Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming process, and finding the perfect wedding dress is a big part of that. There are many factors to consider when it comes to bridal fashion choices, from the style and fabric of the dress to potential customisations and alterations. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when a bride should start looking for her wedding dress, several sources recommend beginning the search anywhere between eight to twelve months before the wedding. This timeline allows for research, trying on different styles, and ordering the dress with potential rush fees in mind. It also ensures that the bride has time to shop around and find a dress that aligns with her personal style and the wedding theme.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to start looking | Between 9 and 12 months before the wedding date |
| Time to buy | Between 8 and 9 months before the wedding |
| Time for first fitting | 2 months before the wedding |
| Time for second fitting | 1 month before the wedding |
| Time to buy accessories | 5-6 months before the wedding |
| Things to consider | Location, season, and style of wedding |
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What You'll Learn
How far in advance to start looking
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. It is important to start looking for a wedding dress early enough to avoid rush fees and dress regret, but not so early that newer designs start to come out, which may cause you to question your choice.
Ideally, you should start wedding dress shopping between nine and twelve months before your wedding date. This gives you enough 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.
However, there are a few exceptions to this timeline. If you're planning on several intricate customizations, you'll need to allow for a longer timeline. Similarly, if you're getting bridal portraits done before the wedding, you'll need to order and fit your dress before that date. In this case, stick to the 9-12 month timeline, but use the date of your bridal portraits as a guide rather than the wedding date.
It's also important to consider the location of your wedding. If your wedding is taking place overseas and you plan on shipping your dress, you'll need to allow extra time for that. Additionally, if you're buying a second wedding gown, you may want to start looking as soon as you know what your main gown is, to allow enough time for supply chain and backup order delays.
Finally, don't forget to take into account the time needed for alterations. Your first wedding dress fitting will typically be about two months before the wedding, with the second fitting a month later. This means you should aim to have your dress purchased and ready for alterations at least three months before the wedding.
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Where to look
There are many places to look for your dream wedding dress. It is recommended to start shopping for your wedding dress after you have selected your wedding venue, so that you can keep the venue and theme in mind as you browse gowns.
You can browse bridal salons for an awe-inspiring gown, but it may be worth doing your homework before making appointments, to ensure the bridal shop has the styles and designers you are interested in. You can also browse dresses online and then make an appointment to try them on in-store. Some websites offer a \"try at home\" option, where you can try up to three dresses for a small fee, including shipping.
If you are unsure of where to start, you can take a wedding dress quiz for style recommendations, or make an appointment for an in-store styling session at a bridal shop, where an expert will guide you through the process.
Some popular places to look for wedding dresses include David's Bridal, the nation's largest wedding dress store, and Lulus, which offers free shipping on select orders and easy returns. Anthropologie also offers bridal styles for the boho bride, the classic bride, the plus-size bride, and the bride on a budget. For those on a tighter budget, Azazie offers a wide range of dresses, most of which retail for under $300.
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$61.99
What style to choose
Choosing a wedding dress style can be a daunting task, but there are ways to make the process easier. Firstly, it's important to familiarise yourself with the different styles and silhouettes available. This can help you determine which styles complement your personality and body type. For example, if you're a petite bride, you may want to avoid certain silhouettes that can overpower a small frame. On the other hand, if you're conscious of your hips, you might want to choose a style that creates the illusion of narrower hips, such as an A-line gown or a sheath dress.
If you're looking for something timeless and modern, a fit-and-flare gown could be perfect. This style works for many figures, including pear shapes, hourglass, curvy, and athletic builds. It hugs the body in all the right places and creates a perfect silhouette. For those who want to emphasise their height, a column or sheath gown can be a great choice, as the straight lines will elongate your figure.
The location and season of your wedding should also be considered when choosing a style. For a wedding in the Caribbean, lightweight fabrics and breezy styles are ideal. In contrast, a winter wedding calls for heavier, lush materials like satin or taffeta. Ultimately, it's your special day, so it's essential to select a style that feels unique to you and makes you feel confident and happy.
While it's good to have an idea of the style you want, it's beneficial to keep an open mind and try on different silhouettes. You may be surprised by what works for you, and it ensures you find a dress that highlights your most flattering features. Don't be afraid to communicate your preferences to your consultant, as their expertise can help you find your dream gown.
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What to consider when buying a second wedding dress
Buying a wedding dress can be an overwhelming experience, and it is no wonder that some brides opt to purchase a second wedding dress. If you are considering buying a second wedding dress, here are some things to keep in mind:
Timing
It is important to start shopping for your wedding dress between nine and twelve months before your wedding date. This will give you enough time to shop around and find the perfect dress, as well as avoid rush fees and give designers enough time to create your gown. However, if your wedding is less than eight months away, you may need to start looking sooner to avoid rush fees.
Budget
The second dress gives brides the opportunity to be more daring and trendy. However, it is important to consider the price of the second dress, especially if you are already struggling to rationalize spending a lot of money on the first dress. To cut back on costs, opt for a style with less fabric and embellishment, such as a simple slip dress or a lace mini.
Logistics
Changing into a second dress takes time, so make sure to schedule this into your wedding day timeline. You will also need to consider the overall aesthetic and ensure that both dresses complement each other and the wedding atmosphere.
Location and Weather
The style of the location and the weather will influence the choice of dress. For example, if you have an indoor ceremony and an outdoor reception in the summer, you may want to change into a short, breathable dress for the reception.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision to buy a second wedding dress is a personal one. Some brides may feel a deep connection to their first dress and not want to change out of it during their wedding day. Others may want to showcase their style and surprise their guests with a second look.
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Accessories and alterations
When it comes to alterations, it's best to start the process 8-10 months before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time to shop around and find the right seamstress or tailor for your needs. Wedding dress alterations are key to achieving the perfect fit and ensuring you feel confident on your big day. Even if your dress feels great when it arrives, small adjustments can make it feel like it was custom-made for you. Alterations can include adjusting the bust, taking in the waist, and ensuring the hem length is right. It typically takes three fittings before a bride's ensemble is ready to wear, with the final fitting taking place one to two weeks before the wedding.
The cost of alterations will depend on the number of changes that need to be made. Some salons charge per service, while others charge a flat fee. It's important to factor these costs into your overall wedding dress budget.
If you're planning on several intricate customizations, you'll need to allow for a longer timeline. The same goes for if you're getting married overseas and need to ship your dress. It's always better to give yourself extra time to avoid rush fees and ensure your dress is perfect for your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to start looking for a wedding dress between nine months to a year before your wedding date. This gives you enough time to do your research, shop around, and find your dream dress.
You should ensure that you have the wedding theme and location established before picking a dress to ensure it is appropriate for the occasion. You should also consider the time needed for production and alterations, especially if you are planning intricate customizations or getting bridal portraits before the wedding.
It is recommended to avoid starting your wedding dress search too early, as you may find yourself comparing your chosen dress to newer designs as they are released. It is suggested to wait until at least 12 months before your wedding date to begin your search.
