Look Book

Look Book: The Princess Diaries

Julia Smith

Hindi - Cymbeline

Hindi by Cymbeline

Although I’m not engaged, I’ve had the pleasure of slipping into some wonderful wedding gowns due to my line of work. Like many other gals I’ve often dreamt about the style of dress I might wear, should I ever make it down the aisle. For me it’s always been a slim-line gown that I’d see myself saying my ‘I dos’ in, but I have to admit, when you step into a voluminous princess-style gown, something very magic happens.

I think it’s something to do with the pretty layers of tulle, or perhaps the detailed bodice that chinches in at the waist before projecting into a large circular skirt. Childhood perceptions may also have something to do it. I (as I’m sure many others young girls did) thought as a child that brides were a form of princess and therefore the big sparkling dress is all part and parcel.

That magical feeling I’ve experienced when donning such a dress means I now couldn’t rule it out as an option, though it certainly doesn’t mean I’ll be going all ‘My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding’ on my groom. There are numerous different styles of princess gowns available; from jewel encrusted, highly detailed designs, to simple and elegant creations (similar to the gown picked by ultimate princess Kate Middleton, for her big day).

So if you want to slip into a big, beautiful gown when you get hitched, I have some suggestions of which designers to look to.

8724 - Justin Alexander

8724 by Justin Alexander

Princess perfect is one style that Justin Alexander has mastered to a tee. The 8724 design is one of my absolute favourites – beaded bodice, sweetheart neckline, tulle ball gown skirt – tick, tick, tick! For those wanting a little lace detail, the regal 8732 satin ball gown, featuring a lace and tulle overlay, is a stunning option and offers just a hint of sparkle in its subtle pearl, crystal and sequin belt. The 8712 is more Middleton with 3/4 sleeves, a lovely choice for brides not wanting to expose the tops of their arms.

8712 - Justin Alexander

8712 by Justin Alexander

Volume and layers are key to a magical gown so Alexander’s 8742 design also makes my lust list. Cymbeline is another designer with plenty of voluminous gowns on offer. Hada is the queen of the creations boasting an immense ball gown skirt. Hadny and Harmo are equally stately dresses, though perhaps slightly easier to manoeuvre in. Meanwhile, for brides who want the best of both worlds, the stunning Hindi design provides a sophisticated slim-line dress with princess-style tulle layers at the back.

Hadny - Cymbeline

Hadny by Cymbeline

Hada - Cymbeline

Hada by Cymbeline

Harmo - Cymbeline

Harmo by Cymbeline

Maggie Sottero is a front-runner in princess attire too. The Esme Marie gown is enough to make brides go weak at the knees with its fully encrusted Swarovski crystal bodice and glamorous chic organza skirt. The whimsical appearance of Roseabel is also well worth swooning over with its classic tulle ball gown creating an irresistible air of romance.

Esme Marie by Maggie Sottero

Esme Marie by Maggie Sottero

Corbin by Maggie Sottero

Corbin by Maggie Sottero

Dawson by Maggie Sottero

Dawson by Maggie Sottero

Felicity by Maggie Sottero

Felicity by Maggie Sottero

And I’ve saved the best news until last – Alfred Angelo has actually designed a Disney collection with dresses fit for every type of princess; from the Belles, Jasmines and Cinderellas among us, to the Rapunzels, Snow Whites and Ariels. For me standout designs include Sleeping Beauty 238 with fascinating fairy-tale layers, plus floral, rhinestone, crystal and sequin detail. As a huge Aladdin fan I’d quite like to be Jasmine, though I fear sourcing a magic carpet to get me to the venue may be somewhat challenging!

Are you planning on indulging your inner princess on your big day?  We’d love to know!

225 Belle - Alfred Angelo

225 Belle by Alfred Angelo

227 Sleeping Beauty -  Alfred Angelo

227 Sleeping Beauty by Alfred Angelo

238 Sleeping Beauty -  Alfred Angelo

238 Sleeping Beauty by Alfred Angelo

Cinderella -  Alfred Angelo

Cinderella by Alfred Angelo

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Brides Up North UK Wedding Blog – Images © 2014 as credited

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