Franklin Dean
Wedding dresses are often made-to-order, so it's important to plan ahead when thinking about when to order your wedding dress. While there is no such thing as too early, it is recommended to start looking 9-12 months before your wedding date. This gives you plenty of time to shop around and find your dream dress, as well as avoiding rush fees and giving designers enough time to create your gown. However, it's important to consider that your body weight and shape may fluctuate, so leaving dress fittings too late could result in a dress that doesn't fit properly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How early is too early to buy a wedding dress? | There is no rule on how early is too early to buy a wedding dress. However, it is suggested that buying a dress more than a year in advance may lead to dress regret as newer designs are rolled out. |
| How long does it take for a wedding dress to arrive? | It typically takes 5-7 months for a wedding dress to arrive. However, some dresses can take up to 9 months or longer for designers to create a gown from scratch. |
| How much time is needed for alterations? | The first alterations appointment is the most important, where customizations like adding sleeves, switching up the neckline, adjusting the hem, or adding beading are done. The final fitting is done 2-3 weeks prior to the wedding day. |
| How to avoid rush fees? | To avoid rush fees, it is recommended to start wedding dress shopping at least 9 months before the wedding, with a view to ordering the dress at least 6 months in advance. |
| How to deal with supply chain issues? | Opting for a domestic designer can help shorten lead times. It is also important to get a realistic timeline from the salon or retailer in writing. |
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What You'll Learn
How long does it take to get a wedding dress made and fitted?
Wedding dresses are typically made to order, so it's important to allow enough time for production and shipping. On average, it takes between four to eight months for a wedding dress to be made and delivered, but this timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the design, the manufacturer, fabric choice, beading, and construction. For example, a dress with handmade lace or hand-sewn beading may take longer to produce.
Once the dress arrives, the next phase is fittings and alterations to ensure the dress fits perfectly. It is recommended to allow two to three months before the wedding for fittings and alterations, with the first alterations appointment being the most significant, where customisations such as adding sleeves or changing the neckline may occur. This appointment should take place two to three months before the wedding, with the second a month later, and the final fitting two to three weeks prior to the wedding day.
It is generally advised to start the process of shopping for a wedding dress nine to twelve months before the wedding, allowing time for appointments, production, and alterations. This timeline can be shorter if the bride is flexible and open about their timeline with their bridal consultant, who can advise on dresses available at short notice.
However, leaving the process too late can result in limited options and rush fees, and buying a dress too far in advance may lead to dress regret as newer designs are released, or changes in body shape and weight may cause the dress to no longer fit as desired.
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When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, it's important to start early to ensure you have plenty of time to find your dream dress. The general consensus is that you should begin the process around nine months to a year before your wedding. This timeline allows for research, appointments, decision-making, manufacturing or shipping, and any necessary alterations.
Starting early is especially crucial if you're opting for a custom or made-to-order dress, as these often require a minimum of six months to arrive, with eight months being a more reliable timeframe. If you're considering intricate customizations or planning to get bridal portraits before your wedding, you may need to allow for even more time.
It's worth noting that some bridal shops may encourage purchasing sooner, especially if there are potential shipping delays or supply chain issues. However, starting your search too early can also have its drawbacks, as you may find yourself comparing your chosen dress to newer designs or experiencing changes in body weight and shape before your big day.
To ensure you don't feel rushed, aim to start wedding dress shopping at least nine months in advance. This will give you ample time to enjoy the experience and find the perfect dress without the stress of looming deadlines.
Additionally, don't forget to inquire about the boutique's timeline for ordering, shipping, and fittings, and get it in writing to avoid any last-minute surprises.
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How do I store my wedding dress before the big day?
It is important to know how to store your wedding dress before the big day to ensure it remains clean and damage-free. Here are some tips to keep your wedding dress in pristine condition:
Garment Bags
A wedding dress garment bag is a common way to store your dress, as bridal boutiques often provide your dress in one. Garment bags protect your dress from damage caused by light, water, and air. However, avoid plastic garment bags, as they can emit fumes that may cause the fabric to turn yellow. Instead, opt for a non-plastic bag that is large enough to store your gown safely in a closet or guest room.
