Lyla Dejesus
Picking out a wedding dress can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Many brides feel disappointed during their first time wedding dress shopping. To avoid this, it is important to do your research and consider factors such as your body type, the parts of your body you want to accentuate, and the overall aesthetic of your wedding. It is also helpful to bring reference pictures of different styles you are interested in to your appointment, as well as photos of your wedding venue. This will help your bridal consultant better understand your unique style and pick a dress that suits the location of your wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken to pick a dress | Varies from person to person. Some people find "the one" at the first shop, while others take months and multiple appointments. |
| Preparation | It is recommended to do some research on wedding dresses before going to look. Pinterest, bridal magazines, and social media are good sources of inspiration. |
| Entourage | It is advised to keep the entourage small, with only trusted friends and family. |
| Budget | The budget should include the cost of the dress and any necessary alterations. |
| Venue | The wedding venue can influence the style of the dress. For example, traditional church weddings require less revealing bridal gowns, preferably with sleeves. |
| Season | The season and location of the wedding can influence the fabric of the dress. For example, a wedding in the Caribbean in August calls for lightweight fabrics in breezy styles, while a winter wedding in Boston may feature heavier, lush materials such as satin or taffeta. |
| Body type | The dress should accentuate the best features of the wearer's body and draw attention away from the parts they are not fond of. |
| Personal style | The dress should reflect the wearer's personality and aesthetic. |
| Comfort | The wearer should feel confident and comfortable in the dress. |
| Shoes | It is recommended to bring the shoes that will be worn at the wedding to try on with the dress. |
| Pictures | Bringing reference pictures of different styles helps bridal stylists understand the desired look. |
| Pre-owned | Pre-owned vintage gowns can substantially slash costs and offer a unique, retro aesthetic. |
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What You'll Learn
Know your body type and venue
The first step to feeling confident in your wedding dress is to know your body type and have a good idea of the style you want. You can find out your body type by having a friend or family member measure your bust, waist, hips, and body length. Bridal stylists are also a great resource when determining your body type.
For brides with an hourglass figure, a fitted style will highlight your curves. Fit-and-flare and mermaid dresses are sure to look stunning. A-line dresses are also universally flattering for hourglass figures. They emphasise your curves while offering a balanced look from top to bottom.
If you have a pear-shaped body with larger hips and bum, you might want to try a ball gown or an A-line dress to hide your lower half. However, if you want to show off your bum, a mermaid dress might be the perfect choice.
For brides with an oval-shaped body, halter or high-neck gowns might overwhelm your bustline, so it's best to avoid them. If you have a rectangle-shaped body, look for dresses with a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out to add volume and definition. Adding a belt or sash at the waist can also accentuate your waistline and add interest to a simple dress.
For brides with athletic body types, an off-the-shoulder or strapless dress will play up your gorgeous arms. To enhance your shoulders, consider a gown with a halter neckline. If you want to showcase your personality, avoid light and flowy fabrics and opt for heavier, more durable materials like satin.
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Bring reference pictures
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, it's important to bring reference pictures to your appointments. This will help you communicate your vision to your bridal consultant and ensure you find the perfect dress for your big day. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Compile a Visual File: Start by creating a collection of your favourite wedding dresses. This can include tearing pages out of magazines, saving Instagram posts or Pinterest pins, or browsing online bridal boutiques. Look for commonalities in the styles you've chosen—do you prefer embellished, lacy, or voluminous gowns? Are you drawn to open backs or strapless necklines? Identifying these themes will help you narrow down your preferences and guide your search.
Consider Your Body Type: Different styles of dresses flatter different body types. If you have an athletic build, for example, off-the-shoulder or strapless dresses can showcase your gorgeous arms. A halter neckline can enhance your shoulders. For an hourglass figure, a fitted style, such as a fit-and-flare or mermaid dress, will highlight your curves. If you have a smaller bust, plunging necklines can be very flattering and add shape.
Think About Your Venue and Aesthetic: The style of your wedding dress should also complement your wedding venue and the overall aesthetic you envision for your special day. For instance, a voluminous ball gown may be perfect for a grand ballroom venue, while a simple sheath dress might be better suited for a beach wedding.
Bring Photos of Your Accessories: If you plan to incorporate family heirlooms or specific accessories into your wedding look, bring them to your appointments. This could include your mother's veil, a grandmother's ring, or any other special pieces you want to wear. This way, you can ensure that your chosen gown works harmoniously with your accessories.
Don't Forget the Shoes: Bring the shoes or a pair with a similar heel height that you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will give you a more accurate idea of how the dress will look and fall when you walk down the aisle.
By bringing reference pictures and considering these various elements, you'll be well on your way to finding the wedding dress of your dreams!
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Consider the fabric
The fabric of your wedding dress is a crucial element in determining how it looks and feels. The material you choose will significantly influence the overall appearance of your dress, so it's important to select something that aligns with your vision.
When considering the fabric, it's essential to keep in mind the wedding theme and your personal style. For a rustic or farm-style wedding, cotton or lace fabrics can be a perfect choice. Lace, with its intricate patterns and romantic appeal, is a timeless option that flatters the figure and adds a sense of elegance. If you're planning a more formal wedding, luxurious materials like satin and taffeta might be more suitable. Satin, with its softness and sheen, adds a touch of sophistication to your bridal look.
