Not only is your wedding day one of the biggest occasions of your life, it’s also a day where all eyes are on you. So naturally, you want to look breathtaking.
One of the key ways to guarantee you look your absolute best is to find the perfect wedding gown—a dress that makes you look and feel like a million bucks.
Just like when searching for a soul mate, selecting the ideal bridal gown means you need to have high standards and know exactly what you’re looking for. The dress has to check some big-ticket boxes, and it’s crucial you examine it from all angles before you make your final decision.
To help you along the way, we’ve put together these 11 tips. Stick with them and you’ll land a dress that elevates you to next-level gorgeousness on your big day.
- Choose your wedding dress according to your theme
Choosing a dress that aligns with the theme or aesthetic of your wedding day is an excellent way to set off on the right path to your ideal dress.
For example, if you’re going for a forest or ethereal vibe, that requires a dress that’s romantic and enchanting. Think lace detailed bodice with a full skirt and long train.
If your big day is more modern, a sleek yet still striking minimalist dress is the best way to absolutely slay the look.
Take a moment to brainstorm your vibe, and jot down some adjectives that accurately describe it. Then when you’re out dress hunting, look for dresses that can be described by the words on your list.
This list will also come in handy when it comes to choosing the perfect bridesmaids dresses.
- Consider the weather and activities
The season, region, and whether you’re celebrating indoors or out will also inform your decision.
Weather wise, you want to make sure you choose the right coverage and fabric. Another crucial element is movement. If you plan on dancing and generally moving about, you’ll need a gown that doesn’t cramp your style and is able to keep up.
Some brides opt for a ceremony dress, and then change into something else for the reception.
- Establish a budget
Wedding gowns can cost anything from $50 to $500,000. Thus, it’s imperative you have a budget. Be realistic, and remember that the amount you spend doesn’t correlate to how stunning you’re going to look. The right dress is the right dress, period.
- Start searching for your wedding dress right away
Begin your wedding dress hunt, ASAP.
You probably already have a Pinterest board highlighting wedding gowns you love, and if you don’t—now’s the time to start one. Magazines too, are an excellent (albeit old school) resource.
Focus on confidence boosting silhouettes, ones that make you feel irresistible.
You can also turn to nature and design for inspiration. For example, if you’re drawn to something, consider how that certain movement, feeling, or whatever it is can be captured and recreated in a dress.
- Book boutique appointments
Create a list of boutiques you’d like to check out and start scheduling fittings.
Gather supportive people whose opinions you trust, head out to try on dresses, and have fun! Just don’t forget to wear the right undergarments.
- Venture outside your comfort zone
Be open minded and willing to try on dresses that may not be what you’d normally choose… you may be surprised.
- Thoroughly document the top contenders
Take pics and videos of yourself in the dresses you like, and be sure to capture each one from all angles. You’ll be glad to have this footage when it comes time to finalize your decision.
- Don’t forget comfort
Remember, it’s important that you’re able to breathe, move, and hug people freely. Now’s not the time for a nip-slip, or for you to be so uncomfortable in a dress that’s so tight that the feeling of discomfort dominates your special day.
- Don’t forget accessories
Don’t forget to consider the accessories you want to wear, like heirloom jewelry, a long veil, or some killer heels, and look for dresses that show off those accessories.
- Looking and feeling good
Paying attention to how you look is a no brainer, but don’t forget to pay attention to how you feel in each dress—both physically and emotionally.
- When it’s the right dress, you just know
The perfect dress is not only dazzling, it also checks all your boxes. Meets every requirement.
When you slip into the dress, you’ll know.
Conclusion:
Finding the perfect gown for your wedding day is something that should not be rushed. Having clear expectations and knowing exactly what you’re looking for means when it comes time to tie the knot, you’ll be a vision up at the altar in the dress of your dreams.