Storage Location
It is recommended to store your wedding dress in a cool, dark place away from humidity. Spare closets are ideal, as they help preserve the life of the dress by protecting it from temperature fluctuations, air and water leaks, and vermin damage. Avoid attics, cellars, and basements, as these areas are more prone to damage risks.
Handling the Dress
Minimize handling your wedding dress to reduce the chances of staining and potential oil marks. Makeup and deodorant are common culprits for staining, so it is advisable to avoid wearing them when trying on your dress. If you must try on the dress, be sure to do so carefully and only when necessary.
Wrinkle Removal
A few days before the wedding, carefully remove the dress from storage and hang it somewhere high, allowing wrinkles and creases to drop out. If stubborn wrinkles persist, hang the dress in the bathroom while running a hot shower, being cautious to keep it away from the water. Alternatively, consider seeking help from a local seamstress or dry cleaner, or use a steamer with a cotton sock and distilled water.
Professional Preservation
Consider using a professional wedding dress preservation service, which can clean and treat your gown for stains, repair any stitching or beading, and package it for safe storage. These services aim to maintain your dress in excellent condition for decades and often offer lifetime guarantees.
By following these steps, you can ensure your wedding dress remains in perfect condition for your special day.
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What if I want to buy a ready-to-wear wedding dress?
If you're considering buying a ready-to-wear wedding dress, you're in luck! There are many options available for brides who don't want to wait for a made-to-order gown. Ready-to-wear wedding dresses are ideal for last-minute weddings or brides who don't want to undergo the lengthy process of ordering a custom gown.
Many bridal boutiques offer ready-to-wear options that are handmade to a standard size and height and are available to be shipped immediately. For example, Grace Loves Lace offers a collection of ready-to-wear bridal gowns that are handmade and ready to ship for last-minute weddings. They also offer virtual appointments and global boutiques in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.
If you're looking for a more luxurious option, designers like Khaite offer ready-to-wear bridal collections that emphasize exquisite craftsmanship, meticulous tailoring, and exquisite draping. Their designs feature clean lines, minimalist silhouettes, and luxurious fabrics, creating a sense of understated glamour. Other notable designers with ready-to-wear bridal collections include Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Markarian, and Danielle Frankel.
When considering a ready-to-wear wedding dress, it's important to keep in mind that alterations may still be necessary to ensure a perfect fit. It's recommended to schedule your first alterations appointment as soon as possible after purchasing your dress to allow time for any necessary customizations. This appointment is where major changes are made, such as adding sleeves or adjusting the hem. Your final fitting will typically be 2-3 weeks before your wedding day, where smaller tweaks can be made to ensure your comfort and confidence on the big day.
By opting for a ready-to-wear wedding dress, you can enjoy the convenience of a shorter timeline and immediate availability while still finding a beautiful gown that suits your style and personality.
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What if I want to buy my wedding dress online?
There are many factors to consider when deciding how far in advance to order your wedding dress. It is recommended that you start looking for your dress 9-12 months before your wedding. This gives you time to shop around and find the dress of your dreams, as well as avoiding rush fees and giving designers enough time to create your gown. If you start looking for a dress before the 12-month mark, you may find yourself comparing your dress to newer designs as more recent collections are rolled out.
If you want to buy your wedding dress online, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to buy from a reputable retailer. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is, and you may end up with a cheap knock-off or not receive your dress at all. Secondly, make sure you order the size that matches your largest measurement, as alterations can always be done later. It can be tricky to find the right dress without trying it on in person, so one strategy is to try on a gown in-store and then price compare with online retailers. Online shopping can be a relaxing and convenient experience, with a wider selection and frequent promotions, but remember to factor in additional costs like alterations, shipping, taxes and import duties.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you order your wedding dress 8 to 12 months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to shop around and find your dream dress, as well as avoiding rush fees.
Wedding dresses typically take 5 to 9 months to come in, and you'll need to factor in time for alterations, which can take 2 to 3 months.
You may have to pay rush fees to ensure your dress arrives in time, and your selection may be more limited. However, if you're buying from an online boutique, you can wait until much closer to your date as these ship out immediately.
There is no such thing as ordering your wedding dress "too early". However, bear in mind that your body weight and shape may fluctuate, and newer designs may be released that you prefer to your original choice.
