bridal party look.

4. VELVET

Velvet fabric creates a subtle sultry aesthtic that, when paired with jewel tones, lets your bridal party flourish like royalty.

5. ROYAL SHADES

The royal weddings of 2018 have set the standard for wedding trends this 2019. Rich and textured shades of emerald green, mustard yellow and ruby red are major statements this season.

6. MESH

Sheer overlays flowing to the floor give your bridesmaid dresses an air of romance and grace that is both feminine and flattering.

7. WRAP DRESSES

Classic and elegant, the wrap dress is a suitable option for all of your bridesmaids. If you’re planning your wedding for the spring of 2019, this look will fit your bridal party perfectly.

8. SHORT DRESSES

Short and tea-length dresses detailed with tulle and pleated skirts create a fun and playful look that is also chic and reminiscent of ’50s styles.

9. EMBROIDERY

The reincorporation of various textures into fashion has led to styles like embroidery being brought back in new and creative ways. Let this age-old method take over your bridal party look in a gorgeous update that is modern and elegant.

10. JUMPSUITS

Some bridesmaids will be skipping the dresses altogether in favour of sophisticated and modern jumpsuit styles. They’re comfortable, fashion-savvy and your bridal party can wear them past your wedding day.

Images: Pinterest

In Advice

Which one of these DIY seating charts is perfect for you?

December 13, 2018 No Comments

The RSVPs are in and you’ve finally figured out where everyone is going to sit, now it’s time to come up with a creative way to relay the information to your guests. Equipped with one of these DIY seating charts, you’ll be good to go!

1. THE SEATING CHART/WEDDING FAVOUR COMBO

Combining your seating chart with your wedding favours is an amazing way to save both time and money.

Cacti, Stodels

2. STAY ON TREND WITH COPPER CREATIVITY

If you particularly like the metallic trend, this is totally up your alley. Use copper piping to assemble a sturdy frame. Hang string or ribbon from the frame, and then attach the seating cards for each table. Decorate with some greenery and place in a prominent position.

Copper pipe, Builders; greenery, Fabulous Flowers; stationery, Lezanne’s Designs

3. MOTIF MAGIC

Group your tables to correspond with your theme. Print cards with the different categories and pin to a gorgeous board outside the venue.

Stationery, The Pink Collection

Styling: Francoise Jeanne de Villers
Photography: Gareth van Nelson

*All products subject to availability

In Advice

My pre-wedding skincare routine: A celeb guest blog by Zakeeya Patel

December 10, 2018 No Comments

These days it’s not just their bodies that brides are getting into shape before the big day. Twelve months before my big day I consulted with several aesthetic doctors for a pre-wedding skincare routine and I absolutely fell in love with Dr Reddy from Medisculpt.

She wasn’t gung-ho to fill or botox me to ‘perfection’ which is why I adored her approach. Instead she analysed my skin and worked out a programme for the year ahead. Yes, I started my skincare routine a year before my wedding (one of the only things I did in advance) and the focus was on my pores and pigmentation.

For the first 6 months I alternated between gentle chemical peels and oxygen facials. In the last 6 months we started the famous Vampire facials, which we did every 8 weeks and the results were spectacular.

The week before my wedding I did an L.O.L facial. This was my absolute favourite! The results are immediate. A L.O.L facial is a Lift, Oxygen and Lights facial. Throughout my whole wedding weekend everyone kept saying, ‘You’re literally glowing you’re so happy’. Honestly, most of that glow was thanks to the L.O.L facial. In truth I was stressed out of my wit, barely eating and definitely not sleeping – all the worst demons for one’s skin.

No matter how good your make-up artist is, you cannot really cover bad skin and no matter how badly I was neglecting my body before the wedding, my skin remained flawless from the work we had done throughout the year.

In Advice

Our top 8 wedding budget tips

November 30, 2018 No Comments

It’s no secret that weddings are a pricey affair – but our top 8 wedding budget tips will ensure yours doesn’t drain your funds.

1. A STITCH IN TIME

Believe us when we say that the months leading up to your big day will fly by, even quicker when you haven’t factored in as much planning as you’d expected. So while time may not be a tangible currency for exchange, it will save you plenty of stress and may even afford you reduced rates here and there if you book things such as the venue, entertainment, catering and honeymoon far enough in advance. You’ll thank us.

