A question we always get asked is ‘what do I need to take with me when trying on wedding dresses?’ Wedding dress shopping should be a fun aspect of your wedding, so make the most of your moment. We have come up with our top 15 tips when shopping for the perfect dress.
1. Make an Appointment with The Bridal Store
We recommend that a bride should begin looking for the wedding dress nine months prior. Make appointments with a few bridal stores this way you are limiting your options. Explore different styles, colours, designers and see what works for you. If an in house stylist is available, engage with them. Make a day out of it; have lunch with your bridal tribe.
2. Create a Fitting Checklist
Create a fitting checklist as this will keep you organised during your appointments. It will also alert you when to purchase the bridal party’s attire. Through the Wedztyle planner, you can add all your dates and the budget table will keep your costs in check.
3. Do Your Research
Have a few ideas on the type of dress you want to try. Create a vision board through Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration. Bring this along when choosing the wedding dress, as this will allow the stylist to have a better idea of what you are after. In saying this, keep your options open. What you think will work on you might not and what you think will not, might be the dress.
If going for a custom made dress, keep your options open to different styles, materials and fits. It is also beneficial to research several designers, look at recent runways, magazine spreads and Instagram pages. When finding a dress maker, make sure to look at their past works and customer reviews to make sure you are picking someone trustworthy to avoid any mishaps.
4. The Right Undergarments, Shoes
We cannot stress the importance of bringing the correct undergarments and shoes when trying dresses. It will help you choose the right size, how much alterations you will need and most importantly, does the dress fit correctly.
5. Handle the Dresses with Care.
Although the dresses are samples, be mindful of the makeup you are wearing as you do not want to stain any of the garments, particularly with fake tan. Dresses with lace and beading are fragile, so we suggest putting the dress on from the bottom up to avoid any mishaps.
6. A Hair Tie
A hair tie is worthy to bring along as you can see how the dress will work with your hair up or down. Especially helpful, bringing your veil and accessories if purchased prior. If not- no stress! bridal shops usually have plenty of veils to work with.
7. Make-Up
Have some light makeup on when trying on dresses. Somehow a bit of make-up gives you a different feel when you are deciding on a range of dresses. Try to avoid heavy foundation or foundation at all, as it can stain the dress.
8. A Supportive Bridal Tribe
Ultimately, you decide the dress for you. However, your bridal tribe is there to support you and help you decide. A different opinion can be helpful; however, limit the number of people to no more than four. Too many people can work the opposite and confuse you.
When booking your appointments, confirm with the bridal store how many people you can bring on the day.
9. The Season and Location
When selecting your dress, consider the location and the season. If you are having a destination wedding, find out how much it will cost you to send the dress over as this will cut into your dress budget. Also research the climate of the destination, the last thing you need is to feel uncomfortable in your wedding dress on your big day.
10. Budget
Know your budget and stick to it. Be mindful of any extra cost such as alterations and shipping. Consider pre-loved dresses if you have no room to move with your budget. Not only is buying pre-loved cost effective, but it is a sustainable approach. There are plentiful websites and Facebook groups that offer pre-loved garments. To assist with your cash flow, ask the store if payment plans are accepted.
11. List of Questions
Have a list of questions to ask the stylist, such as how many fittings you will require, how long is needed to make the dress, what additional costs for alterations.
12. Take Photos/Video Recording
An absolute must is taking photos and videos with you in several dresses. Take images of the front and back of the dress, record you walking with the dress to see how it all flows. It will assist in deciding on the dress. Of course, do not show your soon-to-be-partner.
13. Bundle
Can the store offer you a better price if you purchased the gown, veil and accessories? Do not be afraid to ask for a discount, finding ways to save money wherever you can will ensure you have extra emergency funds.
14. Go with Your Heart
If you have a particular style and look in mind, explore this. Do not be side-tracked with others opinion. You know what works for you and what you are comfortable wearing. Remember, everyone has a fashion style, including you.
15. Enjoy!
The most beautiful brides are happy ones, so enjoy your moment!
Main image source: Bryan Gardner