Junior Rasmussen
Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a fun and exciting process. There are a few key things to consider when starting your search. Firstly, determine your bridal style by compiling a collection of your favourite wedding dresses from various sources, such as magazines, Instagram, Pinterest, and celebrity looks. Identify common themes in the gowns you've selected, such as embellishments, lace, or specific necklines. Keep an open mind and explore different styles, as you may discover a look you never considered before. It's also important to start your search early, ideally right after selecting your wedding venue, to allow ample time for alterations and customisations. Consider your budget and whether you plan to buy a new, designer gown or explore more affordable options like sample sales, consignment shops, or lightly used dresses. Don't forget to seek guidance from experienced bridal consultants, who can help you navigate the various styles, shapes, and fabrics to find the perfect dress that reflects your personality and vision for your special day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to start shopping | Right after selecting the wedding venue |
| Time to buy the gown | 9 months before the wedding |
| Determining your bridal style | Compile a visual file of your favorite wedding dresses, then identify an overarching theme |
| Fabric | Georgette, crepe |
| Shape | Ball gown, A-line, straight, mermaid, fit and flare |
| Budget | Visiting trunk shows, sample sales, outlets, consignment shops, and hitting older inventory sales |
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What You'll Learn
Determining your bridal style
- Start with a timeline: Knowing the timeline of your wedding planning can help you make smart choices that honour your unique bridal style. Consider the season, venue, guest count, and budget when making decisions about your dress and overall style.
- Visualise your style: Using platforms like Pinterest can help you narrow down your bridal style. Create different boards with ideas from a few aesthetics, take some time to decide which one resonates with you the most, and then continue to refine your vision.
- Consider your personality and comfort: Your bridal style should reflect your personal style and make you feel comfortable and beautiful. If you're a free-spirited and laid-back person, you might prefer a more effortless and carefree look with flowy silhouettes and textured fabrics. If you're glamorous and dramatic, you might opt for luxury, sparkly embellishments, and dramatic silhouettes.
- Explore different styles: Familiarise yourself with various bridal styles such as classic, modern, romantic, glamorous, bohemian, and free-spirited. Each style has distinct characteristics, and understanding them can help you decide which one aligns with your personality and vision for the wedding.
- Think about your body type: Consider choosing a wedding dress style that complements your body type and makes you feel confident. For example, an A-line gown can be a great option for a pear-shaped figure, while a mermaid or fishtail gown can flatter an hourglass figure.
- Seek inspiration: Look to bridal fashion stylists, magazines, and real-life weddings for inspiration. Take style quizzes and browse through different gowns to get a sense of what speaks to you. Remember, it's okay to be open-minded and not have a clear vision right from the start.
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Budgeting for your dress
Budgeting for a wedding dress can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can find your dream dress without compromising your financial goals. Here are some instructive tips to help you navigate the process:
Understand the Market and Set a Realistic Budget:
Start by researching the market to understand the cost of wedding dresses. The average cost of a wedding dress was around $2,000 to $2,400 in 2020, but prices can vary widely depending on factors such as designer, style, and fabric. Knowing the market will help you set a realistic budget that aligns with your expectations. Consider using online tools or calculators to guide your budgeting process and determine a comfortable spending limit.
Allocate a Percentage of Your Wedding Budget:
A common rule of thumb is to allocate around 10% of your overall wedding budget towards the bridal attire. This can be a good starting point, but feel free to adjust based on your priorities. If your wedding gown is a top priority, you may choose to allocate a larger percentage, but if other aspects like catering or entertainment take precedence, you can allocate less.
Consider Off-the-Rack Options and Sample Sales:
Bridal boutiques typically make dresses to order, but buying off-the-rack can offer significant savings. Off-the-rack gowns are often just as high-quality as made-to-order dresses and can be purchased immediately, though you may need to budget for some alterations. Additionally, keep an eye out for sample sales, where bridal salons sell off their range of sample dresses at discounted prices.
Plan for Alterations:
When budgeting for your dress, remember to include alterations in your calculations. Alterations can range from simple seam adjustments to more complex modifications, and their cost will depend on the market you're in. Get quotes from local seamstresses or tailors to get an idea of the cost, and consider requesting desired modifications in advance if you're ordering a made-to-order gown.
Explore Pre-Owned and Rental Options:
The pre-owned and rental markets for wedding dresses are growing in popularity, especially for luxury brands. Consider buying a pre-owned dress, but be cautious when purchasing online without seeing it first. Alternatively, renting your wedding dress is an increasingly viable option, allowing you to wear your dream dress without the high price tag.
Remember, budgeting for your wedding dress is about finding the right balance between your financial means and your dream dress. By planning ahead, researching the market, and exploring alternative options, you can stay within your budget without compromising on style and elegance.
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When to start shopping
On average, brides in 2023 and 2024 started their wedding dress search ten months before their wedding. At the ten-month mark, they started their general research. It is important to start the process early, especially if you are interested in customising your gown. Dress production typically takes several months, which can result in limited options or rush order fees.
