Deborah Chan
Wedding dress shopping can be a fun and exciting part of the wedding planning process. However, with so many styles, silhouettes, and designers to choose from, it can also be overwhelming. To make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, it's important to start with a clear idea of what you want. Utilize online resources such as bridal websites, Pinterest, and social media platforms like Instagram for inspiration and to identify keywords that capture your desired dress style. Be mindful of sizing when shopping for a wedding dress, as bridal sizing can run up to 2-3 sizes smaller than street sizes. It's also important to start wedding dress shopping early, ideally 10-12 months before the wedding, to avoid rush fees and ensure your dress arrives on time. Set a budget before you start shopping and be sure to only invite supportive friends or family members whose opinions you trust to join you.
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What You'll Learn
Budgeting and financing
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet daunting experience. It is important to set a realistic budget and understand how much you can afford to spend on your wedding gown to make the experience easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips on budgeting and financing for your wedding dress:
Determining Your Budget:
Before visiting boutiques, it is crucial to determine your budget for your wedding dress. Allocate about 6%-10% of your total wedding budget to your wedding attire, alterations, and accessories. This will help you stay within your financial means and avoid falling in love with a dress that is beyond your budget.
Understanding Costs:
When setting your budget, consider not only the cost of the dress but also potential alterations, which can be quite expensive. Brides should budget 10%-20% of the dress cost for adjustments like hemming, strap modifications, or adding custom details. Additionally, consider the cost of accessories, especially if you opt for an elaborate bridal gown.
Saving Money:
There are several ways to save money on your wedding dress. Firstly, browse affordable options online at budget-friendly retailers. Secondly, prioritize what matters most to you in a gown. If you desire luxurious fabric, opt for a simpler silhouette to balance the costs. Intricate details like beading and embellishments can drive up the price, so consider simpler designs if you're on a budget.
Sample Sales and Trunk Shows:
Keep an eye out for trunk shows and sample sales to score your dream dress at a discounted price. Subscribe to your favourite brands' social media pages and mailing lists to stay informed about upcoming sales. Some bridal salons specialize in budget-friendly gowns, so browse marketplaces to find salons that cater to your price range.
Second-Hand Options:
Consider shopping second-hand to significantly reduce costs. Pre-owned wedding gowns can be 40%-70% cheaper than new ones, and you'll also be reducing textile waste. Most second-hand dress shops accept modern designs, so you can still find trendy and stylish options.
Payment Plans:
Many boutiques offer flexibility with payment plans. Some may require a deposit, while others may divide payments into instalments. Be sure to discuss payment options with the boutique before falling in love with a dress to ensure you are comfortable with the financial arrangement.
Sticking to Your Budget:
When trying on dresses, don't be afraid to ask about the price before proceeding. Inform your bridal consultant about your budget at the start of your appointment so they can respect your financial boundaries. Avoid trying on dresses that are over your budget to prevent any temptation or disappointment.
Remember, budgeting and financing for your wedding dress is an important aspect of the overall wedding planning process. By setting a realistic budget, understanding costs, and exploring money-saving options, you can find your dream dress without breaking the bank.
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Researching styles and designers
Wedding dress shopping can be an exciting yet daunting task. To make the process smoother, it is advisable to research styles and designers beforehand. This will help you familiarise yourself with the vast world of bridal fashion and identify designers whose creations resonate with your personal style and wedding vision.
A good starting point is to identify keywords that encapsulate your desired dress style, such as "sleek, sophisticated, sculpted". These keywords will help you communicate your vision to your stylist effectively and enable them to suggest relevant designers. You can also browse wedding photos and social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to discover designers and save styles that appeal to you. Additionally, understanding bridal fashion terminology will aid in articulating your preferences. For instance, do you prefer a basque waist or a drop waist, a sweetheart neckline or a surplice?
When researching designers, it is beneficial to explore a diverse range of options, from well-known names to up-and-coming talent. Some renowned designers known for their exquisite creations include:
- Bruce Oldfield, who creates couture gowns using the finest fabrics and embroideries, once favoured by Princess Diana.
- Carolina Herrera, known for combining simplicity and sophistication, modern beauty, and timeless grace.
- Atelier Emelia, offering a timeless romantic aesthetic with a modern twist.
- Ashi Studio, whose gowns are true works of art with contemporary styles and sleek lines.
- Alexandra Grecco, blending minimalist style with whimsy and romance, featuring 3D floral appliqués and illusion lace.
Remember, it is helpful to be flexible and keep an open mind during your search. While it is excellent to have a vision, your dream dress may come from a designer you hadn't initially considered. Embrace suggestions from your stylist, as they can offer valuable insights and guide you towards designers who align with your desired aesthetic, budget, and timeline.
Lastly, when you have a better idea of the styles and designers that speak to you, you can inquire with local bridal shops to see if they stock those designers or similar options. This will ensure that you are well-prepared when you begin your wedding dress shopping journey.
