Cont.

Other fabrics include chiffon (semi transparent and often used as a floaty overlay), while organza, which may be embroidered, is stiffer and comes in either matt or crystal (sheen) finish. Or there's always a touch of romantic laceÉ

COLLECTING THE DRESS
Check if the shop provides a wedding gown bag, which should be weatherproof, but non-transparent so nobody can see! A clean duvet cover might make a useful alternative if the shop doesn't provide a bag. Creasing is always a worry and most fabrics do so if not looked after, so hang the dress as freely as possible. Wedding insurance is always an option if you're concerned about damage between now and the big day.

ON THE DAY
Having practised walking around in your shoes (it would be awful if they pinched all day), and with underwear selected to create a perfect silhouette, slip into your exquisite choice of wedding attire. The search - long or short, arduous or fun - will have been worth it all, when you step in front of your groom looking like a dream come true.

INSIDER KNOWLEDGE
Joyce Young from top bridal boutique By Storm shares the latest trends for spring and summer brides.

As the new year approaches and thoughts turn to spring and summer weddings, it's the ever-popular strapless bodice dresses and two-piece outfits that continue to dominate the bridal fashion world.

But if you're looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, the retro glamour of the 1950s and the romance of the 1930s are starting to have an influence on wedding dress designs. Flowing silk chiffon, a sparkle of sequins and a dash of beading are the key to this vintage look, with embroidery on lace adding a touch of sophistication.

Fresh off the bridal catwalks in London, black and white combination dresses seem poised to become a look of the future. But if you're going for this ultra-modern dress, be sure to choose a fabric and style that suits your figure and personality - and go for the best quality you can afford. By Storm offers made-to-measure dresses in a wide selection of styles and fabrics - choose from the Modern Classics, Touch of Tartan or Informal/ Weddings Abroad collections. ThereÕs also a new range of pure silk pret a porter dresses on offer with prices starting at £550. Visit www.bystorm.co.uk for details.