Finding the perfect wedding dress may seem like a daunting, if not impossible, task. It is understandable to want your dress to reflect who you are, flatter your figure and make you feel special on one of the most memorable days of your life.

While there are countless designs available for brides-to-be, a few styles are perennial favourites.

According to designer and store owner Samantha Wynne, the strapless gown continues to be the most sought after dress.

“Most of our dresses are classic and timeless in design, but the strapless gown is very popular, as are vintage designs with straps and different necklines, ” she said.

“Each client’s dream dress is different. Every bride has a different personality and wants to look their absolute best on the day but one thing they all have in common is they want to look back at their photos in years to come and still love what they wore.”

Specialising in one-on-one service, Samantha Wynne has a variety of dresses in store as well as offering a full couture service to style brides-to-be from head to toe.

If you are particular about what dress you would like for your big day, it is important to give yourself enough time. Tailor-made dresses can take up to 10 months from start to finish and ready-to-wear ranges can take six months to order in.

Depending on a range of factors, turnaround time can vary from dress to dress. Ordering times can differ and rely heavily on whether stock is on hand, or if a dress requires a waiting period for fabric deliveries.

Ms Wynne said both tailored and off-the-rack dresses had their advantages.

“Tailored gowns, from initial sketch to finish, means each aspect of the personal design of the bride’s choice of gown is made to fit them perfectly and will make them different to other brides.

“Off-the-rack gowns are very affordable and enable businesses to be able to service more clients with a greater choice available for immediate purchase. It creates a lot less anxiety as brides can see what they are purchasing.”

For brides who have shorter engagements and require dresses immediately, top stores carry a diverse range of off-the-rack dresses that can be fitted within a few short months to create the perfect dress.

Searching for an affordable yet stylish dress shouldn’t be an issue if you have a budget, with most bridal retailers able to fit within your price range.

“My clients have always found a gown that is within their reach, ” Ms Wynne said. “Prices begin at $1000 and can escalate to $12,000.”

Perth Couture wedding dress designer Fara Almasi said in 2014-15, lace would dominate dresses, with brides opting for slinky silhouettes, low backs and copious amounts of detailing.

“I think we will see more long-sleeved dresses in sheer with lace appliques, ” she said.

“I always try to create a modern look for my clients that is soft and feminine but most importantly, suits their personality and body shape.”

Brides are stepping out of the box and experimenting with colour, with some opting for beautiful champagne coloured dresses rather than traditional white. Or in some cases, to really push the barriers, black bridal gowns.

Whatever your style, Perth businesses have the selection to find the wedding dress you want to walk down the aisle.

1. Samantha Wynne Price points: $1000 to $12,000 Designers stocked: Samantha Wynne, Pronovias, Wendy Makin, Mariana Hardwick, Watters, Henry Roth and Michelle Roth. Turnaround time: Approximately six months. Specialties: Of ers a one-on-one service as well as a full couture service styling brides from head to toe. Address: 1/190 Scarborough Beach Rd, Mt Hawthorn, 6016


2. Fara Couture Price Points: Of -the-rack gowns $1800 to $3300. Couture gowns $3800 to $6600. Turnaround time: Three to six months. Specialties: Wedding gowns and evening dresses. Designers stocked: Fara Almasi. Address:111 Royal St, Perth, 6004


3. Bridal Af air Price points: Dresses start from $1000. Average is $2000 but there are many below and above this price. Bridesmaids average $300 to $350. Specialties: Wedding gowns, gowns for curvaceous brides, bridesmaids, ball gowns. Turnaround time: Up to six months for wedding gowns. Some of the designers do have a rush cut option for last- minute brides. Rush cut is usually about eight weeks. Designers stocked: Allure, Veromia, Sincerity, Christina Rossi, Sonsie. Address: 392 Oxford St, Mt Hawthorn, 6016


4. Tuscany Bridal Price points: $1800 to $3000. Average is $2500. Couture gown line from Sydney, averaging $5000. Specialties: Quality, latest fashion. Also sell samples at half price. Turnaround time: Can buy of -the-rack about four to six months. Generally allow 12 months. Designers stocked: Exclusive stock of Essence, Stella York, Martina Liana, Arushie, Pronovias. Address: 347A Oxford St, Leederville, 6007

 

5. Dion for Brides Price points: Average $1500 to $3500. The couture collection ranges from $8000 to $13,000. Specialties: Dion for Brides specialises in bridal gowns, bridesmaids, headpieces, jewellery, veils, ring cushions and bridal charms. Turnaround time: Four to six months. Designers stocked: Maggie Sottero, Sottero and Midgely, Destinations, Wendy Makin Bridal Designs. Address: 468 Fitzgerald Street, North Perth, 6006 


6. Luv Bridal Price points: Of -the-rack $300 to $500, average $2000. Specialties: Designer bridal gowns at designer direct prices. Turnaround time: Six and a half months. Designers stocked: Envi Prom, Mia Solano, Private Label Bridal, Raylia Designs. Address: Unit 4, 460 Canning Hwy, Como, 6152


7. Hobnob Bridal Price points: $1500 to $4500 Specialties: Constantly sources the latest bridal styles from around the world as well as of ering a comprehensive range of traditional and classical bridal gown designs to suit every budget. Turnaround time: Six to eight months. Designers stocked: Huge range including Nicolina, Essence, Pronovias, Demetrios, Alexia Gavela and many more. Address: 457 Beaufort Street, Highgate, 6003

 

© The West Australian

More wedding inspiration at The West Australian Wedding Guide.