The Search for the Perfect Dress

Most girls dream of their wedding day and can envision their perfect wedding gown. Although it is often one of the first wedding purchases made, don't rush, you will find the perfect dress for your special day. Wedding gown shopping ideally takes place eight to twelve months prior to your wedding date.

Before you visit the gown shops, stop and think about what kind of day you and your fiancé want to host. The formality of the day will guide you to which style of dress best suits the occasion; a gown with a long cathedral train is not recommended for a beach wedding, while a cocktail dress may not be appropriate for a traditional religious celebration. If you are going to be married in a house of worship, check with the clergy if there are not any dress restrictions. Some may not allow spaghetti straps or strapless dresses, but if paired with a wrap they may be acceptable; always check to be certain as often once a dress is purchased you cannot change your mind.

The Internet and bridal magazines are a great place to browse and get ideas and price ranges, as you can determine which styles and designers interest you. However, be wary before buying a dress online, it remains best to visit a bridal shop that can offer you personal service and a good local reputation. Determine a budget prior to shopping and stick to it; wedding dresses can easily take you off budget quickly.

The A line, princess and ball gowns styles remain the most popular of the cuts as they flatter virtually every figure and are timeless. As the most popular, they are also the easiest to find and have the best selection of styles and sizes. Empire can also be a flattering silhouette for most body types; while the sheath with it's close cut shape is one of the most restrictive silhouettes. Fabric is also very important when choosing a gown, with chiffon and organza being great all around fabrics, while taffeta is often not recommended for voluptuous figures. These are details, which a good bridal consultant can help you work through.

Choose a bridal shop that carries at least a few of the designer names that have caught your eye. Call ahead, since many shops recommend having an appointment with Saturdays being their busiest day. Shopping for a bridal gown is not like buying any other piece of clothing; the gowns should be kept immaculate with minimal handling and help changing from a professional. Not to mention with all those buttons and zippers, many dresses need help getting in and out of. When getting ready for your appointment, be sure to wear minimal make-up so as not to mark the dresses. Wear your hair in a similar fashion as you will for the day of and it is always a good idea to bring the size of heel you intend to wear as well. These elements will help you get a better idea of how the dress will look on the big day. Ask an honest friend or family member to join you and keep you grounded. Although some stores may not let you do so, take a digital camera with you and if possible, have photos taken of you in the dress(es) that you like. Once you have chosen a dress, these photos can help you choose your accessories at a later date.

When you find your dress, it will feel right and you will know it in both your head and your heart, not to mention your wallet. Choose a dress that you feel comfortable in; it should represent the elegant version of who you are and is something you will look back fondly of in photographs for years to come. Move in the dress as you will move on your wedding day, sit, dance, walk and even jump up and down - it's worth celebrating that you found the dress after all! Although the sample you are trying on may not be the correct size, you should get an idea of what your dress will feel like.

Once you have found the dress of your dreams, think about it for a day or so. A reputable shop should not pressure you to make a decision and if you have all the information, such as the price, style number, designer name and size, you can even call in the order after you have shopped around. If you are shopping at an off-the-rack store, ask if you can put it on hold for a day while you think about it. Take the time to shop around and ensure that you are getting the best price. Don't forget to factor in alterations; one shop may be less expensive because they don't include alterations, while another may include it in their price. Ask what the policy is if you change your mind and how soon the dress will arrive. Most dresses take around three to six months to order, although handcrafted dresses may be longer. When ordering your dress, it is not a bad idea to give the store a date a week or two prior to your actual day to ensure you do not receive last minute delivery. Although most stores will get it to you with plenty of time, it is never a bad thing to have it too early.

While shopping, why not have a look at the wedding party section; you may be inspired and even find your bridesmaid dresses all in one day. Plus if you buy your dress and your bridesmaid dresses from the same store, they may be more inclined to give you a discount, don't be afraid to ask. If you have brought yours or his mother along, have a look at the mother's dresses as well. Don't forget to check out the stores selection of veils, gloves, purses, shoes, jewellery and other accessories that you intend to purchase.

If you don't find your dress the first, second or even third time out, don't get frustrated. It may take time and enjoy it while you can; the right dress is out there waiting for you.

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