George Boyle
There are many considerations to make when it comes to wedding dresses. From the style and silhouette to the budget and whether or not to show it to your partner before the big day. While some brides choose to keep their dress a surprise, others involve their partners in the selection process, seeking their opinions and even having them help with final fittings. Some brides may also choose to show their dress to close friends and family, while others prefer to keep it a secret until the wedding day. Ultimately, the decision to show or not show your wedding dress comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Show the dress to the groom | Some brides show their fiancés a picture of the dress, or a selection of dresses to choose from, but many prefer to keep it a surprise until the wedding day. |
| Show the dress to others | Some brides show their dress to friends, family, and their bridal party, while others prefer to keep it a surprise. |
| Sentimental value | Some brides choose to keep their dress for its sentimental value, especially if they plan to have children, so they can show it to them when they're older. |
| Selling the dress | Some brides choose to sell their dress after the wedding, as it will be more in style and therefore more valuable. |
| Donating the dress | Some brides choose to donate their dress to charities such as Goodwill or The Salvation Army. |
| Choosing the dress | The shape of the wedding dress depends on the bride's preferred style, the wedding venue, and the big-day aesthetic. It should also be a silhouette that flatters the bride's body and feels comfortable. |
| Trying on the dress | Hangers can be deceiving, so it's important to try on a wedding dress before buying it. |
| Saving money | Visiting a trunk show can lead to a 10% discount on a wedding dress. Sample sales can also offer designer gowns for 25-50% off. |
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What You'll Learn
Showing your partner your wedding dress
Whether or not to show your partner your wedding dress is a personal preference. Some brides-to-be choose to show their partners pictures of dresses they are interested in to get their opinion, or even the top picks of dresses, but not the final choice. This can be a good way to ensure your partner likes the dress, without spoiling the surprise on the wedding day.
Some brides-to-be choose not to show their partner the dress at all, or even just the picture of it, as they don't want their partner to see them as a "bride" until they walk down the aisle. This can add to the excitement of the wedding day, as the dress is one of the few things the partner will not know about.
If you live with your partner, you may want to ask a friend or relative to store your dress at their place to avoid your partner accidentally seeing it. You could also set a rule about who you will send photos of the dress to, to avoid the surprise being ruined.
Remember, once your partner has seen the dress, you can't take that moment back, so it's important to consider what is most important to you. If you want your partner's opinion, you could ask them about dress styles they like, or show them pictures of dresses without revealing your final choice.
Some brides-to-be also choose to involve their partner in the dress-buying process, especially if they are helping to pay for it. Ultimately, it is a personal decision, and you should do what feels right for you and your relationship.
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Wedding dress shopping tips
Wedding dress shopping can be a daunting task, but with some planning and consideration, you can find your dream gown while also preserving the magic of your special day. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:
Know Your Preferences and Venue
The shape and style of your wedding dress should align with your personal taste, the wedding venue, and your desired aesthetic for the big day. Consider a fit-and-flare style if you want something contemporary with a traditional touch, or opt for a simple sheath if you're tall. If you're having a casual, rustic, or nautical wedding, non-traditional lengths like tea-length or mini dresses can add a playful or modern twist to your look.
Try Before You Buy
Hangers can be deceiving, so don't judge a dress by how it looks on display. The only way to truly know if a dress works for you is to try it on. Take your time and experiment with different silhouettes to find the most flattering and comfortable option.
Be Mindful of Your Budget
Wedding dresses can be expensive, so set a budget and stick to it. Visiting trunk shows can lead to discounts, and you'll have the opportunity to meet the designer, who may offer waivers or discounts on alterations. Sample sales at salons are another great way to score a designer gown at a fraction of the original price.
Preserve the Surprise
If you want to keep your dress a surprise for your partner, be cautious about sharing photos or details. Decide in advance who you will send photos to, whether it's just your bridal party, close family, or friends. If you live with your partner, consider storing the dress elsewhere to avoid any accidental reveals.
Customization and Alterations
If you find a dress that's almost perfect but not quite there, consider investing in alterations or adding your own touches, like lace or embellishments. A good tailor can help you transform an off-the-rack dress into a unique creation that fits your body perfectly without breaking the bank.
Sentimental Value
Your wedding dress holds sentimental value, and you may want to keep it as a memento or pass it down to future generations. However, if you're considering selling or donating it, doing so sooner rather than later may result in a higher monetary value, as the dress is still "in style."
Remember, wedding dress shopping should be a fun and exciting experience. Take your time, trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to ask for opinions from those whose judgment you value. Happy shopping!
