Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dress

Start Early and Plan Ahead

When it comes to wedding dresses, timing is everything. It's generally recommended to order your gown at least six months before your wedding. This means you should start your search around nine months in advance. The wedding dress often sets the tone for the entire event, so it's crucial to choose wisely.

Where to Look

• Wedding Magazines: These are a great source of inspiration and can help you identify current trends.
• Online: Websites like The Knot and Brides offer extensive galleries and advice.
• Bridal Shows: Attending these events allows you to see a variety of gowns in person and try on different styles.

Set a Realistic Budget

Your budget is a critical factor in your wedding dress search. According to a 2020 survey by The Knot, the average cost of a wedding dress in the U.S. is around $1,631. However, prices can vary widely based on designer, fabric, and embellishments.

Budget Considerations

• Dress: Allocate the majority of your budget here.
• Shoes and Accessories: Don't forget to budget for these items as well.
• Alterations: These can add up, so include them in your budget.

Consider the Wedding Theme and Venue

The style of your wedding dress should complement the theme and venue of your wedding. For example:

• Beach Wedding: Opt for a cocktail-length or short dress.
• Formal Wedding: A long, elegant gown is more appropriate.
• Active Bride: If you plan to dance and move around a lot, consider a dress with removable straps or a more flexible design.

Know Your Body Type

Understanding your body type can help you choose a dress that flatters your figure. Here are some general guidelines:

• Hourglass: Fitted gowns that accentuate the waist.
• Pear-Shaped: A-line dresses that balance the hips and shoulders.
• Apple-Shaped: Empire waist dresses that draw attention away from the midsection.
• Petite: Simple, unembellished gowns that elongate the body.

Don't Break the Bank

You don't need to spend a fortune to find a beautiful wedding dress. Many stunning gowns are available at discounted prices or sample sales. Remember, the most expensive dress isn't always the best one.

Money-Saving Tips

• Sample Sales: These events offer designer dresses at a fraction of the cost.
• Discount Stores: Stores like David's Bridal offer a wide range of affordable options.
• Online Retailers: Websites like BHLDN provide beautiful dresses at various price points.

Fun Facts and Stats

• Average Cost: The average cost of a wedding dress in the U.S. is $1,631 (The Knot, 2020).
• Most Popular Month: October is the most popular month for weddings, which can affect dress availability and prices (WeddingWire, 2020).
• Sustainable Choices: 42% of brides are now considering eco-friendly options for their wedding attire (Brides, 2021).

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect wedding dress involves careful planning, budgeting, and understanding your personal style and body type. By starting early and considering all your options, you can find a gown that makes you feel stunning on your special day. Remember, it's your wedding—choose what makes you happy and comfortable.

This article is designed to provide comprehensive advice on selecting a wedding dress, incorporating statistics and expert recommendations to help you make an informed decision. For more detailed guidance, visit The Knot and Brides.