Choosing the perfect wedding dress is a big decision for any bride-to-be. It’s important to start by doing research and having a clear idea of your wedding theme. Consider your budget and begin shopping early, but not too early.
Find a reputable bridal salon and make appointments in advance. Bring along photos for inspiration and be open to trying different styles. Remember to stay true to what you love and don’t rush the decision. Your wedding dress should reflect your style and make you feel beautiful on your special day.
Complete your Research
Before starting your wedding dress shopping journey, it’s crucial to do thorough research. Browse through bridal magazines, websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest for inspiration. Take note of styles, designers and trends that catch your eye.
Additionally, read reviews and gather information about reputable bridal salons in your area. Researching ahead of time will help you narrow down your options and make informed decisions during your dress shopping experience.
Select Wedding Theme Beforehand
Understanding your wedding theme is essential in choosing the right dress. Whether your theme is traditional, modern, vintage or beachy, your dress should complement the overall ambiance of your wedding.
Consider factors like venue, season and décor when deciding on the style, fabric and color of your dress. Knowing your wedding theme beforehand will ensure that your dress seamlessly fits into the aesthetic of your special day.
You’re Traditional or Trendy
Another important decision is determining whether you prefer a traditional or trendy wedding dress. Traditional dresses often feature classic silhouettes, lace, and timeless designs. Trendy dresses incorporate modern elements like illusion necklines, bold embellishments or unconventional fabrics.
Consider your personal style, wedding theme, and comfort level when choosing between traditional elegance or trendy sophistication for your wedding attire.
Consider How You Feel in the Dress
When trying on wedding dresses, pay attention to how you feel in each gown. Focus on comfort, confidence, and how the dress makes you emotionally connect to your wedding day vision. Consider factors like movement, weight and overall fit.
Remember that the right dress should not only look beautiful but also make you feel amazing. Trust your instincts and choose a dress that resonates with your inner bridal glow.
Decide Your Dress Preview Policy in Advance
Before your dress shopping appointments, decide on your dress preview policy. Determine who you want to accompany you during fittings, whether you prefer privacy or opinions from a small group of trusted individuals.
Communicate your preferences to the bridal salon in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Having a clear dress preview policy will help you stay focused and comfortable while making this significant decision.
Factors to consider when choosing your dream dress
When choosing your dream wedding dress, several factors come into play. Consider your body shape and what styles flatter your figure. Think about the season and venue of your wedding, as different fabrics and silhouettes suit various settings.
Your personal style and comfort level are crucial, so opt for a dress that reflects who you are and makes you feel confident. Additionally, keep your budget in mind and prioritize features that are most important to you, whether it’s intricate detailing, a specific designer or a unique silhouette.
Types of Wedding Dresses
A-line: Flattering on many body types, with a fitted bodice and skirt that gradually flares out.
Ball gown: Classic and glamorous, characterized by a fitted bodice and a full voluminous skirt.
Mermaid: Fitted through the bodice, hips and thighs, then flares out dramatically at or below the knees.
Sheath: Sleek and form-fitting, follows the body’s natural silhouette from top to bottom.
Empire waist: Features a high waistline just below the bust, with a flowing skirt that skims the body.
Tea-length: Hemmed between the knee and ankle, offering a vintage and playful vibe.
Trumpet: Similar to a mermaid silhouette but flares out gradually from mid-thigh instead of below the knee.
Princess: Combines elements of an A-line and ball gown, featuring a fitted bodice and a full skirt.
Column: Straight and narrow, skimming the body from top to bottom without much flare or volume.
Mini: Short and playful, ending above the knee or at mid-thigh for a more casual or modern look.
Wedding Dress Budgets
Setting a wedding dress budget is essential to avoid overspending and financial stress. Determine a realistic budget based on your overall wedding expenses and stick to it during your dress shopping journey. Consider factors like alterations, accessories, and taxes when calculating your budget.
