If your dreams of the big fairytale gown came crashing down to earth the moment your on-screen balance blinked 'insufficient funds', you need to start investigating bridal sample sales. January is traditionally the time wedding boutiques sell off samples to make way for new stock, but one particular brand is getting in on the action early...

Enter couture wedding dress designer, Phillipa Lepley. Known for her use of luxurious fabrics, intricate embellishments and hidden corsetry, Lepley is now taking bookings for sample previews at her London store.

The earliest you can visit is 15th December and it's by appointment only, for which you'll have to pay (£30 weekdays, £50 Saturdays). Considering that gowns will be reduced by up to 70%, with prices starting from £1,500 for wedding dresses and £50 for accessories, it could just be worth it. Most of the gowns will be a size 10/12, but there's an in-house alterations service.

To reserve an appointment email info@phillipalepley.com or call 020 7590 9771. All appointments take place at Phillipa Lepley's flagship store: 48 Fulham Road, Chelsea, London.