Wedding dress shopping is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. From choosing the perfect dress to managing the fitting process, there’s a lot to consider. As you begin your journey to finding the one, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement — and the stress. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with expert tips to help make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for the perfect fit, navigating a budget, or selecting the right style for your body type, these tips will set you on the right path to a stress-free experience.
1. How to Make Wedding Dress Shopping a Stress-Free Experience
Preparing for the Wedding Dress Appointment
Wedding dress shopping can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s easy to dive straight into the process, but preparation is key to making the experience smooth and enjoyable. One of the first things to consider is undergarments. These are essential for getting a true sense of how the dress will fit and look. Wearing the wrong bra or shapewear can distort the fit, so it’s best to bring a nude thong, strapless bra, and shapewear if that’s part of the plan for your big day.
Another thing to keep in mind is bridal sizing. Wedding dress sizes typically run 1-2 sizes smaller than regular street sizes, so don’t be discouraged if you find yourself needing a size up. What really matters is the fit, and if the dress makes you feel beautiful and confident.
Tip: Get your measurements taken before the appointment, especially if your weight has fluctuated recently.
Choosing the Right People for Your Bride Tribe
When it comes to who to bring along to your wedding dress appointment, the fewer, the better. It might seem like a fun idea to invite everyone, but having too many opinions can cause more confusion than clarity. Ideally, bring along 2-3 trusted people whose opinions you truly value. These should be people who will support your vision and help you make decisions without overwhelming you.
Tip: Limit the group to a close-knit group of family or friends who understand your style and support your choices.
2. How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress for Your Body Type
Wedding Dress Styles for Every Shape
One of the most important things to consider is the silhouette that flatters your body shape. Wedding dresses come in so many styles, and the right one can make all the difference in how you feel on your big day.
For example, if you’re looking for something timeless and universally flattering, A-line dresses are perfect because they suit almost every body type. On the other hand, mermaid dresses are great for accentuating curves but may not be the best option for those who want more comfort and ease of movement. It’s essential to try on a variety of styles to find what works best for your shape.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to try on styles that you wouldn’t initially gravitate towards. You might be surprised by what looks and feels best.
Wedding Dress Shopping for Curvy Brides
Curvy brides often face unique challenges when shopping for wedding dresses, but the right dress can make all the difference. Dresses with a structured bodice or empire waists can provide support and create a flattering silhouette. For hourglass figures, a fit-and-flare gown can highlight curves while still providing room for movement.
Tip: Look for dresses that balance structure and flow to enhance your curves without feeling too tight or too loose.
3. Avoid Common Wedding Dress Shopping Mistakes
The Importance of Setting a Budget Early
One of the biggest mistakes in wedding dress shopping is not setting a clear budget from the start. It’s easy to fall in love with a dress that’s beyond your price range, but doing so can lead to heartbreak or financial regret. It’s crucial to be upfront with your consultant about your budget to ensure they help you stay within your limits.
Beyond the dress itself, remember to account for additional costs such as alterations, accessories, and post-wedding cleaning. These costs can quickly add up, so it’s essential to factor them into your overall wedding dress budget.
Tip: Establish a budget and communicate it to the bridal shop early to avoid being tempted by gowns outside your price range.
Don’t Fall Into the Trap of “Say Yes to the Dress” Pressure
We often see brides on TV having an emotional “Say Yes to the Dress” moment, but not every bride has that instant, tearful connection to a dress, and that’s okay! Wedding dress shopping is about feeling comfortable and confident in the dress you choose, not necessarily about having an emotional breakdown. It’s important to stay true to yourself and trust your instincts.
Tip: Don’t feel pressured into a “yes” moment. Choose the dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
4. Master the Wedding Dress Shopping Timeline
When to Start Wedding Dress Shopping
It might be tempting to leave wedding dress shopping to the last minute, but that often leads to unnecessary stress. Ideally, start looking for your dress 9-12 months before your wedding. This gives you ample time for ordering the gown, alterations, and any last-minute changes.
