Choosing a wedding dress is one of the most exciting decisions you make for your big day. While you’ve probably been dreaming of the perfect dress since you were a small girl, the pressure of finding the dress of your dreams can be overwhelming. Use the tips below to make this cherished experience enjoyable and exciting.
Tips for choosing the perfect gown
- Shopping for the right gown, placing the order and the fittings take time, don’t wait until the last minute to shop. It’s best to order the gown 4-6 months in advance, which means you should begin looking at least nine months before the wedding.
- Far too often brides order a smaller size with the hopes to lose weight; don’t order a dress one size smaller than your actual size. It’s less expensive to order the right size and feel comfortable.
Bridal shop staff is there to help; don’t be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions helps the staff get a feel for what you like, making it easier for them to help you in your choice. - A gown may look beautiful on the hanger but it may not look the same once you try it on; don’t choose a dress without trying it on first.
- Get a second opinion; don’t try it on alone, bring a friend whose opinion you value
- Check out your dress as soon as it arrives in the store; don’t avoid taking the time to go look it over for any mistakes that may need to be fixed.
- Your dress budget also needs to include a headpiece, shoes, gloves, jewelry, etc.; don’t forget to include possible alterations in your budget as well.
- A wedding dress deposit is usually non-refundable; don’t order the dress unless you are sure it’s the one you really want.
Trying on a gown – things to consider
- How the material falls
- The feel of the waistline
- The way the chest area fits
- Puckering, bulging or bunching
- Double check embroidery, stitching and beading
The right gown for your body type
Just like wedding gowns, brides come in all sizes and shapes and choosing the gown style is much easier when you know what will complement your figure. View yourself in your gown from all angles, not just from the front. If you see even the littlest thing you don’t like, mention it and the seamstress will explain why the problem occurs and if anything may be done to fix it. Use the tips below to help narrow down your choices and flatter your body type.
If you’re pear-shaped
A dress that emphasizes your bodice and loosely flows over your body is ideal. Consider A-line, ball gown with a bustier or a round neckline halter or a strapless wedding dress.
If you’re apple-shaped
Choose an empire style dress, the high-waist will accentuate your bust and minimize your abdomen. Use a slim bodice if you prefer the A-line dress style.
If you’re hourglass-shaped
Call attention to your curves with a form-fitting sheath dress. To minimize the curves choose an A-line or ball with a strapless bodice full skirt and cinched waist, this will draw attention up and hide the wider parts.
If you’re petite-shaped
Lengthen your small frame by showing off your legs with a short hemline dress. Try a column-style sheath dress to create a longer silhouette or try an empire or A-line style, to create an elongated line that minimizes the waistline.
If you’re full figured-shaped
Choose an A-line dress, it will slim your frame through the waist and flow around your lower body. Alternatively, try a corseted waist ball gown to highlight your torso and minimize the lower body.
If you’re slender-shaped
The empire gown will create definition to your silhouette, or for full definition try a ball gown, the bodice and full skirt give emphasis to the waistline creating a curvy shape.