Wedding dress shopping should be a celebratory experience, but it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and make decisions that might lead to regret down the line.
A lot of brides tend to fall into some all-too-common pitfalls when choosing their perfect gown, but the good news is that being aware of them beforehand can help avoid them altogether — and help them find the dress of their dreams.
1. Completely disregarding the budget
It’s tempting to try on that stunning designer gown, even if it’s way out of the price range. But falling in love with a dress that’s unaffordable can lead to disappointment or financial stress. Sticking to a budget from the start helps avoid heartache and ensures there’s money left for other important wedding elements.
2. Bringing too many people to the fitting
Having a large entourage at a dress fitting might seem fun, but it can quickly become overwhelming. Too many opinions can cloud judgement and make it difficult to hear one’s own voice. Limiting the group to a few trusted friends or family members who understand the bride’s style and will provide honest, constructive feedback is often more beneficial.
3. Shopping too early or too late
Timing is crucial when it comes to wedding dress shopping. Starting too early might lead to second-guessing choices as new styles come out. On the other hand, waiting until the last minute can limit options and lead to rushed decisions. Aiming to start shopping about 9–12 months before the wedding usually provides the best experience.
4. Ignoring body type and personal style
It’s easy to get swept up in current trends or what looks good on others, but a wedding dress should complement the bride’s unique body shape and personal style. Choosing a silhouette that flatters the figure and reflects personality, rather than forcing a style that doesn’t suit, is key to feeling confident and beautiful.
5. Forgetting to consider the venue and wedding theme
The dress should match the overall vibe of the wedding. A heavily beaded ballgown might look out of place at a casual beach ceremony, while a simple sheath dress could feel underwhelming in a grand cathedral. Keeping the venue and theme in mind ensures the dress fits seamlessly into the wedding vision.
6. Neglecting to think about comfort
A wedding day is long, and most brides want to dance, eat, and celebrate without feeling restricted. Sacrificing comfort for style can lead to regret. Making sure it’s easy to move, sit, and breathe in the dress is crucial. Considering things like the weight of the fabric, the tightness of the bodice, and ease of walking is important.
7. Failing to consider alterations in the budget
Many brides forget to factor in the cost of alterations when budgeting for their dress. Almost every wedding gown will need some adjustments to fit perfectly, and these can add up quickly. Setting aside a portion of the dress budget for alterations helps avoid any financial surprises later on.
8. Choosing a dress based on planned weight loss
It’s risky to buy a dress based on a goal weight rather than current size. If the target isn’t reached, the bride will be stuck with a dress that doesn’t fit properly. It’s much easier to take a dress in than to let it out, so choosing a gown that fits now and can be altered if needed is a safer approach.
9. Not taking photos during fittings
In the excitement of trying on dresses, it’s easy to forget how each one looked. Taking photos (if the shop allows) can help remember the details of each gown and how it felt to wear it. These images can be invaluable when making the final decision, especially if torn between a few options.
10. Purchasing a dress online without trying it on
Source: Unsplash While online shopping is convenient, buying a wedding dress sight unseen can be risky. Dresses often look different in person than they do in photos, and it’s impossible to judge the fit or quality until actually trying it on. If possible, always trying on a dress in person before making such a significant purchase is advisable.
11. Ignoring the importance of proper undergarments
The right undergarments can make a huge difference in how a dress fits and looks. Trying on dresses with regular underwear or an ill-fitting bra can be misleading. Bringing or wearing shapewear and a strapless bra to fittings gives a true sense of how the dress will look on the wedding day.
12. Rushing the decision due to pressure or a sale
Whether it’s pressure from a pushy salesperson or the allure of a sample sale, rushing into a decision about a wedding dress is rarely a good idea. Taking time, sleeping on it if needed, and making sure to be truly in love with the dress before committing is important. A hasty choice often leads to buyer’s remorse.
13. Forgetting to consider how the dress will look in photos
Some dresses look stunning in person but don’t translate well to photographs. Considering how the dress will look in different lighting and from various angles is crucial. Asking to see photos of real brides wearing the dress if possible, or taking some test shots during the fitting can ensure loving how it looks in the wedding album.
