We all have those pieces at the back of the wardrobe, bought for yet another wedding/party/job interview but then not worn more than a couple of times. Girl Meets Dress.com reconciles such fashion conundrums perfectly.

The Concept

Girl Meets Dress allows you to hire from over 150 of the best international designers for as little as 90% off their retail price. Hiring a dress allows women to very easily wear more trend led, time-sensitive fashions, while continuing to invest only in those classic pieces which will stand the test of time.

The History

Launched in 2009 by Co-Founders Anna Bance and Xavier de Lecaros-Aquise. Anna had the idea for Girl Meets Dress after leaving Hermes where she was UK PR Manager for 3 years, inspired by the constant lending and borrowing which goes on within the fashion industry. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, she worked in the fashion editorial teams for InStyle, Wallpaper, The Telegraph, Harpers Bazaar etc before joining Hermes PR.

Why I adore it

Whether a bridesmaid, mother of the bride or wedding guest I think there are some fabulous dresses to choose from at a fraction of the cost. I spent far too long browsing the website, especially at the ‘meeting’ category, this could be very useful when attending UKAWP events as I invariably get photographed so its always embarrassing if I wear the same dress twice!

Some of my favourites

 

BRIDESMAID

HALSTON HERITAGE – Red Gathered Dress

HIRE : £59 – RRP: £585

 

MARCHESA NOTTE – Silk Frill Detail Gown

HIRE : £189 – RRP: £1,169

 

WEDDING GUEST

MARCHESA NOTTE – Floral Applique Dress

HIRE : £69 – RRP: £759

 

VELVET – Turquoise Ruched Dress

HIRE : £39 – RRP: £145

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

YVES SAINT LAURENT – Red Shimmering Silk Dress

HIRE : £129 – RRP: £835

 

ROBERTO CAVALLI – Jewel Floral Dress

HIRE : £129 – RRP: £640

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whilst reading one of my favourite blogs ‘London Bride’ I came across a feature on bridal gloves, one of the designers was called Lucy Marshall so I decided to head over to her site and see what other beautiful designs she has.

Lucy Marshall is a mother and daughter partnership. Maureen was trained at the Royal School of Needlework whilst Lucy has studied and worked in the fashion industry both as a designer and a pattern cutter. The label is inspired by the sheer beauty and skill found in tradional hand embroidery and beading. Drawing on the techniques of these traditions, Lucy Marshall creates intricate pieces of work,all of which are worked individually by hand. I’m listing a few of my favourites, head on over to their site for a guide on prices.

 

So what do you think, are bridal gloves set to make a comeback?

If you can get to London then I can highly recommend you visit the beautiful boutique that is My Sugarland. Stylist  Zoe has given the store a distinct handwriting by creating a space that houses garments and accessories from a pot pourri of labels. It is a real Aladdin’s cave of unusual and diverse items – from established names and fledgling designers (some exclusive to the store) to vintage pieces (1920′s to 1970′s) scoured from across the globe.

There is an eclectic selection of bridal gowns, evening wear and accessories in store and online. Their ‘Alternative Bride’ section brings together delicate vintage creations and stunning dresses and separates from hard-to-find designer labels.  They are holding a vintage evening on the 9th February, do pop along if you can.

If there is one company who know how to give girls a bit of sparkle it is Diamon-t . If you havent yet visited their website I urge you to do so. Clients have used them in the past for named knickers, dressing gowns and for their hen weekends.

