Almost the first thing most brides look for, once they set the date, is a bridal gown. They browse through the latest bridal magazines and websites like this one in search of that perfect gown. Most brides want classical elegance but some new styles are decidedly unconventional or even downright bizarre. The question to ask yourself is: Some 20 years from now, will I be thrilled to see myself in that faddy sacky dress or the currently-chic, three-quarter length shredded-hem look? Choose whimsical fashion trends only if the answer is, “Yes, I made my statement!”
Before you decide on a gown, here are some ideas to help you make some decisions:
Look at lots and lots – and lots – of bridal magazines. There are literally hundreds of styles out there. Start by deciding which ones appeal to your esthetic sense. Mark these with a pink post-it so you can find them easily again.
Explore online – bridal gown designers all have their own websites. And bridal sites like this one offer suggestions too. Try to look at as many styles as you can before you start trying things on.
Go to bridal fashions shows. For example, the National Bridal Show always has one as part of the event. That way you will see how the gown ‘moves.’
Go to the largest bridal store in the area and try on several different styles, even ones you didn’t think you would like. Sometimes a dress looks fabulous on your body when even the gorgeous magazine model doesn’t do it justice.
Be realistic. There’s no point picking a style best suited to a willowy body if you have a more normal build. This is where a good bridal store can help. They can offer advice on the designs most flattering to your figure.
Take your mother, your best friend, your maid/matron of honour, or the whole gaggle of bridesmaids with you. More than one eye is always useful. You may think the dress looks great but maybe that stunning bustle at the back really doesn’t help your own rear end. You need another eye to see and point out the flaws.
Take a digital camera with you and get someone to snap lots of pictures of yourself in each dress. You can share these with bridesmaids or friends and solicit their advice as well. Or you can just put them up on your computer and look at each one critically yourself.
There’s white, and then there’s white; it comes in many shades. And then there’s ivory or cream. Your skin tones may suit off-white with just a hint of pink or pearl or even blue in it, rather than a dazzling white.
Comparison shop. If your dress is a designer model, you may not have many options, but you may find the same dress for less in another boutique. On the other hand, if the store staff has been very helpful and goes the extra mile to make the whole experience enjoyable, saving a few dollars at a discount place may not be worth it. After all, you will probably only buy a wedding gown once in your life.
You just can’t find the perfect dress? You love the sleeves on this one, the cut on that one, the neckline there? Take all your design favourites to a wedding dress couturier. It can even be less expensive that buying one ready made and you will have all the features you want. Most couturiers stitch up a sample gown in cotton so you can try the design and see if you like it.
Remember to relax; don’t approach the process with anxiety. Buying a wedding gown is fun so treat yourselves to lunch with a glass of wine, then head off to the store.