George Boyle
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting but often unfamiliar experience for brides-to-be. To make the most of your appointment, it's a good idea to bring a few key items with you. Firstly, it's important to wear comfortable clothing that is easy to take on and off when trying on different gowns. Neutral, seamless underwear is also essential, as it won't create any unnecessary fuss or visible lines. While bras and shapewear are usually not necessary due to the built-in support in most gowns, you may want to bring your own if you plan to wear them on your wedding day. Similarly, bringing the shoes you plan to wear, or a pair with a similar heel height, can help you envision the overall look. Some brides also like to bring hair ties or clips to try different hairstyles and jewellery they plan to wear, creating a more complete vision of their wedding day look. Lastly, it's a good idea to bring a supportive group of family or friends who will uplift and celebrate you throughout the appointment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Underwear | Neutral-coloured, seamless, full-coverage |
| Bra | Nude, comfortable |
| Shapewear | Neutral-coloured, seamless |
| Shoes | Heels, similar height to wedding shoes |
| Accessories | Veil, jewellery, hair accessories |
| Hair | Styled, hair ties/clips |
| Makeup | Enough to feel good and avoid looking washed out |
| Pictures/Inspiration | Pinterest boards, Instagram, magazines |
| Entourage | Trusted friends and family, up to three people |
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What You'll Learn
Appropriate underwear and shapewear
When it comes to choosing the right underwear and shapewear for wedding dress shopping, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to feel comfortable and confident. While some brides prefer a standard set of underwear or lingerie, others may want the extra support and smoothing effect that shapewear provides. It's all about finding what works best for you and your dress.
If you plan on wearing shapewear under your wedding dress, it's a good idea to bring it along to your dress fittings. This will allow you to see how the dress fits with the shapewear and make any necessary adjustments. You can find shapewear in various styles, colours, sizes, and levels of support to suit your needs. Popular brands include SKIMS, Conturve, Spanx, Honeylove, Wacoal, ITEM M6, and Nancy Ganz. To find the right option, it's worth visiting a lingerie store for a fitting or seeking advice from a sales associate.
When choosing underwear, opt for neutral colours that match your skin tone to avoid visible panty lines. If you're wearing a dress with a plunging neckline, you may want to consider adhesive bras or nipple covers instead of a traditional bra. For backless dresses, a backless bodysuit can provide support without the need for a bra.
Additionally, don't skimp on quality when it comes to your wedding underwear and shapewear. While it may be tempting to cut costs, the right foundation garments are essential to ensure your wedding dress looks and fits correctly. So, invest in well-fitting, comfortable pieces that make you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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Shoes
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, it is recommended to bring a pair of shoes that have a similar heel height to the ones you plan on wearing on your wedding day. This will help you visualize how the dress will fit you on your wedding day. However, it is not necessary to bring the exact pair of wedding shoes. If you are planning to wear flats on your wedding day, it is still recommended to bring a pair of heels to your appointment to get a better idea of how the dress will fit.
If you are unsure about what type of shoes to wear, it is a good idea to consult with your bridal stylist beforehand. They may suggest a pair of heels with a height that you are comfortable with. Additionally, you can bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off, such as flip-flops or slippers. This will come in handy when you want to quickly try on different dresses.
It is worth noting that some boutiques provide heels for their customers to try on with the dresses. In such cases, you may not need to bring your own shoes. However, if you have specific shoes in mind, it is better to bring them along to ensure they complement your dress.
While trying on wedding dresses, it is common to go barefoot or wear socks. This makes it easier to quickly change into different dresses. Additionally, the dresses are typically hemmed after the initial fitting, so the shoes you wear during the appointment may not significantly impact the length of the dress.
Overall, the decision of whether to bring shoes to your wedding dress appointment is a personal preference. Some people prefer to bring their wedding shoes or similar heels to visualize the complete look, while others opt to go barefoot or wear socks for convenience during the appointment.
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Hair accessories
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of the wedding planning process. Hair accessories are an important consideration when preparing for your bridal appointment. Here are some tips to help you decide what hair accessories to bring:
Hair Clips, Scrunchies, and Hair Ties
Bringing a hair clip, scrunchie, or hair tie is highly recommended when going wedding dress shopping. These items will come in handy if you want to sweep your hair up and off your neck while trying on different gowns. This not only keeps you cool but also allows you to focus on the neckline and details of the dress without your hair getting in the way. It can also make it easier for your bridal stylist to help you in and out of the dresses. If you plan to wear your hair up on your wedding day or with a veil, bringing these accessories will help you envision how the dress will look with your chosen hairstyle.
