Lyla Dejesus
Many brides want to lose weight before their wedding, but it can be tricky to know how to go about shopping for a wedding dress when you're in the process of changing your body shape. While it can be tempting to delay dress shopping until you've lost weight, this could limit your options as it can take 6-8 months or even a year for your dress to arrive. Instead, it's recommended that you start trying on dresses early and choose a dress that fits your current body, as it's easier to take a dress in than let it out. You can then work with your bridal shop to ensure the dress is suitable for alterations as you lose weight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to start shopping | As soon as possible, 6-8 months before the wedding |
| Weight loss before shopping | Not necessary; start shopping at any size |
| Weight loss after ordering | Possible, but inform the designer; choose a fabric that's easy to alter |
| Weight loss amount | If losing 5-20 lbs, buy a dress that fits your current body; if losing 15-30 lbs, wait to buy until you have 15-20 lbs left to lose; if losing 30 lbs or more, buy off the rack |
| Fabric | Satin and tulle are easy to alter; beaded and lace dresses are tough to alter |
| Silhouette | A-line and sheath dresses are easy to alter and flattering |
| Corset back | Easier to tailor |
| Fittings | First fitting is for largest alterations; inform the seamstress about your weight loss goals |
| Final fitting | Try not to lose any more weight after this |
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What You'll Learn
Don't delay shopping until you've lost weight
It is advisable not to delay shopping for a wedding dress until you've lost weight. Wedding dresses can take up to a year to arrive after ordering, and delaying your shopping limits your options as your wedding day approaches.
It is recommended to buy your dress 6-9 months before the wedding, even if you plan to lose weight. This gives you ample time for fittings and alterations. Weight loss is unpredictable, and while a dress can always be taken in, letting it out may not be possible. Therefore, it is best to order a dress that fits your current size and have it altered if needed.
Additionally, alterations are typically based on the amount of work required, not the amount of material altered. So, there is no cost advantage to delaying your purchase. By starting the process early, you will have more time to shop around, try on different styles, and find the perfect dress.
If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, it is advisable to start window shopping early to get an idea of what you like. However, you may need to wait until you are closer to your goal weight before purchasing a custom dress, as these can take months to arrive. An off-the-rack dress may be a better option in this case, as you can buy it closer to your wedding date.
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Order the closest size to your current size
If you're planning to lose weight before your wedding, it's important to keep in mind that losing weight takes time and is not an overnight process. While you may be tempted to wait until you've reached your ideal size before shopping for a wedding dress, this could result in limited options as it can take up to a year for your dress to arrive after placing your order.
Therefore, it is recommended to start looking for your wedding dress as soon as possible and order the closest size to your current size. This will allow you to try on different styles and find the right dress for you. You can then have the dress altered closer to your wedding date to ensure a perfect fit.
Ordering a dress that is too small can be a risky decision. Weight loss is unpredictable, and while a dress can always be taken in, you might not be able to let it out if needed. Additionally, your body composition and shape may change during your weight loss journey, affecting how the dress fits even if you reach your goal weight.
When choosing a dress, consider the fabric and style. Some materials, such as satin and tulle, are easier to alter than others. A corset back dress, for example, is a good option as it is more flexible and can be adjusted more easily. If you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, an A-line dress may be a good choice as it is easy to alter and flattering on many body types.
In summary, when shopping for a wedding dress while losing weight, order the closest size to your current size. This will give you more options and flexibility, and any necessary alterations can be made closer to your wedding day.
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Choose a dress that's easy to alter
If you're losing weight before your wedding, it's important to choose a wedding dress that can be easily altered to ensure a perfect fit. While it may be tempting to delay dress shopping until you've reached your goal weight, this could limit your options and make the process stressful. Instead, start looking for your dress as early as possible, and choose a style that can be adjusted to your changing body shape.
