After you and your fiance have set a wedding date, one of the first things you'll want to shop for is your wedding dress. Decide on the type of wedding you want: will it be formal or informal? Then, establish a budget. Include everything from your headpiece to accessories. Make a list of bridal boutiques.
WHEN TO START LOOKING
It's never too early to start shopping for a wedding gown. Wedding dresses are custom ordered for the most part, and this process takes time to complete. Most stores recommend that you order your dress six to ten months before your wedding. To insure enough time for delivery and alterations.
Bridesmaids' dresses are also special ordered. Therefore, as soon as you've decided on your dress, you and your attendants should go shopping.
When you shop for your dress, never shop alone. Ask your mother or a good friend to come along for advice. Inform the bridal consultant of your plans: formality of wedding; style preferences; budget; wedding date; date the dress is needed.
MATCHING figure TO STYLE
The following suggestions will help identify the best style for you. Since the dress is special fitted, find one that flatters your figure and does not accentuate problem areas.
Short and thin: A high-rise waistline, high neckline, perhaps sleeveless with long gloves, chapel-length train, floor-length veil (all super feminine, give a taller appearance).
Short with a few pounds to spare: Blouson bodice over fitted slip, a long, narrow sleeve. Avoid billowy looks. Select a natural, boat neck, or high neckline. Gathered or slightly dirndl waists with soft ribbon accents add length; avoid flounced skirts. Try a
delicate floral wreath.
TaIl and thin: Dropped waists look terrific. They take away that long, leggy look. Bare, off-the-shoulder styles are sexy and feminine. If you like, wear ruffles or billowy sleeves. Veilings and hats are striking additions.
Heavyset: Choose simple lines - avoid too much lace and beading. Look for vertical lines such as the princess cut, soft bodice, natural or high necklines. Avoid very puffed sleeves but try the dolman. Again, choose a simple headpiece such as a floral wreath or chapel veil.
TIPS ON TRAINS
There are three basic wedding dress trains: the sweep length; the chapel length; and the cathedral length.
ORDERING YOUR DRESS
Since the dress you try on in the store is a sample size, you will be measured and the dress you choose will be ordered nearest to your size. When it is delivered, the shop will call you to arrange a date for your first fitting. At that time, be sure to bring the shoes you'll wear on your wedding day. Some stores may include one fitting in the cost of the dress, but many do not. Find out beforehand, since some dresses require a few fittings. Special alterations and extra lengths involve additional charges, as do headpieces and veils. Most shops require a
deposit when you place your order, so be sure you've made the right choice. The order is immediately placed, which means you must forfeit your deposit and pay for the entire cost of the dress.
Important, be sure to get a swatch of any material you need to match your accessories and or bridesmaids dresses, their are many shades of every color even white.
Keep all receipts. Be sure everything promised is in writing and read the sales agreement carefully. The delivery date of the dress and headpiece should also be included.
If you allow enough time to shop for your dress, and work closely with a consultant, you'll find the dress that's uniquely you!
