12 Things to Consider When Choosing a Wedding Dress

There’s no better way to make your special day a time to remember than to wear a magical wedding dress. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find the perfect dress for you. From not knowing where to look to having a hard time nailing down the style you like, you might experience a number of problems when choosing a wedding dress.

But not to worry. We’re here to help you make the right choice by giving you a few things to keep in mind when saying yes to the dress.

12 Things to Keep in Mind When Picking Out the Perfect Wedding Dress

Consider these 12 things as you search for the wedding dress of your dreams.

1. Stick to a Budget

Perhaps the most important step of wedding dress shopping is setting a budget. Why? Because the worst thing you can do is have your heart and mind set on a dress you simply can’t afford. So, from the beginning, figure out how much you want to spend on your gown.

If you’ve already created a wedding planning budget, this part will likely be easy because you probably have a figure in mind for what you’re willing to spend on a dress. But if not, think about how much you can afford and factor in other costs for your wedding.

You should also be aware that a full wedding ensemble doesn’t just include a wedding dress. In traditional weddings, you’ll also need a veil, undergarments, bouquet, and other accessories. Plus, it might be a good idea to budget slightly above the amount you want to pay.

This will help you account for other potential costs like alterations, shipping fees, and professional pressing or steaming.

2. Bring Some Friends Along

It’s best not to go wedding dress shopping alone. But skip the whole entourage. Just bring along a few trusted confidantes who know your taste, will be honest with you, and whose judgment you trust.

Whether it’s your mom, sister, or best friend, bring someone who has fabulous style and who can help you narrow down your favorites. This will not only help you save a lot of time, but it can also make wedding dress shopping a lot more fun.

3. Consider Your Style

What’s your typical style? Do you want to stick to it? Or are you looking to do something a little different? Whatever the case, pick out a dress that you’ll feel comfortable in—-not just physically, but mentally as well.

If you can’t quite pinpoint your style and put it into words, search your closet before going dress shopping. Even consider wearing one of your favorite outfits so that your bridal stylist can get a feel for your personal style.

4. Have an Open Mind

It’s great to start wedding dress shopping with a specific dress style in mind. But it’s even better to be as open-minded as possible. That’s because you never really know how a dress will look on you until you try it on.

Some dresses might not look like much on a hanger, but look stunning on you. On the other hand, your eyes might be drawn to a dress that looks amazing, but when you try it on, it’s not the most flattering for your body type and personal style.

5. Think About the Venue

Where you’re having your wedding is also an important consideration when finding the right dress. Whether your wedding is indoors or outdoors, or your venue has specific guidelines, take these factors into account.

6. Mentally Prepare Yourself to Find “the Gown”

Get out of the “just browsing” mindset, and tell yourself the next dress you find might just be the one. When trying on a dress, allow yourself to be in the moment and imagine wearing it when walking down the aisle.

7. Make Sure You’re Comfortable

Your wedding day is supposed to be special. However, an uncomfortable dress can really ruin the experience. So, make sure your dress gives you plenty of room to breathe and move around in.

8. Take the Weather into Account

Depending on where you live and the climate, choose a dress that’s appropriate and comfortable in certain weather conditions. For example, in higher temperatures, go for something that’s looser and has fewer layers.

9. See How You’ll Look in Photos

When it comes to seeing how you look in a dress, photos never lie. So, be sure to take pictures when trying on your gown.

10. Take Note of the Type of Fabric

You’re looking for the dress of a lifetime. So, it should hold up throughout the day without any wardrobe malfunctions. For example, the fabric of your ideal dress shouldn’t show sweat stains or wrinkle easily.

11. Start Early

A common mistake many future brides make is waiting until the last minute to go wedding dress shopping. Instead, try to start shopping six to nine months before your wedding. Did you know that it can take months for a manufacturer to make a dress and complete alterations?

This is especially true for very elaborate gowns. While many shops do offer rush orders, you’ll likely end up with limited choices and an additional fee. But by giving yourself time to look and the shop you choose time to perfect your dress, you can get the wedding gown you’ve always dreamed of.

12. Choose the Right Dress for You—And No One Else

Your wedding day is your special day. Never let anyone talk you into buying a gown you’re not in love with. Don’t settle for less.

Bonus Tip: Shop at a Reputable Retailer to Find Your Dream Wedding Dress

The perfect wedding dress can be hard to find. But it doesn’t have to be. AMARRA has an extensive collection of wedding dresses that are sure to have you feeling like the princess you are. Shop one of our authorized retailers today. And don’t be shy! Tag us and share your wedding day look with us on Instagram.