Whether you choose to wear a gorgeous gown or a stunning suit on your big day, get the style right and you can't fail to look lovely.

It is the bride who is the centre of attention at all weddings so it is important that she gets the choice of gown right. This is a stressful time for any woman and it is essential she is comfortable both physically and psychologically.

There are practical considerations, too - the day is usually long, so the gown must stand up to the pressures laid upon it. It should be as crease-free when she changes to go away as it was when she first put it on.

The decisions are really quite straightforward. First of all, is it to be a traditional, long white gown or something a little different, such as a high-fashion, modern suit in cream silk or brocade?

If a long white gown is chosen, the style is the next consideration. It is important to choose a style that flatters the bride's figure. For example, a smoothly flared gown is best for the fuller figure.

Whether to hire the gown, buy off-the-peg or have it made-to-measure is the next big decision.

Off-the-peg is fine if you can find exactly what you want. Shops will make any necessary alterations for you.

Hiring can give you access to a beautiful, expensive haute couture gown you might not have otherwise been able to afford. However, bear in mind that you'll also have to pay for insurance and cleaning.

Having the outfit professionally made is another popular option. The bride can choose the fabrics she prefers and the style she most likes with all the differences and embellishments she requires. Look for one of the many dressmakers who specialise in bridal wear - and allow enough time for the work to be done!

As well as a gown, most brides also choose to wear a headdress. This can take the form of a hat, floral garland or a tiara, all of which may be worn with or without a veil. Make sure it matches the dress - you might be surprised just how many shades of white there are!

Other accessories may include gloves, bouquet, horseshoe, a Bible or prayer book, or a small bag. Shoes should match the outfit but again must be comfortable in view of the time the bride will spend standing. It's a good idea therefore to wear them round the house, on and off, for a week or so before the wedding.

When trying on a gown, always look at it from all angles, especially the back. Many can look lovely from the front but awful from the rear. If the ceremony is to be in church, it is a good idea to try kneeling down and getting up again in the dress. This is not as easy as it may sound. There are all sorts of pitfalls. A tight gown may split, heels may get caught in the hem, the train, if there is one, may get tangled up.

Make sure you can walk up and down steps in it, too. This can be difficult if you are not accustomed to a full-length dress. Do remember also that if you have to kneel, the underside of your shoes may be exposed. It's a good idea to make sure that all the price labels have been removed - just in case!

Final consideration is the weather. For winter weddings, a cape or very warm underwear is essential if the 'something blue' is not to be you!