Q: I tried a dress on the other day, and I have completely fallen in love with it. The trouble is, the sample the shop had was white, and the colour made me look washed out. The shop assistant said the dress is also available in ivory, but I wouldn’t be able to see it in that colour before I order it. I’m worried that if I take a risk and buy it, I won’t like it when it comes in. Is it safe to assume that it will be the same shade as other dresses in ivory? What should I do?

A: I think it is risky to buy a wedding dress without seeing it.

If the white dress made you look washed out then ivory is probably a better colour for you.

However, the colour can change the look of the dress completely. this dress have embellishment on it? For example, white beads can look very modern whereas ivory beads can sometimes make a dress look antique. You may not like the dress so much in another colour!

Don’t assume that the ivory will be the same shade as other ivory dresses in the shop. Ivory shades can vary from supplier to supplier. Ask the shop if there is another dress from the same supplier, in ivory. Or ask them if they can get a sample of the fabric from the supplier. If you feel this shop is not being very helpful, then see if you can find this dress in ivory from another stockist.

Q: I'm a classic pear shape with large hips and small bust. Can you tell me what style of dress will flatter my figure, rather than make me look wider than I am?

A: Most Brides-to-be don't realise that dresses with large netted skirts will actually hide your hips and not exaggerate them. Don't be afraid to choose a dress with a large skirt! A traditional “Princess” style wedding dress with a fitted corset bodice and full skirt is perfect for your shape.

Choose a corset bodice that has a “V” shaped hem rather than straight across your hips. This will divide the width of your hips and lengthen your body.

Embellishment detail on the bodice will bring attention to your bust rather than your hips.

You could even add bust cups if you feel your bust is too small (but don't go too large as your bust will look false!)

A 50's style dress with a full net skirt is a great style to disguise your hips.

Q: I love dramatically styled weddings, and I want my big day to be a colourful, fashion-forward affair. However, I need some help in choosing the perfect gown. Can you advise me on bold new trends for 2011 please? I'm not adverse to wearing something completely different, or even a brightly coloured dress. I just want it to be tasteful and memorable in equal measure.

A: The trends for 2011 are  red carpet style fishtail  dresses; traditional shaped dresses with  masses of silk draped in the skirt or “hitched up” in places;  layers/flounces of tulle; low sexy backs; short fun and flirty dresses (miniature wedding dresses!);  embellishment is lace or sparkly beading for a magical fairy look.

Shades of off-white are the main colours for brides this year, so put your bridesmaids in bold colours but team your dress with a bold coloured bow or belt. Choose a fairytale traditional style dress with large dramatic skirt or a shapely fishtail dress with a low back. Go for a black tie/ red carpet theme for a stylish wedding and then be dramatic and change into a second dress, short fun and flirty, for your first dance or going away outfit.

A: You should go for the style of gown you want! Just keep the fabric simple, in silk and the sparkly embellishment dainty... small beads and diamonds rather than large stones (to suit your dainty frame.) A fishtail style would look good on your size or follow these guidelines...Keep your dress fairly fitted around the top instead of having ruffles and fuss! Don't go for the Katie Price tulle skirt but choose a  full silk skirt, that is panelled at the hips and not gathered. You can have a train as this will elongate your body, but not too long that you look swamped. Keep your sparkly embellishment to your bodice and hem of skirt/ train only. Wear a tiara to add more subtle sparkle. You don't need to go for masses of fabric and over accessorise the embellishment to look like a princess and sparkle!

Q: I'm a size 6 and 5 ft and generally have to have clothes tailored to fit me. For my wedding day I wanted to wear a gorgeous, sparkly princess-style gown but every one I try on seems to just swamp me, and I'm concerned that even if I have a dress in this style customised I might end up looking like I'm playing dress-up. Are there any other styles that would suit my body better or should I just order the gown I want and keep my fingers crossed?