Keep in mind that designer dresses and customizations may increase costs, so prioritize features that align with your budgetary constraints. Remember that finding a beautiful dress within your budget is possible with careful planning and research.
Wedding Dress Shopping Tips
- Start shopping early to allow time for fittings and alterations.
- Schedule appointments at reputable bridal salons for personalized attention.
- Communicate your preferences, budget, and wedding theme to the consultants.
- Bring photos of dresses you like for inspiration and reference.
- Wear appropriate undergarments like a strapless bra and nude underwear.
- Limit your entourage to a few trusted individuals to avoid overwhelming opinions.
- Try on various dress styles to explore different looks and silhouettes.
- Don’t settle for a dress that doesn’t feel right or matches your vision.
- Trust your instincts and choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
- Enjoy the process and have fun finding your dream wedding dress!
Find a Great Bridal Salon and Call Ahead
Before visiting a bridal salon, it’s advisable to call ahead. This allows you to gather information about their services, dress collections, and appointment availability. You can also discuss any specific requirements or preferences you have for your appointment.
Make an Appointment
Once you’ve gathered information, schedule a formal appointment with the bridal salon. Specify your preferred date and time, keeping your schedule in mind. Confirm your appointment a day or two before to avoid any last-minute issues.
Shop on a Weekday
Consider scheduling your wedding dress shopping on a weekday. Weekdays often offer more availability and attention from salon staff compared to weekends, which tend to be busier and have limited appointment slots.
Make It a Whole-Day Affair
Dedicate a significant portion of your day to wedding dress shopping. Plan breaks between appointments to relax, eat, and recharge. Keeping an open mind and being patient throughout the day’s activities can make the experience more enjoyable.
Choose Your Shopping Crew Wisely
Invite a select few close friends or family members whose opinions you value. Ensure they understand your preferences and support your decision-making process. Avoid bringing too many people to prevent conflicting opinions and stress.
Bring the Right Undergarments
Wear appropriate undergarments like a strapless bra and seamless underwear. Choose nude or neutral-colored undergarments to avoid visible lines under dresses. Bringing any specific shapewear or accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day can also help you visualize the complete bridal look during your appointments.
Pick Three Adjectives to Describe Your Dream Dress
When envisioning your dream wedding dress, it’s helpful to pick three adjectives that capture the essence of what you’re looking for. Consider words like romantic, elegant, whimsical, modern, classic, glamorous, bohemian or sophisticated.
These adjectives will guide you in narrowing down dress styles, fabrics and embellishments that align with your vision and personal style.
Shop True to Your Size
Shopping true to your size is crucial when selecting a wedding dress. Avoid the temptation to size down with the expectation of losing weight before your wedding day. Bridal sizing can differ from regular clothing sizes.
Trust the measurements provided by the bridal salon and select a dress that fits your current measurements comfortably. Remember that alterations can always be made to achieve the perfect fit, but starting with the right size is key to a flattering and comfortable dress.
Shop Early
Shopping early for your wedding dress is recommended to allow ample time for fittings, alterations, and any unexpected delays. Begin your dress search at least 9-12 months before your wedding date, especially if you’re considering a custom gown or designer dress. Early shopping also gives you the flexibility to explore different styles and options without feeling rushed.
But Not Too Early
While shopping early is important, avoid starting your dress search too far in advance. Fashion trends may change and your preferences might evolve over time. Starting too early, such as more than 18 months before your wedding, can lead to indecision.
It may also result in missing out on newer dress styles that may emerge closer to your wedding date. Aim for a balance by starting early enough to avoid stress but not so early that you feel pressured to make a hasty decision.
Figure Out Your Budget
Determining your budget for the wedding dress is a crucial first step in the shopping process. Consider your overall wedding budget and allocate a reasonable amount for the dress. Be realistic about what you can afford. Prioritize features that are most important to you, such as designer labels, intricate detailing, or specific fabrics.
