George Boyle
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of wedding planning, but it can be intimidating. To make the process easier, it is recommended to do some research beforehand to establish a baseline of likes and dislikes, such as preferred silhouettes, necklines, sleeve types, and fabrics. It is also helpful to turn dress shopping into a whole-day affair, leaving a few hours open in the calendar to take the time to browse and try on different dresses. When scheduling an appointment, it is important to ask about the salon's guest policy, as bringing a large group can lead to conflicting tastes and unnecessary distractions. Instead, it is suggested to bring only two to three people whose opinions matter the most. Additionally, eating a light meal and drinking plenty of water before the appointment can help ensure one feels their best. Budgeting for the wedding dress and any desired alterations or accessories is another crucial aspect of the process. Finally, it is beneficial to be open-minded and communicate honestly with the bridal stylist to find the perfect dress.
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What You'll Learn
Do your research
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting but daunting task, so it's important to do your research and prepare in advance. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Start by browsing wedding dress trends, styles, necklines, silhouettes, sleeve types, fabrics, and lace options. Pinterest is a great platform to explore these elements and create a board with your favourite styles and inspirations. You can also check out bridal directories to see real weddings and gain further insights. The more research you do, the easier it will be to communicate your vision to your designer and the more fun the process will be.
Understand your preferences and body type:
Recognise that your dream dress and what suits your body shape may be two different things. Understand your body type and the styles that complement it. Your wedding dress designer should work with you to find a dress that you love and that flatters your figure.
Set a realistic budget:
Wedding costs can quickly add up, so setting a budget for your wedding dress is crucial. Wedding dresses can range from $1200 to $2000, excluding alterations and accessories. If you're on a budget, consider minimalist gowns, as heavily adorned or embroidered dresses tend to be more expensive. Don't forget to factor in additional costs for accessories, shoes, and undergarments.
Choose your crew wisely:
While it's tempting to bring your entire bridal crew, too many opinions can be overwhelming and conflicting. Instead, bring along 2-3 people whose opinions matter the most to you and who will provide honest and supportive feedback.
Plan a whole-day affair:
Trying on wedding dresses is time-consuming, so turn dress shopping into a dedicated day. Leave ample time in your calendar to browse and try on different dresses without feeling rushed.
Know your add-ons:
If you plan to incorporate accessories like your mother's veil or a family heirloom, bring them to your appointments. This will help you envision the complete look and ensure that your designer can create a dress that complements your chosen accessories.
By following these research tips, you'll be well-prepared to find your dream wedding dress and make informed decisions that align with your vision and preferences.
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Eat a light meal beforehand
Eating a light meal before getting into your wedding dress is crucial to keeping your energy up and ensuring you feel your best. Here are some tips to help you fuel up before stepping into your wedding gown:
First, it is essential to eat breakfast, even if you're nervous or excited. Opt for something light yet filling, such as peanut butter toast with fruit or a small whole-grain bagel with light cream cheese. The whole-grain-fat combination will provide energy without causing bloating. You can also try a small bowl of oatmeal or a yogurt parfait with nuts and granola. If you're feeling nauseous, a piece of whole wheat toast with nut butter or a banana with nut butter can be gentle on your stomach while still providing sustenance. Remember to stay hydrated, too, and if you're feeling nervous, a cup of peppermint tea can help soothe your nerves.
Throughout the day, continue to fuel your body with light meals and snacks. You can try nuts, a small sandwich, grilled chicken, or a piece of fruit. It's easy to forget to eat when you're busy, so set reminders or ask your bridal party to remind you to eat. If you're having hair and makeup done, opt for less messy foods like bagels, muffins, pastries, and fruit. Deli sandwiches, cheese and crackers, and granola bars are also convenient options that won't leave you feeling bloated.
While it's important to eat, be mindful of foods that can cause bloating. Avoid carbonated beverages, and limit high-fiber foods or gaseous vegetables like broccoli if they tend to cause bloating. Instead, focus on foods that will give you energy and keep you feeling light and comfortable in your dress.
Lastly, remember to eat during your wedding reception. It's easy to get caught up in the celebrations, but make sure to enjoy your wedding meal and snack whenever you can. Your wedding day is a busy and energetic event, so fuel up beforehand to ensure you feel your best throughout the day and can dance the night away!
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Try on dresses alone
There are many reasons why a bride-to-be might consider trying on wedding dresses alone. It can be a great way to expedite the process, especially if you have a quick wedding date and a packed schedule. Coordinating schedules with a large group of people can be challenging, if not impossible.
Shopping alone can also be a good option for brides with anxiety due to family dynamics, self-esteem issues, body dysmorphia, or depression. It can be a recipe for disaster for an anxious bride to be standing on a pedestal in front of a large group of people being judged and looked at so closely. Hearing comments about her shape or being pressured to try on different styles "just for fun" can be unpleasant.
Trying on dresses alone can also be empowering and allow you to get to know yourself, your body, and the types of wedding dresses, silhouettes, and necklines you like. It can be a great lesson in learning to make decisions that please you, rather than a group of people. You can experiment with different styles without the added pressure of your loved ones watching and giving their opinions.
If you do decide to try on dresses alone, you can always bring a small group of your closest friends or family back to the salon to show them the dress you've chosen.
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Bring 2-3 people whose opinions matter
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, it is recommended to limit your entourage to about two to three people at most. These are the people whose opinions matter most to you and who you can trust to give you unbiased feedback. It is important to remember that, while it can be exciting to share this experience with your entire bridal party, conflicting tastes and too many opinions can add unnecessary stress to your decision-making process.
Your maid of honour is an obvious choice, as she probably knows your style better than anyone else. Your mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, or a close friend are also great options. These are the people who will be supportive and have your back, ultimately letting you decide and respecting your choice.
It is also crucial that you listen to your gut and select a style that you love, regardless of other people's expectations and ideas. It is your wedding, and your happiness is what matters. You can also go wedding dress shopping alone if that is more your preference.
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Try on different dress styles
Wedding dress shopping can be an intimidating process, but it's important to be open-minded and try on a variety of gowns. You may have a particular style in mind, but it's worth trying on different dress silhouettes, necklines, sleeve types and fabrics to see what suits you.
It's a good idea to do some research before your appointment to get an idea of what you might like. Browse wedding dress trends on Pinterest and screenshot your favourites to show your stylist. You can also take a wedding dress quiz to get style recommendations. When you go for your appointment, be sure to eat a light meal beforehand and drink plenty of water so you feel your best.
Don't be afraid to try on a range of dress styles. For example, you could try on a fit-and-flare gown, which is fitted through the waist and skirt and then flares out towards the hem. Or, if you want something more minimal, try a sheath or column dress, which is fitted and straight, with a slight nip at the waistline. If you want to show off your legs, a high-low dress might be for you, with a shorter hemline at the front and a longer skirt at the sides and back.
Remember, it's not just about the dress itself, but also how it makes you feel. You might want to bring along a small group of people whose opinions you trust to help you decide, but ultimately, go with your gut and choose a style that you love.
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Frequently asked questions
You reach in and swish your arm around to create a hole in the petticoat so you can see through to the floor, then step in. Be careful not to do this while wearing heels as you may tear the dress.
It's a good idea to do some research beforehand so that you can establish a baseline of likes and dislikes. You can browse wedding dress trends on Pinterest and screenshot your favourites to show your stylist during the appointment. You should also eat a light meal before your appointment and drink plenty of water.
Wedding dress shopping should be an exciting part of your wedding planning journey. It's important to remember that it's your day, so make decisions based on what you and your partner want. You should also be mindful of the stylist's time and try to limit your appointments to when you are seriously looking for a gown.
