A Guide to Finding the Dress of Your Dreams
Your wedding gown is more than just a dress; it's a symbol of one of the most important days of your life. Finding the perfect wedding dress can be an exciting, yet overwhelming, experience. With so many styles, fabrics, and options available, how do you choose the one that will make you feel beautiful, confident, and completely "you" on your big day? To help guide you through the process, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect wedding gown.
1. Start Early – The Earlier, The Better
Wedding gown shopping should be an enjoyable and stress-free process, so it’s important to give yourself plenty of time. I recommend shopping 9-12 months prior to your wedding with ordering the gown around 9 months prior. This allows you time to:
Research styles and designers
Make appointments with bridal boutiques
Order your gown (many dresses require 4-6 months for production)
Schedule alterations if necessary (alterations can take 2-3 months)
If you're working with a shorter timeline, don’t panic! Many designers offer rush orders or have sample sale gowns that can be altered quickly.
2. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Wedding dresses come in a wide range of prices, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start trying on gowns. When determining your budget, consider:
The cost of alterations (which are typically not included in the gown price)
Accessories such as veils, shoes, and undergarments (ie: if you know you want the Carrie Bradshaw Manolo Blahnik’s factor that cost in)
The cost of dry cleaning after the wedding
Be realistic about what you can afford, and try to avoid trying on dresses that are outside of your budget—it can be tempting, but it can also lead to disappointment or unnecessary stress.
3. Know Your Body and Styles you Normally Wear
Knowing styles you typically like your body in can help in finding a dress that you feel flatters you and that you feel confident in. Wedding gowns come in a variety of silhouettes, each designed to highlight different body types:
A-line: A universally flattering shape that’s fitted at the top and gently flares out, perfect for most body types. This can be structured or flowy.
Ball gown: A classic, dramatic look with a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt—think princess.
Mermaid: A figure-hugging style that accentuates curves and flares out at the knees.
Sheath: A sleek, straight-cut style that follows the natural lines of the body, ideal for a more modern, minimalist look.
Trumpet: Similar to the mermaid but with a flare that starts just above the knee, creating a flattering hourglass shape. Usually not as harsh of a cut off into the flare.
While I always recommend trying on at least 1 dress out of your comfort zone, you know your body and what you like best. Go into your first appointment with an open mind. I have seen numerous brides choose a ball gown when they were sure they would want something more form fitting. Or love the sparkles when they though a simple satin was going to be the one. And trust your bridal stylist, this is their job, they know the styles and the dresses and customizations they can offer best.
4. Consider Your Wedding Theme and Venue
While I don’t think your venue has to fully dictate what kind of wedding gown you choose it should be something to consider. Think about the time of year you are getting married. If your wedding is outdoors and its going to be cold, consider sleeves or a fur shawl. Or if its going to be summer at the beach a ball gown with lots of layers may be very hot. Always keep in mind that your gown should be comfortable enough to move around in, especially if you'll be walking on sand or grass. At the end of the day if you have dreamed of a princess ball gown at a barn venue then that’s what you should do. Remember this is your wedding and your perfect day!
5. Focus on Fabric and Comfort
The fabric of your wedding gown plays a significant role in how it fits, feels, and moves. From luxurious satin to airy tulle, each fabric brings its own unique texture and style to the gown. Common wedding gown fabrics include:
Satin: Elegant and shiny, this fabric is perfect for classic, formal gowns.
Chiffon: Lightweight and flowing, chiffon is ideal for a more relaxed, ethereal look.
Tulle: Soft and airy, tulle is often used in skirts for a whimsical, fairy-tale feel.
Lace: Romantic and timeless, lace can add texture and vintage charm to any gown.
While the look of the fabric is important, comfort should never be overlooked. You’ll be wearing the dress for hours, so choose a fabric that feels good against your skin and allows for movement. If something on the dress is itchy in the few minutes you’re trying on a dress at your appointment, consider what that would feel like all day. You are most likely going to have your wedding dress on for many hours so make sure you can walk, dance, sit and tolerate being in it.
6. Trust Your Instincts
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by opinions from friends, family, or even bridal consultants. While feedback is important, it’s equally important to trust your own instincts and gut feelings. You want to feel like the best version of yourself in your dress, so go with what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
I have had many brides go to an appointment with family and friends and also go to appointments alone so that they can ensure they are getting the dress they really want without outside influence.
Don’t feel pressured to make a decision at your first appointment. By all means if you feel confident you have found the one, go for it, but it is always okay to step away to think about it.
8. Alterations Are Key
Once you've chosen your wedding gown, don’t forget about the importance of alterations. Even if the dress fits you perfectly off the rack, it's likely that some adjustments will be necessary. A professional seamstress can help customize the fit to make sure your dress is as flattering and comfortable as possible.
Give yourself plenty of time for fittings and alterations to ensure everything is perfect before your big day.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Process!
Choosing your wedding gown is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so don’t rush it! Take your time, enjoy the journey, and remember that the perfect dress is the one that makes you feel your most beautiful and confident. Whether you choose a classic ball gown, a sleek mermaid dress, or something completely unique, your wedding gown will be a reflection of your style and personality—and that’s what makes it perfect.
Happy gown shopping, and I wish you all the best as you embark on this exciting chapter!
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