By Katrina Doran.

The Oscars is always a huge influence on bridal fashions with the looks that walk the red carpet being interpreted for that walk up the aisle. This year it's the film Black Swan that is influencing bridal looks. Black Swan is nominated for five Oscars at this weekend's Academy Awards - with leading lady Natalie Portman "poised" to pick up Best Actress for her performance as a ballerina.

Local designer Lizzie Agnew will be showing a ballet inspired gown at The Wedding Journal Show, taking place this weekend at The King's Hall, Belfast. The beautifully crafted tulle dress epitomises the poise and elegance at the heart of ballet.

"For a bride wanting to incorporate an element of ballet to her dress it's really more about movement in the skirt and a very fitted bodice rather than taking the trend literally with a ballet dress as such," advised Lizzie. "A tulle skirt, like the one in the picture, is stunning – the fabric is as light as a feather and moves sooo beautifully when you walk and will look sensational for your first dance," said Lizzie. "I'd avoid the classic ballet length skirt though as that flash of ankle can just look like the dress is a little too short. If you want to show a bit of leg then below the knee or that new midi length just at the calf is much more flattering – or just go full length to the floor for that wow factor."

The Wedding Journal Show takes place from 3pm -8pm Friday and 12pm to 6pm Saturday & Sunday. For further information visit www.weddingjournalonline.com