When planning your wedding there are many things you can take care of on your own, but let dress shopping be one of them! By no means should you be dress shopping on your own. Slowly but surely all the gowns will begin to look the same. It will soon be harder to recall which style you really loved. I cannot emphasis this enough, bring someone you trust with you! But be careful about who you do bring. If your mom or sibling can’t make the trip, ask a friend who is truly honest. This is the time when you really need to know which dress looks best.
Shop Early!
More likely than not your dress will require alternations. Perhaps it needs to be brought in or shortened, you want to give the alterations department plenty of time to make adjustments as needed. Dress shopping should begin at least eight to ten months before the wedding. It can take up to two months to find the right gown and then four months for the dress to be custom made to fit your body. The first fitting usually happens six to eight weeks prior to “I do.” Give yourself plenty of time and keep in mind that the sooner you start shopping, the less likely you’ll feel rushed and make a quick decision that you may regret later.
Tie the Style to Your Location
Tie your look to your wedding location. If you’re having a traditional ceremony with a formal reception, opt for a classic, timeless gown style (like an A-line or ball gown with a square neckline). Getting married outdoors in an afternoon garden ceremony? Consider a strapless sheath made of a light material like silk. If you’re marrying in the sand on an exotic island, a flirty tea-length gown with festive shoes is the ultimate nontraditional wedding attire.
Accessorize!
Let your personality show through your accessories. Give a traditional gown a fun twist with a colorful sash or large, flashy earrings, or keep your style poised and polished with a simple pearl necklace and earrings. But do not let your jewelry overpower your ensemble. If your dress has lots of intricate details already, opt for simple pieces, or even just your engagement ring.
Most importantly, have fun and try to enjoy dress shopping, you’ve been looking forward to this moment forever!
