Hi all, Strapless dresses are very poplular but are you thinking that you'd like to do something a little different to personalise your look on your big day? I'm having a read of the latest Cosmopolitan Bride, one of my favorite mags for inspirational ideas, and there are some great ideas for changing the look of a plain strapless dress with the creative use of different fabrics and embellishments! 1. Straps - Adding ruffled or floral tulle straps to a strapless dress (inspiration from pg 12 contents page). A different spin on this idea would be to add just one strap and attach a big flower in the colour of your theme or in the same hue as your dress (see page 153 for inspiration). I love the beautiful red dress on page 187. The single strap on her left shoulder in her theme colours is carried down the right to a rosette on the hip which balances the dress nicely. 2. Embellish the bodice of an otherwise plain dress with bows, gems, lace, whatever takes your fancy! Dress number 88 in my collection would be perfect for this idea. Even a simple brooch on the hip can make a big difference. 3. Add a decorative sash, for example, Princess Allure have just added to their range these gorgeous sashes which look stunning against a white dress! 4. Capped sleeves - With the help of a good dressmaker, or you may even want to tackle this one yourself if you're one of those blessed with creative sewing skills, you may be able to add lacey cap sleeves to a strapless dress (Page 61 for inspiration). 5. Bolero jacket or faux fur shrug - this may even be feather or luxurious lace - perfect if you like to have your arms covered or if you're marrying in the cooler months. Let me know what you think of these ideas and feel free to share your ideas with other brides! Jen |





