ASK THE EXPERT
ASK THE EXPERT : WEDDING DRESSES
ZOE DOWLE , FOUNDER OF ASHFORD BRIDAL BOUTIQUE BEAUTIFUL IN CURVES GIVES HER ADVICE FOR FINDING THE PERFECT DRESS , WHATEVER YOUR SHAPE
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO CURVY BRIDES WHO ARE JUST STARTING TO SEARCH FOR A DRESS ? If you ’ re just starting your search then I ’ d recommend visiting somewhere that ’ s inclusive and offers a wide range of dress sizes . I work with a fantastic design team who listen to their retailers , who in turn listen to their brides . The brides do know what they are looking for and I love working with designers who create great collections . The only problem my brides have is which dress to choose !
WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS TO HELP A BRIDE FIND A DRESS SHE FEELS REALLY GOOD IN ? I listen to my bride ’ s requirements and show her dresses to try on . The secret of my collection is the internal structure offering great support and shaping . Once I secure the zip my brides feel comfortable in the dress and can see how great they look .
WHAT ’ S THE MOST POPULAR DRESS STYLE YOUR BRIDES CHOOSE ? I do have a favourite style , and I ’ ve been very lucky that my designers have allowed me to create variations from it . It ’ s an off the shoulder dress , with drop down bardot sleeves , with a soft flowing skirt . I take it to wedding fairs and it is the showstopper !
WHICH WEDDING DRESS TRENDS ARE YOU REALLY EXCITED ABOUT ? I ’ m loving , at last , the introduction of the boho dresses to the curvy range . Previously this was a hit and miss affair , by ‘ upsizing ’ from the existing collection which just doesn ’ t work . We now feature boho designs without being too risqué and exposed .
WHAT DO YOU WISH MORE BRIDES KNEW ABOUT CHOOSING THEIR DRESS ? I wish brides knew that the perfect dress is available , and that they can enjoy the excitement of finding it . I ’ ve been in the bridal industry for quite a while , and I love helping my brides with this once in a lifetime experience .
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