Ever since the mid-1800’s when Queen Victoria first wore white for her wedding to Albert of Saxe-Coberg to incorporate some lace she owned, women have devoted months, even entire girlhoods to finding the dazzling gown they will wear for only one day.
A wedding is a romantic affair, but also an action-filled event, one that will have the bride walking, sitting, dancing, standing, hugging, and tossing a bouquet. Few things hold as much importance to a bride as finding THE dress, and with as much action as a wedding requires, your wedding dress should not only be stunningly gorgeous, but comfortable as well.
Begin shopping for your dress at least nine months before the wedding, and order at least six months ahead. While you may have a certain style that you’ve always dreamed of wearing as you float down the aisle, you may be surprised at which style is actually most flattering on you or most comfortable to wear. Try on several dresses of all sorts of necklines, bodices, shades, sleeve lengths, and materials, and bring the accessories and shoes that you will be wearing at the wedding. But most importantly, have fun! Don””””t eat a thing before going shopping, take your mother and honor attendant with you, try on every bridal gown in your size, go to lunch, eat too much, and enjoy every moment!
Almost every wedding dress needs altered, so don””””t worry too much about whether or not it fits perfectly at the shop, but the quality of the gown is as important as the design. Wedding dresses are not easily returnable, so be sure that you examine the construction carefully.
Never be afraid to ask questions while shopping. You may have several questions of your own, but be sure to ask what alterations can be done to the dress you choose and for a written estimate of the cost of alterations. It is also perfectly appropriate to ask for discounts if you are buying several garments at the same shop, such as your headpiece or veil and the bridesmaid””””s or mother””””s attire.
While the theme and formality of the wedding will affect the dress you choose, as well as the time of year you marry, remember that you should be able to wear the gown of your dreams on your wedding day! You will know the right dress when you try it on, and both you and your mother cry. Enjoy the pursuit!
