Attire Bridal magazine
New Issue OUT NOW
March/April 2012
Find out more about the latest industry news and product launches in the current issue of Attire Bridal. Why not download the magazine in PDF format from www.attirebridal.com?

March/April 2012
 
Out of the shadows
We take a look at the increasingly dynamic market for hair accessories

BBEH Preview
Our independent preview of this March event

Up and coming
Debbie Carlisle's original, wearable bridal accessory designs are gaining plenty of fans

With a Backward's Glance
Bridal gowns that look sensational from behind as in front

Isabella Grace
Rebecca Doyle reports on the latest developments from her new bridal boutique, Isabella Grace

Rock My Wedding
Keep up-to-date with one of the most influential UK bridal blogs

Ellie Sanderson
Award-winning bridal retailer, Ellie Sanderson, shares her thoughts on stock management

The Essential Collection 2012
We exclusively unveil some of the biggest names attending Stoneleigh Park in July

Plus...
Regular features, news, events, Q&A special - and much more
 
Next Issue Out
30th April 2012

Preparations underway for International Jewellery London
 
Preparations underway for International Jewellery London
 
Following the success of last September's International Jewellery London (IJL), a huge number of jewellery and watch suppliers have already booked to exhibit at the 2012 show, which takes place at Earls Court 2, London from 2nd-5th September.

"From the feedback we received, we knew the 2011 show went very well - and this is also clear from the high number of rebooked exhibitors for 2012. Alongside this, we have confirmed participation of new designers and brands, some of which will be launching to the industry for the first time. The 57th edition of IJL will be supported by the popular seminar programme as well as other exciting features and highlights," announced Event Director Syreeta Tranfield.

KickStart, the IJL initiative which acts as a commercial launch pad for promising new designers, has already opened for 2012 entries. The news comes as several 2011 KickStarters including MIRPURI, Claire English and Abigail Stradling announce they will return as fully fledged exhibitors in 2012.

For further information visit www.jewellerylondon.com.

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Brides beware
Despite the best efforts of the bridal trade, it seems that some women are still buying their wedding dress from online sellers. Only recently a friend of a friend decided to do just this, only realising the error of her ways when the 'dress of her dreams' dropped through the letterbox in an A4 envelope. Needless to say, she quickly turned to her local bridal retailer who, thankfully, professionally and efficiently turned the situation around.

This is by no means unusual, as many bridal retailers will testify. However, there are certain measures that can be put into place to deter other brides-to-be from wasting their money online, relieving the added pressure this places on bridal retailers.

To begin with, consider uploading a link to the excellent 'Brides Aware' campaign (www.bridesaware.co.uk) to your website. Brides spend so much time researching their gown online that most will click on the link out of interest. In addition, it's worth hanging up a 'No Photography' sign in store to deter brides from taking snaps of gowns that may later be sent to China to be copied.

On the subject of copying, Dids Macdonald of ACID, is a regular contributor to Attire Bridal magazine. In this issue she examines how designers can best protect their most important asset - their design rights.

Also in this issue we ask leading designers to predict the key bridal trends for autumn/winter 2012 and beyond, we take an in-depth look at the hair accessories market, and speak to talented bridal accessories designer, Debbie Carlisle about her new collection. That's not forgetting our independent preview of the British Bridal Exhibition in Harrogate - let the buying begin!

Enjoy reading

Demelza Rayner, Editor
 
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Make sure you email editor@attirebridal.com to keep us up to date with all your news

Corrine Smith Design set to sparkle in 2012
 
Corrine Smith Design set to sparkle in 2012
 
Corrine Smith Design recently launched its 2012 bridal jewellery and accessories collection, containing a range of vintage-inspired pieces and feminine florals. "The inspiration for the collection reflects elements of the bespoke designs I have created for brides over the last year," says Corrine Smith, who has been designing for brides throughout the UK and internationally for over eight years.

The new collection includes a variety of pieces, including extravagant cuffs, striking headpieces, classic pendants and delicate earrings. The designs will cater for most brides' tastes and will appeal to customers with an appreciation of high quality British made products.

Corrine Smith Design, winner of 'Best Bridal Accessories' at Scotland's prestigious VOWs awards for the last four years running, is currently offering attractive wholesale terms to bridal retailers. Furthermore, the company's award-winning designs are sure to appeal to those boutiques looking to offer their brides exclusivity and affordable quality.

For a wholesale information pack, please contact Corrine on +44 (0)1563 532 561 or Beverley at admin@corrinesmith.co.uk.

News in brief
 
Kiss The Frog Bridal has recently launched a website to showcase its current collections. Check it out at the website www.kissthefrogbridal.co.uk.

Freya Rose shoes are now available in Fenwicks Department Store, in Mayfair, London. Five styles have been chosen from the Freya Rose main collection including 'Alana' in ivory, 'Margret' in ivory and 'Albertine' in black.

Alfred Angelo and Victoria Kay are two of the latest names signed up to exhibit at The Essential Collection 2012. To preregister for the event, which takes place from 8th-10th July, visit the website www.theessentialcollection2012.com

For all bridal retailers...
 
Take a look at our regularly updated Find a Supplier feature on our website where you find profiles, photographs and contact information from all our current magazine advertisers.
 
For all bridal retailers...
 
For all bridal retailers...

Trudy Lee

Award-win for Linda Davey
 
Award-win for Linda Davey
 
Bridal gown designer, Linda Davey, also owner of No 9 Bridal Couture, is celebrating after winning the category for Wedding Designer at the 2012 Wedding Industry Awards. Completely self taught in the art of bridal design, constant media exposure from such publications as Perfect Wedding, Pure Weddings North and Attire Bridal has taken the business from strength to strength.

Headquartered on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, No 9 Bridal Couture offers an affordable yet complete bespoke wedding gown experience for brides-to-be wanting to incorporate their character into a gown.

Speaking about her award win, Linda said: "Seeing the other designers who had entered, I knew I was among some seriously tough competition in the region, and at national level if I got through. When I discovered I'd won the regional title I was thrilled." She continues: "I was in in Perth, Australia with my family when I heard the news via Twitter regarding the National title. It still hasn't sunk in yet, but I really am absolutely thrilled and touched by the comments our past clients have said about us. The win was down to them and I am so grateful."

For further details on No 9 Bridal Couture, simply telephone +44 (0)1535 663 389.

Nicki Macfarlane launches latest collection for John Lewis
 
Nicki Macfarlane launches latest collection for John Lewis
 
Following a hugely successful debut for John Lewis in 2011, Royal designer Nicki Macfarlane has created a new, exclusive collection for the retail favourite. Featuring muted colours of shell pink and elegant ivory; full skirts with petticoat underlays and Nicki's trademark sumptuous bows in royal gold, ivory silk and organza, the range of five dresses epitomises Nicki's reputation for exemplary quality and style.

Lindsay Dickson, Girlswear Buyer for John Lewis says: "Following the success of last season's collection, we are delighted to be welcoming the new range of Nicki Macfarlane bridesmaid dresses into John Lewis for spring. The dresses are made from beautiful silk and taffeta, and offer our customers a designer look at an affordable price."