The choice of a wedding gown is a life-changing event for most brides. Your wedding dress is an expression of who you are and your style. It sets the tone for your big day. Start early when shopping for a wedding dress and establish a budget.
1. Discover Styles That You Like
Browse bridal magazines, Pinterest and the Internet. Save, cut and pin dresses that you like.
2. Choose Your Favorites
Check out the images that you’ve saved to see if there are any styles or patterns you like. Do you like all the dresses that have lace? Make a list and then start narrowing it down.
3. Book Appointments
Schedule appointments to try gowns in multiple stores. You can ask your family and friends for their recommendations. Bring your favorite pictures to the salon, and let them know the style you’re interested in. You can also find out what designers are available at each salon by visiting the websites of those designers and noting styles that you like. Do not forget to let them know your budget! You’ll only be frustrated if you try on a dress outside your budget. Your consultant doesn’t want to put you in something you can’t pay for. Invite important people to your day, such as your mother, sister or maid of honour. Also, invite bridesmaids. Keep in mind that the more people you invite, there will be more opinions.
4. Wear the Right Underwear
Wear Spanx or a strapless bra with no support. Try on dresses. Straps and seams can make it difficult to see how the dress will look. Most bridal shops carry only one style of dress. A consultant will help you try on dresses and clip them in the right places. This way, you can get a better idea of how the dress should be. Bring a pair or heels that you would wear on your wedding day. Bring a bottle or two of water with you (if you are allowed to drink outside in the bridal shop) – it can get very hot while you try on dresses, and you will want to stay hydrated.
5. Explore Your Comfort Zone
Do not say “no”. Try on other styles than your favorites. Trust your consultant during your appointment. They choose dresses for brides every day and know their inventory better. You might be surprised to find a gown that you didn’t expect. Your experience will be better if you are open with your bridal consultant. Tell them what you like or dislike about each dress that you try on. If you don’t love the way your waist looks on an A-line, you may want to switch styles.
6. Don’t forget the extras
Ask to try on accessories like a headpiece, a veil or jewelry if you are unsure about the dress. Accessories can add the extra detail you might have missed. It’s like the icing to the cake. Color can make a big difference. Let your consultant know at the start of your appointment what color you are interested in (whites, ivory, blushes, etc.). You may be able order the sample dress that you love, even if it’s not your desired color.
Once you have found your, confirm in writing the estimated date of arrival, as well as fitting and pickup information. Keep everything together (accessories and make-up, lingerie and other lingerie), and create a list. Keep your dress away from moisture, dirt and stains when you get it home. Most bridal shops give you a cloth bag to store your dress in when you pick it up.
Do not be discouraged if your dream gown isn’t in the first shop. Some brides are able to say “yes!” to the first dress that they try on. Others feel the need to try more. You’ll find your dress when you see it!