Before you start shopping, it is a good idea to do some research to establish a baseline of likes and dislikes. You can look at wedding dress trends on Pinterest and screenshot your favourites to show your stylist during your appointment. You can also check out wedding dress galleries to sort through a variety of gowns and designers in one place. Knowing some basics can help you describe your ideal dress. You can also use your wedding's theme and location to narrow down your dress options. For example, if you are going for a beach wedding with neutral colours, consider a lighter fabric that can withstand the heat.
When you start shopping, you should book appointments at bridal salons that have the dress styles and designers that you are interested in. It is also important to read reviews or get referrals from married friends and family so you don't book a spot with poor customer service. You should also ask about the salon's guest policy and how many people you are allowed to invite. It is recommended to enlist two or three VIPs, like your maid of honour, mother, or another close family member.
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Understanding wedding dress shapes
Wedding dress shopping can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be! It's important to keep an open mind and try on a variety of styles to see what works for you. Here's a guide to help you understand the different wedding dress shapes and find the perfect one for your special day.
Ball Gown
The ball gown silhouette is timeless and reminiscent of a fairy tale. It features a slim-cut or fitted bodice and a full bell-shaped or dramatically flared skirt. This style is flattering for all body types and is perfect for those who want to make a grand entrance on their wedding day.
Mermaid/Trumpet
The mermaid silhouette is a fitted gown that hugs the body, emphasizing the waist and hips, and then flares out at the knees or mid-thigh, creating a sultry and glamorous look. This style is well-suited for apple-shaped, hourglass, and full-figured bodies. It's important to choose the right shapewear to ensure comfort and ease of movement in this form-fitting style.
A-line
A-line wedding dresses are universally flattering and complement all body types, especially pear-shaped, curvy, or petite brides. They feature a fitted bodice that cinch at the waist and then flares out gently to create an "A" shape. This style provides a slimming effect and can make a petite bride appear taller.
Sheath/Column
The sheath silhouette is a slim-fitting style that hugs the body and falls straight to the floor. It is often made from lighter, silky fabrics such as chiffon, charmeuse, or lace. This style elongates the body and is perfect for slender, petite, or hourglass frames. The column dress is similar but tends to have a more structured silhouette with a natural waistline, made from fabrics like taffeta, brocade, or corded lace.
Empire Waist
Empire silhouette gowns feature a fitted bodice with a waistline that sits just below the bust, creating a flowy, boho look that elongates the body. This style is perfect for those who want a whimsical, light, and airy feel to their wedding dress. It is also a good choice for those who want to accentuate their bust and décolletage while elongating their silhouette.
Remember, these are just a few of the most popular wedding dress shapes. There are many other options to explore, including tea-length, high-low, and short hemlines, as well as unique styles like bridal jumpsuits and separates. The key is to find a shape that flatters your body type, reflects your personal style, and makes you feel confident and comfortable on your wedding day.
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Where to shop
Wedding dresses can be purchased from niche bridal boutiques, either online or in physical stores. Many brides choose to buy their wedding dresses from popular retailers like David's Bridal, which offers a wide selection of styles, fabrics, and colours, as well as bridal accessories like veils. David's Bridal carries wedding dresses under $100, with their average gown priced around $500, while more elegant options can go up to $2,000.
Another well-known bridal gown site is Anthropologie, which offers an extensive collection of popular wedding dress designers such as Watters, Jenny Yoo, and Besa, as well as their own brand, BHLDN. Many of their gowns are priced under $1,500. Azazie is another online retailer that provides brides with trendy wedding dresses for under $500, which can be tried on at home.
For those seeking a more personalised and tactile experience, an in-person boutique setting like Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City might be preferable. Kleinfeld Bridal boasts 30,000 square feet of space dedicated to the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, as well as a professional staff of over 200 employees committed to perfecting your bridal look.
If you're working with a tighter budget, consider exploring second-hand options. Websites like StillWhite offer a large selection of new, used, pre-owned, and sample wedding dresses, often with return options and discounts. You can also try searching for "secondhand bridal" in your local area, or look for second-hand dresses on eBay, Depop, or Facebook Marketplace.
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Frequently asked questions
It is advised to start shopping for your wedding dress right after you select your wedding venue. Most bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months ahead of your wedding day to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing.
Compile a visual file of your favourite wedding dresses. Tear pages out of magazines, save Instagram posts, create a Pinterest board, browse online bridal boutiques, and make note of celebrity looks you love. Then, identify a common theme. Do you prefer embellished, lacy, or voluminous gowns? Do they have open backs or strapless necklines?
Things to consider are the shape, neckline, and fabric of the dress. For example, ball gowns are classic styles with a full skirt and fitted bodice, while mermaid or fit-and-flare dresses are fitted through the bodice and hips before flaring out at the knee or lower. The fabric you choose will depend on your personal style and the overall vibe of your wedding.
You can find wedding dresses at bridal boutiques, outlets, larger stores, and online. You can also visit trunk shows, sample sales, and consignment shops to find discounted designer gowns.
It is important to keep your budget in mind and discuss who will be paying for the gown and how much you are willing to spend. Be open-minded and trust your stylist, as they are experienced and can help guide you in finding the right dress.
