I was recently speaking with a friend who was reading our lovely new blog and who is also a beautiful bride to be. She is, as most brides are, trying to make a decision on “the dress” and had lost focus on what she really wanted. She asked for some advice (or rather reassurance) and it got me thinking that I would do a post with my top tips for choosing your frock.
1. Don’t Stress
Number one top tip. Choosing your wedding dress really can be an overwhelming experience. It can also be a fun one too! Walking into a bridal boutique for the first time with an array of white dresses can leave the bride to be unsure of what she is looking for but don’t worry….
2. You will look fabulous
You will pick a beautiful dress but in all honestly whatever you wear your husband and all the guests will think you look fabulous!
3. Stay true to your personal style
What is your style and what kind of wedding will you be having? These are important questions you must consider and answer before you head out on the dress hunt. Not sure what style of dress you want? Try on a few different styles and it will soon become clear what suits you best.
4. Gather ideas
Look around for inspiration before you even consider setting foot in a bridal boutique. Think about your style, your body shape and blogs for inspiration. Tear dresses from magazines or create a Pinterest board and put together a collection of ideas of what you would like in a dress.
5. Don’t sweat the details
Beads, sequins, pretty detailed buttons, lace, fishtail….the details go on, but in all honestly it is the top half of your dress that your guests will notice most and that is what will appear in most of the photos so think about what shape and what detail, if any, you want.
6. Bring a buddy
So you’ve booked an appointment at your favourite bridal boutique so take along your mum, a friend, sister or whoever it may be that will give you some honest advice. BUT don’t take everyone otherwise you will be left with too many options. For some of your it really is sometimes best to just go it alone and stick to your vision!
7. Keep it Simple
Sometimes a simple, classic shape just works best. It’s also often timeless so hopefully you won’t look back and think “what was I thinking with those puff sleeves !?”. Let your accessories, hair and make-up do the talking and not your “out there ensemble”. Again you also need to consider what type or style of dress is appropriate for your venue or destination. If you are choosing to get married in sunnier climes that princess dress just won’t cut it unless you want to spend the entire day feeling very uncomfortable and on the verge of passing out!
8. Wear the right underwear.
Absolutely essential when trying on dresses. Make sure you take along the right underwear or even a selection if you are unsure on the neckline that you want as it really helps.
9. Stick to your budget
It is likely that whatever dress you choose it will be up there with one of, if not, the most expensive item of clothing you’ve ever bought whatever your budget may be. I think it’s important to remember that whilst your wedding will be a wonderful and memorable day it is just one day in your life and the wear you get from your dress is limited! So keep check on what you spend and you will find that perfect dress. There are sooooooo many options out there now to suit everyone’s budget and taste. You don’t have to go down the traditional bridal boutique route as these days there are so many amazing ready to wear dresses out there. Net-a-porter have an online boutique and you can find some amazing discounts on their sister site, the Outnet for a fraction of the price! Found a fab discounted dress not in your size? Find a trusty tailor to take it in for you. Sample sales are also great if you are flexible on what you want. You can snap up a designer gown at a fraction of the price!
10. Take you time
Try on as many or as few dresses as you feel necessary. BUT do remember that sometimes too many options can overwhelm the senses. I would recommend only one appointment in a day and go along in the morning when you are feeling fresh and alert and also the sales assistants have not seen a handful of other brides first!
11. Take photos
Most boutiques should allow you to but always check first if in doubt. It helps you recall what you do and maybe don’t like in a dress.
12. Sleep on it
So you think you’ve found “the one”? Don’t be pressured to put down a deposit there and then. Go home and sleep on it! It will be there tomorrow.
Most of all try and enjoy the experience. Choosing your dress often feels like the decision of a lifetime and often is the most asked about question from your friends and acquaintances. Trust me when I say you will look amazing and once you’ve made this big decision you can relax a little and move on to all the other decisions on your to do list!
So what dress did you go for then? I would love to know.
Happy shopping!
Jo.x
Images via Claire Pettibone//100 Layer Cake//Once Wed//Ruffled//100 Layer Cake
