Rhiannon Hendricks
Picking out a wedding dress is one of the most monumental moments in the wedding planning process. While there are no rules about when to start shopping, it's important to consider factors such as the type of dress, the time needed for alterations, and the desired level of customization. Most sources recommend starting to look for a dress 8-12 months before the wedding to avoid rush fees and ensure the desired dress is available. However, some brides choose to start earlier or later depending on their unique circumstances and preferences. It's also common to visit multiple stores and try on various dresses before making a final decision, and alterations may be required closer to the wedding date. Ultimately, the timeline for picking out a wedding dress depends on the individual's preferences and the specific details of their wedding plans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to purchase | 7-12 months before the wedding |
| Number of fittings | 2-3 |
| Time of final fitting | 2-3 weeks before the wedding |
| Time to pick up the dress | 1 month before the wedding |
| Time to start shopping | 7-10 months before the wedding |
| Time to order the dress | 6-9 months before the wedding |
| Time to start trying on dresses | 8.5 months before the wedding |
| Time to start bridal appointments | 9-12 months before the wedding |
| Time to decide on accessories | Before the first fitting |
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What You'll Learn
When to start looking
The timeline for choosing a wedding dress depends on several factors, including the type of dress, the complexity of the design, and the wedding date.
It is recommended to start looking for a wedding dress 9-12 months before the wedding. This allows plenty of time for shopping, production, and alterations, avoiding rush fees and ensuring the dress is appropriate for the wedding's theme and location. However, starting the search too early can lead to dress regret as newer designs are released.
For custom or made-to-order dresses, a six-month lead time is typically required, and longer for intricate customizations or overseas shipping. Therefore, shopping 7-10 months in advance is advised. The first fitting usually takes place two months before the wedding, with the second fitting a month later, and the final fitting 2-3 weeks prior.
If you are buying a sample or off-the-rack dress, you may have more flexibility with timing. However, alterations may still be needed, so it is wise to allow at least a month or six weeks for those.
Regardless of the type of dress, it is essential to start planning early, especially if you want a unique or customized gown. By timing your purchase right, you can enjoy a stress-free experience and ensure your dream dress is ready in time for your special day.
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How long dresses take to come in
Wedding dresses typically take between 16 and 20 weeks to arrive after placing an order. However, it's important to note that each store is slightly different, and the timeline can vary. Most dresses will take at least 5 to 6 months to come in, with some taking even longer.
To avoid rush fees, it is recommended to start the wedding dress shopping process 7 to 10 months before the wedding. This allows plenty of time to shop around, make a decision, and order the dress. The ideal scenario is to purchase the gown about 9 months ahead of the wedding. However, due to global supply chain issues, it is now advised to tack on at least another 3 months, resulting in a total of about a year before the big day.
It's important to inquire about the must-order date and whether the designer accepts rush orders, as well as the associated costs. Opting for a domestic designer can help shorten the lead time. Additionally, it's worth considering that customisations, intricate alterations, and bridal portraits before the wedding day will require a longer timeline.
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Fittings and alterations
It's important to start the process early, especially if you're interested in customising your gown. Wedding dresses, particularly custom and made-to-order gowns, can take up to six months to be created, and you'll need to allow time for alterations. If you're ordering a dress online, it's a good idea to order the same dress in a couple of sizes to avoid extended back and forth, and to leave plenty of time for shipping.
When it comes to fittings, it's essential to have your wedding shoes and accessories, such as a veil, already chosen. This will help the seamstress adjust the hem of your gown to the correct height, and give you a better idea of your overall look.
While you may be tempted to leave alterations until the last minute, it's best to get them done as soon as possible to avoid stress. It's also worth noting that your body may fluctuate in the months leading up to your wedding, so it's important to allow time for any necessary adjustments.
Remember, bridal trends can change quickly, so if you're buying your dress far in advance, you may want to wait to make any customisation decisions. This will ensure your dress feels fresh and stylish on your big day.
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Accessories and shoes
When choosing accessories, you can opt for stylish shoes, bags, jewellery, veils, hair accessories, garters, belts, and shoe clips. If your dress is simple, you can add a statement piece of jewellery, such as a pearl necklace or earrings. If your dress has a lot of embellishments, it is best to keep the jewellery simple.
Comfort is key when selecting your wedding shoes, especially if you are having an outdoor wedding. Choose shoes that are comfortable enough to wear all day and match the colour of your dress. If you are wearing a long formal dress, elegant heels can enhance your look. For an outdoor wedding, consider flats or sandals with mid-length cocktail dresses.
A bag or clutch is a practical accessory, allowing you to carry essentials like lipstick, tissues, and your phone. Choose a bag that complements your dress and is big enough to hold everything you need. For example, if you are wearing a sequin dress, a sparkling bag can be a perfect match, while a simple satin dress can be beautifully paired with a pearl bag.
It is important to have your wedding accessories and shoes ready before your first fitting. This is especially true for your wedding shoes, as the seamstress will need to know the height of your heels to adjust the hem of your gown accordingly. If you plan to wear flats or sneakers, the seamstress will need to take up the hem even more.
Remember, the right accessories can complete your wedding look and make you feel even more special on your big day.
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Picking up your dress
When you pick up your dress, be sure to check it over thoroughly for any snags, discolourations, or other damage. If you've purchased a veil, check that it's stored in a protective pouch to prevent snagging. You'll also want to store your dress in a breathable, opaque garment bag to keep it safe and hidden from prying eyes. If you're tight on space, some salons will store your dress for you until just before the wedding.
Don't forget to finalise your wedding accessories, like jewellery, shoes, and a clutch, before your first fitting. Your seamstress will need to know the height of your heels to adjust the hem accordingly. If you plan to wear a veil, it's a good idea to have it picked out by your first fitting as well, so you can see your entire look come together.
While you may be tempted to leave wedding dress shopping until the last minute, especially during longer engagements, it's best to start looking at least nine months before your wedding. This allows you to avoid rush fees and gives you time to shop around for the dress of your dreams.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you start looking for your wedding dress 9-12 months before your wedding date. This gives you enough time to shop around and find the dress of your dreams, and ensures that you avoid rush fees and give designers enough time to create your gown from scratch.
You should aim to buy your wedding dress 6-9 months before your wedding. This allows time for any necessary alterations and customisations.
While there is no definitive answer, some sources suggest that buying a wedding dress more than 12 months in advance may result in dress regret later on as newer designs are released.
