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 By Aileen Wilson- Owner of Blush Boutique
Finally the buying season for our 2012 Bridal Collections has come to an end, albeit an enjoyable experience and we have finally chosen our selection of the hottest looks on the runway. There were most certainly a few themes running through most of the bridal manufacturers and of course the couture houses had some delectable treats in store for those getting married in 2012.
Lace
One of the biggest looks for 2012 is lace. Whilst this has always been a firm favourite with both designers and Brides- every design collection had lace as part of their collection, whether in the form of a discreet trimming or a full lace gown. Lace will most certainly be a big feature in 2012.
Necklines and Sleeves
Unusual necklines and pretty sleeves are making a huge comeback this year. This will include both short puffy and three-quarter length in sheer and opaque fabrics- a welcomed change to the usual plethora of strapless gowns that have dominated the Bridal industry for the last ten years or more. Whilst strapless dresses will still be available, gladly they will not be the only offering!
Patterned Fabric
This season we’ve already had a little taster of this from Alan Hannah, with his stunning silk rose  damask. Going forward into 2012- the theme will continue to expand and develop with a range of elegant stripes, exotic painted silks and vintage damasks offering a huge range of options for your dress.
Vintage and Bohemian
Soft fluid looks, intricate beading and vintage inspired detail remain a key look for 2012. Brides-to-be seeking the laid-back, sexy, ‘I haven’t tried too hard’ look a-la Kate Moss, will find difficulty in choosing between the fabulous array of dresses from both Elizabeth Fillmore and Jenny Packham.
Top tips for choosing ‘The Dress’
Shopping for the most important fashion purchase of your life can be no mean feat. It’s important that your experience is as relaxed and pleasurable as possible. All too often we see Brides stressed to breaking point so I have compiled a list of tips to help relieve the apprehension that comes with shopping for ‘The Dress’.
1.Northern Ireland is saturated with wedding shops and boutiques- and as you know- too much choice can become confusing. It’s a matter of choosing the right shops to visit. Choose five shops that offer different labels- otherwise you run the risk of seeing the same things over and over again. Do a little bit of  research online- the boutique’s website will give a good indication of the style of dresses and the overall look and feel of the store.
2.Try to keep the number of shops you visit in one day to a maximum of three. Trying on wedding dresses- whilst enjoyable- can be tiring. Getting in and out of dresses can be a bit like a workout and you don’t want to leave yourself feeling exhausted! When you’re tired- dresses can start merging together and it can be difficult to make sound decisions.
3.‘The Wedding Committee’- Brides-to-be need to choose carefully who they take with them to help choose their dress. Too many opinions can leave a Bride frazzled- and whilst certainly well-intentioned- some ‘committee members’ may push their own ideas onto a bride. Though most bridal shops really don’t mind how many people come with you to your appointment- we have witnessed some upsetting ‘moments’!
4.Don’t choose a style of dress just because it’s in fashion- there are several factors to consider when choosing your dream dress.
(A) Body Shape: Your dress should show off your best bits and disguise the bits you don't like so much.
(B) Colour: Dresses are available in an unbelievable number of different shades and colours. If you like a style of dress and the colour doesn't suit- just ask if it's available in other colours.
(C) Fabric: Fabrics can reflect differently against your skin. Some people suit a matt fabric like silk chiffon- whilst others will suit a high sheen reflection against their face like silk duchess. Lace continues to be a popular option but just as some people suit matt while others suit high sheen- lace may or may not be suitable for you.
5.What theme or overall look do you want for your day? Is it more relaxed and informal? Or perhaps a chic city wedding? Maybe your wedding is a very formal affair in a beautiful Cathedral? Remember- next to the venue, your wedding dress will set the tone and theme of the day and all other arrangements like flowers, suits, bridesmaid dresses- will all be chosen to complement the dress!
6.Remain open minded. Sometimes the dress you have always dreamed of in reality isn’t ‘The One’. Therefore it is always good to try on a variety of shapes and styles.
7.Finally- enjoy every minute of shopping for your dream dress! It should be a fun and enjoyable experience that you will only do once- and as much part of your big day as the wedding itself.
Blush Boutique is situated on Belfast’s Lisburn Road. We offer a unique selection of bridal dresses from some of the world’s leading designers. We work closely with our designers to bring you exclusive designs only available at Blush.
Blush offers a relaxed, comfortable environment where we go the extra mile as a matter of course. We are currently searching for our Face of Blush- offering our Brides-to-be the chance to be our cover girl and win a host of fabulous prizes including the Bridal dress!
For further information on any of the services we provide at Blush or to book an appointment- contact us on 02890 661101 or log on to Blush Boutique. You can also follow us on Facebook for all the latest news.
Left-hand images: Elizabeth Fillmore Dresses
Right-hand images: Jenny Packham
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