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Wedding dress silhouette and body shape
Choosing a wedding dress can be a stressful process, but familiarising yourself with the different styles and silhouettes can help you narrow down your options. The right silhouette will flatter your body shape and make you feel comfortable and confident. Here are some popular wedding dress silhouettes and the body shapes they suit:
A-line
A-line dresses are universally flattering and complement all body types. They feature a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist and then flares out to create an "A" shape. This style is especially recommended for pear-shaped, curvy, petite, or apple-shaped brides as it creates a slimmer waistline and provides soft, beautiful coverage.
Ball Gown
Ball gowns feature a fitted bodice and a large, voluminous skirt. This silhouette is perfect for brides who want to accentuate their waistline and balance out their lower half. It is a good choice for pear-shaped or taller brides who can carry off the volume without appearing shortened.
Mermaid/Fishtail
Mermaid or fishtail gowns contour the body, hugging the bodice, waist, and hips, before flaring out at the knees. This style emphasises the waist and hips and is a great choice for apple-shaped brides or those who want to show off their curves. However, it is important to choose the right shapewear and ensure you can move freely in this fitted silhouette.
Trumpet
Trumpet gowns are similar to mermaid-style dresses but with a more subtle flare that begins at mid-thigh. This silhouette is popular among brides with slender or hourglass frames who want to flaunt their curves. It is a more toned-down alternative to the dramatic mermaid style.
Sheath/Column
Sheath or column dresses have a slim-fitting, straight-cut silhouette that falls to the floor, hugging the body's contours. This style is versatile and elegant, elongating the body and providing definition. It is recommended for brides of all heights, especially those with athletic frames who want to show off their figures without added volume or drama.
Remember, while choosing a wedding dress silhouette that flatters your body type is important, it is also essential to prioritise comfort and personal style. The right dress will make you feel like yourself at your most beautiful and confident.
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Superstitions and beliefs about wedding dresses
Many brides-to-be believe in the superstition that their partner must not see them in their wedding dress until they walk down the aisle. Some brides have shown their fiancés pictures of dresses they liked and discussed dress styles with them, but have refrained from showing the final chosen dress or seeing it themselves before the wedding day to preserve the "magic" of the moment.
However, not everyone agrees with this superstition, with some brides showing their fiancés the dress before the wedding, or even having them help with trying it on. Others have shown their dress to select friends and family, or to people who asked to see it, while some have kept it a surprise for everyone.
Another wedding dress superstition is that it is bad luck for the groom to see the bride's dress before the wedding. However, some brides have chosen to ignore this superstition, believing that luck does not determine the success of a marriage, but the people in it.
In addition to these superstitions, there are several beliefs surrounding wedding dresses. Many believe that the colour white is reserved for the bride, and it is disrespectful for anyone else to wear it to the wedding. Black, on the other hand, is believed by some to symbolise disapproval of the marriage, while others believe it is an acceptable colour for guests to wear. There are also beliefs that the wedding dress holds sentimental value, especially for future children, and that it is difficult to part with the dress due to its importance.
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What to do with your wedding dress after the wedding
There are several options for what to do with your wedding dress after the big day. Many brides opt to preserve their dress, either by storing it in a box or having it framed. This can be a great way to keep the dress in good condition for future generations. Some brides choose to sell their dresses, either through a preowned wedding dress seller or a resale or consignment service. This can be a good way to recoup some of the costs of the wedding.
If you're feeling creative, you could consider altering your wedding dress into a new garment. This could be a mini dress, a two-piece set, or even a robe that you can wear on your first anniversary or other special occasions. Another option is to donate your dress to a charity or organisation that can give it a second life. This can be a great way to help another bride who may not be able to afford a new dress.
Additionally, there are some unique ways to repurpose your wedding dress. You could turn it into a christening blanket or gown for your children, or even pass on a piece of it to be sewn into another family member's wedding dress. Whatever you decide to do with your wedding dress, it's important to consider your own personal preferences and what will bring you the most joy.
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Frequently asked questions
It is a matter of personal preference. Some brides-to-be show their fiancés pictures of dresses they are considering to get their opinion, but ultimately keep the final choice a surprise.
It is up to you. Some brides show their wedding dress to close friends and family, while others prefer to keep it a secret until the wedding day.
If you can afford to, you could buy a new dress. Alternatively, you could try altering the dress, or adding some lace or bling to it.
You could try visiting a trunk show, where you may get a discount. Sample sales are also a good option for finding discounted dresses.
Some people keep their wedding dress for sentimental reasons, especially if they want to show it to their children in the future. You could also donate your dress to a charity such as Goodwill or The Salvation Army, or sell it.
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