Any tips for choosing a wedding dress for a December civil wedding?

[streetwise]

I'm just starting to choose a dress and I've got no ideas what's most flattering etc. I'm a size 12 to 14 and want something with sequins ( I think) to give it that winter sparkle.

My sister helped me loads with mine, but she works in a wedding shop so knows styles etc.
Whereabouts are you?
She works in Dorchester, Dorset.

I had a December wedding with a christmasy theme too. The best thing to do is to make a few appointments with wedding dress shops, take someone who you know will be honest with you and just try on some different styles. Be willing to try on things you would never dream of trying - I wanted an empire line Jane Austen type of thing and ended up with a strapless sparkler! Be open to suggestions from the shop assistants, they often know what they are talking about. Also bear in mind the venue - what will work with it. If it is a local registry office you may feel a bit over the top in a big floaty dress with a huge train. And have some idea of budget in mind (although when you first try you are just looking for the style so try anything). The first time you look at yourself in a wedding dress you will probably laugh, I felt like a little girl dressing up. I probably tried about 8 dresses on before I found the one I wanted.

Good luck and have fun.