“I would rather share one life with you than face all the ages of this world alone.” – JRR Tolkien
Few things are more fun and encouraging than preparing to say “I do” to the one you love. However, there comes a point when the truth of it all emerges. Where will the marriage be held? Who are we going to invite? Do we have a budget? And finally, the biggest question of all: What will I wear? Finding the perfect wedding dress is not a straightforward task. Consider these 10 tips before buying wedding dress.
1. Relax!
The sheer number of choices can overwhelm you. Don’t panic – there are steps you can take to narrow it down. Some styles look better on certain body types, and personality is at all times a factor. New York Dress has lots of posts about choosing the best dress for your body type on their blog. Your choices may additionally be influenced by current trends, although they do not have to be.
Do some research online before heading to the bridal salon. There are some lovely dresses on Pinterest. You can follow your favourite designer to see new collections or see if there is a baggage show in the area.
2. Set a Budget
Now that you have regained your composure and set your style, determine how much you can afford to spend on your wedding dress. There’s no denying the allure of a beautiful, intricate or ornate robe guaranteed to blow your mind – just ensure you can afford it.
3. Plan Ahead
Experts recommend planning as early as a year in advance as it can take up to 10 months to make a robe. You also need to consider fixtures and alterations. Delivery time is a consideration, particularly if you’re ordering a dress from abroad. In any case, start preparing as early as possible. Some salons offer express services, but they can be expensive.
4. Find a Bridal Salon You Love
If you do not consider it right now, ask friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. It’s also a good idea to check their prices in advance, as per tip 2. Ideally, schedule your bridal salon appointments over one weekend or within one day so you do not get overwhelmed with endless robe choices.
5. Call the Salon First
If you find a salon whose products you like, contact them first. They may ask you to make an appointment or a dress you see online may not be available. When you call, tell them as much as you can about the style of dress you are attempting to find. It’s a good idea to communicate the place to them as well. It does make a difference. There is an interesting article on the blog New York Dress about choosing the perfect wedding dress to suit the venue. Places can range from traditional (town hall, church) to mountain, seaside, rural and more.
Of course, let the salon know when the marriage will take place. All of this information will help them put together a collection of dresses for you to select from when you show up for your appointment. If they do not have your preferred style, ask if they can order a sample. And on that note…
6. Don’t be afraid to ask
Your wedding day is a really important time for you and no issue shouldn’t be disregarded. Ask them if they offer plus size samples of their dresses (if any), do they do alterations, how long will it take to make the dress, do you need to pick it up or can they ship it to you, how much shipping will charge, and special instructions on how to clean a robe and whether it is OK to steam it. If the dress requires a special tie or knot, ensure you or your friends understand how to do it.
7. The size of the marriage dress varies greatly
Wedding dress sizes vary much larger than casual dress sizes. This is why size is a difficulty you should not worry too much about. 99% of all wedding dresses require some modification. Ultimately, the robe you buy will be tailor-made to make sure the perfect fit. There’s far more to picking a marriage dress than choosing size.
8. Keep Your Options Open
This tip seems contradictory to the first (staying on style), but it reflects the indisputable fact that there are various various kinds of brides. Some women find it impossible to choose a certain color and style and stick to it. The traditional wedding dress is white and A-line, but it is not for everybody. You may have a favourite color and style, but ignoring everything else could mean missing out on something really great. There are backless, strapless, mermaid, and even cocktail-style wedding robes in nude, light blue, ivory, off-white, or champagne colours. Don’t be afraid to venture into the unknown. What you like may surprise you.
9. Pay attention to the weather and location
Dainty silk and satin dresses are eye-catching, but a bit off-putting for a cool fall outdoor wedding. A dress with overlays or sleeves will keep you warm, particularly for an evening wedding or an outdoor wedding. A full tulle skirt is suitable for a late fall or winter wedding, but not a spring or summer one.
10. Listen to Your Heart
This may look like an oversimplification, but it is a fact of life: what applies to the partner also applies to the dress. Feel free to say ‘yes’ to the dress that won your heart. Of course go for ornate, jewel-encrusted and sparkling like the stars in the sky if you feel that best expresses your personality.
The Beginning of Life Together
The matrimonial union marks the start of a lovely new period in your life. Your dress and each other aspect of your wedding should reflect that. It has to be a spectacular experience – and we know it is going to be!
Writer biography: Jonah Levine is the Creative Director of NewYorkDress.com. NewYorkDress.com, founded in 2008, is the #1 online resource for Evening and prom dresses around the globe. As Creative Director, Jonah works to create the best online and in-store luxury shopping experiences with a focus on service and personalization.
