Let's face it - the wedding dress is the most important part of the bride's special day. Yes, it sounds superficial and even narcissistic, but it is ultimately true. There is not one bride out there who wants to risk looking like a frump on her day of days.
But, finding that perfect wedding dress is much easier said than done. So many brides simply don't know where to start, what to look for or what to ask.
There are three golden rules when it comes to shopping for a wedding dress: plan your shopping day, find a dress style to suit your figure and ask lots of questions.
Shopping Itinerary
Make sure you plan out in advance which bridal shops you want to visit. Call in advance to make appointments and always ask how long the appointment will go for. A first appointment can vary from 20 to 90 minutes.
Shopping for a wedding dress is best done with your closest friends and family. You will need a second opinion, so consider taking a couple of girlfriends or your mum or sister with you. That way you can get constructive feedback and even have a good time as well!
Dress Styles
Although you may have a style in mind, you shouldn't get your heart set on it as it may not suit your body shape. The key to looking beautiful on your wedding day is picking the right style of gown. Wedding consultants can help you with this, so make sure you ask them about styles that will be figure flattering for you.
Following these rules will give you a head-start:
- Shorter brides should go for a V-shaped neckline - this will make you look taller. Avoid gowns with full skirts as these will make you look short and puffy - go for something straighter.
- Brides with a larger bust should also go for a V-shaped neckline as this will give you length through the chest and torso. Avoid strapless dresses as these accentuate large breasts, making you look out of proportion.
- Brides with a smaller bust size should go for a structured, boned bodice with a built in push-up bra. This will give you more cleavage.
- Fuller figured brides should go for a boned bodice and a fuller skirt starting from the waist. This is better for hiding any lumps and bumps.
- Only tall and slim brides should go for very figure hugging slim-line dresses
Ask Questions
Always make sure you ask the consultant lots of questions. Remember that it is your decision to either buy the wedding dress at that particular shop or have it made by that particular designer. This means that you are there to assess their competence and expertise. Therefore, you need to walk away from the consultation satisfied.
If you are having your wedding dress designed and made to measure, make sure you ask these questions:
- How long do you need to make the gown? Typically most designers will need 6 to 12 months to make the gown
- How many fittings will I need to have?
- Can I have a quotation for the total cost of the gown? Some designers will charge you separately for making the pattern and making the gown itself
- Do I need to pay a deposit?
- Can I make any changes to the design?
- Will I need to wear a hoop or will the skirt be layered with tulle instead?
- Can I have a detachable train? If you intend on having a train, this is a useful option for the reception
- Can you make the veil as well? You should also ask about any other accessories you intend to wear, such as gloves and jewelery. Most designers will have reputable contacts that they can recommend to you.
Above all, choose a gown that you feel confident, comfortable and beautiful in! A bride should captivate and entrance all who see her.
