Rhiannon Hendricks
Finding a wedding dress can be a challenging task, and it can be even more daunting when you're pregnant. However, it's definitely achievable and doesn't have to be complicated. The key is to start looking early to allow time for fittings and adjustments, as your body will change throughout your pregnancy. It's also important to consider the fabric and silhouette of the dress, ensuring comfort and versatility. While many bridal shops don't carry maternity options, there are plenty of online resources and designers who cater to pregnant brides, offering customizable and stylish solutions. With careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can find the perfect dress to celebrate this exciting moment in your life.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to start looking | As early as possible to allow time for fittings and adjustments |
| Sizing | Order one size up if you'll be 3-5 months pregnant at the wedding, and two sizes up if you'll be more than 6 months pregnant |
| Fittings | Most dresses take 4-6 months to be delivered, so plan for multiple fittings and adjustments |
| Style | Look for dresses that allow movement and softness, and a versatile silhouette |
| Fabric | Choose lightweight, stretch, and flowy fabrics such as chiffon, stretch jersey, and stretch velvet |
| Customization | Consider maternity-specific options or dresses that can be customized for pregnancy |
| Online options | ASOS, Club L London, Show Me Your Mumu, Taller Marmo, Etsy, Lulu's, Seraphine, MillyBridal, Tiffany Rose, The Dressy Group, Sexy Mama Maternity |
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What You'll Learn
Start looking early
Wedding dresses typically take four to six months to be delivered, so it's important to start looking early. This is especially critical when you're pregnant, as you'll likely need to factor in more fittings. Your body will change throughout your pregnancy, so the size you are when you purchase your gown won't be the same as when your wedding dress is delivered or on the big day. Giving yourself ample time to choose your dress and have it tailored is key.
When ordering a maternity wedding dress, it's a good idea to order a size based on where you are in your pregnancy. If you'll be three to five months pregnant at your wedding, order one size up. If you'll be more than six months pregnant, go up by two sizes. You can always take a wedding dress in, but letting it out to accommodate a growing baby bump can be tricky.
If you're looking for a non-maternity dress, consider a style with a fuller skirt. This will make it easier to alter the dress as your pregnancy progresses. You can also look for dresses made with stretchy fabric, which will be more accommodating to your changing body.
Many online retailers offer maternity wedding dresses or gowns that can be customized for pregnancy. It's worth doing your research to find these options, as not many bridal shops carry maternity styles.
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Size up
Sizing up is a good option for pregnant brides-to-be, as it allows for flexibility and adjustments as your body changes. Wedding dresses typically take four to six months to be delivered, and alterations can be tricky, especially when accommodating a growing baby bump.
When considering sizing up, it's recommended to add one inch to your waistline for each month of pregnancy remaining before your wedding. This will ensure that you have adequate room for your bump and can avoid the need for extensive alterations closer to your big day.
If you plan to be three to five months pregnant at your wedding, consider ordering one size up from your current measurements. This will provide a comfortable fit while still allowing for a stylish silhouette.
For those who will be more than six months pregnant on their wedding day, it's suggested to go up by two sizes. This ensures comfort and accounts for the additional space needed for your growing bump.
It's important to remember that your bump is an accessory, and you should choose a dress that complements it. Sizing up can provide the versatility you need to accommodate your changing body while still feeling confident and stylish.
Additionally, consider the fabric and silhouette of your dress. Opt for lightweight, stretch, and flowy fabrics such as chiffon, stretch jersey, or stretch velvet. These fabrics will drape beautifully over your bump and provide a comfortable fit. When it comes to silhouette, consider styles that flatter your bump, such as empire waist dresses, wrap dresses, or adjustable "infinity" styles. These options offer versatility and can be adjusted as your bump grows.
Remember, sizing up provides the advantage of flexibility, ensuring that you can make adjustments as needed without being restricted by a dress that is too tight. It's always easier to take a dress in than to let it out, so sizing up gives you the freedom to customize the fit as your pregnancy progresses.
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Look online
There are many online options for finding a wedding dress when pregnant. One source suggests that online is the best place to find the perfect dress, as many bridal shops do not carry maternity options.
You can search for maternity bridal boutiques online, such as Mamarella, which offers maternity wedding gowns in a variety of lengths and materials, including lace, silk, and chiffon. Another option is to look at general maternity clothing brands, such as ASOS, which often has long, bridal-worthy gowns within its maternity range.
If you are looking for something more bespoke, you can also search for dressmakers online who can design something unique for you. For example, J and L Designs Boutique on Etsy ships worldwide.
Another option is to look for non-maternity dresses that will accommodate your bump. Club L London, for example, has a gorgeous collection of white maternity dresses without the bridal price tag. Similarly, Show Me Your Mumu and Taller Marmo offer flowing maternity dresses that could be perfect for a wedding.
