Wedding Dress Buying Tips

What little girl doesn’t dream of wearing the perfect wedding dress at the most beautiful wedding ever? Finding that perfect wedding dress is still a woman’s ultimate goal when her day finally comes. Some women find “the” dress first, and then plan the wedding around it. Others plan the wedding and then select the wedding gown that best suits the theme or setting.


Shopping for a Wedding Gown

Before you even consider leaving the house, you have some research to do. Gather as many bridal fashion magazines as you can find and start looking. Tear out any pictures of wedding dress that you think you like. The key word is –any. Just because you like a dress doesn’t mean it will look good on you, whereas a style you wouldn’t usually consider may make you look like a princess.

Familiarize yourself with wedding dress lingo so that you can understand what the sales associates are talking about. Word such as, Empire and Princess, as well as Ballet-length and Sweep train, are important to learn. Know what fabrics are suitable for the season in which your wedding takes place. You wouldn’t want your teeth to chatter if your dress was designed for a summer wedding and it was December, just as you wouldn’t want sweat pouring off you during the ceremony because you were wearing brocade in the middle of July.

Now you are ready to start shopping for your wedding dress. You should begin at least 9 months before the wedding, as most dresses require alterations. Expect to return to the store at least twice before the dress is ready, perhaps more. You may also want to make an appointment, as Bridal shops are very busy places. Shopping with a close friend or relative (usually female) is also a good idea, since the task can be rather daunting.


Where to Shop

Bridal Salons – Full service bridal salons are the ultimate experience when shopping for a wedding gown, as well as wedding shoes and wedding veils. You will definitely require an appointment. The middle of the week is usually the best time to avoid the crowds. The major drawback is these types of stores are usually more expensive.

Bridal Warehouses and Outlets – These stores stock huge inventories, the majority of the gowns being in the low-to mid price range. They may include designs by designers that are not as well known, and last year’s designs from top name designers. Great finds are possible but be sure to check for tears, smudges, heel marks and other damages. Sales people in these stores are not usually as knowledgeable, wedding dresses cannot be returned and alteration services are not available.

Department Stores – some have bridal departments that may be worth a visit. This is also a great place to look for bridesmaid dresses. Don’t forget to check the evening and formal wear departments.

Custom Made – If you have always had a specific wedding dress in mind, you may choose to have it custom made. Make sure the seamstress you chose is qualified and experienced. Having them create the design first in muslin may prevent costly disasters later. You may even choose to make your own dress.


What to Bring or Wear

A strapless bra or bustier will enable you to try on all styles of wedding gowns. White pantyhose and a white slip are also beneficial. If you purchase a wedding dress that requires a petticoat, buy that with the dress or have it made to match. Shoes that have the same heel height as you will be wearing on your wedding day should also be available. Know what wedding hairstyle you want for your wedding day. Certain headpieces look better if hair is worn down.


Choosing a Wedding Gown

What type of wedding you are having is a factor when choosing a wedding dress. Will you be having a very formal event requiring a dress with a long train and veil, or a beach wedding where pretty much anything goes? There are also many in-betweens including formal evening weddings or formal daytime weddings, semi-formal weddings held at either time, or the increasingly popular theme wedding.


Wedding Accessories

After you have selected your wedding gown, look for wedding accessories to match it. Wedding shoes are of course a must. Other items may include headpieces like wedding tiaras or floral wreaths, veils of different lengths and styles, hankies, purses, gloves and wedding jewelry.

Lingerie is also something to consider. This is your day, so go ahead and pamper yourself. Hosiery is also an important selection. You may think no one will see it, but remember the custom of the groom removing the garter from the bride’s thigh? Choose a shade that goes with the color of your dress and be sure to buy an extra pair, just in case!