Franklin Dean
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. However, it can also be overwhelming. To make the experience as enjoyable as possible, it's important to do some research and preparation beforehand. This includes deciding on your budget, the style of dress you want, and who to bring with you. You should also consider doing your hair and makeup in a similar style to what you plan to have on your wedding day so you can get a better idea of how you will look and feel in the dress. It's a good idea to book an appointment with a local bridal salon or boutique, and most will allow you to book online.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of guests | 2-3 people max. |
| Who to invite | Maid of honour, mother, grandmother, close family, bridesmaids. |
| Budget | Average cost of a wedding dress is $2,000. |
| Time | Buy 8-12 months in advance. |
| Research | Pinterest, blogs, galleries, fashion trends. |
| Preparation | Hair, makeup, heels. |
| Salon | Check guest policy, book in advance. |
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What You'll Learn
Research dress styles, fabrics and silhouettes
Wedding dress shopping can be a fun and exciting part of planning your wedding. However, with the sheer magnitude of options, it can quickly become overwhelming. So, before stepping into a bridal salon, it's a good idea to research the different dress styles, fabrics, and silhouettes to help you decide where to go wedding dress shopping.
Researching Dress Styles
When it comes to dress styles, it's important to keep an open mind and consider a variety of options. Start by compiling a visual file of your favourite wedding dresses. You can tear pages out of magazines, save Instagram posts, create a Pinterest board, browse online bridal boutiques, and make note of celebrity looks you love. Look for overarching themes in the dresses you've chosen—are they embellished, lacy, or voluminous? Do they have open backs or strapless necklines? This process will help you determine your bridal style and narrow down your options.
Researching Fabrics
Familiarising yourself with different types of fabrics is crucial, as the fabric will impact the style and silhouette of your gown. It will also determine how comfortable you feel on your big day. For example, a heavy satin bridal gown could make you uncomfortable during summer nuptials. On the other hand, lightweight fabrics like chiffon are perfect for spring and summer weddings, creating a floaty and ethereal vibe. Classic fabrics like lace, satin, and tulle are widely available, but if you're looking for something more contemporary, you may need to do some extra research.
Researching Silhouettes
Understanding the various silhouettes will help you make an informed decision when trying on gowns. Some silhouettes are universally flattering, like the A-line, which hugs the waist and creates a slimmer waistline while flattering the bust. It's a great choice for pear-shaped, curvy, or petite brides. If you want a dramatic, full skirt, a ball gown will accentuate your waistline and provide coverage for your hips and lower tummy. However, petite brides may want to avoid this silhouette as it can overpower a small frame. Additionally, consider the venue, season, and your style preferences when choosing a silhouette.
By researching dress styles, fabrics, and silhouettes, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the wedding dress shopping experience and find your dream gown.
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Establish a budget
Establishing a budget for your wedding dress is an important step in the wedding planning process. The price of a wedding gown can vary depending on several factors, including the bridal shop, the designer, alterations, and anatomical features. It is recommended that you allocate about 6%-10% of your total wedding budget to your wedding attire, alterations, and accessories. According to The Knot 2025 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding dress is $2,000, with more luxurious gowns ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, and customized dresses costing up to $10,000.
When setting your budget, it is important to consider the cost of alterations, as you will likely need at least some adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. More labour-intensive alterations, such as changing the neckline or adding beading, will cost more. To avoid overspending, try to find a dress you love as-is, or opt for minor adjustments. Additionally, consider the price of accessories, such as veils, shoes, and jewellery, as these can also impact your overall budget.
To accommodate your budget, you can explore ways to spend less while still finding a gown you adore. You can browse affordable wedding dresses online at budget-friendly retailers or look for second-hand options, which can offer significant savings. If you have your heart set on a designer gown, consider shopping during trunk shows or sample sales, or reach out to the designer directly for off-the-rack sales.
It is also important to prioritize what matters most to you in a gown. If you prioritize luxurious fabric, you can opt for a simpler silhouette to balance out the costs. On the other hand, if you prefer a more elaborate gown, you can keep your accessories low-key to stay within your budget.
Once you have determined your budget, be sure to inform your bridal consultant at the start of your appointment. This will allow them to show you dresses that you will not only love but also afford, helping you to stay focused and avoid falling in love with a dress that is outside your budget.
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Decide on a location
When it comes to deciding on a location for wedding dress shopping, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to choose a location that is convenient and accessible for you. This may include considering the distance you are willing to travel and the means of transportation available to you. If you have specific boutiques or bridal salons in mind, take into account their proximity to your home or accommodation.
Additionally, the location you choose should offer a variety of options that align with your preferences and budget. Research local options by browsing websites, reading reviews, and exploring their selections online. This will give you an idea of the styles, designers, and price ranges available at each location. Consider whether they offer the type of dresses you are interested in, such as specific silhouettes, necklines, fabrics, or designers.