In addition to practical hair ties and clips, you may also want to bring hair accessories that you plan to wear on your wedding day. This could include a veil, hairpins, combs, or any other decorative hair accessories. Bringing these items will allow you to see how they complement the dress and help you create the complete vision for your bridal look. If you have longer hair and plan to wear it up or with a veil, an elastic or similar accessory can be useful to secure your hair.
Hairstyle and Makeup
While not exactly a hair accessory, considering your hairstyle and makeup for your bridal appointment can enhance the overall experience. Emulating the hairstyle you plan to wear on your wedding day can help you better visualize how the dress will look with your chosen hairdo. Some brides even schedule a hair or makeup trial on the same day as their dress appointment to fully immerse themselves in the bridal experience. However, keep in mind that wearing minimal or no makeup can also be beneficial to avoid staining the dresses you try on.
Comfort and Simplicity
Lastly, comfort and simplicity are key when it comes to your hair accessories and overall bridal appointment look. Avoid chunky or excessive jewellery and hairstyles that are complicated or uncomfortable. Opt for simple, lightweight accessories that won't distract from the dresses you try on. A comfortable and practical hairstyle will also make it easier for you to change in and out of different gowns.
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A small group of supportive friends or family
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting experience, and it's always a good idea to have a small group of supportive friends or family to share the moment with you. Here are some tips to make the most of the occasion:
Firstly, it's important to choose the right companions. Opt for friends and family who will be positive and uplifting. They should be people who know your style and personality well and can provide honest and constructive opinions. It's also beneficial if they have a keen eye for detail and are practical. Remember, you want this experience to be enjoyable and stress-free, so select your entourage carefully.
Secondly, ensure you and your small group are prepared for the appointment. It's a good idea to bring hair ties, clips, or scrunchies to keep your hair off your face and showcase the dresses' necklines and backs. You can even emulate your potential wedding hairstyle to get a better idea of the overall look. If you plan to wear heels on your wedding day, bring a pair along so you can see how the dresses fall with the added height. Additionally, bring neutral-colored, seamless underwear, and consider shapewear or Spanx if you plan to wear them on your wedding day. You can also bring any jewellery or accessories you want to match with the dresses.
Lastly, don't stress too much about your outfit for the occasion. Wear something comfortable and cute that makes you feel confident and happy. It's a special moment, so feel free to dress up and get in the bridal spirit!
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Deodorant
Wedding dress shopping can be a stressful experience, and it's natural to perspire a little more than usual. This is why it's important to bring deodorant with you when trying on wedding dresses.
Firstly, you want to feel fresh and comfortable while trying on dresses. The process can be time-consuming, and you may find yourself becoming warm, especially if you are trying on a lot of dresses. Deodorant will help you stay dry and odour-free, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.
Secondly, it is considerate to the staff assisting you. As one person noted, they wished they had brought deodorant as they were excited and sweaty, and this was likely unpleasant for the sales assistant.
Thirdly, you want to avoid any potential stains on the dresses. Sweat mixed with deodorant chemicals can cause stains. Applying deodorant can help prevent this, especially if you opt for a product that suits your body's chemistry.
There are several deodorants recommended for brides, including Secret Clinical Strength, which comes in a clear gel formula that dries quickly, keeping you dry and leaving no marks. Another option is Mitchum Clinical, which is unscented and has a lower chance of causing irritation. If you are looking for a natural deodorant, Usra Major's Hoppin' Fresh Deodorant is a good option, providing a crisp and naturally cooling sensation. For sensitive skin, Routine and Kosas offer baking-soda-free deodorants to prevent rashes and breakouts.
Remember, it is advisable to use a deodorant you are familiar with or have tested before your wedding day to ensure it works for you and does not cause any unexpected reactions.
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Frequently asked questions
Wear something comfortable and easy to take on and off. You may also want to wear neutral-colored underwear and a comfortable bra, though some shops will not allow you to wear your own bra with their dresses.
You don't need to get your hair and makeup professionally done, but it might be a good idea to wear some makeup to avoid looking washed out under harsh store lighting and to feel your best. You should also bring a hair tie or clip to put your hair up and get a better idea of how the dresses will look.
If you know you will be wearing heels on your wedding day, bring a pair of heels to your appointment. If you don't have your wedding shoes yet, bring a pair of shoes with a similar heel height.
If you have specific jewelry you know you want to wear on your wedding day, bring it to your appointment. This will help you get a better idea of how your dress will look.
Bring a few family members or friends who know your style well and will uplift and celebrate you.
