Deborah Chan
When it comes to winter weddings, bridesmaid dress shopping should begin around eight months before the big day. This allows ample time for inspiration and browsing, with most dresses taking two to three months to arrive after ordering. Bridesmaids should aim to have their dresses at least a few months before the wedding, to allow time for alterations and final fittings. Many stores offer a range of fabrics and styles suitable for winter weddings, including velvet gowns in rich shades, deep jewel tones, and cold-weather accessories. It's important to consider the lead time for different retailers and dress types, with some designer dresses taking longer to arrive than off-the-rack options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to order bridesmaid dresses | Six months before the wedding |
| Time to start gathering inspiration | Eight months before the wedding |
| Time for alterations | Two months |
| Fabric | Velvet, satin, lace, tulle, chiffon, sequins |
| Colors | Deep jewel tones, emerald green, romantic cabernet |
| Accessories | Capelets, jackets |
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What You'll Learn
Order six months before the wedding
Ordering bridesmaids' dresses around six months before the wedding is considered the best practice. This timeline allows ample time for special orders, shipping, and any necessary alterations. It is important to note that dresses from bridal boutiques or designer labels may take two to three months to arrive, and alterations can take another two months. Therefore, ordering six months in advance ensures you are well-prepared.
During this time, it is advisable to confirm that the chosen retailer has enough stock to accommodate all your bridesmaids. Taking measurements is also crucial to ensure the dresses fit correctly. You can do this yourself or consult a local seamstress for professional measurements. Additionally, consider the fabric and style of the dresses, as well as the price point, to ensure they align with your vision and budget.
Ordering six months in advance also allows for any potential delays or issues that may arise. It gives you peace of mind and the flexibility to address any unforeseen circumstances. This buffer period is especially important if your bridesmaids are scattered across different cities or countries, as it allows them to order their dresses online with ample time for returns or exchanges if needed.
To streamline the process, it is recommended to order all the bridesmaids' dresses simultaneously. This ensures that the colour and fabric match perfectly, as slight variations can occur between different dye lots. By ordering together, you can also take advantage of services that offer at-home try-ons, ensuring your bridesmaids feel confident and comfortable in their chosen attire.
Lastly, don't forget to account for any accessories, shoes, and undergarments that your bridesmaids may need. These items should ideally be purchased around four to six weeks after ordering the dresses, as this timing ensures they are available for the first fitting. By staying organised and following this timeline, you can ensure that your bridesmaids look and feel their best on your special day.
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Allow time for alterations
When it comes to bridesmaid dresses, alterations are often required to achieve a flawless fit. Bridesmaid dresses are designed to fit a wide variety of body shapes and heights, which means they may need some extra attention to get that perfect fit. It is recommended that you start the alterations process at least two to three months before the wedding to allow for multiple fittings and adjustments. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your dress will be ready in time for the big day.
The time required for alterations can vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the tailor's schedule. Typically, straightforward alterations like shortening straps or hemming can be completed in about one to two weeks, while more complex alterations like taking in a bodice or intricate beading can take up to three weeks or more. It's also worth noting that you'll need to schedule hour-long fittings to ensure the perfect fit, with some sources recommending up to three fittings in total.
The cost of alterations is another important consideration. On average, bridesmaid dress alterations range from $50 to $240, depending on factors such as the type of alteration, fabric, dress design, location, and timeframe. For example, hemming a dress may cost between $45 and $90, while alterations to the bust, waist, and hips may start at $150. Delicate or heavily embellished fabrics may also increase the price due to the extra care and special equipment required.
To ensure a smooth alterations process, it is essential to bring the right items to your fitting appointments. This includes the shoes you will be wearing on the wedding day, as well as the appropriate undergarments such as the bra, underwear, or shapewear. These items will help the tailor determine the perfect hem length and ensure a comfortable fit.
Additionally, it is recommended to do your research and select a trusted tailor or seamstress with experience in handling wedding gowns and the specific type of dress you are wearing. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from bridal salons can help you find a skilled professional who will handle your dress with the utmost care.
By allowing ample time for alterations and following these considerations, you can ensure that your bridesmaid dress fits like a dream and complements your unique style and body shape.
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Order from a site with quick returns
Ordering bridesmaid dresses from a site with quick returns can be a convenient option, especially if you're running short on time before the winter wedding. While some sites offer free and flexible returns, others have specific conditions, so it's essential to read the fine print. Here are some tips and suggestions for ordering from sites with quick returns:
Birdy Grey:
Birdy Grey is a popular choice for those seeking affordable, modern, and quickly delivered bridesmaid dresses. They offer a vast selection of dresses, with free fabric swatches and easy returns. Their online bridesmaid dresses come in a range of colours and extended sizes, making them perfect for mixing and matching. Birdy Grey's return policy allows refunds within 30 days of purchase.
Azazie:
Azazie is another excellent option, especially if you're looking for a specific colour or an assortment of matching bridesmaid dresses. They offer over 500 budget-friendly styles in more than 90 colours, with inclusive sizing ranging from 0 to 30. Azazie provides free custom sizing, and their return policy includes free returns.