Starting early also gives you the chance to shop around and compare prices without the pressure of a ticking clock. Plus, it ensures you don’t end up paying rush fees for expedited orders.
Tip: Begin your wedding dress shopping journey early to avoid stress and ensure you have time for fittings and alterations.
How to Prepare for the Fitting Process
Once you’ve found the dress, it’s time to get it altered. But don’t wait until the last minute. I highly recommend booking fittings 2 months before your wedding day to give yourself plenty of time for adjustments. At your fitting, bring your wedding shoes and any underwear you plan to wear on the day so the alterations team can see the complete look.
If you plan on losing weight before the wedding, make sure to communicate this early with your seamstress, as they can adjust the timeline accordingly.
Tip: Schedule fittings well in advance to ensure you have enough time for any alterations or tweaks.
5. Understanding the Costs Beyond the Dress Price
Hidden Costs in Wedding Dress Shopping
When you start shopping for a wedding dress, it’s easy to focus solely on the price tag of the gown. However, there are many hidden costs that can add up quickly. Alterations, for example, are an almost guaranteed expense. Most wedding dresses need some degree of tailoring to fit perfectly. And don’t forget about the accessories — veils, shoes, jewellery, and even undergarments that go with the dress can add a significant amount to the overall cost.
I didn’t realise how quickly these extra costs would accumulate. For instance, the alterations alone cost me more than I expected, but the investment was worth it for the perfect fit. It’s essential to factor all of this into your budget from the beginning.
Tip: Account for alterations, accessories, and cleaning when setting your budget. These extra costs can add up quickly, so make sure they’re included.
Saving Money While Still Looking Fabulous
Wedding dresses don’t have to cost a fortune. There are several ways to save money while still finding a beautiful gown. For example, sample sales are a fantastic way to get a designer dress at a fraction of the price. Trunk shows are another great option, often offering discounts and access to exclusive collections.
Another cost-saving option is buying a secondhand or vintage wedding dress. Many brides find their dream dresses at resale shops or online platforms like Stillwhite or PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com. These dresses are often in great condition and can save you hundreds, or even thousands, compared to buying a new gown.
Tip: Keep an eye out for sample sales and consider secondhand dresses for significant savings without sacrificing style.
6. Bridal Gown Shopping Tips to Enhance Your Experience
Know the Store’s Policies Before You Shop
Before heading into bridal stores, make sure you understand their policies, especially regarding photos and videos. I found that some shops had strict no-photo policies to protect the exclusivity of their gowns, while others allowed it. It’s a good idea to ask about this before your appointment so you’re not caught off guard.
While some bridal stores are more lenient, others, particularly those with exclusive designers, might want to keep their collection private. If the store has a no-photo policy, you can always take notes or make a mental record of the dresses you like.
Tip: Always ask about the store’s photo and video policy before your appointment, so you’re not left disappointed if pictures are prohibited.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Wedding dress shopping is about feeling comfortable and confident, which is why what you wear to your appointment matters. When my partner went shopping, I learned that wearing minimal makeup and bringing hair ties for easy adjustments was essential. It allowed her to focus on how the dress fit without worrying about makeup smudges or hair getting in the way.
Additionally, bringing a pair of wedding shoes to your fitting (or shoes with similar heel heights) can help you get a better sense of the dress’s overall look.
Tip: Wear minimal makeup and bring your shoes to ensure the dress looks perfect from top to bottom.
7. Non-Traditional Wedding Dress Ideas and Accessories
Thinking Beyond the Traditional White Dress
For many brides, the idea of a traditional white wedding dress is a dream come true. However, it’s important to know that you’re not limited to white. If you want to explore other options, consider ivory, blush, champagne, or even bold colours like blue or red, depending on your personality and the theme of your wedding.
