It can be pretty intimidating when it comes to searching for ‘The One’ and by that we mean the wedding dress of your DREAMS of course!
The Knot explains what to keep in mind before you go wedding dress shopping to ensure you’re happy for your perfect day.
You should limit your entourage
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again — bringing a big group to the salon is a gown shopping don’t! Enlist one or two of your closest pals to help you start your search. This way you can find the gown of your dreams and not feel pressured by others’ opinions.
Hidden costs add up
Remember, your wedding gown budget doesn’t just include the dress. Your veil or headpiece and alterations will also add to your bottom line. Be sure to factor in these costs before you give the salesperson your final gown-shopping budget.
Undergarments are optional
Before you head into your appointment sans underwear and claim TheKnot.com said it was okay, read this: Most bridal shops have a few different types of bras in the fitting room. If you have a favorite strapless style or plan on wearing a particular body shaper, go ahead and bring it. You’ll ultimately need your gown-specific undergarments for your first fitting but not your initial appointment.
Salons take requests (really!)
Just because a bridal salon carries your favorite designer, that doesn’t mean it’ll have the exact wedding dress you’ve been dying to try on. If you phone in advance and request a specific style, chances are that a salon staffer will able to call for a sample of that gown especially for you.
You shouldn’t get discouraged
There are hundreds of bridal designers out there with literally thousands of designs – which makes the odds of your finding a fantastic gown, well pretty darn good. We know that coming up empty handed on your first trip can be a letdown, but don’t give up. You will find “the one.”
Shop for the body you have now
No matter what your shape, knowing your body shape – pear, full, thin, petite – is the first step in finding the right dress. Even if you’re planning on dropping 15 pounds before your wedding, your frame isn’t going to completely change because you’ve swapped cookies for carrots.
Always book an appointment
While you may get lucky and snag a salesperson just by walking in, scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure that you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention.
It’s okay to pick favorites
To help guarantee that your gown shopping experience goes smoothly, ask a salon staffer when you call to book your appointment if she can suggest a favorite saleswoman. Or get recommendations from friends, and request a saleswoman by name.
Skip day one of any sample sale
We know you’re tempted to get there as soon as the doors open, but shopping on the first day of a sample sale can be downright messy. Do yourself a favor and call ahead to ask how many days the sale will run. Then go on one of the later dates.
Plan on playing hooky
Sneaking away from work will allow you to hit the stores while crowds are at a minimum. You’ll get more attention from the sales staff if you shop on a Tuesday morning rather than a Saturday afternoon. There will also be less people hogging the mirrors (hey, a little vanity is allowed)!