Plan Other Costs Into the Budget
In addition to the dress itself, remember to plan for other related costs in your budget. This includes alterations, accessories like shoes and jewelry, undergarments and any potential customization or embellishments you may desire.
Factor in taxes and shipping fees if applicable. By accounting for all these expenses upfront, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth and financially manageable dress shopping experience.
Keep Travel Arrangements in Mind
When planning your wedding dress shopping, consider travel arrangements. Choose a bridal salon that’s conveniently located or easily accessible from your accommodation. Factor in travel time, parking availability, and any transportation needs.
If you’re traveling a long distance, plan your appointments accordingly to avoid rushing or missing out on valuable fitting time. Keeping travel arrangements in mind ensures a stress-free and efficient dress shopping experience.
Pay Attention to Fabric
The fabric of your wedding dress plays a significant role in its overall look and feel. Consider factors like the season and venue of your wedding when selecting fabric. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon and organza are ideal for warm weather or outdoor weddings.
Satin and silk, on the other hand, are luxurious choices suitable for formal affairs. Pay attention to how the fabric drapes, moves, and feels against your skin. Choose a fabric that not only complements your style but also ensures comfort throughout your wedding day.
Wear Heels to the Appointment
Wearing heels to your dress shopping appointment can provide a more accurate representation. It helps you gauge how the dress will look and fit on your wedding day. Heels can affect posture, silhouette and overall elegance, especially if you plan to wear heels on your wedding day.
Bring along shoes with a similar heel height to what you intend to wear for a better sense of proportion and how the dress will fall. This attention to detail helps you make informed decisions and visualize your complete bridal look during fittings.
Bring Dress Photos for Inspiration
Bringing dress photos to your wedding dress shopping appointment can be incredibly helpful and inspiring. Browse through bridal magazines, websites, social media platforms and designer collections to find dresses that resonate with your style and vision.
Save images of dresses you love and bring them along to your appointment to show your bridal consultant. These photos will help convey your preferences and guide the selection process, ensuring you find a dress that reflects your dream bridal look.
Include Scene-Setting Photos
In addition to dress photos, consider including scene-setting photos for added context and inspiration. Include images of your wedding venue, décor, theme and any specific details that will influence your dress choice.
Scene-setting photos provide a holistic view of your wedding vision, allowing your bridal consultant to recommend dresses that harmonize with the overall aesthetic. This comprehensive approach ensures that your dress not only complements your style but also enhances the ambiance and atmosphere of your wedding day.
Shop Trunk Shows for Savings
Trunk shows are excellent opportunities to find designer dresses at discounted prices. Designers showcase their latest collections during trunk shows, offering special promotions and discounts for orders placed during the event.
Attend trunk shows at bridal salons or designer boutiques to explore a wide range of dresses and take advantage of potential savings. Be prepared to make decisions quickly, as trunk show discounts often apply to orders made on the spot or within a limited time frame.
Hit Sample Sales
Sample sales are treasure troves for budget-conscious brides seeking designer dresses at reduced prices. Bridal salons and designers periodically host sample sales to sell off floor samples or discontinued styles.
These sales offer significant discounts, sometimes up to 50% or more, making it an ideal opportunity to snag a high-quality dress within your budget. Keep an eye out for sample sale announcements and be prepared to act fast, as sizes and styles may be limited.
Don’t Try on Gowns Above Your Budget
When shopping for your wedding dress, resist the temptation to try on gowns that are above your budget. Falling in love with a dress that exceeds your budget can lead to disappointment or financial strain.
Communicate your budget clearly to your bridal consultant and focus on exploring dresses within your price range. This approach ensures that you find a stunning dress without compromising your financial goals or exceeding your spending limit.
Consider Shopping Online
Shopping online for a wedding dress can offer convenience and access to a wide range of styles and designers. Many reputable bridal websites and online retailers offer extensive collections with detailed descriptions, sizing charts, and customer reviews.
