Many women start imagining what they will look like on their wedding day long before they even become engaged. Some will even believe that they have decided on the type of dress they will wear before they have tried anything on. The reality, however, is that once the hunt begins in earnest, most women end up choosing a dress that is quite different from their original daydream. This is why many find the process of choosing a dress surprisingly complicated, but it is possible to keep it simple.
Whether you are looking for a fairytale ballgown or a more classic option, this article will give you some key factors to consider when searching for your perfect wedding dress.
Decide on your budget
According to weddingstats.org, the average cost of a wedding dress is between $1,089 and $1,429 in 2023.
While you might start your search by flicking through magazines or searching the internet for every possible type of dress with no thought as to the price, once the hunt begins in earnest, you need to be realistic. Decide on how much you can afford to spend on your wedding dress and accessories, consider the possible costs of alterations, and set about finding the perfect dress at the right price.
Consider your body shape and fashion style
There are no rules about which wedding dress silhouette or style you choose, but you should find a dress that makes you feel fantastic and expresses your personal style. There are lots of different silhouettes to consider—some of which may enhance your figure more than others—but you might not know which until you try them on. Take a look at a wedding dress silhouettes guide to learn about them before your first appointment as this will help you explain your vision to the store assistants.
Your personal style and the aesthetic or theme of your wedding may also influence your choice. For example, some women choose to depart from tradition and wear a black or brightly colored dress.
Think about the date and location of your wedding
Is your wedding planned for the spring, summer, fall, or winter? You probably do not want to wear a heavy or thick dress with sleeves on a swelteringly hot day, and you may regret a sleeveless or backless dress on an icy winter morning.
It is also important to consider the location of your wedding. An outdoor wedding ceremony such as a forest or beach wedding might not be easy to navigate in a long flowing gown. Furthermore, do you plan on including fun activities and lots of dancing that you will want to get involved with? If so, you might want a shorter dress that enables you to move freely.
Think about the way the dress makes you feel
While it might be tempting to prioritize the way you look, what you will remember most of all is the way you felt on your wedding day. You do not want to spend your day feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious; ideally you will find a dress that not only looks incredible, but also feels comfortable.
It may take time to find your wedding dress and when you do it might require alterations to ensure it fits you properly. This is why it is important to give yourself as much time as possible, so you do not have to make decisions in a rush, or compromise on what you truly want.
