Choosing bridal wear that is right for you is vitally important and should be a reflection of your own sense of style and personality. You should start by choosing wedding dresses that you feel best in, not what other people think are best for you. If you need to be convinced that a dress looks good on you, it is probably not the one for you. Always make sure you try on the wedding gowns you are considering more than once and do not feel pressurised into purchasing something you are not completely sure about. Allow plenty of time to find the right dress and be prepared to try on a variety of different styles. On average, a bride will try on around 20 wedding dresses before finding the perfect wedding gown.

To look your best on your wedding day it is important that you choose a dress style that will flatter your body shape and enhance your best features.

Traditional white versus modern coloured wedding dresses.

It can be dangerous to consider a pure white dress unless you have the correct skin tones, it is better to choose ivory, cream or an off white shade, which you will find easier to wear. The overall effect can be greatly enhanced by adding a splash of colour, by adding ribbon or a piece of jewelery. Many brides find innovative ways to incorporate colour into their bridal wear. Some brides choose lots of sparkle and crystals to accessorise their gowns while others prefer embroidery or patterned fabrics. Either way your decoration provides you with an ideal opportunity to personalise your dress with your favourite colour.

Different coloured wedding dresses are starting to appear more and more in modern wedding fashion; pink, platinum, champagne and even red wedding dresses are popular choices.

Allow plenty of time to find your ideal selection of wedding gowns.

You should consider starting your search for bridal wear at least eight months prior to your wedding date, especially if you are having your dress made. After a while all

wedding dresses can start to look the same. It is important therefore that you devise a method that will remind you of the gowns that appeal to you. Arranging for someone to take a photograph of you wearing the wedding dresses you prefer is an effective way to record and review your short list.

Once you have chosen your perfect wedding gown make sure that you agree the exact time scales with the bridal shop for availability, fittings, alterations and final completion. It is also a good idea to check what penalties would be imposed if you decide to cancel the order before the dress arrives or is completed. A couple of weeks after you have ordered your wedding gown call the bridal wear shop to check that the order has been processed and confirm the arrival date of your dress. About two weeks before the scheduled delivery date contact the bridal wear shop again to make certain that there have been no unforeseen delays. Make sure that you maintain your body weight after you have purchased your wedding gown, until your big day!

And finally, make sure you enjoy the whole experience.