The wedding dress is perhaps the most iconic piece of clothing in a woman’s closet. It is a symbol of purity, innocence and new beginnings. Historically, brides have worn white gowns to signify purity and innocence, but the color, style and ceremonial significance of this garment vary across cultures. The wedding dress is a very personal choice and should reflect the bride’s personality and aesthetic.
While many brides turn to their friends and family for advice, it’s important to remember that the opinions of those around you won’t be as unbiased as your own. It’s also important to choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
Whether you’re in the mood for a short and flirty frock or a dramatic ball gown, it is possible to find the perfect dress for you. During your dress shopping trip, take the time to try on dresses in a wide range of styles and fabrics. Use a filter to browse by neckline style (from halter to scoop), waist style (from empire to basque), and dress length (from tea-length to full-length). You can also sort by fabric, such as lace, chiffon, satin, cotton or taffeta, to discover the options that speak to you.
If you’re planning to incorporate a veil or an accessory from an important family member into your wedding look, bring the item along to each of your appointments. This will help you gauge how well it works with each dress and will ensure that it fits properly. You’ll also want to test it out during activities you’ll be doing on your big day, such as kneeling or dancing. It’s a good idea to bring your shoes as well, to make sure you’re comfortable in them all day.
While it’s fun to show off your dress selections with your bridal party and closest confidants, it’s a good idea to set a limit on how many people can see your pick ahead of time. Keeping the number small will help you avoid getting pressured to show everyone your gown, which can lead to second guessing. It’s also a great way to maintain the element of surprise for your partner.
As most bridal gowns are made-to-order, it’s common for brides to start their dress search months in advance of their wedding date. This is because the designs and patterns for a gown are based on each individual bride’s measurements, and it takes some time to produce an order. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to ask your seamstress or tailor for a rough estimate of how long your dress will take to complete. This will help you determine if you’re better off ordering it closer to your wedding day or a little farther in advance.