One of the best parts of my partner’s shopping journey was discovering that a non-white gown felt just as special. She tried on a beautiful ivory dress with subtle gold accents, and it was the perfect fit for her vision.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to explore coloured wedding dresses. If white doesn’t speak to you, other shades can be just as stunning.
Don’t Forget About the Accessories
A wedding dress isn’t complete without the right accessories. From veils to shoes, jewellery to hairpieces, accessories play a huge role in pulling your entire bridal look together. My partner found that choosing the right veil or headpiece completely transformed her gown. She opted for a simple lace veil that matched her gown’s detail, and it added just the right touch.
When it comes to jewellery, less is often more. A pair of delicate earrings and a simple bracelet can be all you need to complement your look without overpowering the dress.
Tip: Start thinking about accessories early and choose pieces that enhance, not overpower, your dress.
8. How to Plan for Alterations and Final Touches
Alteration Timeline and Expectations
Alterations are almost always necessary when it comes to wedding dresses. Even if you find a dress that fits well off the rack, adjustments are often needed to make sure it fits you perfectly. Alteration timelines can vary, but I recommend starting the process 2-3 months before the wedding.
During your fittings, make sure to bring your wedding shoes and any underwear you plan to wear so that the seamstress can see how the dress looks from top to bottom. I was surprised by how many small changes were needed to get my partner’s dress to fit just right.
Tip: Schedule your first fitting at least 2 months before your wedding to allow enough time for alterations.
How to Bustle Your Wedding Dress
If your dress has a long train, you’ll need to bustle it for the reception. Bustling a dress can be tricky, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. It’s a good idea to learn how to bustle your dress ahead of time or have a trusted friend or family member trained to do it on the day.
At the final fitting, ask the seamstress to show you how to bustle the dress and make sure someone in your bridal party knows the steps. The last thing you want is to be scrambling to figure it out on the wedding day.
Tip: Have a trusted person trained to bustle your dress before the wedding day so everything goes
9. How to Handle the Final Steps After Purchasing Your Wedding Dress
Storing Your Dress Before the Wedding
Once you’ve found your perfect dress, it’s time to think about storing it until the big day. Proper storage is essential to avoid any damage or last-minute surprises. When my partner bought her dress, we quickly realised how important it was to keep it in a safe, cool, and dry place. She decided to store her dress with a trusted friend to keep the surprise intact, as we were living together at the time.
Many bridal boutiques offer storage services for your gown, but if you decide to store it at home, be sure to keep it in a breathable garment bag and hang it somewhere that’s free of dust and moisture. This is especially important if your dress has intricate details or delicate fabrics.
Tip: If you’re planning to store your dress at home, make sure it’s in a clean, dry area and keep it away from direct sunlight.
Pre-Wedding Dress Prep: Preventing Spoilers
It’s always fun to keep the dress a secret until the wedding day, but that can be tricky, especially if you want to share the excitement with family and friends. One of the things we did was set a dress preview policy. We decided not to share pictures of the gown with anyone, except for the bridesmaids, until the wedding day.
To make sure no one sees it, we kept it hidden in a trusted friend’s house and set rules about who could see it and when. This built up the anticipation for the big reveal!
Tip: Have a plan for who gets to see the dress and when to avoid spoilers.
10. Wedding Dress Shopping for First-Time Brides
Preparing for Your First Wedding Dress Appointment
Wedding dress shopping can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. I remember when my partner went to her first bridal store; she didn’t know where to start. The number of styles, fabrics, and designers was incredibly overwhelming. What really helped was doing a little research beforehand. It’s not about having the exact dress picked out, but rather knowing what kinds of styles might suit your body type and the vibe of your wedding.
We also created a Pinterest board of inspirational dresses. This helped our bridal consultant understand what she liked and disliked. It’s not necessary to know exactly what you want, but having a general idea will make the appointment feel less chaotic.
Tip: Start by creating a Pinterest board or saving pictures of dresses that catch your eye to help guide your stylist.