Lulus:
Lulus is a favourite among those seeking affordable yet stylish options. They offer a wide range of silhouettes, colours, and prints, ensuring that your bridal party will find the perfect dress. Lulus also provides a bridal concierge service to assist you in selecting the right dresses for your wedding party.
Nordstrom:
Nordstrom's wedding shop offers both designer brands and ready-to-wear options. They are known for their fast shipping and simple return policy, making the process convenient and painless. Additionally, their in-store services, such as styling and alterations, ensure that your bridal party will find the perfect fit.
Show Me Your Mumu:
Show Me Your Mumu is renowned for its chic and trendy bridesmaid dresses, offering a blend of boho styles and on-trend fabrics. They have a wide range of colours, prints, and styles, ensuring that your bridal party will stand out. Show Me Your Mumu also offers an online showroom, allowing you to visualise your bridal party's lineup. Their return policy includes accepting returns within 28 days.
Timing:
When ordering bridesmaid dresses for a winter wedding, it's essential to keep the timing in mind. Ideally, you should start gathering inspiration and narrowing down styles about eight months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to make a final decision and place your order. It is recommended to order the dresses about six months before the wedding to allow for shipping and any necessary alterations.
Additional Tips:
- David's Bridal offers a "Get it Fast" option for bridesmaid dresses that are in stock and ready to ship directly to you.
- When ordering online, take advantage of virtual styling appointments or in-store appointments to ensure you find the right dress.
- Consider ordering swatches to help finalise your colour palette and fabric choices.
- Don't forget to take accurate measurements to ensure a perfect fit.
- If your bridal party lives in different cities, online ordering may be the most convenient option.
- Remember to leave some leeway time in case of any unforeseen issues.
Ordering from sites with quick returns can provide flexibility and convenience when planning a winter wedding. Be sure to explore the various options, read reviews, and familiarise yourself with the return policies to make informed decisions.
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Seek inspiration eight months prior
Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, especially when it comes to deciding on bridesmaid dresses. To avoid any last-minute hiccups, it is important to start the process early. A good rule of thumb is to begin seeking inspiration for bridesmaid dresses about eight months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to make a decision and place your orders.
During this initial stage, it is advisable to conduct research and determine the style, length, colour, and material of the dresses. It is also essential to set a budget and communicate this to your bridesmaids. This step may involve in-store or online browsing with your bridesmaids to get their input and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Pinterest, Instagram, and wedding-focused websites like The Knot are great sources of inspiration to help you visualise different looks. You can also explore the option of ordering swatches to see how different colours and fabrics complement each other. This will ensure that you are confident in your choices when it comes time to make a decision.
Additionally, it is worth noting that certain fabrics and styles are more suitable for winter weddings. For instance, velvet fabric, deep jewel tones, and cold-weather accessories like capelets and jackets can create a cohesive and stylish bridesmaid look for a winter wedding.
By starting the process eight months in advance, you will have the flexibility to explore various options and make informed decisions. This timeline will also allow for any necessary alterations to be made closer to the wedding date, ensuring that your bridesmaids' dresses are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and well-fitted for the special day.
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Order dresses at the same time
Ordering all the bridesmaid dresses at the same time is a good idea to ensure that the colour is an exact match. The same dress can vary slightly in colour depending on the dye lot. It is recommended that bridesmaids start gathering inspiration and narrowing down styles about eight months before the wedding. This allows ample time to make a final decision and order the dresses.
When ordering bridesmaid dresses, it is important to consider the style, length, colour, and material. The price point is also a key factor, and it is helpful to communicate the budget to the bridesmaids. Shopping online or in-store with a few bridesmaids can give a good idea of how the dress will look. It is also a good idea to check with the manufacturer or online retailer about the time it will take to order the dresses and whether they have enough stock.
Bridesmaids should ideally order their dresses about six months before the wedding. This allows time for special orders, shipping, and any alterations. Dresses from bridal boutiques may take two to three months to arrive, and alterations can take another two months. It is important to leave some leeway time in case of any unexpected delays.
Ordering from a site that allows bridesmaids to receive the dress up to a week before the wedding can be beneficial, as it provides an opportunity for exchanges if the fit is not right. Some sites offer at-home try-ons, allowing bridesmaids to choose from different styles and sizes. If there is limited time before the wedding, it is advisable to order the same dress in two different sizes to ensure a proper fit.
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Frequently asked questions
You should start gathering inspiration around eight months before the wedding so that you have ample time to make a final decision.
You should order bridesmaid dresses about six months before the wedding. This will give enough time for special orders, shipping, and any alterations.
Dresses can take up to three months to arrive.
Schedule your final fitting about three to five weeks before the wedding day. You can take your dress home after the final fitting.
Keep your dress in a safe place until the wedding day. Find a place in your closet or somewhere away from anything that could damage the dress.