However, proceed with caution and research thoroughly before making a purchase. Ensure the website is trustworthy, check return policies, and consider ordering swatches or samples to assess quality and fabric.
Online shopping can be a viable option for brides who prefer a wide selection and flexibility in their dress search.
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Be Prepared to Try on a Lot of Gowns
When shopping for your wedding dress, be mentally prepared to try on numerous gowns. Exploring different styles, silhouettes and details helps you narrow down your preferences and find the perfect dress.
Embrace the process as part of the fun and excitement of choosing your bridal attire. Keep an open mind and be willing to experiment with various options until you discover the dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
But Do Limit Yourself
While trying on multiple gowns is beneficial, it’s essential to set limits to avoid overwhelming yourself. Prioritize trying on dresses that align with your style preferences and wedding vision. Limit the number of gowns per appointment to maintain focus and prevent decision fatigue.
Quality over quantity is key, so concentrate on trying dresses that genuinely appeal to you and reflect your dream bridal look. By striking a balance between exploration and restraint, you can streamline your dress shopping experience and make meaningful decisions.
Take Inspiration From Celebrity Styles
Celebrities often showcase stunning wedding attire that can serve as inspiration for brides-to-be. Browse through celebrity weddings and red-carpet events to discover styles, silhouettes and designer labels that resonate with your taste.
Take note of elements like neckline, sleeves, embellishments and overall aesthetics that appeal to you. Incorporating elements from celebrity styles into your own wedding dress can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your bridal look.
Stay True to What You Love
While celebrity styles can be inspiring, it’s essential to stay true to your personal preferences and individual style. Consider what makes you feel confident, beautiful and comfortable. Focus on elements that reflect your personality, wedding theme and vision for your special day.
Don’t feel pressured to mimic celebrity trends if they don’t align with your taste. Your wedding dress should be a reflection of who you are and make you feel radiant on your wedding day.
Try on a Non-White Gown
Consider trying on non-white wedding gowns to explore unique and alternative options. Shades like blush, champagne, ivory, or even bold colors can add a touch of individuality and personality to your bridal look.
Non-white gowns are becoming increasingly popular for modern brides seeking a departure from traditional white dresses. Experimenting with different colors allows you to express your style and create a memorable and distinctive bridal ensemble.
Bring Family Heirlooms With You
Incorporating family heirlooms into your wedding attire adds sentimental value and personalizes your look. Bring any heirloom jewelry, accessories or pieces of fabric passed down from previous generations to your dress shopping appointments.
Your bridal consultant can help incorporate these heirlooms into your ensemble. They can assist with wearing a family veil, using lace from a relative’s gown, or accessorizing with vintage jewelry. Including family heirlooms adds a meaningful and touching element to your wedding day attire.
Be 100 Percent Sure Before You Say Yes
Before committing to a wedding dress, ensure you are completely confident and happy with your choice. Take your time during fittings to assess how the dress looks and feels from all angles. Consider factors like comfort, fit, movement and overall appearance.
Don’t feel rushed or pressured to make a decision. Take a moment to envision yourself walking down the aisle in the dress and ensure it aligns with your vision and makes you feel stunning. Being 100 percent sure before saying yes ensures a positive and memorable dress-buying experience.
Pose for Photos in Various Angles
During your dress fittings, pose for photos in various angles to get a comprehensive view of how the dress looks on camera. Capture photos from the front, back, sides and different lighting conditions. This allows you to assess how the dress photographs and helps you identify any areas that may need adjustments or alterations.
Pose in natural poses as well as in movement to see how the dress flows and drapes. Reviewing photos in detail ensures that you are satisfied with how the dress appears in photos, which is important for capturing beautiful wedding memories.
Consider How You Feel in the Dress
When trying on wedding dresses, pay attention to how you feel while wearing each gown. Focus on comfort, confidence and how the dress makes you emotionally connect to your wedding day vision.
