One of the first things a newly engaged woman will do is begin shopping for that special wedding gown. Choosing just the right gown can be fun or it can be stressful, depending on how it is approached. The following tips will help make the most of the experience without causing you to feel overwhelmed.
Begin by looking through magazines and at web sites to get ideas of styles and to decide what features you do and don’t like, but don’t zero in on a particular style until you try on a few gowns and know what looks best with your figure. You might be surprised.
Limit the number of people you take shopping with you, at least initially. Too many people create distractions, take extra time, and each has his/her own opinion, making decisions difficult. Though in-put from others is important, the bride should make the final decision on the gown to purchase; don’t allow anyone to pressure you to make a decision you are not comfortable making.
Some bridal salons require an appointment to be certain they have adequate staff available. If you must make an appointment, don’t feel pressured to buy until you are ready. You can always go back later.
Dress appropriately. If you have a strapless bra, take it with you. Also take shoes with a heel height similar to what you may wear on your wedding day. Most gowns can be shortened, but having appropriate shoes will help you visualize how you will look in it. Wear make-up, but not too much; you don’t want to leave stains on the gowns.
Don’t be shocked by gown sizing. Most wedding gowns are sized larger than what you normally wear. For instance, if you wear a size 10, you might need a size 12 in a gown. Because gowns are form-fitting, you should choose one to fit your largest body measurement – waist, hips or bust. It is easy to take in the dress where it is loose, but it isn’t easy to increase the size without possibly harming the design of the dress.
Expect to pay extra for things like a slip or veil, but ask about discounts if you purchase everything at once.
If your gown has to be ordered, expect to wait 3 to 4 months to get it (most are made overseas), so order it early and allow time for alterations.
Ask about alterations. Many shops charge for them, and the fee can be considerable. You may be able to find an independent seamstress or tailor who will charge less. Most alterations are done within a month of the wedding. Brides may lose or gain weight or work out, making it necessary to repeat alterations if they are completed too far in advance.
Wedding shoes and undergarments are usually less expensive when purchased at a department store rather than at a bridal salon. The exception is slips and hoops, which tend to be available only at bridal salons. Some salons will rent them; others will not, so be sure to ask.
Check the sale racks. Many salons place last season’s gowns on sale. When it comes to wedding dresses, who cares if it was last season’s style if you love the dress.
Be careful about purchasing a gown over the internet. Before purchasing, find out the background of the shop or person offering it and ask about a return policy. Both new and used gowns are available on-line. Some new gowns come from shops that have gone out of business or those reducing inventory. Others may belong to a bride who cancelled her wedding. Used gowns often belong to someone whose marriage has ended or they are thrift shop close-outs. In most cases, you get the dress “as is,” which could mean stained or ripped. You may not be able to return the dress if there is a problem or it doesn’t fit and you will probably need to find a local seamstress to do alterations.
If you are on a budget, check local consignment shops and Craig’s List for new or slightly used gowns that you can try on before purchasing. Many such gowns are sold by women whose engagement was broken and they no longer want any reminder of their cancelled wedding.
Consider renting your gown. You won’t be able to pass it on to your daughter, but, assuming you have one, she may not want it anyway. Not all shops rent gowns, so check around. Popular styles need to be reserved several months in advance and you may find that you can purchase a gown on sale for the same price or less than renting one, so do your homework.
Shopping for your wedding gown can be fun or agonizing, depending on how your approach it. By taking time to prepare before shopping, you can savor the experience rather than being overwhelmed by it.