Rhiannon Hendricks
Choosing the perfect wedding dress can be an overwhelming task. There are many factors to consider, such as your body type, budget, and personal style. It's important to take your time and not feel pressured into making a decision. Starting with bridal magazines and Pinterest, you can put together a mood board of wedding attire that inspires you. When it comes to trying on dresses, be open-minded and remember that gowns can be altered to adjust the neckline, shorten the train, or add coverage to a sheer design. For brides on a budget, minimalist gowns are usually more affordable than heavily adorned ones, and buying a dress off the rack and having it tailored can also save costs.
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What You'll Learn
Budgeting for your wedding dress
Determine Your Budget
Before you start shopping, it's crucial to establish a realistic budget that you're comfortable with. Discuss this with your partner, family, or anyone else who might be contributing financially to your wedding dress. Knowing your budget will help you make informed decisions and avoid any heartache later on.
Consider the Cost of Alterations
When budgeting for your wedding dress, don't forget to factor in the cost of alterations. Most bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months in advance to accommodate any necessary alterations. A good tailor can help you achieve a perfect fit, and it's also common for designers to offer alteration services. Remember that even a dress off the rack can be altered to adjust necklines, shorten trains, or add coverage to sheer designs.
Choose a Minimalist Gown
If you're on a tight budget, consider opting for a minimalist gown. Embellishments like embroidery or beading can significantly increase the cost of a dress. By choosing a simpler design, you can often find more affordable options without sacrificing elegance.
Shop Around
Take time to explore different options, including both local bridal boutiques and online retailers. Local boutiques offer a personalised shopping experience, while online shopping provides convenience and a wide range of choices. Remember to check return policies when buying online, so you can ensure a full refund if the dress doesn't meet your expectations.
Order in Advance
To eliminate rush fees, it's advisable to order your wedding dress early. Production times for gowns can be lengthy, so placing your order eight to twelve months in advance can help you avoid additional charges. This also ensures you have ample time for any necessary alterations.
Be Open-Minded
When trying on gowns, stay open-minded and explore various styles. What you see on the rack may not always be your exact size, but with some imagination and the help of a skilled seamstress, you can visualise how the dress will look tailored to your measurements. Don't be afraid to experiment with different silhouettes, necklines, and fabrics to find the perfect dress that showcases your unique style and personality.
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Choosing a neckline
The neckline of a wedding dress is an important feature, and different styles can complement your figure in different ways. Here are some tips for choosing the right neckline for your wedding dress:
Sweetheart Neckline
The sweetheart neckline, also known as the princess neckline, is in the shape of a heart, dipping down in the centre. It is a popular choice for wedding dresses as it is beautiful on all dress silhouettes and can be paired with straps or sleeves for added support. This neckline is particularly flattering for bustier brides as it enhances natural curves, but it can also be a good choice for smaller busts as the heart shape creates the illusion of a larger bust.
Jewel Neckline
The jewel neckline, also known as a T-shirt neckline, is a modest and elegant choice. It sits just below the throat and is particularly flattering on small-busted brides, as it creates the illusion of a more ample bust. However, if you have a large bust or broad shoulders, this style may make you look boxy.
Halter Neckline
A halter neckline is a statement look, especially for taller brides. It flatters the upper arms and shoulders, making it ideal for brides who want to showcase their sculpted upper body. While some halter styles can elongate the silhouette of petite brides, others may make them appear shorter.
Illusion Neckline
An illusion neckline uses sheer mesh material to create the look of exposed skin, making a glamorous and sensual statement. This style can be found on V-neck, plunge neck, sweetheart, or other strapless dresses with short or long sleeves. It is often adorned with lace, pearls, or intricate beading, drawing attention to the neck, arms, and shoulders.
Bateau/Sabrina Neckline
The bateau, or Sabrina, neckline is a timeless choice, popularised by Audrey Hepburn in the 1954 film "Sabrina". This style is particularly flattering for those with a willowy figure, as it helps to balance the appearance of wider hips and narrow shoulders.
When choosing a neckline, it is important to consider your body shape and the features you want to highlight or draw attention away from. Trying on a variety of dresses with different necklines can help you determine which style works best for you.
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Selecting a silhouette
If you want to elongate your body, a column dress with a straight silhouette or a halter neckline could be a good option. Halter necklines are ideal for brides with an athletic build who want to show off their toned arms and shoulders, as they provide coverage in the bust area and have a high neckline that lengthens the body. A plunging V-neckline can also add the illusion of height, while a deeper plunge can create a sexier silhouette.
