| You've found the groom, perhaps even the wedding location, now it's time to look for The Dress!!!
Here are a few helpful hints and advice on shopping for a wedding gown. |  |
1. Probably the most important tip, have something to eat before you shop, trying on those heavy gowns can be akin to a day at the gym!
2. Appointments are helpful. Though you may be tempted to drop into a shop and start looking on the first Saturday afternoon following your proposal, be aware that setting up appointments will afford you more assistance at the salon. Also, bear in mind that weekends are very busy at most formalwear shops, especially during the spring prom season.
3. Scan that pile of magazines on your coffee table and bring along sample photos of dresses that you like. Don't be afraid to show your bridal consultant photos of neckline, hem, train, sleeve. She will use these as a guide to the styles you are partial to.
4. Try several different styles and design elements to see what flatters your figure most. Don't get caught up in current trends alone. Also, try several different fabric colors. Shades are available from purest white to ivory to rose to mocha. Many gowns are available in a choice of color or two-tone as well.
5. Wear undergarments that you will not be embarrassed to be seen in, or carry along a strapless or longline bra and a slip. Many reputable shops provide or require in-the-dressingroom assistance so sample gowns do not withstand too much wear and tear. If you are uncomfortable with this kind of help, just realize that bridal consultants have experience in fabrics, dress lines and current styles and are trained to ensure you a good fit and flattering style.
6. Don't bring along an entourage - 1 or 2 girlfriends or Mom is enough. Choose to take your bridal party along for bridesmaid dresses another day. Changingrooms are small and too many opinions can also be confusing.
7. Sizing- Do not be surprised if you are fitted for a larger size wedding gown than your usual off- the-rack size. Wedding gown size charts are based on a bust, waist and hip proportion measurement. Your measurements are compared to the specific designers' diagram. Each designer uses their own chart for sizing purposes. Many wedding gown retailers will allow you to sign off on ordering a smaller size than suggested by the manufacturer if you are dieting or expect to lose weight, at your own risk, but be aware that most gowns can be taken in up to two dress sizes but can only be let out minimally, if at all. There are also often additional charges for extra length (usually 5'9" or taller,) plus size gowns and of course, custom requests.
8. Alterations- Myth- Gown retailers purposely order a size too large to ensure alteration charges.
As noted above, gown retailers match your measurements to the vendor's sizing chart to find the best size for you. Therefore, if your waist and hip measurements fit a size 8 but your bust fits a 12, you'll need to order the gown to fit your largest measurement and alter the gown down to your smaller measurements. The majority of wedding gowns do require alterations of some kind.
9. Take your time, but don't wait too long. Many vendors can require 9 months for delivery. Why does this take so long? National Brand gowns are cut in cycles and orders are completed as each size is made available.
10. Follow care directions from your bridal shop when you bring it home. Most salons will press your gown before pickup and suggest that you remove the garment bag as soon as possible so it will not wrinkle. It is best to place a clean sheet on the floor and hang the gown (veil and petticoat) in a spare room away from people and pets to insure that it stays clean. You may also ask your salon if the dress may be spot steamed with a hand held steamer if needed. Some fabrics show watermarks and are not to be steamed, so be sure to ask first.
11. Dance the night away in a gown that suits your style, personality and the formality of your wedding day!!!
Copyright 2004 Melanie Bibbo |