Lyla Dejesus
Buying a wedding dress can be a stressful experience, especially with the many options available. The process typically involves trying on dresses, comparing prices, and considering factors such as style, fit, and budget. It is recommended to buy a wedding dress between 8 and 10 months before the wedding to allow time for production, shipping, and alterations. However, some brides may need their gowns in a shorter time frame, and there are options available for expedited shipping or purchasing ready-to-wear gowns online. Once the dress is selected, fittings and alterations ensure the dress fits perfectly, and it is then stored safely until the wedding day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Price range | $500 to $2500+ |
| Time to buy | 9 months before the wedding |
| Where to buy | Online or in-store |
| Online benefits | Cost-effective, convenient, larger selection |
| In-store benefits | Try on gowns, get stylist recommendations |
| Online risks | Cheap knock-offs, non-delivery |
| Online tips | Compare websites, buy from reputable retailers |
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What You'll Learn
When to buy a wedding dress
The timeline for buying a wedding dress varies depending on individual preferences and circumstances. Ideally, you should start researching and shopping for your wedding dress between eight and ten months before the wedding. This allows for dress production and shipping, which can take up to five months or longer.
According to The Knot's 2024 Attire & Fashion Study, brides in 2023 and 2024 started their wedding dress search ten months before the wedding, with the average purchase being made seven and a half months in advance. However, it is not uncommon for brides to take a little longer, with some recommending buying your dress no more than eight months before the wedding to minimise the risk of returns or taste changes.
If you are having a destination wedding or planning bridal portraits, you should consider the delivery date of your gown relative to these events. Some brides prefer to have their dress ready a month before the wedding to ensure the fit is perfect and allow for any last-minute adjustments.
It is important to plan accordingly and consider the time required for alterations, which can take two to three months. Additionally, most made-to-order wedding gowns take about six to nine months to create, so it is advisable to start the process sooner rather than later.
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Where to buy a wedding dress
There are many options available when it comes to buying a wedding dress, both online and in-store.
Online
Online shopping for a wedding dress can be a convenient option, allowing you to find your dream dress from the comfort of your home. Many popular retailers offer well-curated bridal collections, including ready-to-wear brands like Reformation and Meshki, department stores like Nordstrom and Saks, and occasion dress brands like Mac Duggal and Azazie.
Some recommended online bridal gown sites include:
- Anthropologie: Features an extensive collection of popular designers such as Watters, Jenny Yoo, Besa, and its own brand, BHLDN. Anthropologie also offers a range of bridal accessories.
- Azazie: Specialises in providing brides with trending wedding dresses under $500, with options to try on dresses at home.
- StillWhite: Offers over 450 sample gowns in like-new condition, with a 10-day return option and free shipping for certain customers.
- Luxe Redux Bridal: Provides a wide range of designer wedding dresses at discounted prices, detailed product descriptions, photos, and easy return policies.
In-Store
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, visiting a bridal boutique or salon can be a great option. Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, for example, boasts 30,000 square feet of space filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses worldwide, along with a dedicated staff of over 200 employees.
Additionally, some brides may opt for a combination of both online and in-store experiences. They may browse online for inspiration and to narrow down their favourite styles, and then schedule appointments at bridal boutiques to try on dresses in person before making their final choice.
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Fittings and alterations
It is recommended that brides have at least three fittings, with the first taking place around three months before the wedding, the second a month before, and the final fitting one to two weeks before the wedding. The first fitting will typically last about an hour, with the tailor assessing the dress and the alterations needed. The gown will start to take shape when the fitter starts pinning and tucking the fabric to the bride's body. Subsequent fittings should take less time as the dress gets closer to the perfect fit.
It is important to bring the shoes and undergarments you plan to wear on your wedding day to your first fitting, as these can impact the fit of your gown. You should also bring the shapewear, undergarments, and jewellery you plan to wear so that your dress can be tailored to your exact preferences.
Standard alterations include adjusting the bust, taking in the waist, adjusting the hips, and adjusting the hem and bustle for the length of the gown and functionality of the train. These alterations help to ensure the gown stays in place.
The cost of alterations varies depending on the dress and the type of adjustments, with most brides spending a few hundred dollars and sometimes closer to $1,000. Some salons charge per service, while others charge a flat fee.
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Storage and transportation
Transporting a wedding dress can be a tricky process, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. If you're travelling by car, simply place the dress in a garment bag to protect it from stains. Hang the bag from the hooks inside the car's roof, and drape the skirt over the back seat, keeping it as flat as possible to avoid wrinkling.
If you're taking a short subway or bus ride, make sure your dress is well-protected and try not to travel during rush hour. If you're taking a long-distance bus or train ride, extra protection is key. Try to get a seat for yourself and the dress, laying it flat if possible. You can also hang it from an overhead pole, but be sure to keep a hand on it at all times.
If you're flying with your wedding dress, do not check it under any circumstances. It could be damaged, lost, or stolen. Instead, bring it as a carry-on item. Call ahead or check the airline's website for specific guidelines. Give yourself extra time to get through security, as the dress may need to be manually inspected. Bring the dress in its original garment bag if possible, and lay it flat in an overhead bin. Some aircraft have larger 'coat closets' in the first-class cabin that can be used for gown storage.
When packing your dress, keep it in the bag it came in or purchase a sturdy garment bag. Ensure the bag has a waterproof layer in case anything spills during transit. Cover the dress with acid-free tissue paper to prevent creases. Before attempting to remove any wrinkles, touch base with your dress designer or a dry cleaner to learn how to properly treat your dress.
Finally, consider using a professional wedding dress storage service to keep your dress safe for years to come. These services offer climate-controlled, museum-quality storage vaults with 24/7 video surveillance.
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Online vs in-store
There are several factors to consider when deciding between buying a wedding dress online or in-store. Online shopping can be a relaxing and convenient experience, offering a wider selection of designer dresses at your fingertips. It can also save you money, especially with frequent online promotions and discounts. However, it can be daunting to purchase a wedding dress online, as you may be unsure about the fit and quality of the dress.
On the other hand, buying a wedding dress in-store allows you to try on different styles and sizes to find what suits you best. You can also feel the fabric and experience the magic of finding your dream dress in a bridal boutique. However, the selection may be more limited, and you might need to visit multiple stores to find your perfect dress.
Some people choose to start their search in-store to get a sense of different silhouettes and fabrics, and then purchase their dress online once they know what they are looking for. This combined approach can help ensure you find a dress that fits your style and budget.
When buying online, it is essential to buy from a reputable retailer and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Some online stores offer “try before you buy” options, custom sizing, and easy return policies, which can make the process less stressful. Additionally, online retailers often have a wider range of inventory and allow you to shop from the comfort of your home.
Ultimately, the decision between buying online or in-store depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the time you have available for dress shopping. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to weigh your priorities when making your choice.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to buy your wedding dress between 8 and 10 months before the wedding. This leaves enough time for production and shipping, which can take up to five months or longer, and for alterations, which can take another 2-3 months.
The first step is to find a bridal salon or shop online. Once you've found your dream dress, you'll need to account for the dressmaking process, shipping, and alterations. You'll generally have up to three fittings to ensure the dress fits perfectly.
It is ideal to store your wedding dress in a spare closet where it won't get squished. Alternatively, you can store it at a wedding guest's home or at the salon until a few days before the wedding. The salon will also provide a protective garment bag to keep the dress safe and out of view.