Consider factors like movement, weight and overall fit. The right dress should not only look beautiful but also make you feel amazing. Trust your instincts and choose a dress that resonates with your inner bridal glow.
Think About Your Favorite Clothing
Reflect on your favorite clothing pieces and styles when selecting your wedding dress. Consider elements like neckline, sleeve length, silhouette and fabric that you typically gravitate towards in your everyday wardrobe.
Incorporating aspects of your favorite clothing into your bridal attire ensures that you feel authentic and comfortable on your wedding day. Draw inspiration from your personal style to create a bridal look that reflects your unique taste and personality.
Order Early to Avoid Rush Fees
To avoid rush fees and ensure timely delivery, order your wedding dress well in advance. Bridal gowns often require several months for production, shipping and alterations. Ordering early gives you peace of mind and allows ample time for fittings and adjustments.
Consult with your bridal salon or designer to determine the recommended ordering timeline based on your wedding date. Early ordering also provides flexibility in case of unexpected changes or alterations needed.
Have a Professional Take Your Measurements
For accurate sizing and fit, have a professional take your measurements when ordering your wedding dress. Visit a reputable tailor or bridal salon for precise measurements of your bust, waist, hips and other relevant areas.
Avoid self-measuring or using generic size charts, as professional measurements ensure a tailored fit and minimize the need for extensive alterations. Provide your measurements to the bridal salon or designer when placing your order to ensure the dress is customized to your body shape.
Order Too Big Rather Than Too Small
When in doubt about sizing, it’s safer to order a dress slightly larger than too small. It’s easier for a tailor to take in a dress than to let it out significantly. Ordering a size up allows room for minor adjustments and ensures a comfortable fit.
Keep in mind that bridal sizing may differ from regular clothing sizes, so trust the guidance of professionals and prioritize a dress that can be tailored to perfection for your wedding day.
Make Sure You Can Move
When trying on and ordering your wedding dress, ensure that you can move comfortably and freely. Test mobility by walking, sitting and lifting your arms to ensure the dress allows for ease of movement.
Avoid dresses that restrict your range of motion or feel constricting. You’ll want to be able to dance, mingle and enjoy your wedding day without feeling restricted. Opt for a dress that balances style with practicality, allowing you to move with grace and comfort throughout the celebration.
Come Prepared with a Similar Beauty Look
When attending dress fittings and finalizing your wedding dress, come prepared with a similar beauty look to what you plan to have on your wedding day. This includes hairstyle, makeup and accessories.
Having a cohesive beauty look during fittings helps you visualize the complete bridal ensemble and ensures that the dress complements your overall appearance. Bring photos or descriptions of your desired beauty look to communicate effectively with your bridal consultant and achieve a harmonious bridal style.
Personalize With a Tailor You Trust
Personalize your wedding dress by working closely with a tailor you trust. A skilled tailor can make customizations and alterations to ensure the perfect fit and enhance the overall look of your dress.
Discuss your preferences and ideas with the tailor, whether it’s adjusting the neckline, adding sleeves, or incorporating embellishments. Collaborating with a trusted tailor adds a personalized touch to your dress, making it uniquely yours and tailored to your specific preferences and body shape.
Think About Adding a Bustle
Consider adding a bustle to your wedding dress for practicality and convenience. A bustle allows you to secure the train of your dress to the back, making it easier to move around and dance during the reception.
There are various bustle styles to choose from, such as French bustle, ballroom bustle or under-bustle, each offering a different look and functionality. Discuss bustle options with your tailor to determine the most suitable style for your dress and wedding style.
Keep the Dress Away From Home
After purchasing your wedding dress, store it in a safe and secure location away from home. Avoid exposing the dress to potential risks such as spills, stains, or damage. Store the dress in a garment bag or protective cover provided by the bridal salon until the wedding day.
Keeping the dress away from home reduces the likelihood of accidents or mishaps and ensures that it remains in pristine condition for your special day.