The Importance of Trying Different Styles
Even if you think you know exactly what you want, it’s important to try on different styles. My partner had her heart set on a princess ball gown, but when she tried it on, she felt completely overwhelmed by all the fabric. She quickly realised that a sleeker A-line gown suited her better. It’s common to find that styles you may not have considered initially end up being the best fit.
Tip: Keep an open mind and try on different styles. You may be surprised by what looks best on you.
11. Wedding Dress Shopping for Different Body Types
Finding the Right Silhouette for Your Body Shape
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, the silhouette is everything. It’s essential to choose a style that flatters your unique body shape. I saw how much confidence it gave my partner when she found a dress that accentuated her shape without feeling too tight or too loose.
For petite brides, a high-waisted A-line dress is a great option because it helps elongate the body. For hourglass figures, a mermaid dress or a fit-and-flare gown is perfect to highlight curves. On the other hand, if you have a wider frame or are more athletic, dresses with more volume, like ball gowns or A-line styles, can balance your proportions and add some drama.
Tip: Focus on finding a silhouette that highlights your best features and makes you feel amazing.
Wedding Dress Shopping for Curvy Brides
When it comes to curvy brides, the right dress can make a world of difference. We worked with a curvy bride in Melbourne, and she was initially unsure about what would work for her body. However, she found that a ball gown style dress helped balance her proportions, while a fit-and-flare gown beautifully showcased her curves.
The key for curvy brides is to avoid overly tight gowns that restrict movement. Focus on styles that allow for both structure and flexibility, and look for fabrics like satin or lace, which provide support without feeling too tight.
Tip: If you’re a curvy bride, don’t shy away from dresses that offer support and structure. Find something that lets you move freely while still enhancing your figure.
12. Exploring Wedding Dress Shopping Online
The Pros and Cons of Shopping for a Wedding Dress Online
Shopping for a wedding dress online can seem like a convenient option, especially if you’re looking for more variety or budget-friendly choices. However, I quickly realised that it comes with both pros and cons. On the one hand, you get access to a huge selection of dresses, but on the other hand, you can’t try them on, and you may face challenges with sizing or fabric quality.
Online shopping is great for researching and getting ideas for the dress, but it’s crucial to make sure you understand the return policies and sizing charts. While some online stores offer a try-at-home option or a sample gown, it’s always better to try the dress on before purchasing, especially for something as important as a wedding dress.
Tip: If shopping online, thoroughly research the store’s return policy and order a sample gown if available to try before committing.
The Best Online Wedding Dress Shops
There are plenty of reputable online bridal shops that offer a range of dresses from various designers. Some of the most trusted online retailers for wedding dresses include Lulus, ASOS Bridal, and David’s Bridal. For a more high-end selection, consider checking out BHLDN or Net-a-Porter’s wedding section. These stores offer both classic and modern wedding gowns, often with a more luxurious feel.
Tip: Be sure to read reviews and check the sizing guides for any online store before ordering your dress.
13. Planning Your Final Fittings and Wedding Day Prep
Preparing for Your Final Fitting
Once you’ve found your dream dress, the final fitting is your chance to make sure everything is just right. I remember seeing how important it was for my partner to get every detail perfect. By the time we reached the final fitting, the dress had been altered to fit her perfectly, but there were still a few final touches to work out. She needed to try on her wedding shoes and underwear to make sure everything aligned properly, from the hemline to the waistline.
The key is timing. Your first fitting should ideally happen 2-3 months before the wedding to give enough time for all alterations. The final fitting should happen within the final month before your big day, so you have time for any last-minute tweaks.
Tip: Don’t leave your final fitting until the last minute. It’s important to have plenty of time to ensure everything fits perfectly.
