Deborah Chan
Buying a wedding dress is an important part of the wedding planning process. While it's possible to buy a wedding dress at short notice, it's recommended that brides start shopping for their dress around nine months to a year before the wedding. This allows time for the dress to be made, which can take between four and six months, and for alterations to be carried out. Buying a dress too early can lead to last-minute stress, but leaving it too late may result in limited options and rush order fees. It's also important to consider the venue when choosing a dress, as the style of the dress should complement the location.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to start shopping | 7-10 months before the wedding |
| Time to order the dress | 6-15 months before the wedding |
| Time for dress production | 4-6 months |
| Time for alterations | 1-3 months |
| Time to receive the dress | 6-9 months |
| Time to buy before the wedding | 7.5-10 months |
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What You'll Learn
When to start looking for a wedding dress
If you're after the full, 'classic wedding dress shopping experience' without feeling rushed, it's recommended to start looking for your dress between seven to ten months before your wedding. This will allow you to visit bridal salons and boutiques, try on different dresses, and make a decision without feeling pressured. Most brides buy their dresses around 7.5 months before the wedding, with the dressmaking process taking an average of four to six months. This means that if you start looking seven to ten months in advance, you'll have time to make a decision and account for the production process.
However, if you're short on time or prefer to shop online, you can find designer dresses at department stores and online boutiques with shorter lead times. You could also consider sample sales, ready-to-wear options, or wedding dress rentals, which can be purchased and taken home the same day.
It's important to keep in mind that bridal trends change with the seasons, and some styles may be discontinued within eight months of their release. Additionally, you may want to finalise your wedding venue before dress shopping, as the location can influence the style of dress you choose.
Overall, the ideal timeline for starting to look for a wedding dress is between seven and ten months before your wedding, but there are options available for those with tighter turnarounds.
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How long it takes to make a wedding dress
Wedding dress production typically takes several months, and dresses can take anywhere from four to nine months to arrive, with some dresses even requiring more time. It's recommended that you buy your wedding dress between eight and ten months before the wedding, and ideally, you should start shopping nine months to a year before the wedding date. This allows for a good amount of relaxation during the shopping experience.
Once you've found your dream wedding dress, you'll need to account for the dressmaking process and alterations. Making a wedding dress takes between four to six months, depending on the complexity of the design. You'll need to plan for one to three alterations sessions before the wedding day to ensure your dress fits perfectly.
Some dresses may arrive sooner than expected, and some may take longer. It's important to clarify with your wedding dress stylist whether your chosen salon does in-house alterations or if they can recommend a seamstress. If you're working with a tight timeline, many local wedding dress shops offer off-the-rack dresses that can be purchased and taken home the same day. Sample sale gowns, ready-to-wear looks, and wedding dress rentals are also options for brides with shorter engagement periods.
Additionally, most made-to-order wedding gowns take about six to nine months to create, so it's crucial to start the process sooner rather than later. The modern wedding industry is evolving, and wedding dress designers and retailers are becoming more agile, accommodating brides with last-minute requests.
In summary, it's essential to begin the wedding dress shopping process early, allowing ample time for production, shipping, and alterations. The average time frame for creating a wedding dress is between four and six months, but some dresses may take longer, depending on their complexity.
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How to avoid 'dress regret'
Buying a wedding dress is an important step in the wedding planning process, and it's natural to want to get it just right. Most brides purchase their dresses between 7.5 and 10 months before the wedding, but production and shipping can take up to five months or longer, so it's good to allow plenty of time.
With that in mind, here are some tips on how to avoid dress regret:
- Don't rush the process. Wedding dress regret can occur when brides rush into a decision, perhaps due to a sale or because it's the first dress they've tried on that looks good. Take your time and don't feel pressured to buy.
- Avoid outside influences. Try not to let your entourage, whether that's your mother, best friend, or bridesmaids, sway your decision. It's your big day, so go with a dress that you feel great in.
- Don't follow trends. Dresses that are "in" might not be in a few months, and you may regret your decision when trends inevitably change. Choose a dress that aligns with your personal style.
- Be mindful of your budget. An expensive dress that isn't what you wanted can lead to regret. Stick to your budget and don't be swayed by sales tactics.
- Limit exposure to other styles. Once you've ordered your dress, try not to look at pictures or browse new styles online. This will reduce the likelihood of experiencing dress regret.
- Focus on the overall look. If you're feeling unsure about your dress, consider working with a wedding stylist to choose accessories that complement your gown and create a dream head-to-toe look.
- Remember why you chose it. If you're feeling doubtful, try on the sample dress again to remind yourself why you said "yes" in the first place.
Happy wedding planning!
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How to find 'The One'
Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a daunting task, but with the right planning and timeline, you can find "The One". Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Start Early and Research
While it may seem exciting to dive straight into trying on dresses, it is important to start with research. Begin by understanding the latest bridal trends and styles that resonate with your personal taste. The bridal fashion world introduces new collections each season, so staying informed will help you make a confident decision. On average, brides start their wedding dress search about 10 months before the wedding, and 46% of them do their research online before making a purchase.
Venue and Vibe
It is advisable to finalise your wedding venue before choosing your dress. The venue and the overall vibe of your wedding will influence the style of your dress. For instance, a beach ceremony may call for a different look than an elaborate ball gown. Knowing your wedding date will also help you determine the season, which can further guide your dress selection.
Timing is Key
The general consensus is that you should start wedding dress shopping between nine and twelve months before your wedding. This timeline allows for a relaxed shopping experience and accounts for the dressmaking process, which can take four to six months, or even longer for complex designs. If you start too early, you might encounter last-minute stressors, and if you leave it too late, your dress options may be limited.
Fittings and Alterations
Most wedding dresses require at least two to three fittings. The first fitting should be about three months before the wedding, and the final alterations should be done two weeks prior to the big day. It is important to leave enough time for these sessions to ensure your dress fits perfectly.
Trust Your Instincts
Finding "The One" is a personal and unique experience. It may take a few appointments to find the perfect gown, but don't rush the process. When you try on "The One", you'll know it. Trust your instincts, and don't settle until you find the dress that truly speaks to you.
Remember, this is just a guide, and every bride's journey is different. Enjoy the process of finding your dream wedding dress, and don't be afraid to ask for help from friends or professionals along the way.
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What to do once you've bought the dress
Most sources recommend buying your wedding dress between eight and ten months before the wedding. This is because wedding dresses can take anywhere from four to six months to arrive, and you'll need to allow time for alterations.
Once you've bought the dress, you might start to feel anxious about your choice, but don't worry—this is very common. When the dress arrives at the store and you try it on for the first time, remember that it has not yet been altered. If you start to nitpick, step away from the mirror and close your eyes for a moment. When you look at the dress again, you'll be able to look at it objectively and remember why it was your dream dress.
Next, you'll need to plan for alterations. Most dresses require two or three fittings, with the final round of alterations taking place two weeks before the wedding. Be sure to clarify with your wedding dress stylist if your chosen salon does in-house alterations. If not, ask if they can recommend a seamstress with experience working on wedding dresses and formal wear. You'll need to book this early, as they can get busy.
After the wedding, you might want to preserve your dress, sell it, or repurpose it into another garment. Alternatively, you could donate it to a charity that accepts wedding dresses.
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Frequently asked questions
It's recommended that you buy your wedding dress between 8 and 10 months before the wedding. This allows time for production and shipping, which can take up to five months or longer.
On average, it takes between four to six months to make a wedding dress, depending on the complexity of the design.
Most brides need at least two fittings, but a third, final round of alterations may be necessary, which typically happens two weeks before the wedding.