When selecting a wedding dress, consider choosing a style with a lace-up corset or adjustable straps, as these features provide a customizable fit and accommodate weight fluctuations. Opting for a dress with a longer hem or train also gives you the option to shorten it during alterations, which is a common adjustment for most brides. Additionally, choose a dress with a waist that can be easily taken in or let out to accommodate changes in your waist size.
It is also important to consult with a skilled seamstress or bridal alterations specialist who can advise you on the specific alterations that can be made to your chosen dress. Be sure to discuss your weight loss plans with them so that they can guide you on how the dress can be tailored to your new body shape. This may involve taking in the dress at the waist, hips, or bust, or adjusting the straps for a more flattering fit.
Remember, wedding dress alteration prices are typically based on the work involved in taking apart and reconstructing the dress, rather than the amount of fabric being altered. So, whether you need to add or remove fabric, the cost will likely remain the same. By choosing a dress that can be easily altered and working closely with a skilled seamstress, you can ensure that your wedding dress fits you perfectly and comfortably on your big day.
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Discuss weight loss plans with the designer
It is important to discuss your weight loss plans with your wedding dress designer. This will help ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your big day. During your first appointment, the designer will not be taking your exact measurements, but they will be able to work with you to develop a plan of action based on your weight loss goals and the dress you choose.
Be sure to choose a dress that is suitable for alterations. Some materials, such as satin and tulle, are easier to alter than others. For example, beaded dresses are often difficult to adjust due to the intricate patterns of the beads. Similarly, lace can be challenging because of its detailed patterns. If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, consider choosing a corset back dress, as it will be easier to tailor.
The timing of your purchase will also depend on your weight loss goals. If you are planning to lose between 5 and 20 pounds, it is generally recommended to buy a dress that fits your current body, as you will have plenty of time for alterations. However, if you are aiming to lose between 15 and 30 pounds, you may want to wait longer to buy your dress. Start window shopping early so you know what you like, but consider holding off on purchasing until you are closer to your goal weight.
Remember, losing weight takes time, and it is important to give yourself enough time to find the right dress and have any necessary alterations made. Discuss your timeline and goals with your designer, and they will be able to guide you through the process and ensure your dress fits beautifully on your wedding day.
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Start shopping 6-8 months before the wedding
It is recommended that brides start shopping for their wedding dress 6-8 months before the wedding. This is because it can take up to a year for your wedding dress to arrive after placing your order. The longer you wait, the more limited your options become as you'll have less time to shop around, try on different styles, and find the right dress for you.
If you are planning to lose weight, it is still best to buy your dress in plenty of time before the wedding. Order the closest wedding dress to the size you currently are. You can then have the dress altered to fit you perfectly on your big day. Weight loss is unpredictable, and while a dress can always be taken in, you can't always let it out. If you wait too long, you might not have as many options for dress styles.
It's important to discuss any weight loss plans with your wedding dress designer. They will be able to work with you to ensure the dress you've chosen is suitable to be altered to fit your new size. Certain fabrics are easier to alter than others. For example, satin and tulle are more forgiving, whereas beaded and lace dresses can be tough to adjust due to their intricate patterns.
If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, it may be best to wait until you are closer to your goal weight before buying your dress. However, this does not mean waiting until you've reached your ideal size. If you are planning to lose 15-30 pounds, it is recommended to start window shopping early so you know what you like, but hold off on buying until you have 15-20 pounds left to lose. In this case, it may be better to buy a dress off the rack, as you may not have time to order a custom dress.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that brides buy their wedding dress at least 6-8 months before the wedding date. This gives you plenty of time to order a dress you love and make any necessary alterations.
It is recommended that you choose a dress that fits your current body. Weight loss is unpredictable, and while a dress can always be taken in, letting it out may not always be possible. You may also want to consider a corset back dress, as these are easier to adjust. It is also worth bearing in mind that some materials are easier to alter than others. For example, satin and tulle are more forgiving, whereas beaded and lace dresses can be tough to alter due to their intricate patterns.
It is important to discuss any weight loss plans with your wedding dress designer. They will be able to work with you to ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your big day.
