Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, and choosing the perfect dress to mark this milestone is a decision that requires careful consideration. We know you’ve likely been scouring magazines, wedding blogs, and Pinterest boards for months already – but the dearth of options available can actually make it harder to choose.
From exploring various styles to envisioning yourself in that dream gown, the process can be both exciting and overwhelming.
This guide is tailor-made for brides like you, offering a comprehensive roadmap to help you navigate the journey of finding the dress that will make you feel confident, beautiful, and utterly radiant on your big day.
Start Early
The quest for your ideal wedding dress should begin about nine months to a year before your wedding date. Yes, that sounds like overkill – but hear us out. This timeline allows ample room for ordering, alterations, and any special customization you desire.
Remember, if you’re planning to add intricate details or modifications, such as beading, lace, or neckline adjustments, it might take even longer. And if you are ordering your dress over the internet, there’s a chance you may have to send the dress back if it doesn’t fit. These things take time, and the last thing you want is to find yourself the night before the wedding with your dress lost in postal limbo.
For those with time constraints, explore options like rush delivery or sample sales to ensure you find the perfect gown while staying on schedule.
Set Your Budget
As you embark on this dress-finding journey, it’s important to establish a realistic budget. Keep in mind that the initial price tag might not include taxes, shipping, or alterations. Just because you have set a $900 budget, does not mean that you can necessarily purchase a $900 gown.
Planning ahead financially ensures that you’re ready to say “yes” to your dress without any last-minute hiccups. By preparing for the costs associated with your gown, you can prevent disappointments and ensure a seamless shopping experience.
Get Familiar With Silhouettes
Familiarize yourself with wedding gown silhouettes before you hit the boutiques. Knowing the basic outlines of dresses – such as ball gown, A-line, sheath, and mermaid – will help you narrow down your choices and focus on styles that flatter your body type.
Once you’ve selected a silhouette, you can delve into secondary details like necklines, sleeves, and embellishments. It’s like building a house – you have to have a solid foundation before you start worrying what color you want to paint the walls.
Harness the Power of the Internet
Harness the power of technology by creating a private Pinterest board to collect your favorite wedding dress styles. By pinning dresses that catch your eye and identifying common features among them, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your preferences. This digital mood board can serve as a valuable reference point during your dress shopping journey.
But, remember – too many choices can be overwhelming. If you have to scroll down more than once or twice, your board might have too many dresses. Weed them out as you go so that you don’t bury yourself in options.
Shop Smart
Consider scheduling your dress appointments on weekdays to avoid crowded shopping environments. By visiting bridal salons during off-peak hours, you can receive personalized attention from the sales staff and make the most of your time.
Be strategic in choosing salons that align with your budget and feature designers you admire. Going to boutiques you know you can’t afford will only set you up for disappointment and frustration.
Choose Your Posse Wisely
While involving loved ones in your dress shopping experience is tempting, it’s important to strike a balance. Limit your entourage to a small group of two to three trusted individuals who genuinely understand your style and preferences. Their constructive input will be invaluable as you make your decision.
Your closest friends, family, or your bridesmaids are usually a great choice for a dress-shopping entourage – just don’t let them overwhelm you with too many opinions.
Speaking of bridesmaids, they’re going to need dresses too. If you need to find a wide selection of fabrics, silhouettes, and sizes, we highly recommend Bella Bridesmaids. Their selection is truly massive, and they even offer custom alterations for just the right fit.
Prioritize Comfort and Fit
Test the comfort of your potential gown by moving around in it. Sit, dance, and walk to gauge its ease of wear. Prioritize a dress that not only flatters your figure but also allows you to move freely and confidently. A dress that makes you uncomfortable can overshadow the joy of your special day.
Trust Your Instincts
Don’t succumb to outside opinions; choose the dress that feels right for you. Your gown should reflect your personality and make you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to walk down the aisle. If you can’t imagine parting with the dress and envision yourself as a radiant bride, you’ve found “The One.”
However, take note – when trying on dresses, it’s important to remain open to surprises. A dress that may not seem appealing on the hanger could transform into a stunning masterpiece once worn. You never know until you try it on!
Conversely, a gown you’ve admired online might not live up to your expectations in person. Embrace the exploration process and be willing to step out of your comfort zone.
Conclusion
Your quest for the ultimate wedding gown is a journey of self-discovery, style, and a sprinkle of pure enchantment. It can also be a stressful journey – but don’t let that get you down. Take a deep breath, and follow this guide, and you’ll be stepping into that perfect gown in no time.
