Finding the perfect wedding dress is a significant moment for any bride. Yet, many brides fall into common pitfalls that can affect their overall look and experience on the big day. From choosing the wrong size to neglecting comfort, these errors can lead to unnecessary stress and disappointment. In this blog, we’ll delve into the most common wedding dress mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Not Considering Your Body Type
One of the most common mistakes brides make is not considering their body type when choosing a wedding dress. This oversight can lead to a dress that doesn’t enhance their natural features, resulting in a less flattering look.
To start with, identify your body type to assess your proportions. Common body types include hourglass, pear-shaped, apple-shaped and rectangular. Each shape has dress styles that complement its unique characteristics.
Pear-shaped brides might opt for dresses that highlight their smaller waist and balance their wider hips, such as ball gowns or empire waist dresses. Apple-shaped brides could benefit from styles that draw attention to their neckline and shoulders, like V-neck or off-the-shoulder gowns.
Look at yourself in the mirror and see how you look. Ask your best friend’s opinion and don’t be shy to inquire from the bridal shop staff as they are very much well-versed.
2. Shopping Too Early or Too Late
Timing is crucial when it comes to wedding dress shopping. Shopping too early might seem like a proactive approach, but it comes with risks. Trends in wedding fashion can change, including your size, style or preferences.
Conversely, shopping too late can be equally problematic. Limited options and rush fees are common issues for last-minute shoppers. Dresses often require several months to be ordered and tailored, and rushing this process can lead to increased costs and limited choices.
Aim for a balanced timeline for wedding dress shopping that’s about 8 to 12 months before your wedding. This time frame allows you to explore different styles, make a decision, and schedule multiple fittings for alterations.
3. Ignoring the Budget
Many brides make the mistake of falling in love with a dress that far exceeds their budget. When creating your budget, remember to include the cost of alterations, which are often necessary to achieve the perfect fit. Accessories like veils, shoes, and jewelry should also be factored in, as these can add up quickly.
4. Not Doing Enough Research
Not doing enough research can limit your options and lead to unnecessary stress and expenses. Thorough research helps you understand different styles, designers, and boutiques.
Start by exploring online resources such as bridal websites and blogs, which offer a wealth of information on the latest trends and timeless classics. Bridal magazines are another excellent source of inspiration. Of course, you can’t forget social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, which are valuable tools for discovering new designers and boutiques, as well as seeing real brides in their wedding dresses.
5. Not Bringing the Right Undergarments and Accessories
Wearing the wrong undergarments, such as brightly colored or ill-fitting pieces, can impact how the dress appears on your body. For instance, shiny colors can show through lighter fabrics.
When it comes to wedding dresses, particularly styles like the slip dress, the choice of undergarments becomes even more critical. Slip dresses, with their sleek, body-hugging silhouette and often delicate, smooth fabrics, demand seamless and skin-tone underwear to maintain their elegant look.
Here are some wedding dress fitting tips for choosing the right undergarments for your big day:
- Seamless Underwear: Choose seamless, skin-tone panties or thongs to avoid visible panty lines, especially for form-fitting dresses.
- Strapless Bras: Opt for a well-fitting nude strapless bra or pasties, particularly if your dress has a strapless design.
- Shapewear: Consider shapewear for added support and smoothness, which can help create a sleek silhouette under your dress.
- Bodysuits: Perfect for dresses with low backs or plunging necklines, offering full-body coverage and a flawless silhouette.
- Fashion Tape: Bring fashion tape or clothing adhesive for minor fixes on the day, ensuring everything stays in place.
Trying on your dress with the shoes and accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day also helps you get a complete picture of your final look. This includes veils, jewelry, and even hair accessories.
6. Not Taking Alterations Seriously
Many brides underestimate the importance of tailoring, but even the most stunning gown can look unflattering without proper adjustments. Professional wedding dress alterations ensure that the dress complements your body shape, provides comfort, and allows ease of movement on your big day.
Common alteration needs include hemming the length, adjusting the bust, waist, and hips, and modifying straps or sleeves. Customizing these aspects of the dress can enhance your silhouette, ensuring the gown fits like a glove. For example, a well-fitted bust can prevent wardrobe malfunctions, while the right hem length ensures you can walk and dance comfortably.
Finding a reputable alteration service is essential for quality results. Start by asking for recommendations from your bridal boutique, friends, or family who have recently married. Reviews and testimonials online can also help you gauge the tailor’s expertise and reliability.
7. Not Doing a Final Fitting
Bodies can change due to weight fluctuations or stress, and a final bridal gown fitting allows for any last-minute adjustments. Without this final check, minor issues that could easily be fixed may go unnoticed.
Schedule your final fitting about two weeks before the wedding to provide ample time for minor tweaks while keeping the dress’s shape and fit intact. Bring all your accessories, including shoes and undergarments, for an accurate assessment.
Wedding Dress Shopping FAQs
How many wedding dresses do you need?
Most brides only need one wedding dress, but some choose to have a second dress for the reception or an after-party. This decision depends on personal preference and the nature of the wedding events.
Can you just walk into a bridal shop?
While some bridal shops welcome walk-ins, many require appointments to ensure you receive personalized attention and a dedicated fitting room. It’s best to call ahead and schedule an appointment to avoid any inconvenience.
Is it normal to have wedding dress doubts?
Yes, it’s completely normal to have doubts about your wedding dress. Many brides experience uncertainty after making such an important decision. Taking your time, seeking advice from trusted friends or family, and having a final fitting can help alleviate these concerns.
When should you start shopping for a wedding dress?
Start shopping for your wedding dress 8 to 12 months before your wedding date. This timeline allows for ample time to find the perfect dress, order it, and schedule necessary fittings and alterations without feeling rushed.
How much should you budget for a wedding dress?
Wedding dress budgets vary widely, but it’s important to consider not just the dress itself but also alterations, accessories, and preservation costs. On average, brides in the U.S. spend between $1,800 and $2,400 on their wedding dresses, but this amount can be higher or lower depending on individual preferences and financial plans.
Wrapping Up
As you approach your wedding day, remember that the dress you choose is more than just fabric—it’s a reflection of your unique style and joy. Each decision, from the initial selection to the final fitting, is a step towards realizing your vision. With the right preparation and awareness of common bridal mistakes, you’ll find a gown that looks stunning and feels right.
About the Author
Tony Kantzavelos is the CEO of Love Your Dress, a premier dress-cleaning company in Ontario with over three decades of experience in dress cleaning and alteration. It operates in an impressive 10,000-square-foot facility in West Toronto.