Junior Rasmussen
Picking a wedding dress can be a daunting task, and it's important to keep in mind that every bride is unique, with different tastes and priorities. The key to helping someone choose their wedding dress is to keep their preferences in mind and ensure they feel confident and happy. It's also essential to be mindful of their budget and any venue or theme constraints. While opinions from family and friends can be valuable, the bride's happiness and comfort should be the top priority.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget | Discuss the budget before the appointment and stick to it |
| Timing | Start shopping after selecting the venue and at least nine months before the wedding |
| Preparation | Research styles, necklines, and laces on Pinterest or in bridal directories; bring visual aids to the appointment |
| Shoes | Bring your own shoes in the same height that you plan to wear at the ceremony and reception |
| Company | Shop alone or with a small group of supportive, honest, and non-judgmental friends or family members |
| Venue | Consider the venue's ambiance to help pick styles that are suitable for the location |
| Body shape | Try on as many different types of dresses as possible to find what works best for your style and body shape |
| Fabric | Choose lightweight fabrics in breezy styles for a wedding in a hot location |
| Second-hand | Consider pre-owned vintage gowns to save money and wear a unique dress |
| Customisation | Give the designer as much detail as possible about your colour palette, wedding theme, floral arrangements, and venue so they can bring your vision to life |
| Honesty | Be honest about your likes and dislikes to help the consultant pick out your dream gown |
| Gut feeling | If you love the first dress you try on, say yes! |
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What You'll Learn
It's important to please yourself
Choosing a wedding dress can be a daunting task. It is important to remember that the dress should be an extension of your style, only taken a bit further. It is crucial to listen to your gut and select a style that you love, regardless of other people's expectations and ideas. You will love your dress, but no one else will love it as much as you do. Your opinion must come above all others, and you should not compromise on anything just to please someone else.
It is also important to keep an open mind and try on different silhouettes and styles. You might have your heart set on a particular dress or style, but when you try it on, it might not work for you. Be prepared to try on as many different types of dresses as possible, especially early on. This will help you figure out what works best for your style and body shape, and you can then ask your stylist to focus on that.
Additionally, it is a good idea to give yourself plenty of time. Many dresses are handmade and require several months to ensure they are perfectly fitted. It is recommended to buy your gown nine months before your wedding to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing.
Finally, do not be afraid to communicate exactly what you are looking for to your consultant or designer. The more information you give them, the easier it will be for them to help you pick out your dream gown. Remember, a well-designed and well-fitted dress will make you feel truly out of the ordinary.
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Be mindful of the wedding venue
Choosing a wedding dress is a daunting task, and it's important to keep the wedding venue in mind when selecting a dress. Here are some tips to help someone pick a wedding dress that complements the venue:
Consider the Venue's Ambiance and Details
When choosing a wedding dress, it's essential to consider the venue's ambiance and details. Bring photos of the ceremony and reception site to your dress appointments. This will help your consultant pick styles that complement the location. For example, if you're having a classical rotunda wedding overlooking the ocean, you might want a dress with refined details and a relaxed yet luxurious feel. On the other hand, a rustic or nautical wedding venue might call for non-traditional dress lengths to infuse personality into your look.
Choose a Dress that Suits the Venue's Practicalities
The venue's practicalities will also play a role in your dress choice. For instance, if you're flying to your wedding destination, research airline regulations to ensure your dress doesn't exceed size specifications. Consider the weather conditions at the venue. If you're getting married in the Caribbean in August, opt for lightweight and breezy fabrics. Think about the venue's layout and how mobile you'll need to be. If you'll be navigating tight spaces, a dress with a long train might not be the best choice.
Start Shopping Early for Customizations
Once you've selected your venue, it's advisable to start shopping for your wedding dress early, especially if you want customizations or alterations. Most bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months before the wedding to accommodate these changes. This lead time ensures that your dress not only complements the venue but also fits your personal style and body shape perfectly.
Be Mindful of Your Budget
Discuss your budget openly with your consultant. The cost of the dress is not the only expense to consider. There will be additional costs for tailoring, accessories, and cleaning. By being mindful of your budget from the start, you can make informed choices and avoid heartache later on.
Trust Your Instincts
While it's great to get input from others, ultimately, the dress should reflect your style and personality. Don't be afraid to make a decision that feels right for you, even if it goes against traditional choices or others' expectations. Trust your instincts, and choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
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Consider your body shape
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, considering the bride's body shape is key. The right dress will highlight the bride's best features and boost her confidence. Here are some tips to consider when helping someone pick a wedding dress that flatters their body shape:
Hourglass Figure
For brides with an hourglass figure, the goal is to enhance the balanced proportions of their shape by emphasising the waist and hips. A fitted or mermaid dress can beautifully showcase their curves, while an A-line dress can also complement their figure by creating a balanced silhouette. To further accentuate their bust, a V-neck or sweetheart neckline is ideal. Sleeves can also add elegance to the look; consider styles such as cap sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves.
Pear-Shaped Figure
A-line dresses are a great choice for pear-shaped figures as they emphasise the waist while skimming over the hips, creating a balanced silhouette. A sweetheart, off-the-shoulder, or halter neckline can help draw the eye upwards and balance out the silhouette. Pear-shaped brides can also benefit from sleeves that create a more proportionate upper body, such as cap sleeves, flutter sleeves, or three-quarter-length sleeves. A dress with a structured bodice or corset can help cinch in the waist and create a defined silhouette, while flowing fabrics like chiffon or tulle add balance.
