Top five bridal looks

Those of you flaunting your sparkly new engagement rings after Valentine's Day will no doubt be itching to start the search for your dream wedding dress. But with so much variety out there it can be difficult to know where to begin. To make things a little simpler, we've picked out five top spring/summer bridal looks to help narrow down your choices.

Vintage vixen

The retro look is perfect for brides who take their style inspiration from decades past. Contemporary designers have been looking back to the 1940s and 1950s over recent seasons, with lace details, corsets, fish-tails and full skirts the order of the big day. Keep colours traditional - you can't go wrong with ivory - and add a splash of subtle colour with a bow or sash in pastel shades.

Accessories: Pair with lace gloves, hair pins and fascinators for classic charm.

Bridesmaids: Match the bridesmaid dresses with your statement colour - blues and muted pinks will complement this softer look.

Fairy-tale princess

If you practised walking down the aisle in your mum's high heels and a pillowcase on your head at the age of five, this may be the theme for you. After all, this is your big day and you're entitled to go all out. Look for dresses with volume, masses of sheer material like chiffon and organza, and go for a long train. For colours, it's got to be pink, white or regal red.

Accessories: Make like a magpie and look for anything that sparkles - a tiara and statement necklace are must-haves.

Bridesmaids: With this theme it's all about the bigger picture so match your bridesmaid dresses closely to your dress in terms of colour and style.

Modern mini

A cute mini is great for summer weddings or overseas getaways. There's nothing worse than getting hot and bothered on your big day - you'll be nervous enough as it is - so why not bring the hemline up and keep cool? Short 1960s-style shift dresses are perfect for this look and lace and floral print details keep the outfit stylishly feminine.

Accessories: Add details above the waist with a sun-hat or veil, or a statement pendant.

Bridesmaids: As your dress won't be the traditional floor-sweeping affair, make sure it looks different enough to your bridesmaid dresses so that you remain the centre of attention.

Grecian goddess

One-shoulder dresses have been all over the catwalks this season, proving that the gorgeous Grecian look is very much in demand. And it's clear to see why - dress yourself like a goddess and you'll soon feel like one. Look out for asymmetrical styles with drape detailing and a silk or satin floor-sweeping skirt.

Accessories: Go for gold opulence with bangles, cuffs and a headpiece.

Bridesmaids: Keep this look pure and fresh with white bridesmaid dresses - accessorise with hand-fans for a touch of exotic luxury.

Period romance

If you're a fan of period dramas, brooding looks and heaving bosoms, this could be the look for you. For classic romance, a corseted or bodice top is essential. Go for a full skirt with structured shape, a feminine slip and cute puff sleeves and keep within the white and ivory colour palette.

Accessories: Make your hair a focal point with a lace hat, flowers and beading and match with a veil and lace gloves.

Bridesmaids: Keep the bridesmaid dresses simple - chose a soft colour and match with bouquets.