The climate and venue of your wedding should also be considered when choosing the fabric. If your wedding is in a sunny destination, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as silk, chiffon, or Georgette. These fabrics will keep you comfortable and elegant during the hottest weather. On the other hand, if your wedding is in a cooler climate or during the fall or winter, consider structured gowns made from stiffer fabrics like brocade. Brocade, made from silk or synthetic fibres, has raised designs and is perfect for formal celebrations.
Another factor to consider is the silhouette you desire for your wedding dress. Some fabrics are better suited for structured silhouettes like A-line or ball gowns, while others complement minimalist designs. Mikado, a thicker silk blend, is an excellent choice for structured gowns that hold their shape. It's also a versatile fabric that can be dressed up or down, making it a popular option for various styles.
Lastly, comfort should be a priority when selecting your wedding dress fabric. Ensure the fabric feels comfortable against your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. You want to feel confident and at ease throughout your celebrations, so choosing a fabric that is not only beautiful but also comfortable is essential.
With a variety of fabric options available, from the romantic lace to the sleek satin and the structured Mikado, the right fabric for your wedding dress will ultimately depend on your personal preference and the style you envision.
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Try on different silhouettes
The first step in choosing a wedding dress is to understand your body type and the different types of dress silhouettes. This will help you narrow down the seemingly endless number of choices on the market.
A silhouette, in fashion, refers to the outline of a garment. This could be loose and flowing, like a sheath dress, or fitted and flaring, like a bell-shaped ball gown.
A-line
A-line dresses are fitted at the bodice and flare out to the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase "A". This silhouette is universally flattering as it accentuates the waist and provides a voluminous skirt. It is an excellent choice for all body types, especially pear, rectangle, and hourglass figures, as it skims over the lower body without hugging too tightly.
Ball gown
Ball gowns feature a fitted bodice that trails into a voluminous skirt, flaring out from the waist. This silhouette is ideal for most shapes, especially pear and hourglass figures, as it accentuates the waist and provides a lovely proportion. This style is also well-suited for brides looking to cinch their waist and not have to worry about their hips or lower tummy area.
Trumpet
Trumpet gowns feature a bodice that hugs the body from the chest to the mid-thigh, where the skirt then flares out. This silhouette is popular for those with slender or hourglass frames who want to flaunt their curves. It is also a good choice for brides who want a toned-down version of the mermaid style, as it doesn't have an overly dramatic flare.
Fit-and-flare
Fit-and-flare silhouettes feature a fitted bodice that extends at or below the hips before gradually flaring out toward the hem of the skirt. This style is often mistaken for mermaid and trumpet silhouettes, but what sets it apart is its gradual, less noticeable flare. Brides who want more movability in their look often gravitate toward fit-and-flare gowns.
Sheath
Sheath gowns have a soft, flowing silhouette. This style is recommended for brides with petite body types as it enhances their natural height.
Remember, these are just starting points, and you may find that a different silhouette suits you better. Don't hesitate to try on various wedding dress styles to see what makes you feel the most confident and comfortable.
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Pick a dress that reflects your personality
Choosing a wedding dress is an important decision and an exciting process. The key is to find a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and comfortable. It should be an expression of your inner self and unique beauty.
To begin, it is a good idea to consider your personal style and aesthetic. Are you hoping to accentuate certain features or body parts? Do you want to highlight your fun, flirty side, or your soft, romantic side? Perhaps you want to feel sexy and confident, or you might prefer a more classic look. Each gown will bring out a different aspect of your personality, so it is worth trying on a variety of silhouettes and styles, keeping an open mind.
You can start by browsing bridal magazines and Pinterest, creating a mood board of wedding attire that you love. This will give you an idea of the types of dresses available and help you to narrow down the style that suits you. You can also take a wedding dress style quiz to get personalized recommendations. When you have an idea of the style you want, you can research boutiques and work with professional stylists to find your dream dress.
The fabric you choose will also depend on your personal style and the overall vibe of your wedding. Explore different fabrics to find the perfect material that will make you feel comfortable and beautiful. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new—you might be surprised!
Remember, the dress should be a reflection of you and your personality. Be true to yourself, and you will find a dress that perfectly matches who you are.
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Frequently asked questions
It can be helpful to start by gathering inspiration from bridal magazines and Pinterest and creating a mood board of wedding attire that you love. You can narrow down your favourite styles and research different boutiques and bridal shops so you can visit a few and try on a variety of dresses.
It's a good idea to bring a small entourage of trusted friends and family to help you decide. You should also bring pictures of your favourite styles, your own shoes, and photos of your ceremony and reception site so your bridal consultant can help you choose a dress that suits the location.
It's important to stay true to your style and choose a dress that reflects your personality and the type of wedding you're having. You should also consider what styles suit your body type and accentuate your best features. Don't be afraid to communicate your likes and dislikes to your bridal consultant so they can help you find your dream dress.
If you can't afford your dream dress, you could consider selling your wedding dress online and using the money to put towards a second-hand dress. Pre-owned vintage gowns are often unique, substantially cheaper, and perfect for retro wedding aesthetics.
