Rhiannon Hendricks
There are various opinions on whether two years is too early to buy a wedding dress. Some people say that it is not too early, especially with COVID-related delays. However, others argue that buying a wedding dress two years in advance may result in last-minute stressors and dress regret, as styles and tastes may change. The general consensus is that it is safe to buy a wedding dress 8-10 months before the wedding, with some sources recommending a timeline of 9-12 months. This allows time for shopping around, alterations, and avoiding rush fees. Additionally, it is suggested to have the wedding venue booked before purchasing a dress to ensure it matches the occasion.
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What You'll Learn
- Wedding dress shopping: 8-12 months before the wedding is recommended by most sources
- Dress regret: Buying too early may cause you to compare your dress to newer designs
- Weight fluctuations: Your body size may change, requiring costly alterations
- Budgeting: It's important to set a budget and stick to it when shopping for a wedding dress
- Venue and theme: It's advisable to have a venue and theme in mind so your dress suits the occasion
Wedding dress shopping: 8-12 months before the wedding is recommended by most sources
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of wedding planning, but it can be tricky to know when to start. Most sources recommend beginning the process 8-12 months before the wedding.
Starting the search for a wedding dress too early can result in what some call "dress regret", where newer styles are released, and the bride may no longer love her chosen dress. It is also important to have an idea of the wedding theme, location, and venue before picking a dress, to ensure it is appropriate for the occasion. Waiting until there are less than 8 months left before the wedding could result in rush fees to get the dress altered in time.
On the other hand, wedding dresses often take 5-7 months to come in, and alterations can take another 2-3 months, so it is important to leave enough time for this process. Brides who start their search 8-12 months before the wedding have plenty of time to shop around and find their dream dress, without the stress of rush fees and last-minute alterations.
Some brides choose to purchase their dress even earlier than 8-12 months in advance. This can be a good idea to spread out expenses, and bridal shops may recommend this to avoid any issues with suppliers and order times. However, it is important to consider that body changes and fluctuations in weight can occur, and the dress may need to be altered closer to the wedding.
To avoid "dress regret", it is recommended to make a decision on a dress and then stop looking at other options. This way, the bride won't be comparing her chosen dress to other styles and can remain confident in her choice.
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Dress regret: Buying too early may cause you to compare your dress to newer designs
Wedding dresses are often made to order, so it's important to give yourself enough time to shop around, order, and make any necessary alterations. The general consensus is that brides should start looking for their wedding dress around nine to twelve months before their wedding. This gives you plenty of time to find the dress of your dreams and avoid rush fees, while also giving designers enough lead time to create your gown.
However, buying too early can also have its pitfalls. One bride-to-be asks if she is "totally mad" for looking to buy her wedding dress two years before her wedding. While some people respond that there is nothing wrong with buying early if you've found the right dress, others caution that this leaves you at high risk of developing "dress regret". One commenter says that buying a gown too early may cause you to compare your dress to newer designs as more recent collections are rolled out, and your style and tastes may change with the rest of the wedding industry. Another bride shares that she bought her dress two years in advance and now, one month before her wedding, she is stressed because her dress doesn't fit right.
To avoid dress regret, some brides recommend waiting until you have a venue booked and a better idea of your personal bridal style before buying a dress. This will ensure that your dress is appropriate for the occasion and that it aligns with your style and budget. It's also important to remember that wedding dress prices tend to increase over time, so buying early can help spread out expenses.
Ultimately, the decision of when to buy your wedding dress depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. If you're confident in your choice and your ability to resist comparing your dress to newer styles, buying early can be a great way to spread out expenses and ensure you have your dream dress. However, if you're prone to changing your mind or keeping up with the latest trends, you may want to wait until closer to your wedding date to purchase your gown.
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Weight fluctuations: Your body size may change, requiring costly alterations
It is generally recommended that brides purchase their wedding dresses 8 to 12 months before the wedding. This allows plenty of time for shopping around and finding the perfect dress, as well as any necessary alterations. However, some brides have chosen to purchase their dresses much earlier, even up to 3 years in advance. While this may be a practical decision in terms of finances and excitement, it is important to consider the possibility of weight fluctuations over this extended period.
Weight fluctuations are a normal part of life, influenced by various factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and medication. These factors can cause weight changes of up to 5 pounds in a single day, and even greater changes over longer periods. For instance, consuming highly salty or sugary foods can cause water retention, resulting in temporary weight gain. Inadequate sleep can also impact weight by influencing appetite hormones and increasing calorie intake. Additionally, life events such as pregnancy can significantly impact weight.