Therefore I was delighted to see they are just as enthusiastic as I am regarding the Royal wedding. I hope you enjoy the tasters below, a personalised bikini is priced at £39.99

Madeline Isaac-James will be unveiling the full 2011 collection to visitors at BBEH in September 2010 from their new Starlet and Candlelit Collections. But you can view some of these designs here or on their website. I just had a peak and think her collections are beautiful.Inspired by the ever elegant style and grace of the 1950′s, the Candlelit Collection is a truly romantic bridal collection with clean, classic lines. The Starlet Collection is, as the name suggests, inspired by the gorgeous starlets of the golden era of Hollywood. This collection hints at a vintage feel, and promises wonderful, glamorous gowns finished in silk with gorgeous Swarovski crystal accents.“My latest collections will appeal to modern brides who are looking for a ‘wow-factor’ gown which still maintains an elegant and classic look,” said Gladman. “The designs have been inspired by two very distinctive eras in terms of look and feel, yet are quite eclectic so we have a stunning gown to suit every bride. Our collections offer everything from fabulous princess gowns through to sultry, glamorous gowns – all of which fit and flatter the bride beautifully.” says designer, Natalie GladmanRetailing from just £599 – £1,799, the Madeline Isaac-James collections are affordable to brides on all budgets. Details of current stockists is available on their website.

We are predictated to have a gorgeous hot weekend and as such it got me thinking about how sticky it can be in long bridal dresses, I remember I was sweltering in my boddice although I was in St Lucia at the time! I can across Perfection Bridal and thought some of their dresses were so cute, they have stores across the UK. What do you think, long or short for a hot summer wedding? Not only do the shorter versions look fabulous but they are amazingly cost effective as well.

First it was Trash the Dress. Now another US-inspired wedding industry phenomenon is gaining huge popularity in the UK: boudoir photography.

Many brides-to-be are fastening on to the idea that it makes an intriguing and surprising wedding or honeymoon gift for their new husband. Some fine art for his and her eyes only. I know some of my clients have scheduled some boudoir shots whilst they are getting their wedding underwear on.But what is boudoir photography exactly? Put simply, it is artistic, beautiful images of a woman in her lingerie. Not surprisingly, boudoir photography has its roots in French noir imagery (boudoir literally means “to pout”). Whilst the photography is always about beautiful lingerie and sensuality, this theme is often conveyed through dark shadows, understatement and perhaps enigma. The photography tends to suggest that the woman is very feminine, liberated and most importantly, fully in control. Certainly, it is generally not about glamour, nudity, or even direct eroticism.

The best boudoir photographers are skilled at bringing out the best in women by using a subtle caress of light to create and intimate atmosphere – and careful posing to bring out the woman’s individuality. The more relaxed and trusting the subject is, the better the results. Results that aim to be treasured for a lifetime.

Checklist for Boudoir Photography

1. Does the style of the photography impress and excite you? Ask to see examples of previous work.
2. Rapport with the photographer is important. If booking with a large or national company, which photographer do you get? Can you meet them beforehand and see their individual work?
3. How will your images be presented? The albums and other products on offer should ideally have a sumptuous, but personal and private feel to them.
4. Check the credentials of the photographer. Are they professionally qualified with the MPA or BIPP?
5. If it is a male photographer, will he be accompanied by a woman?
6. In what environment does the photography shoot take place? A luxurious hotel suite may often more be attractive than a studio if the latter has a clinical and assembly-line feel to it.
7. What else is included as part of the experience? Some package include spa treatments and make-up, for example.

Credits

My thanks to Lucy Roebuck for explaining the art of boudoir photography and the gorgeous images within this article.

I felt I just must tell you about a wonderful evening on Thursday 6th May, 7pm – 9:30pm at My Sugarland Address: 402-404 St Johns Street, LondonEC1V 4NJOwned by celebrity stylist Zoe Lem the shop is a haven of delightful fashion every girl dreams of. The unusual and utterly unique selection of bridal gowns and evening wear on offer includes delicate vintage creations and beautiful dresses and separates from hard to find designer labels including Reem and Steve J and Yoni P among others.On this special evening, discount will be offered on all My Sugarland products. Places at this event cost £10 and need to be booked in advance.

I just adore these shawls from Emma Embery - I think they are perfect in the winter months over an evening dress or to accessorise a wedding outfit if a guest.