14. Wedding Dress Shopping for Different Body Types
Finding the Right Silhouette for Your Body Shape
When it comes to finding the right wedding dress, the silhouette is key to how flattering it will be on your body. I saw how much my partner loved finding a style that not only fit her body but also made her feel like herself. Whether you have a petite frame, an hourglass shape, or a more athletic build, there’s a perfect dress for everyone.
For example, A-line dresses are universally flattering and suit almost every body type. For hourglass figures, mermaid-style gowns work wonders, while ball gowns offer volume for brides who want a more dramatic look. The most important thing is choosing a silhouette that enhances your figure and gives you confidence on your big day.
Tip: Choose a silhouette that enhances your body shape, and don’t be afraid to try different styles.
Wedding Dress Shopping for Curvy Brides
Curvy brides often face a different set of challenges when it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, but that doesn’t mean the journey is any less enjoyable. I’ve seen curvy brides look absolutely stunning in dresses that accentuate their shape while providing comfort.
Styles like A-line gowns, ball gowns, and fit-and-flare styles work well for curvy brides, providing both structure and ease of movement. Additionally, the fabric plays a key role. Dresses made from lace or satin can provide the right amount of structure without feeling too restrictive.
Tip: Balance structure and comfort when choosing a wedding dress for curvy brides. Ensure it enhances your curves while allowing for easy movement.
15. Exploring Wedding Dress Shopping Online
The Pros and Cons of Shopping for a Wedding Dress Online
Shopping for your wedding dress online can be an appealing option, especially if you’re looking for a wider selection or need to stick to a budget. However, it does come with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest advantages of online shopping is the variety of styles and price points. You can explore dresses from multiple designers without setting foot in a bridal store.
That said, there are some risks. It can be difficult to determine how a dress will fit, especially since wedding gowns tend to run differently in size compared to streetwear. Slight sizing discrepancies and fabric differences can lead to unexpected disappointments. Plus, there’s the added stress of returns and exchanges, which can be tricky for a wedding gown.
Tip: If you’re considering online shopping, check return policies carefully, and if possible, order a sample gown first to try it on before committing.
The Best Online Wedding Dress Shops
Several reputable online stores specialise in wedding dresses. Some of the most popular options include Lulus, ASOS Bridal, and David’s Bridal, which offer a mix of trendy and classic designs at a variety of price points. For a more luxurious experience, BHLDN and Net-a-Porter provide access to high-end designers.
When shopping online, it’s essential to read reviews and consider the store’s return and exchange policy. This will give you peace of mind in case the dress isn’t what you expected. Be sure to check size guides and fabric descriptions carefully to ensure you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for.
Tip: Research online stores thoroughly and check reviews before purchasing. Make sure they have clear return policies in case the dress doesn’t meet your expectations.
16. Planning Your Final Fittings and Wedding Day Prep
Preparing for Your Final Fitting
The final fitting is a crucial step in the journey toward your wedding day. After all the alterations, it’s important to check that everything fits perfectly. I saw how much my partner wanted to get every detail just right, from the hemline to the bodice. The final fitting should happen about 2 months before your wedding day, leaving time for any last-minute adjustments.
Tip: Bring your wedding shoes and underwear to your final fitting to make sure everything looks perfect.
Final Touches and Post-Wedding Dress Care
Once the wedding is over, you’ll want to preserve your dress for future memories or potential use. Cleaning and preserving your wedding gown is essential to keep it looking pristine. Many bridal shops offer preservation services that include cleaning and storing your gown in a protective, acid-free box.
Tip: Preserve your dress after the wedding to keep it in pristine condition for years to come.
Let’s Get Straight to the Point
Wedding dress shopping can be thrilling, but it often comes with stress, pressure, and confusion. This guide offers 16 practical tips to help brides enjoy the process and avoid common mistakes. It covers when to start shopping, how to manage fittings and alterations, who to bring along, how to stay within budget, and ways to explore non-traditional styles. Whether you’re buying online, shopping as a curvy bride, or just starting out, these expert-backed insights will help you find a dress that fits, flatters, and feels like you.