When purchasing a wedding dress 2 years in advance, it is essential to consider the potential for weight fluctuations and the resulting costly alterations that may be required. While some brides may maintain a relatively stable weight, others may experience significant changes that affect the fit of their dress. This could result in the need for multiple alterations, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
To mitigate the risk of costly alterations due to weight fluctuations, it is advisable to prioritize a healthy and balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. Additionally, leaving a cushion of time between the final fitting and the wedding day can provide flexibility for any necessary adjustments. While it is impossible to predict weight fluctuations with certainty, adopting a holistic approach to health and well-being can help minimize the potential for drastic weight changes.
In conclusion, while buying a wedding dress 2 years in advance may offer financial benefits and excitement, it is important to be mindful of potential weight fluctuations. By understanding the factors that influence weight and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, brides can proactively manage their weight and reduce the likelihood of costly alterations. Ultimately, finding the right balance between advance planning and holistic self-care will contribute to a stress-free wedding experience.
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Budgeting: It's important to set a budget and stick to it when shopping for a wedding dress
While there is no definitive answer to whether two years is too early to buy a wedding dress, it is generally recommended that brides start shopping for their dress around 9-12 months before the wedding. This allows for alterations and ensures that the dress is appropriate for the wedding's theme, location, and overall vibe.
Now, let's talk about budgeting for that dream wedding dress:
Know What You Want and How Much It Costs
Before setting a budget, it's essential to understand the bridal fashion market and the cost of wedding dresses. Research the price range of dresses you like and the specific designers you're interested in. This knowledge will help you set a realistic budget.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Setting a budget is crucial before you start shopping. This budget should be part of your overall wedding budget, and you can adjust allocations for other items to splurge more on your dress if that's a priority for you. Be mindful that the term ""budget" can feel limiting, so consider reframing it as an "investment" in your bridal fashion. This shift in mindset can bring excitement and joy to your planning process.
Avoid Temptation
When trying on dresses, stick to your budget. Avoid trying on dresses that are over budget, as you might fall in love with something you can't afford. Instead, limit your options to dresses within your price range.
Plan for Alterations
When setting your budget, remember to include alterations. Most brides will require at least minor adjustments to ensure their dress fits perfectly. More significant alterations, such as changing the neckline or adding breast cups, will cost more.
Consider the Accessories
Don't forget to include accessories in your budget. The veil, shoes, and jewellery can quickly add up, so consider opting for less expensive options or forgoing certain accessories if you want to splurge on your dress.
Fabric and Designer Choices Matter
The fabric you choose will impact the cost of your dress. Luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, charmeuse, organza, or embroidered lace tend to be pricier. Synthetic or blended fabrics, like crepe, rayon, chiffon, and polyester, are usually more affordable. Additionally, designer gowns will typically come with a higher price tag.
By following these steps and staying informed, you can find the dress of your dreams while sticking to your budget!
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Venue and theme: It's advisable to have a venue and theme in mind so your dress suits the occasion
While there are differing opinions on whether two years is too early to buy a wedding dress, with some brides reporting that they bought their dress around this time frame, it is generally recommended that you wait until at least 9-12 months before your wedding to start shopping. This is because it can take 5-6 months for a dress to come in, and then another 2-3 months for alterations. However, if you have your heart set on a particular dress, there's no harm in buying it early on, especially if you want to spread out expenses. Just be aware that your tastes may change, and newer designs may be released that you prefer.
Venue and theme:
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, it is advisable to have a venue and theme in mind so that your dress suits the occasion. The venue and theme will dictate the level of formality of your dress. For example, if you're having a black-tie wedding, a formal gown is expected. On the other hand, if you're having a casual beach wedding, a more relaxed dress code would be appropriate.
The venue and theme can also influence the style and colour of your dress. For instance, if you're getting married in a rustic barn, a dress with a romantic, rustic feel would be suitable. Or, if you're having a festive-themed wedding, you might want to incorporate bold colours and playful accessories.
Additionally, the season and time of day of your wedding will impact your dress choice. For an evening wedding, darker, more formal colours are typically worn, while light hues and airy fabrics are preferred for daytime weddings. If you're getting married in the summer, a dress made from a lightweight fabric might be more comfortable.
By considering the venue and theme of your wedding, you can ensure that your dress not only suits the occasion but also complements the overall style and atmosphere of your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends. Many brides have shared that the best time to buy a wedding dress is 6-15 months in advance. However, some people have bought their dress 2 years in advance and recommend getting things done early. On the other hand, some people think that buying a dress 2 years in advance can put you at risk of developing dress regret and changing sizes.
Buying a wedding dress 2 years in advance can help you get things done early and spread out expenses. It can also be a good idea if you want to take advantage of a limited-time offer or sale.
Buying a wedding dress 2 years in advance can put you at risk of developing dress regret as newer designs are released and your tastes change. Additionally, your size may change, requiring costly alterations.