Another factor to keep in mind is the guest policy of the boutiques or salons. If you plan on bringing a small group of close friends or family members, ensure that the location can accommodate your party size. Check their policies on the number of guests allowed and whether they have any restrictions or limitations. This is especially important if you want to share this experience with your loved ones and want them to be part of the dress-shopping journey.
While deciding on a location, it is also beneficial to be mindful of your wedding timeline. Typically, wedding dresses are purchased 8-12 months in advance to avoid rush fees and ensure timely production and alterations. Therefore, consider locations that can accommodate your timeline and provide the necessary services within your desired timeframe.
Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or even your wedding planner (if you have one). Word-of-mouth suggestions can provide valuable insights into locations that might suit your specific needs and preferences. Remember to plan ahead, especially if you are considering travelling to a different city or country for your wedding dress shopping.
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Choose your entourage
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of the wedding planning process, and choosing the right entourage to accompany you is essential to making it a fun and memorable experience. Here are some tips to help you select your crew:
- Consider your closest friends and family: Start by making a list of your closest friends and family members who you think would be enthusiastic and supportive during this process. These are the people who will be happy to devote time to helping you find your dream dress and will be honest yet encouraging with their opinions. It could be your mother, sisters, future mother-in-law, bridesmaids, or close friends.
- Keep the group small: Wedding dress shopping with a large group can become chaotic and overwhelming. Opinions from too many people may cause confusion and frustration. Aim for a smaller group of around 2–5 people. This ensures that you can have an intimate and focused experience, and it allows for a more efficient decision-making process.
- Choose supportive and honest individuals: It's important that the people you bring will be able to give their honest feedback while still being supportive and considerate of your tastes and preferences. They should make you feel comfortable and at ease during what can be a vulnerable and stressful time.
- Consider their availability: Wedding dress shopping often requires multiple appointments, and it's ideal to have the same entourage present for each visit. Check the availability of your closest friends and family, and see if they can commit to joining you on this journey. It's also helpful to have at least one person who lives relatively close by for last-minute appointments.
- Communicate your expectations: Before you begin shopping, share your expectations and goals for this process with your entourage. Let them know whether you're looking for honest opinions or just encouragement. Explain the style of dress you envision, and ask them to help you stay focused. This ensures that everyone is on the same page, making the experience more efficient and enjoyable for all.
- Involve long-distance loved ones virtually: Don't forget about those who live far away! Find ways to involve long-distance loved ones virtually, whether through video calls during the appointment, sending photos and videos, or simply sharing the experience afterward. This ensures their inclusion and allows you to benefit from their support and opinions.
Remember, wedding dress shopping should be a fun and memorable journey. Choose an entourage that will support and uplift you, helping you find the dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
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Prepare hair and makeup
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. To prepare your hair and makeup for this occasion, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended to wear your hair in a style similar to what you plan to have on your wedding day. This will help you visualise how you will look on your special day and assist your bridal stylist in choosing accessories that complement your gown. If you are considering an updo for your wedding, try putting your hair in a low bun before trying on dresses.
It is also suggested that you wear a similar makeup look to what you intend to wear on your wedding day. This will help you to better envision your overall wedding-day look and feel more ""wedding-day-ready". However, it is important to strike a balance and avoid wearing a full face of makeup. Opt for a natural look that enhances your complexion and makes you feel confident. This could include a light base of moisturiser, foundation, and blush, with a focus on the eyes using curled eyelashes and a neutral eyeshadow.
Remember, the goal is to feel comfortable and beautiful. You want to be able to focus on the dresses and how they make you feel, rather than picking at small details in the mirror. It is also a good idea to bring hair ties, bobby pins, and other essentials to keep your hair and makeup looking neat throughout the appointment.
Additionally, consider the practical aspects of trying on multiple dresses. You might want to avoid an elaborate hairstyle or heavy makeup that will be difficult to maintain while changing in and out of gowns. A simple and comfortable look will make the process more enjoyable.
Lastly, do not feel pressured to have a particular hairstyle or makeup look. Wedding dress shopping can be a personal and enjoyable experience, and you can always seek the opinion of your bridal stylist or loved ones if you are unsure. It is okay to go wedding dress shopping by yourself if you feel more comfortable that way.
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Frequently asked questions
It's important to do your research beforehand so that you can establish a baseline of likes and dislikes. This includes your preferred wedding dress silhouettes, neckline, sleeve type, and fabric. You can browse wedding dress trends on Pinterest and create a must-haves list. Once you have a general idea of your dream wedding style, you can find boutiques or salons near you that offer those styles.
It is recommended to limit your entourage to about two or three people at most. This could include your maid of honour, mother, grandmother, sister, or another close family member. If you're feeling frazzled by the thought of multiple opinions, it's okay to go wedding dress shopping by yourself. You can always bring your nearest and dearest once you've decided on a few gowns to help make a final decision.
It is recommended to buy your wedding dress 8-12 months in advance. This will help you avoid rush fees, which can run as high as 30% of the price of the dress.
