
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of wedding planning, but it can be unfamiliar territory for brides-to-be. When deciding what to wear, it's important to prioritise comfort and practicality. Opt for clothing that is easy to change in and out of, like a simple button-up shirt or a loose-fitting dress. As a bride, you want your shopping experience to be seamless, so you can focus on finding your dream dress. It's also beneficial to consider your hairstyle and makeup, as emulating your wedding day look can enhance the experience. Guests accompanying the bride should opt for neat, casual attire that is comfortable and presentable, steering clear of white or overly flashy outfits that might distract from the bride's experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prioritise | Comfort and practicality |
| Clothing type | Something easy to remove, like a button-up shirt or loose-fitting dress |
| Footwear | Barefoot or socks with shoes that are comfortable for standing and walking for extended periods |
| Hair | Emulate the hairstyle you plan to have on your wedding day or bring a hair tie to keep long hair out of the way |
| Makeup | Minimal to avoid staining wedding dresses |
| Underwear | Nude and seamless shapewear |
| Accessories | Tissues for emotional moments |
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What You'll Learn

What to wear: comfort and practicality are key
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of wedding planning, but it can also be a lengthy process. Therefore, when deciding what to wear, comfort and practicality are key. Opt for something that allows you to easily try on multiple wedding dresses without any hassle. A simple, button-up shirt or a loose-fitting dress that's easy to remove is a good option. You could also go for a flowy dress or a midi skirt with a blouse. Avoid excessive layers and outfits with intricate buttons, as these will only slow you down.
It's also important to consider your hair, makeup, and accessories. You may want to emulate the hairstyle you plan to have on your wedding day, and some brides even schedule a hair or makeup trial on the same day as their dress appointment. However, it's best to avoid a fresh spray tan, as this could stain the sample gowns. When it comes to shoes, you'll likely be taking them on and off a lot, so it's a good idea to go barefoot. Just remember to bring socks to protect your feet and keep you warm. If you plan on wearing heels on your big day, bring those too, so you can see how they look with the dresses.
As for undergarments, many wedding gowns have built-in cups and boning, so you may not need to wear a bra. However, if it makes you feel more comfortable, you can bring a strapless or adhesive bra. Seamless shapewear can also be helpful, especially if you plan on wearing it on your wedding day.
Finally, remember to bring a hair tie or clip to keep your hair out of the way when trying on dresses, and tissues for any emotional moments!
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Bridal accessories, hair, and makeup
Bridal Accessories:
When it comes to accessories, it's important to strike a balance. You'll want to avoid excessive jewellery or accessories that could snag on delicate fabrics or interfere with the silhouette of the dresses you try on. However, do bring a pair of heels similar in height to your wedding shoes to give you a realistic idea of the gown's length and feel. Don't forget to also pack a pair of comfortable flats, as you'll be trying on multiple dresses. Consider bringing a light jacket or cardigan, as bridal shops can sometimes be cool.
Hair:
Your hair can completely transform your look, so it's crucial to experiment with different styles. Bring a hair clip, scrunchie, or tie to keep your hair up and out of the way when trying on dresses. This will not only make changing easier but also give you an idea of how each gown looks with an updo or with your hair down.
Makeup:
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to makeup for wedding dress shopping. You can choose to wear minimal makeup to avoid staining the dresses or opt for a look that enhances your complexion and makes you feel confident. Waterproof makeup is recommended, as happy tears are common during these emotional appointments! Don't forget to bring a camera if allowed, as you'll want to document this special occasion, and the right makeup will ensure you look your best in the photos.
Remember, the goal is to feel confident and comfortable during your wedding dress shopping experience, so choose accessories, hair, and makeup that align with your personal style and make you feel like the best version of yourself!
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What to bring: tissues, a small gift, and a celebratory meal
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting and pivotal part of wedding planning. It is a special moment for the bride, and those invited to join her. If you've been invited to accompany the bride, it is customary to bring a small gift, or plan a celebratory meal after the appointment to mark the occasion.
When deciding what to bring, it's important to consider the bride's needs and comfort. Tissues are a must for those inevitable emotional moments! It is also beneficial to bring items that will enhance the dress shopping experience, such as a hair tie or clips to keep the bride's hair out of the way when trying on gowns.