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Preparing for the appointment
Preparing for your appointment is an important step in wedding dress shopping. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Do Your Research
Before your appointment, take some time to research wedding dress styles and designers. Utilise online resources such as bridal websites, Pinterest, and social media platforms like Instagram for inspiration. Identify keywords that capture your desired dress style, such as "sleek", "sophisticated", or "sculpted". This will help you communicate your vision to your stylist and streamline your search. You should also research bridal shops in your area and choose a reputable one that carries styles and designers that align with your taste.
Understand Sizing
The bridal industry follows its own sizing charts, which can be quite different from standard clothing sizes. Don't be discouraged if you find yourself trying on dresses with larger sizes than you're used to. Each designer also follows their own size guidelines, so it's important to keep an open mind and be flexible. Remember, the dress should change to fit you, rather than you needing to change to fit the dress.
Set a Budget
Wedding dresses can vary significantly in price, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. Consider factors such as your overall wedding budget, hidden costs like alterations and accessories, and leave some room for financial flexibility in case you find a dress slightly above your initial budget.
Prepare What to Bring
On the day of your appointment, bring along your wedding-day shoes to help with judging the length of your hem. It's also recommended to wear nude-coloured underwear and clothing that is easy to change out of. Some shops may not allow you to browse or try on dresses yourself, so come prepared to work with a stylist who will be selecting gowns for you to try on.
Get Ready and Feel Your Best
Consider treating yourself to a morning of pampering before your appointment. Get your hair and makeup done, or style yourself at home. This will help you feel confident and excited about trying on dresses. Remember to practice positive affirmations and focus on your best attributes.
Bring Support
Invite a small group of supportive friends or family members whose opinions you trust and who understand your tastes and style. They can offer meaningful insights and make the experience more enjoyable.
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What to do during the appointment
Wedding dress shopping can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, you can make the experience enjoyable and memorable. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do during your appointment:
Do Your Research
Before stepping into the bridal shop, take some time to research wedding dress styles. Utilise online resources such as bridal websites, Pinterest, and social media platforms like Instagram for inspiration. Identify keywords that capture the style you're aiming for, such as "sleek", "sophisticated", or "sculpted". This will help you communicate your vision to the stylist and streamline the selection process.
Prepare for the Appointment
Treat yourself to a morning of pampering before your appointment. Get your hair and makeup done, not only to look good but also to feel your best. Wear nude-coloured underwear and bring along the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will help you visualise the complete look and ensure the gown fits perfectly.
Be Open-Minded
Keep an open mind during your appointment and trust your consultant's guidance. Be willing to try on different styles, as you may be surprised by what you end up loving. Don't limit yourself to a particular size or style, as bridal sizing can vary significantly from regular clothing sizes. Remember, the dress should change to fit you, rather than you changing to fit the dress.
Take Photos and Move Around
As you try on dresses, take plenty of photos to help you remember the details of each gown. Move around in the dresses—sit down, raise your arms, and bend over to ensure comfort and ease of movement. Consider the logistics, such as the ease of getting in and out of the dress and your ability to use the bathroom!
Invite Supportive Companions
Bring along a small group of supportive friends or family members whose opinions you trust. They can offer meaningful insights and make the experience more enjoyable. Ensure your shopping companions align with your vision and style preferences, as their feedback will significantly impact your decision-making process.
Practice Positive Affirmations
Focus on your best attributes and celebrate your unique features. Commit to talking about yourself in a loving and positive way during the appointment. Remember, someone wonderful has chosen to spend their life with you, so embrace your wonderful qualities!
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your wedding dress appointment and will be able to make the most of this special experience.
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Alterations and logistics
It is important to start wedding dress shopping 10-12 months before the wedding. This gives you enough time to browse, compare, and order your dress, as well as make any necessary alterations.
When trying on dresses, bring your wedding-day shoes to help with judging the length of the hem. It is also a good idea to wear nude-coloured underwear and do your hair and makeup. This will help you to feel confident and get a better sense of how you will look on your wedding day.
If you are trying to lose weight before the wedding, be aware that losing more than 10-15 lbs after purchasing your dress will likely require significant alterations. It is recommended that you avoid making alterations more than 3 months out, in case your weight changes again.
The bridal industry follows outdated size charts, so don't be surprised or disheartened if your dress size is much larger than you expected. Each designer also follows their own size guidelines, so a size 10 in one brand may be a size 12 or 14 in another. Remember, the dress should change to fit you, rather than you needing to change to fit the dress.
To avoid disappointment, call ahead to check that the store carries your size. Stores typically carry sample styles in sizes 8 and 10, but more and more stores are stocking a wider range of sizes.
Finally, be mindful of the logistics of the dress. For example, consider how easy it will be to go to the bathroom in your dress.
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