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8 Things to Remember When Trying on Wedding Dresses

Published Monday, October 26, 2020 • SPONSORED ARTICLE

Vancouver Wedding Article

Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

We’ve all seen those wedding dress montages in the movies. They look like fun, don’t they? And they can be, if you do it right! Here are 8 essential things to keep in mind when trying on wedding dresses:

1. Sizing Isn’t Everything

Picture yourself walking into a bridal store and immediately laying eyes on the perfect dress. It’s everything you’ve been dreaming of, and it’s within budget, too. The kicker? It doesn’t quite fit. Perhaps it’s a little loose in the bust, or a bit longer than you’d like. Try to remember that sizing isn’t everything. A good wedding gown alterations shop can fix any problem areas and help create the perfect fit for you.

2. Underwear Matters

Believe it or not, the type of underwear you choose for trying on wedding dresses can have a massive impact on how the dress looks on you. For example, a bra that isn’t very supportive can make your chest look a little droopy and deflated, especially in a low cut dress. If you’ve already selected your wedding undies, it’s best to wear them on the day. Otherwise, choose big undies that keep everything in place!

Vancouver Wedding Article

Photo by Celia Michon on Unsplash

3. Dresses can be Customized

Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with a dress… but it’s not 100% right. Don’t let that put you off. A reputable wedding gown tailor can help to customize your dress to your requirements, adding in buttons if necessary, incorporating a lining if the material is a little thin, or hemming the dress for a bit more detailing. What you see isn’t always what you get, so remember not to take every dress at face value.

4. Everyone has an Opinion

Forget the chatter. This is your day, and your dress should be one that you love. Of course, it can be useful to have a second opinion, especially as you can’t see the dress from the back when wearing it, but don’t be tempted to bring everyone and their dog along for the ride. Select just one or two trusted friends or family members to accompany you, ensuring you can hear your own thoughts over the noise.

Vancouver Wedding Article

Photo by Nyana Stoica on Unsplash

5. Not Every Dress will be ‘The One’...

...and that’s OK! There are wedding dress styles for every body shape, and while some dresses look amazing on some brides, other brides will naturally look more stunning in other dresses. It’s normal. Try not to get too caught up in what you *think* you should buy. It’s best to walk into a store with an open mind, as you may find that a style that you’ve never even really considered before is perfect for you.

6. The Price

Wedding dress shopping is supposed to be fun and carefree, and you might not want to be weighed down thinking about prices. However, there’s no point wasting your time trying on dresses that you know are well beyond your budget. Always keep in mind the price, and ask the assistant to see a selection of dresses within your budget so that there’s no nasty surprises when you find ‘the one’.

Vancouver Wedding Article

Photo by Angelo Pantazis on Unsplash

The way you wear your hair, and the makeup you choose to wear, can have a big effect on how a dress looks on you. If you haven’t yet gotten around to choosing a hair and makeup artist for your wedding day, it’s best to stick to natural, neutral makeup - perhaps a tinted moisturizer, blush, and mascara - and bring along a hair tie so that you can change from loose hair to a quick messy up do.

8. You Don’t Have to Say Yes to the Dress

The truth is that trying on wedding dresses is draining. By the end of the day, it’s not uncommon to feel tired and ready for bed! Remember that you don’t have to make a decision right away, especially if your mood is getting lower by the minute. Don’t be afraid to sleep on it, and call the store in a few days time, or even book a second appointment. There’s no obligation. Don’t say yes unless you’re absolutely sure.

Finding The One Wedding dress shopping is more emotional than you may think, and it’s easy to get caught up at the moment, ending up with a dress that’s OK… but not perfect. By keeping in mind these 8 things while you’re sipping champagne and trying on dresses, you can make it easier to find the ideal gown for you.

About the Writer

Tony Kantzavelos is the owner of Love Your Dress and Love Your Tailor Toronto. Specializing in dress cleaning, clothing alterations and tailoring since 1986. Tony loves sharing tips and trade secrets for customizing and taking care of almost any kind of dress, and especially helping women look their best no matter the occasion.