Shopping for a wedding gown is one of the most unforgettable parts of planning a wedding. Yet with countless choices available, it can also feel overwhelming. Here’s how you can zero in on the perfect dress for your big day.
1. Start your search about nine months to a year before your wedding day.
“Designer gowns typically require six to nine months for ordering and fitting,” says Mara Urshel, co-owner of Kleinfeld. If you’re thinking about personalizing your dress — like adding intricate beading, lace, or altering the neckline — it might take even longer. Tight on time? Ask your consultant if rush delivery is an option (there’s usually a fee), or visit a sample sale where you might score up to 80% off by buying directly off the rack.
2. Set a practical budget from the start.
“Having $1,500 saved doesn’t automatically mean you’ll walk out with a $1,500 dress,” advises Courtney Lutkus from Simply Radiant Events. Always consider tax, shipping (if necessary), and alterations. Some salons have a flat fee for alterations, while others charge individually. Most will also ask for a 50% deposit — use a credit card for a secure record of the transaction. “Nothing’s worse than finding ‘The One’ but not having the funds ready,” warns Sandra Gonzalez from SPARKLE Bridal Couture. “Plan ahead financially so you can celebrate once you find your gown!”
3. Learn about different wedding dress silhouettes before shopping.
“Focus on the basic shape first,” recommends Bianca Sparbanie of RSVP by B Wedding & Event Planning. Wedding dresses typically fall into six main silhouettes: ball gown, empire, A-line, sheath, fit-and-flare, and mermaid. During your first appointment, try on one of each style — you’ll quickly see which suits you best. Once you select your silhouette, you can narrow down choices based on neckline, sleeves, and embellishments.
4. Curate your favorite dress styles on a private Pinterest board.
Browse hundreds of designs in BG’s gown gallery and pin the ones you love. Then, step back and search for patterns. “You’ll start to notice similarities in what catches your eye — whether it’s the designer, the fabric, or the silhouette,” says Melissa Heholt from Statice Events. This can help you refine your vision before visiting a salon.
5. Plan your bridal appointments during the week if possible.
Fewer crowds mean more personalized attention. If you can spare a personal day or half-day, consider booking your appointments for a weekday afternoon, like 1 p.m. on a Tuesday. Choose salons that fit your budget and carry designers you adore to maximize your time and experience.
6. Keep your shopping entourage small and supportive.
Although it’s tempting to invite everyone, too many opinions can cause confusion. Bridal experts suggest bringing two or three trusted individuals (no more than five) who know your taste and have your best interest at heart. “You want people who will offer honest advice and support you,” says Cristina DeMarco, vice president of Bridal Reflections. Save the big crowd for the fittings later on.
7. Imagine how you want to feel in your dress.
“Think about whether you want to look sexy, modern, chic, traditional, or vintage,” suggests Randy Fenoli in his book It’s All About the Dress: Savvy Secrets, Priceless Advice, and Inspiring Stories to Help you Find ‘The One.’ Once you pinpoint your vision, share it with your bridal consultant so they can pull styles that match the vibe you want for your big day.
8. Stay open-minded when trying on dresses.
The gown that looks “meh” on the hanger might dazzle on your body — and that online favorite might disappoint in person. “Countless brides swear they want a ball gown but end up falling in love with a sleek sheath — and vice versa,” says Liz Sellassie from Designer Loft. “Even brides who don’t want any beading sometimes swoon over a fully beaded gown.” Keep an open heart and let yourself be surprised!
9. Give your gown consultant honest feedback.
To keep the experience positive and stress-free, be direct about what you like or dislike. Don’t worry about hurting feelings — your stylist needs your input to bring you better options. If you hate poufy skirts or love the bodice on one dress but not the skirt, say so! Clear communication leads to a better and faster shopping experience.
10. Test how the dress feels by moving around.
Sit, dance, walk — see how the gown moves with you. Choose a dress that flatters your body comfortably, not just what’s trending. “If you’re constantly adjusting or feel like you can’t breathe, move on,” says Aviva Samuels from Kiss the Planner. Melani Lust from Melani Lust Photography agrees: “Brides who don’t move around in their dresses beforehand often end up uncomfortable — and it shows in the photos and throughout the evening!”
11. Don’t stress over the dress size.
Wedding dress sizing often runs smaller than street clothing. “When ordering, always go by your current bust, waist, and hip measurements,” says bridal designer Trish Lee. It’s safer to alter down later rather than stress over sizing down and hoping to lose weight. Ignore the number — it’s about how you feel and how the gown fits.
12. Ultimately, pick the dress that feels perfect for you.
“This is YOUR day and YOUR dress!” says Ramona Southard, owner of Love and Lace Bridal Boutique. Choose the gown that makes you feel stunning and confident — not the one everyone else loves. Still unsure? Add a veil and imagine walking down the aisle. If your heart says “yes” and you never want to take it off, trust yourself — you’ve found your dream dress!
13. Bring the right undergarments and shoes to your appointment.
Wearing proper undergarments — like a strapless bra, shapewear, or seamless panties — will give you a better idea of how the gown will actually look on your wedding day. Also, bring shoes with a similar heel height to what you plan to wear. This will help with judging the length and fit of the dress more accurately during fittings.
14. Trust your emotions when you find the right dress.
Sometimes logic needs to take a back seat. If a gown makes you feel emotional, lights up your face, and you can’t stop smiling, that’s a strong sign it’s the one. “Many brides say they just knew when they found their dress — it’s a powerful, joyful moment you’ll never forget,” says bridal stylist Emma Logan.
15. Take photos and videos (if the boutique allows it).
If the store permits, snap a few photos and videos of yourself moving in each dress. Sometimes a gown looks stunning in the mirror but feels different when you see it captured on camera. Reviewing footage later can help you make a confident and clear final decision — especially if you’re torn between two favorites.
