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Selecting a gown should be one of the first things you do. Plan to make your final gown selection at least six months before your wedding day—some gowns can take up to six or eight months to arrive. This allows plenty of time for alterations and the unexpected.
- Set a price limit: Wedding gowns range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Have a budget in mind as you begin.
- Ask for recommendations: Talk with others you know who have recently been married and see what their experiences have been with various bridal shops.
- Limit your audience: Too many opinions can be overwhelming!
- Shop during the week: You will get more personalized attention when you choose to shop at a time when it might be slower.
- Buy from a reputable bridal shop: You will feel much better about purchasing a gown if it is from someone you trust.
- Bring photos: Having photos of the gowns you like will give the consultant an idea of the gown styles to show you.
- Be open-minded: It’s not your favorite on the rack, but may look incredible on you.
- Find a gown to flatter you: Select a gown that compliments your shape and size.
- Choose colors to best match your skin tone, as gowns come in a variety of colors.
- Wear proper undergarments.
- Take your time: Take notes on the gowns you’ve tried. Return after a couple of weeks to see if you’ve really found the right one.
- It is advised that measurements for you and your attendants are taken at the store.
If you have a gown idea but you are unable to find the right one, consider having a gown custom-designed for you by a couturier or professional designer.
- Who is the manufacturer of the gown?
- How long will the gown take to arrive?
- What are the store’s payment policies?
- What amount is required for a deposit?
- Refund and cancellation policies?
- What are the alteration costs?
- What other types of fees are applied?
Bridesmaids’ dresses should complement the bridal gown, taking into consideration each attendants’ body type. A new trend is the use of one consistent color on various dress styles. Bold, bright colors are in style right now, although pastels such as peach, lavender and pink are still in demand. Two-piece combinations enable bridesmaids to choose pieces that best compliment their body type.
Talk budgets! Everyone needs to be aware of their financial responsibilities. Remember travel expenses, time off work, alterations and extra length charges. If the expense of purchasing a gown creates a financial burden on your attendants, be willing to help a little or consider allowing bridesmaids to choose their own attire with set guidelines.
Children should be attired similarly to your other attendants. Fun new trends include flower girls sporting fairy wings and wands. Tuxedos are still the most popular for ring bearers. Ring pillows in various colors include beads, ribbon or floral accents. Bring younger attendants a change of clothes after the ceremony to ensure they are comfortable and avoid damaging their clothing.
Your mothers will also be in the spotlight. They may wish to coordinate their outfits, however, each is entitled to dress in a style she finds most comfortable.
- Mothers should avoid colors that match or are lighter then the bridal gown.
- Top color choices of today’s moms include black, platinum and sand.
- Bridesmaid dresses may be a good option for affordable, youthful elegance.
Alterations can take up to 6-8 weeks and cost from $50 to $300 depending on complexity. Most gowns will probably need to hemmed and bustled. Any weight gain or loss will affect the fit. A seamstress experienced with construction of bridal gowns must do any alterations. Always try on your gown after each alteration. When you pick it up, take it to get steamed and pressed if your bridal shop does not offer you that service.
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