Deborah Chan
Wedding dresses are an essential part of wedding planning, and timing your purchase right is crucial to avoid rush fees and alterations. Most made-to-order wedding gowns take about six to nine months to create, so it's ideal to buy your wedding dress nine months to a year before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time to shop around and find your dream dress, and ensures that you give designers enough lead time to create your gown from scratch. You should also consider the time needed for fittings and alterations, which can take up to three months. It's important to get the timing of each appointment right, as fittings that are too far in advance may result in a dress that doesn't fit properly due to weight and shape fluctuations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How far in advance to buy a wedding dress | 8-12 months before the wedding |
| How long does it take for a dress to arrive? | 5-9 months |
| How long does it take for alterations? | 2-3 months |
| When is the first fitting? | 2 months before the wedding |
| When is the second fitting? | 1 month before the wedding |
| When is the final fitting? | 2-3 weeks before the wedding |
| When to start wedding dress shopping? | 9-12 months before the wedding |
| When to decide on the dress? | 8-9 months before the wedding |
| When to buy a second wedding dress? | As soon as you know what your main gown is |
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What You'll Learn
- Wedding dress fittings: Allow for three fittings, custom alterations, and last-minute design changes
- Timing: Purchase 8-12 months before the wedding to avoid rush fees and dress regret
- Venue: Choose your venue before your dress so you can select a style that suits the location
- Weight fluctuations: Aim to maintain your weight after your final fitting to avoid last-minute alterations
- Storage: Store your dress in a protective garment bag to keep it safe until the big day
Wedding dress fittings: Allow for three fittings, custom alterations, and last-minute design changes
Wedding dress fittings are an essential part of the bridal experience, ensuring that your gown fits like a glove and makes you feel your best on the big day. Here are some insights to guide you through the process:
Allow for Three Fittings
Most sources recommend scheduling three fittings for your wedding dress. The first fitting typically occurs about three months or eight weeks before the wedding. This appointment is the longest as it involves the most extensive customizations and alterations. The second fitting is usually scheduled about a month or six weeks before the wedding, allowing time to evaluate and refine the initial adjustments. The final fitting takes place two weeks before the wedding to fine-tune any last-minute modifications. If you're making significant changes, like adding long sleeves or a train, an additional fitting may be necessary.
Custom Alterations
During the fittings, you will work closely with a seamstress or alterations specialist to ensure the dress complements your body shape and enhances your best features. Common alterations include taking in the bodice and seat seams, adjusting the hem length, and creating a bustle to prevent the train from getting stepped on or torn during the reception. The cost of alterations can vary, ranging from $50 to $1,000, depending on the complexity and number of changes required.
Last-Minute Design Changes
While it's essential to plan and allow for sufficient time, it's also normal to make last-minute design changes. These changes can include customizing the neckline, adding sleeves, reshaping the silhouette, or enhancing the dress with lace, beading, or other fabric changes. These design adjustments can be made during your fittings, ensuring that your dress is everything you envisioned and more.
Remember, it's never too early to start thinking about your wedding dress. The recommended timeline for purchasing your gown is 6-15 months before the wedding, allowing enough buffer for alterations and any unexpected delays. Enjoy the process, and don't be afraid to ask for help from professionals to ensure your dress is absolutely perfect!
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Timing: Purchase 8-12 months before the wedding to avoid rush fees and dress regret
It is recommended that you purchase your wedding dress 8-12 months before the wedding to avoid rush fees and dress regret. This is because most made-to-order wedding gowns take about six to nine months to create. Therefore, if you start your search 8-12 months in advance, you will have plenty of time to shop around and find the dress of your dreams.
Starting your search for a wedding dress too early can result in dress regret. This is because bridal trends tend to change with the seasons, and newer designs are rolled out throughout the year. If you start your search too late, you risk having to pay rush fees to ensure your dress arrives in time to be altered.
After purchasing your dress, you will typically have up to three alterations fittings to ensure that the dress fits perfectly. The first alterations appointment is where major changes are made, such as adding sleeves or switching up the neckline. The second fitting usually takes place a month later, and the final fitting will be two to three weeks before the wedding.
It is important to consider the wedding theme and location before picking a dress to ensure that it is appropriate for the occasion. For example, a beach ceremony and an elaborate ball gown may not be a good combination.