If you are the bride, it is important to bring an open and positive mindset. Many brides choose a gown that surprises them, and it is essential to trust your instincts and focus on your vision for your special day.
To prepare for your appointment, it is recommended to browse gowns online or in magazines for inspiration. Consider your personal style and how you want to feel on your wedding day. If you plan on wearing shapewear or a particular hairstyle, bring or emulate these at your appointment to create a complete vision.
Lastly, remember to bring your excitement and enthusiasm! Wedding dress shopping is an exciting adventure, and your support will make the experience more enjoyable for the bride.
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Timeline: when to start shopping and how long it takes
Wedding dresses are made to order, so it's important to start the process early to ensure your dream dress is ready in time for your big day. The entire process, from choosing a dress to having it altered for the perfect fit, can take anywhere from six to nine months.
It's recommended that you start wedding dress shopping nine to twelve months before your wedding date. This gives you plenty of time to shop around and find the dress of your dreams. It also ensures that you avoid rush fees and give designers enough time to create your gown from scratch. If you're planning on having bridal portraits taken before your wedding, it's best to use this date as your starting point rather than your wedding date.
Once you've found your dream dress, it can take anywhere from four to six months for it to be made to your measurements, shipped to the bridal salon, and sent for any necessary alterations. Some dresses may take longer to produce if they have intricate details or handmade elements. It's a good idea to leave about two months for alterations before your wedding day.
If you're short on time, there are still options available. Many local wedding dress shops offer off-the-rack dresses that can be purchased and taken home the same day. Sample sales, ready-to-wear looks, and wedding dress rentals are also great options for brides on a tight timeline. Remember to be honest about your wedding date with your bridal stylist, as lying about it will only limit your options.
While it may be tempting to delay dress shopping due to body image concerns, it's best to start as soon as possible. If you find a dress that makes you feel beautiful, it will only make you feel more confident on your wedding day, regardless of any weight loss goals.
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Guests: what they should wear and their role
As a guest, your role is to support the bride and make her feel her very best. You are there to help her find "the one" and to celebrate the little moments. It's important to be mindful of the bride's wishes and comfort. Check in with her beforehand to understand her expectations and preferences for the day.
When it comes to what to wear, it's essential to choose an outfit that complements the bride without overshadowing her. Avoid wearing white or anything that could be too distracting or overwhelming. Muted or neutral tones are generally a good choice as they keep the focus on the bride and the dresses. It's also a good idea to check if the salon has any specific dress codes or rules, such as no jeans allowed.
Comfort is key, both for you and the bride. Depending on the location, there may be a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. You don't want to risk stepping on the train of a dress with sharp stilettos. It's also a good idea to bring a hair tie, a light jacket, and tissues for those emotional moments.
While it's important to offer constructive feedback when asked, remember that the bride is the priority. Avoid pushing your own agenda or insisting she tries on dresses she hasn't chosen. Instead, ask her questions to guide her towards making her own decisions.
Lastly, bring a positive attitude and good energy! This will help make the experience enjoyable and memorable for the bride.
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Frequently asked questions
Comfort and practicality are key when deciding what to wear wedding dress shopping as a bride. Opt for a simple, button-up shirt or a loose-fitting dress that's easy to remove. This will help you slip in and out of gowns without messing up your hair or makeup. You may also want to wear shapewear and a strapless or adhesive bra if that makes you feel more comfortable.
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting but unfamiliar experience for most brides. It's important to go in with a positive and open mindset, and to remember that you may end up choosing a gown that catches you by surprise. You should also consider how you plan to style your hair on your wedding day, and if possible, emulate that hairstyle during your appointment.
It's a good idea to bring hair ties or clips to keep your hair out of the way when trying on dresses. You may also want to bring a pair of heels if you plan on wearing them on your wedding day. Don't go shopping on an empty stomach, and consider planning a celebratory meal afterward.
As a guest, your outfit should be comfortable and presentable. Avoid wearing all white, as this color is typically reserved for the bride. Also, steer clear of overly flashy or revealing outfits that might distract from the bride's experience. Wear something you can easily move around in, as you may be called upon to help the bride in and out of dresses.











































