5 Wedding Dress Shopping Tips & Tricks for a Bridal-Moment-Worthy Gown

A bride’s wedding day is filled with inimitable love and unforgettable moments. Why not pay tribute to your beautiful relationship with an equally once-of-a-kind dress? Donning a show stopping gown is the ultimate way to turn heads during your ceremony and mark the occasion. In terms of jewelry, the perfect accessory to a statement-making ballgown with a beaded bodice is a diamond ring from Diamonds Forever San Diego. Customizing your luxury bridal look will help you exude confidence and grace, from the first look to the first dance.

Plan ahead 

Since there are countless items on a bride’s to-do list, it is imperative to stay organized and up-to-date on the finest of details. If possible, begin exploring dress options about a year ahead of your wedding date. This lead time will allow you to browse gowns to your heart’s content without feeling rushed. Custom pieces take the longest, and most salons require several months to make any necessary alterations.

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the dress-shopping landscape this year, drastically limiting the supply of available gowns. Unforeseen production delays can extend an already lengthy process, especially in labor-intensive details like beadwork and other embellishments. Starting your search far in advance will alleviate this added stress, making the entire process run smoother and more enjoyable. That way, you can focus on sipping champagne rather than drafting contingency plans for late dress deliveries.

Research a variety of options 

Make sure to cast a wide net when scouring the market for different styles, fits, and colors. There are myriad possibilities, from ruched tulle bodices to lacy V-neck sheaths. You might let seasonal shades inform your dress search or start with specific materials and accents. You may also draw inspiration from magazines, websites, or Bridal Fashion Week looks. 

If your research feels overwhelming, try choosing a few keywords to describe your ideal look. Maybe you want to channel sophistication, romance, and beauty. Or perhaps you want to feel modern, bold, and eye-catching on your big day. In any case, these words will help you narrow down options and hone in on your perfect dress.

Choose your preferred shopping method

The pandemic has also restricted in-person activities and interfered with timeless traditions, leaving brides with fewer places to shop in their search for a once-in-a-lifetime bridal moment. If you want to visit a salon or designer boutique, your best bet is to directly call the store. 

Many places are still booking private appointments with clients while adhering to safety standards. During your session, you will be paired with a stylist who can help execute your vision. Remember, these appointments are when the inspiration pictures and keywords you’ve collected will come in handy. 

If you want to try on dresses in the comfort of your own home, consider looking online. E-tailers tend to offer more convenience for those brides with tighter deadlines. Regardless of your shopping method, try to keep an open mind. 

After all, more brides than not are likely to settle on a gown that deviates from what they initially imagined. Considering multiple options will ensure that you find you find “the one,” sure to wow your hundreds of wedding guests. 

Come prepared

If you plan on shopping in-person, you’ll need to bring a few items along to make the most of your wedding dress shopping experience. In addition to tucking a couple of inspiration images into your purse, be sure to bring a pair of heels or whatever type of shoes you’re planning to wear during the ceremony and reception. 

If you’ve found yourself distracted by wedding cake tastings and invitation design brainstorming sessions, rest assured having your final pair picked out isn’t a must. However, you should pack a similar shoe style pre-appointment to better visualize how each dress will look on your big day. 

You should also wear nude underwear and a strapless bra to accommodate a diverse variety of dress cuts. Bring the jewelry you’ll want to wear during the ceremony, as well, including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. Accessories complete and elevate your look, so having some of them on hand will help you choose a jaw-dropping gown, guaranteed to make the special day one you’ll treasure forever. 

Be realistic

When trying on wedding looks, it’s essential to strike a balance between fantasy and reality. A gown might look gorgeous on the hanger, but will you be comfortable wearing it for an entire day? Try walking around the store to make sure your dress allows for enough movement. You should be able to sit down, stand up, and dance without too much restriction. 

Another tip is to utilize a camera or smartphone that can take clear photos. Enlist a friend or family member to snap a few pictures of you in each dress. Mirrors can be deceiving, so looking at yourself from different angles will help you make a more informed decision. 

Final thoughts

No matter what, your wedding day will be a memorable occasion that you will cherish for years to come. Despite popular misconceptions, a bridal gown doesn’t have the power to make your break your big day. Should you feel overwhelmed by wedding dress shopping highs and lows, refocus your attention on the unbreakable bond you and your fiance share. 

 

Feature Photo by Anna Docking on Unsplash