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Venue: Choose your venue before your dress so you can select a style that suits the location
When it comes to wedding planning, there are many different opinions on whether to choose the venue or the dress first. While some say that the venue should be selected before the dress to ensure that the dress suits the location, others argue that the dress can be chosen first if you already have a strong idea of the type of wedding you want. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels right for the couple.
That being said, there are a few advantages to choosing your venue before your dress. For example, if you're planning an outdoor wedding on a beach or in a garden, you may want to opt for a more casual dress that complements the natural setting. On the other hand, if you're having a traditional indoor wedding in a grand ballroom, you might prefer a more formal and elaborate gown. Selecting the venue first allows you to consider the style and formality of the location when choosing your dress, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident on your big day.
Additionally, knowing the venue in advance can help you make practical considerations for your dress. For instance, if you're getting married on a beach, you may want to avoid a dress with a long train that could drag in the sand. Similarly, if you're having a winter wedding in a chilly location, you might want to choose a dress with sleeves or a jacket to stay warm. Taking the venue into account when selecting your dress ensures that you will be comfortable and able to enjoy your special day without any wardrobe-related worries.
Another benefit of choosing the venue first is that it can help you manage your time more efficiently. Selecting the venue and locking down the date allows you to create a clear timeline for other wedding planning tasks, including dress shopping and alterations. Made-to-order wedding gowns typically take about six to nine months to create, and you'll also need to allow time for fittings and any necessary alterations. By choosing the venue first, you can ensure that you have a realistic schedule for finding your dream dress and having it ready in time for the wedding.
While the venue can certainly influence the style and practicality of your dress, it's important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident. Whether you opt for a beachy boho gown or a sophisticated ballroom number, as long as you feel amazing and comfortable, that's all that matters. So, while it may be advantageous to choose your venue before your dress, don't feel constrained by this order; instead, trust your instincts and go with what feels right for your special day.
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Weight fluctuations: Aim to maintain your weight after your final fitting to avoid last-minute alterations
It is important to maintain your weight after your final fitting to avoid last-minute alterations. Your body weight and shape can fluctuate, and if your dress has already been altered, it may not fit properly.
If you are planning to lose weight, it is generally advisable to choose a bridal gown that fits your current size. Seamstresses typically find it easier to take a dress in than to let it out. A corset-back dress is a good option as it offers more flexibility for size adjustments. If you are losing a significant amount of weight, you may need to wait longer to buy your dress so you can choose one that fits your new body shape.
It is important to allow for multiple fittings throughout your weight loss journey. This will ensure your dress fits perfectly as your body changes, avoiding any last-minute stress about the fit. Discuss your weight loss plans with your wedding fashion expert, who can advise on timing your purchase and choosing a style that will accommodate your changing body.
Remember, there is no pressure to lose weight for your wedding. You are beautiful and will look amazing on your wedding day. It's about feeling comfortable in your skin and embracing your body.
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Storage: Store your dress in a protective garment bag to keep it safe until the big day
Once you've found your dream wedding dress, you'll want to make sure it stays in pristine condition until the big day. The best way to do this is to store your dress in a protective garment bag. This will keep it safe from damage and discolouration.
Your bridal salon or tailor should provide you with a protective garment bag when you purchase your dress. This bag will keep your dress safe during travel and storage. Be sure to confirm with your airline that your garment bag meets the requirements for a carry-on item if you're planning on taking your dress with you on a flight.
If you're looking for additional peace of mind, there are services that specialise in wedding dress preservation, such as Wedding Dress Preservation by The Knot, which offers to clean and store your gown safely in a keepsake box. Alternatively, you can redesign your gown into a new style with a service like Unbox the Dress, allowing you to wear your wedding dress even after the big day.
It's important to note that starting your wedding dress hunt too early can lead to what some call "dress regret" later on. Trends and styles can change, and you may find yourself comparing your dress to newer designs. Additionally, your body weight and shape may fluctuate, requiring alterations closer to the wedding date.
By storing your dress in a protective garment bag and considering the timing of your purchase, you can ensure that your wedding dress remains in perfect condition for your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to buy your wedding dress 6-15 months before the wedding. This allows enough time for fittings and alterations.
It is best to start shopping 9-12 months before the wedding. This gives you enough time to shop around and find your dream dress.
Most made-to-order wedding dresses take 6-9 months to create. However, some dresses may take longer, especially if they have intricate customizations.
You will typically need three fittings for your wedding dress. The first fitting is about two months before the wedding, the second is a month later, and the final fitting is 2-3 weeks before the big day.
