Ask The Expert > accessories


High-street chic

Where can I find some gorgeous shoes without spending hundreds of pounds? Ami, Bath

Mel Woodward says :

So many high-street stores are doing bridal ranges now — try Monsoon, Debenhams (the ones shown are from their Debut range, priced at just £35!), BHS or Coast. Many of the designs on the high-street are ones that you could wear again after your big day too. Happy shopping, Ami!

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Flower Fresh

I am determined to wear natural flowers in my hair for my big day and wondered if you had any tips on keeping them fresh?

Mel Woodward says :

Most florists are prepared for unique requests from brides, so I would talk to your favourite florist so they can advise you on what you can achieve. You may find that a mix of artificial flowers and feathers could be an option – many artificial flowers these days are difficult to tell from the real thing! Ask friends and family to recommend a handful of top-quality florists and chat to all of them to see which one visualises your bouquet ideas best.

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Pretty pumps

I really want some ivory pumps with blue diamanté detail for my flowergirl to wear when I get married next year. Have you seen any, or can you suggest anything similar?
Vicki, Midlands

Niki Newbery says :
Ivory flowergirl pumps with a blue diamanté detail will be tricky to find. I would suggest you contact a specialist bridal footwear store called Arabesque — they stock many styles of ivory pumps and offer a service to decorate them for you. Or try dance shops for embellished ballet pumps.
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Happy in heels

I don’t usually wear high-heeled shoes, but I think my wedding day should be the day I break this taboo. Do you have any ideas on how to make it a less painful experience?
Hilary Roberts, Porthcawl

Niki Newbery says :

If you are not used to heels then I would suggest you go no higher than 2.5in. There are some great styles with closed toes and ankle strap support, which make them feel more secure, available from Rainbow Club and Pink. Look at Ballet by Pink (www.paradoxlondon.com) and Emily by Rainbow Club (www.rainbowclub.co.uk). Both are provide stability and support but are still elegant.

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Celebrity inspiration

I consider myself something of a fashionista and have been bowled over by the oversized corsage that Sarah Jessica Parker has been seen wearing on the set of the new film Sex and the City. Could I add something similar to my bridal look?
Vanessa Xuereb, Leeds

Mel Woodward says :

Wow — that really is a huge corsage! The only thing about including something this fashion forward on your wedding gown however is that it is liable to take over, so you’ll need to be really careful with your choice of dress and make the corsage the key feature, maybe choosing a simple column-style gown with no other detailing or fuss. As for where to find a corsage, try www.ebuni.com for a huge range of fabric flower brooches, although you might struggle to find one as big as SJP’s off the peg! Alternatively, you might want to have a bespoke one made to ensure it fits your look perfectly.

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Jewel Belle

My dress has a sparkling bead design all over it. I’d like to wear a tiara and veil — can I mix in pearls and should I choose between earrings or a necklace?
Jenny, London

Rachel Attwell says :

How about crystal-based accessories with a little pearl detail? The Real Princess Company do a great Lily Flower Tiara, which will complement perfectly and give you sparkle without detracting from the beautiful detailing. I would suggest a delicate pair of matching crystal earrings to put the final touches to your outfit

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Basque in beauty

Where can I find a basque that will give me fabulous cleavage? I am a B-cup but want to look womanly in
my dress rather than flat chested!
Sam, Dorset

Rachael Smith says :

I would recommend the Ultimo Gel Long Line bra — although not a full basque, it still gives an amazing cleavage. Or, if you want to splash out on something more fresh and romantic why not try the Simone Pérèle Fidji Basque? At £84 it is a little more expensive but it’s worth every penny for your special day and is a fabulous solution piece!

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Sleek chic

I love the idea of a chic fascinator with a mini veil covering my face — but I don’t think I’m brave enough. Is there anything that’s less striking and flamboyant — or have you seen any subtle designs?
Kate, Great Yarmouth

Rachel Attwell says :

Have a look at designs by Sophiei (sophiei.com) or Jane Taylor Millinery (janetaylormillinery.com), both of these experienced milliners specialise in bridal pieces and they have some gorgeous birdcage designs. The great thing about working with a milliner is that you can have exactly what you like and they will help to choose the shapes and styles that suit you best.

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Bridesmaids' shoes

I need shoes for four bridesmaids but don't have much to spend, help! Where can I find some for around £30 each? Preferably silver or hot pink to match their dresses. Anna, via email

Niki Newbery says :

I'd recommend that your bridesmaids go for a prom or evening-style pair of shoes so that they can wear them again. Take a look at the prom collection by Paradox London - they offer a few styles for £29.95 that you could have dyed - or alternatively Next have a great range of budget shoes like this Hot pink bow-detailed shoe, for £25!

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A sexy something...

I’m looking for a sexy bridal outfit that I can change into to treat my new hubby — any ideas?
Joanna, London

Rachael Smith says :

I love Pour Moi?’s luxurious basque from their Elegance range. Or you could slip into some sexy silk sleepwear. Elle Macpherson Boudoir and Mary Green have super sexy ivory styles (all available at figleaves.com).

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