Finally, don't forget to consider the timing of your purchase. Most wedding dresses take at least four to six months to be delivered, so it's best to start looking as early as possible.
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$40.99
Customise a non-maternity dress
Customising a non-maternity dress is a great option for brides-to-be who are pregnant. While many bridal shops do not carry maternity dresses, customising a non-maternity dress can be a simple and comfortable solution.
Firstly, it is important to start looking for a wedding dress as early as possible to allow time for fittings and adjustments. Your body will change over the course of your pregnancy, so the size you are when you purchase your gown will not be the same as when your wedding dress is delivered or on the big day.
When customising a non-maternity dress, consider the fabric and silhouette. Flowing and lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, stretch jersey, and stretch velvet are ideal for a growing belly. A dress with an empire waist or a wrap dress style is comfortable and flattering for a fuller waistline as they flow away from the body. If you prefer a more fitted silhouette, alterations can be made to any dress to make it maternity-friendly.
To customise a non-maternity dress, you can add panels and corseting to create more space for your belly. You can also raise the waistline to ensure comfort and flexibility. Ordering extra fabric from the designer can allow a seamstress to create a panel that suits the style of the gown.
Additionally, consider sizing up when customising a non-maternity dress. This will provide more room for your growing bump and can be tailored closer to your body as needed. Remember that it is easier to take a dress in than to let it out, especially to accommodate a growing baby bump.
By customising a non-maternity dress, you can create a unique and comfortable wedding gown that celebrates your pregnancy and new life together.
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Choose the right fabric
The fabric of your wedding dress plays a significant role in your comfort and feel on your big day. While you can choose any fabric that you like, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a wedding dress fabric as a pregnant bride-to-be.
Firstly, consider the weight and breathability of the fabric. Lightweight and airy fabrics such as silk, chiffon, tulle, or dotted Swiss are excellent choices for spring or summer weddings. They will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. Silk, in particular, is a luxurious and lightweight fabric with a glossy sheen on the outside and a matte finish on the inside, making it a popular choice for flowing styles. Chiffon, on the other hand, is sheer and transparent, perfect for overlays, layers, or accent details. If you're looking for something with a more structured silhouette, damask is a lightweight and breathable fabric with raised designs that add a touch of elegance to your gown.
For winter weddings, heavier fabrics will provide more warmth. However, be mindful of choosing a fabric that is too heavy, as it may become uncomfortable during a long day of celebrations. A heavy satin bridal gown, for example, may be too warm for an outdoor summer wedding. Instead, consider a fabric that provides warmth without being too bulky, such as brocade, which can be made from silk or synthetic fibers and features raised designs.
Additionally, consider the style and silhouette you desire. If you're aiming for a fitted look, soft and slinky fabrics like satin or silk can accentuate your curves. If you prefer a more flowy and non-clingy silhouette, fabrics like chiffon or tulle can add movement and softness to your gown. The A-line style is a perfect choice for pregnant brides, as it widens from the waist down, elegantly concealing the baby bump. The sheath wedding dress is another comfortable option, with its fitted bodice around the bust and waist, gradually widening towards the hem.
Lastly, don't be afraid to think outside the box. Many maternity dresses are available online, and you can also opt for a bespoke design or work with a designer or dressmaker to create a unique gown that accommodates your growing bump. Remember, the key is to choose a fabric that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and joyful as you walk down the aisle.
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Frequently asked questions
Many online retailers offer maternity wedding dresses, including ASOS, Club L London, Show Me Your Mumu, and Taller Marmo. You can also find maternity wedding dresses at Olivia Bottega and some maternity bridesmaid dresses at Jenny Yoo and Amsale. Etsy and Lulu's also have "bump-friendly" wedding dresses.
Stephanie White, founder and creative director of Odylyne the Ceremony, recommends finding a dress that "allows movement and softness" and a "versatile silhouette". She also suggests that you are not limited to maternity dresses, but you may need to customise a non-maternity dress to suit your body. David Zyla, an Emmy Award-winning stylist, recommends that you don't try to compete with your bump, and instead, embrace it.
Wedding dresses can take 4-6 months to be delivered, so it's best to start looking as early as possible to allow time for fittings and adjustments. You should also consider ordering a size up or opting for a maternity-specific dress, depending on how far along you'll be at the wedding.
The size you order will depend on how far along you'll be at the wedding. If you'll be 3-5 months pregnant, order one size up. If you'll be 5-6 months pregnant, order two sizes up. If you'll be more than 6 months pregnant, you may need a maternity-specific dress.
Don't panic! There are a few solutions, including panels and corseting. Your salon should be able to order extra fabric from the designer, and a seamstress can create a panel to give your belly more space. You can also consider adjustable backs for flexibility.