Petite Body Type
For petite brides, an open back is a great choice as it elongates the shape. A natural or empire waist, delicate details, or a clean, modern gown with minimal embellishments can also celebrate their body type. A slinky A-line gown will elongate their shape and play up their curves, while a ball gown might weigh them down. A halter neckline is a flattering option for petite brides.
Tall and Slender Body Type
Tall and slender brides can opt for a sheath gown, which is light and airy, accentuating their natural height. A flowy A-line gown can add a romantic touch to their shape. To further accentuate their height and long legs, consider a gown with a slit in the skirt.
Fuller Bust
For brides with a fuller bust, wider straps or sleeves can create a soft look while providing support. A sweetheart or V-neck neckline will beautifully flatter their bust, and they can request a gown with a bra cup that matches their skin tone. A fitted gown will accentuate their curves and mimic an hourglass shape if that is desired.
Rectangle Body Type
Brides with a rectangle body type can opt for styles that define their waistline and elongate their silhouette. A-line dresses, ball gowns, or a dress with a corset back can help create the illusion of curves and emphasise the waist. A V-neck or sweetheart neckline will elongate the torso and draw attention to the waist, while cap sleeves, off-the-shoulder, or flutter sleeves can add volume to the upper body. An illusion or low-cut back can also create the illusion of a curvier figure.
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Bring the right shoes
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, it's important to bring the right shoes to the fitting. While it may be tempting to focus solely on the dress, the right shoes can elevate the entire look. Here are some tips to ensure you bring the right shoes when helping someone pick a wedding dress:
Choose the Right Height
The height of the shoe is crucial. If the bride-to-be usually wears heels and wants to stick with what makes her feel comfortable and confident, suggest a pair of elegant high heels or trendy block heels. If she's more comfortable in flats, suggest a stylish pair of ballerina flats or low kitten heels. For a short wedding dress, a taller pair of shoes can elongate the legs and create a sleek silhouette.
Consider the Season
The season of the wedding will also dictate the type of shoe that is most suitable. For a summer wedding, breathable sandals or open-toe shoes are a good option, while a closed-toe style is more appropriate for winter weddings to keep the bride's feet warm.
Comfort and Practicality
While style is important, comfort and practicality should also be considered. The bride will be wearing these shoes for an entire day, so they should be comfortable enough to walk and stand in for extended periods. A sturdy pair of shoes will also provide peace of mind and prevent any mishaps. Additionally, if the bride plans to change into a different pair of shoes for the reception, bring both pairs to the fitting to ensure the dress works with both styles.
Colour and Embellishments
The colour and embellishments of the shoes can also make an impact. If the bride wants to showcase her unique style, suggest colourful shoes that contrast with the wedding dress. For a sparkly gown, elegant bridal court shoes with rhinestones can complement the dress beautifully. If the bride wants a subtle shine, satin shoes can provide a contemporary finish, while lace shoes can add a romantic touch.
Bring a Backup
It's always a good idea to have a backup pair of shoes, just in case. Bring the backup pair to the fitting to ensure they also complement the dress and don't clash with it.
Remember, the right shoes will not only enhance the wedding dress but also provide comfort and confidence to the bride on her special day.
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Be open-minded
When it comes to helping someone pick a wedding dress, it's important to keep an open mind and consider a variety of styles and options. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Understand the Bride's Vision
Before heading to any appointments, it's helpful to understand the bride's vision for her wedding dress. This includes knowing her general style preferences, any specific elements she wants (such as sleeves or a particular neckline), and the overall vibe she's going for. This will help you provide more targeted suggestions and keep the process focused.
Be Open to Different Styles
Encourage the bride to try on a variety of dress styles, even if they differ from her initial vision. Sometimes, a bride may fall in love with a completely different style than she had imagined. By being open-minded, you can help her explore different options and discover new possibilities. This is especially important in the early stages of the search, as it will help the bride determine what works best for her taste and body shape.
Provide Constructive Feedback
When the bride is trying on dresses, offer constructive feedback that takes her feelings into account. Instead of simply stating your personal preferences, focus on how the dress makes her feel and whether it aligns with her vision. For example, you could say, "This dress really highlights your figure, and the skirt has a beautiful flow that matches the elegant theme you're going for."
Avoid Overwhelming Suggestions
While it's great to suggest new ideas, be mindful of not overwhelming the bride with options that are outside her comfort zone or budget. For example, if she has a specific budget in mind, avoid pushing her to try on dresses that are significantly more expensive, as this could lead to disappointment or financial stress.
Keep the Bride's Happiness a Priority
Ultimately, the most important aspect is the bride's happiness. Be mindful of the language you use when providing feedback, and avoid making critical comments that could dampen her excitement. Remember, the goal is to support her in finding a dress that makes her feel confident and beautiful.
By keeping an open mind and following these suggestions, you can effectively help someone pick a wedding dress that they truly love and feel confident in.
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Frequently asked questions
It's an honour to be asked to help someone pick their wedding dress, but it's important to remember that it's their opinion that matters most. Be mindful of their budget, and don't push them to try on dresses that are out of their price range. Give constructive feedback and be positive. Remember, if their face lights up when they show you a dress, that's probably the one!
It's important to please yourself! While it can be daunting, try to ignore the noise of other people's opinions and criticisms. Your wedding dress should be an extension of your style, so be true to yourself and what you like.
Most bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months before the wedding to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing. However, you should start looking right after you select your venue to ensure the dress suits the location.
If you're shopping with a consultant at a bridal boutique or salon, be as honest and open as possible about what you're looking for. If you're buying off the rack, try big chains like David's Bridal, which offer a wide range of prices and sizes.