2. ALL IN

You’ll be surprised by how much you can save by selecting a venue with catering, drinks and equipment included, as opposed to booking these all through different providers. If the venue is catering, but charging a hefty price for the desserts, bring your own. ‘Bring your own desserts or sweets table,’ says Mikaila Beretta, a Cape Town events coordinator, ‘and take your venue’s menu option without the dessert. It’s more cost-effective and more fun for your guests.’ Ask about special rates during off-season to cut costs even further. Keeping the guest list short also means less work and expense.

3. IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Is your friend’s house just begging to be done up for a relaxed yet sophisticated reception? Does Uncle Richard have MasterChef skills he’s willing to offer for an unforgettable post-ceremony meal? Plenty of couples opt to get their loved ones involved in lieu of some type of a wedding gift – after all, if you’re saving money and getting the gift of a beautiful wedding, you can spend on items you really like for your new life as a married couple.

4. GO GREEN

‘The decor is usually expensive and can take up a lot of your budget if you aren’t aware of DIY options, which your planner should also be able to include and manage without the maximum cost,’ says Mikaila. Flowers often form a pretty large chunk of this expense. Luckily, there’s a super-stylish way to get around this budget nemesis: greenery like leaves, branches and creepers. Pinterest is your go-to resource, as it’s bursting with ideas of how to incorporate everything from delicious monster and banana leaves to olive branches into your decor and bridal-party bouquets. If you opt for a plant with smaller leaves, you can even use these as confetti.

5. YOU ARE (STYLISHLY) INVITED

Your parents may have had professionally printed card invitations with a patterned border and gold foiling, but that doesn’t mean you need to squeeze this (rather hefty) expense into your budget. Spend some time browsing the beautiful templates available online, then stock your home printer with good quality paper and you’re in business! Want to go eco-friendly? Digital invitations are the answer. For a small fee, you can customise your own invitations to be sent out via email, and track the RSVPs online AS an added perk!

6. FAVOUR FOR LESS

You’ll easily add extra expenses and another item to your to-do list when you start thinking about favours for your wedding retinue and guests. Keep things simple, especially if you have a large guest list, by tying sweets in pretty gauze bags, for example. Easy-peasy!

7. KEEP IT SIMPLE

Have your eye on a costly aisle runner? What about a scattering of pretty flower petals instead? Trying to fit design and printing costs for your programmes into the budget? The cost of 50-plus programmes, of which four will be taken home by the guests and the rest left on the floor to be trodden on? Probably not worth it.

8. SNAP HAPPY

The photography quality is one service you don’t want to skimp on. You want someone who will capture the true essence of your special day. Shop around before settling on a photographer – and you may be surprised by the reasonable prices you find along the way.

The way to get around forking out a big chunk of your wedding budget for this service? Keep the number of hours of service down to one or two.

In Advice

5 wedding hair trends to inspire you

November 22, 2018 No Comments

No matter your haircut, length or texture, these wedding hair trends are just for you. Check out some of our favourites for this season.

1. TIE THE KNOT

Take notes from stitch and knot techniques, and incorporate them into low ponytails and buns. Leanne Marshall, Marchesa and Mila Schön all included knot detailing in their runway looks, proving that this trend can be super-chic for any bride who wants an understated yet striking style. As an added bonus, should your knot start coming undone during the evening, you can let it loose and have perfectly wavy strands for a more relaxed look.

2. SLEEK AND CHIC

Best suited for brides with poker-straight strands or a shorter cut. Pull your hair back into a low ponytail, or opt for a sleek and shiny topknot that will stay in place, no matter how much fun you have. Be sure to tame any flyaways or baby hairs with a couple of drops of an anti-frizz serum or oil. Alternatively, show off your attention-worthy earrings with a middle parting and tucked-away strands for an uber-cool approach, as seen at Sachin & Babi.

3. BRAID OF HONOUR

Probably the biggest hair trend at the moment! Usually thought of as a more free-spirited Bohemian style, braids are being incorporated into bridal hairdos in new ways, proving to be perfectly sophisticated. For the bride seeking a classic style with a hint of romanticism and whimsy, any kind of braid can be altered to fit your personal style. Try a Dutch or milkmaid plait with wispy pieces for a Boho take, or sleek miniature braids neatly tucked away for a contemporary look.