Be Open With Your Bridal Consultant
Maintain open communication with your bridal consultant throughout the dress shopping and fitting process. Share your preferences, concerns, and feedback openly to ensure a positive and collaborative experience.
Be honest about what you love and what you’re unsure about, as your consultant can provide valuable guidance and suggestions. Clear communication fosters a strong relationship with your consultant and helps them assist you in finding the perfect dress that aligns with your vision and expectations.
Pay Attention to the Top of the Dress
When choosing a wedding dress, pay close attention to the top or bodice of the dress. The neckline, straps, sleeves, and detailing around the bust area significantly impact the overall look and fit. Consider what flatters your upper body and enhances your figure.
Pay attention to neckline styles like sweetheart, V-neck, off-the-shoulder, or halter and choose a top that complements your body shape and personal style. The top of the dress plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and harmonious bridal look.
Tweak a Gown in Tailoring, But Don’t Redesign It
During dress fittings, discuss potential tweaks or adjustments with your tailor to refine the fit and details of the dress. Minor alterations like hemming, adjusting straps or taking in the waist can enhance the overall look and ensure a comfortable fit.
However, avoid making drastic changes or redesigning the dress, as it may alter the original design and structure. Focus on tailoring that enhances the dress while maintaining its integrity and style.
If You Don’t Love It, Don’t Panic
If you have doubts or concerns about your wedding dress, don’t panic. It’s normal to feel unsure during the decision-making process. Take a step back, revisit your initial inspirations and preferences, and discuss any concerns with your bridal consultant or tailor.
They can offer solutions, suggestions or alternative options to address your apprehensions. Trust your instincts and give yourself time to make an informed decision without rushing or panicking.
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If You Must Start Over, Save Some Cash
In some cases, you may realize that the chosen wedding dress isn’t the right fit or doesn’t align with your vision as expected. If you must start over and find a new dress, consider ways to save some cash. Look for sample sales, trunk shows or discounted options to explore more budget-friendly alternatives.
Reassess your budget and priorities to accommodate any additional expenses related to selecting a new dress. With careful planning and flexibility, starting over can still result in finding your dream dress without breaking the bank.
Decide Your Dress Preview Policy in Advance
Before starting your dress shopping journey, decide on your dress preview policy. Determine who you want to accompany you during fittings, whether you prefer privacy or opinions from a small group of trusted individuals.
Communicate your preferences to the bridal salon or designer in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Having a clear dress preview policy helps you stay focused and comfortable while making this significant decision.
Frequently asked questions
How do you know which wedding dress is right for you?
Consider your body shape, style preferences, and how you feel when wearing the dress to determine the right one for you.
What type of dress is best for a wedding?
The best type of dress depends on factors like the wedding theme, venue, season and personal style preferences of the bride.
Which color dress is best for a wedding?
The best color for a wedding dress varies based on individual preferences, but traditional options include white, ivory, champagne, and blush.
Which hair color is best for a bride?
The best hair color for a bride depends on her skin tone, eye color, and personal style. Common choices include natural shades like brunette, blonde or black, but any color can work beautifully depending on the bride’s overall look.
Can the bride and groom wear the same color?
Yes, the bride and groom can wear the same color if they choose to coordinate their outfits. However, it’s not necessary and many couples opt for complementary colors or styles instead.
What color is a blushing bride?
A “blushing bride” typically refers to a bride who appears shy or modest, rather than a specific color. However, blushing pink or soft peach tones are often associated with romantic and feminine bridal looks.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect wedding dress involves a thoughtful and personalized approach. From researching styles and setting a budget to trying on various gowns and making necessary alterations. Every step contributes to finding a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident on your special day. Remember to trust your instincts, communicate openly with your bridal consultant and prioritize comfort alongside style.
Whether you opt for a traditional white gown or a non-traditional color. The key is to stay true to what makes you feel beautiful. With careful consideration and attention to detail, you’ll walk down the aisle in a dress that truly embodies your bridal vision.