For brides who want to show off their décolletage, a strapless dress or an off-the-shoulder neckline can be a flattering choice. Strapless gowns can vary in how much they reveal the bustline, with a higher, straight-across neckline offering more coverage than a sweetheart neckline. Off-the-shoulder gowns are incredibly flattering for the upper arms and shoulders, and can be a great option for brides who want coverage for their arms without committing to a long sleeve.
It's important to keep in mind that the gown sample you try on in the store may not be your exact size, so you may need to use your imagination to picture how the dress will look when made to your measurements. Be open-minded when trying on different silhouettes, as you may be surprised by what styles work best for your body and your unique shape.
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Venue and timing considerations
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, the venue and timing are key considerations.
Firstly, it is advisable to book your wedding venue before choosing your dress. The venue sets the tone for the style and vibe of your wedding. For instance, a beach wedding calls for a lighter fabric that can withstand the heat, while a grand castle venue may inspire a fairytale-inspired ball gown. The season and location of your wedding will also influence your dress choice. If you're getting married outdoors, consider the terrain and choose appropriate footwear. The time of year will also determine the style and fabric of your dress; you may opt for something lighter for a summer wedding or choose a dress that complements your bridesmaids' colour scheme for a winter celebration.
It is recommended to start researching and gathering inspiration for your dress around 12 to 18 months before the wedding. This allows you to explore different styles and silhouettes and factor in the latest trends. You should also consider the lead time for made-to-order gowns, which can take six to nine months to create. Therefore, it is ideal to purchase your dress eight to nine months in advance, allowing for alterations and any last-minute adjustments.
To ensure a stress-free experience, create a timeline for your dress fittings and plan for transportation to the venue. Your final fitting should take place six to eight weeks before the wedding, with the dress ready for pick-up two to four weeks before the big day. Keep your dress stored safely, and if it has a long train or is delicate, plan accordingly for transportation.
While these guidelines are helpful, it's important to remain flexible. Wedding dress shopping should be enjoyable, and you may find that the perfect dress is different from your initial vision. Trust your instincts and choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
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Buying online vs in-store
There are many things to consider when choosing a wedding dress, such as your body type, what parts of your body you want to highlight, and your overall aesthetic for your wedding. It can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you want your personality to shine through the dress you choose.
When it comes to buying online versus in-store, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, convenience and comfort. Buying online allows you to shop from the comfort of your home, with a wider selection of dresses and designers to choose from. You can easily compare prices and promotions across different websites to get the best deal. On the other hand, visiting a bridal boutique provides an intimate setting for a personalized shopping experience. Local bridal shops often have knowledgeable consultants who can offer insights into the latest trends and styles.
Secondly, there is the matter of sizing and fit. Wedding dress sizing can be inconsistent, and it can be challenging to determine the perfect fit without trying it on. Some online retailers offer \"try before you buy\" options or samples to ensure the right fit, while in-store shopping allows you to try on various styles and sizes to find what flatters your body the most. If you plan to lose weight before your wedding, trying on dresses in-store can help you understand how different silhouettes will look on your body.
Additionally, consider the benefits of having an in-person experience when shopping in-store. Trying on dresses and sharing the experience with your loved ones can be memorable. However, buying online does not mean missing out on this special moment. You can still create a memorable experience by hosting a viewing party with your loved ones once your dress arrives.
Lastly, returns and alterations are essential to consider. While some online retailers offer returns, the process can be cumbersome due to the bulkiness of wedding dresses. In-store purchases may require alterations, but a good tailor can help you achieve a perfect fit.
In conclusion, both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Buying online offers convenience, a wide selection, and potential cost savings, while in-store shopping provides a personalized experience, the ability to try on different styles, and the opportunity for a memorable moment with your loved ones. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints.
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Frequently asked questions
It is advised to start shopping for your wedding dress right after you select your venue. Most bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months ahead of your wedding to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing. If you have a long engagement, you may want to wait to start shopping, as your style preferences may change.
When choosing a wedding dress, consider your body type, what parts of your body you want to enhance, and your overall aesthetic for your wedding. You want your personality to shine through the dress you choose. You can get inspired by bridal magazines and Pinterest and create a mood board of wedding attire to help you decide. If you want to elongate your arms, for example, a long-sleeved gown or an off-the-shoulder style can help achieve this. If you have an athletic build and want to show off your toned arms and shoulders, a halter neckline could be a good option.
You can buy your wedding dress online or at a bridal salon or boutique. Local bridal boutiques offer a more intimate setting that's perfect for a personalized shopping experience, while larger stores offer a wider variety of dresses and designers. If you're buying a dress off the rack, consider investing in a good tailor to ensure a perfect fit.