4. A NEW WAVE

Curls will always be a winner, whether they are soft, beachy waves or mega-bouncy Hollywood twirls. This can be tricky if your hair is super-straight, so if you wish to go curly on your big day, rather opt for waves and add a tiara or birdcage veil for a cool-girl effect. If you have naturally curly hair, embrace it with a volumising mousse and a frizz-tamer to smooth flyaways.

5. UPDATED UPSTYLING

Gone are the days of an updo being confined to a little nest on top of your head with hundreds of pins holding your hair in place. The modest style gets reinvented with modern details to embrace a bride’s natural texture, adding tiaras, flowers or headpieces, as seen at Lela Rose, Theia and Mark Zunino. Whether you prefer your hair slightly dishevelled and tousled, or slick and neat, the classic chignon can offer the answer.

In Advice

5 statement veils that won’t make you look tacky

November 19, 2018 No Comments

Your veil doesn’t just have to be a piece of chiffon you plonk on your head, these statement veils have become the ultimate piece for the chic bride this season.

1. CATHEDRAL

The most dramatic of all the veils, with a minimum length of 2.5 m. The veil usually has plenty of lace and embroidery detail to further enhance the dramatic effect, and can sometimes even have a mantilla finish incorporated on top. It is best worn with an updo or bun that has been tightly secured, as the veil can be heavy!

2. CAPE

This is for you if you’re not a fan of the traditional veil, but still like the idea of having one. A cape is worn over the shoulders, and the possibilities for hairstyles are countless, as there are no restrictions. For a sophisticated look, go for a topknot or sleek ballerina bun; for a more Boho feel, opt for loose, textured curls.

3. FINGERTIP

The fingertip veil comes down to just where your fingertips are when your arms are relaxed. Best worn with a delicate updo or low ponytail so that the veil can be clipped into the back and still reach the fingertips. For a softer effect, hold the veil in place higher on your head with a headpiece so that it falls softly over your shoulders like loose curls.

4. BLUSHER

This is the part of the veil that covers the face, and comes in different lengths and styles. Although the more traditional option is to keep the blusher short, other styles use it to more dramatic effect, such as a longer-length veil with an equally long blusher. This veil works well with any soft, romantic hairstyle whether a low bun with loose strands or hair worn completely down. Stay away from a high ballerina bun, as you want to avoid having volume on top of your head. It can be held in place with an Alice band or tiara, but can also be delicately draped over your head if the edges have heavier finishes to weigh it down.

5. BALLET/WALTZ

This veil falls between the calves and ankles. It’s longer and more dramatic than a fingertip veil, but shorter and easier to dance in than a floor-length option. Best for a shorter hairstyle or a lower updo, where it can be clipped in securely.

In Advice

Lookbook: A midsummer night’s dream

November 12, 2018 No Comments

As night falls, the forest becomes a scene of drama and mystery, complemented by plush fabrics and rustic details. Scroll through our magical lookbook for all your forest-themed wedding inspiration.

From left: Brass candleholders (to hire), Propeller Props; silver candleholders (to hire), Plush Props; tall candleholders, @home; small jug, flask and medium jug (to hire), all Plush Props; tapas bowl and cutlery, both Check My China; dinner plate, side plate, wine glass, tall glass with short stem and short glass with short stem, all Woolworths; linen, Fabric City; velvet runner, Fabric Centre

Rolled menus, Secret Diary; feathers, Epanouir Flower Studio

Cake from, Kanya Hunt from The Hunt House Kitchen; cake stand (to hire), Check My China; velvet fabric, Fabric Centre; crystal wine glass, Woolworths

Plate and spoon (to hire), both Check My China; blueberries, Pick n Pay; bottle, Merrypak; thank-you tag, Secret Diary; glass, Woolworths

Chairs (to hire), Propeller Props; fairy lights and ping-pong balls, both Game

Menu, Secret Diary; feathers, Epanouir Flower Studio

Decor styling: Francoise Jeanne de Villiers
Food styling: Chiara Turilli
Photography: Gareth van Nelson
Venue: D’Aria, Cape Town

*Products all subject to availability