| Photo By Amare Images |
It's time to find your wedding dress - you're excited, but nervous. Where to start? What's an A-line, anyway? As wedding planners, we have had the privilege of helping many brides navigate the exciting but sometimes overwhelming process of dress shopping. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you enjoy every moment of this special time.
When to Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress
Timing is everything when it comes to wedding dress shopping. Ideally, you should begin the process 9 to 12 months before your wedding date. This timeline allows plenty of time to:
Browse and try on dresses: Exploring different styles, designers, and trends. I recommend visiting 3-4 dress shops to get a sense of the variety that exists.
Place your order: Wedding dresses are often made-to-order and can take 6 to 8 months to arrive.
Schedule alterations: Most dresses need at least 2 to 3 fittings to achieve the perfect fit. These typically begin 2 to 3 months before your wedding.
We also wanted to pass on a few of our favorite bridal gown stores:
Seattle Wedding Dress Shops
Portland Wedding Dress Shops
Phoenix Wedding Dress Shops
If your wedding date is closer and you don’t have 9 months to spare, don’t worry! Many bridal shops offer rush orders or have off-the-rack options for brides on a tighter timeline. Shops like Anthropologie are a great option.
| Photos By RTFaith Photography |
Tips for a Stress-Free Shopping Experience
Shopping for your wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s worth taking steps to make it as enjoyable as possible. Here are my top tips:
Set a Budget
Be realistic about how much you can spend. Remember to include additional costs like alterations, accessories, and shoes into your overall wedding dress budget. In 2024 we saw our brides spending on $2500 on average for their wedding dress and $750 on average for alterations and accessories.
Do Your Research
Before your appointments, gather inspiration from Pinterest, bridal magazines, and Instagram. Save photos of dresses you love to share with your consultant.
Choose the Right Shopping Crew
Bring 2 to 3 trusted individuals whose opinions you value. Too many voices can make the process confusing.
Be Open-Minded
While it’s great to have an idea of what you like, don’t be afraid to try on different styles. Many brides are surprised by how much they love a silhouette they hadn’t considered. Trust your sales associate, and don't hesitate to give their suggestions a whirl.
Book Appointments Early
Popular bridal salons can book up quickly, especially on weekends. Schedule your appointments well in advance.
Wear Proper Undergarments
Bring a strapless bra and nude undergarments to your fittings. These will help you get a better sense of how the dress will look on your wedding day. Don't forget to spend a little extra time on your hair and make up that day to help you envision the total look.
How to Save Money on Your Wedding Dress
While as you can see, Wedding dresses are an investment, there are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing style or quality:
Shop Sample Sales
Many bridal shops sell their floor samples at a discount to make room for new inventory. You can score a designer gown for a fraction of the price.
Consider Pre-Owned Dresses
There are many shops that offer gently used designer gowns at significant discounts. As a bonus, many of these shops support a great cause. Some to look into:
Portland: Brides for a Cause
Seattle: Blue Sky Bridal
Phoenix Don't Box It Bridal
Opt for a Simple Design
Dresses with fewer embellishments are often more affordable. You can add accessories to elevate the look.
Time Your Purchase
Many bridal salons offer discounts during trunk shows or end-of-season sales. Keep an eye out for these events.
Top Wedding Dress Trends for 2025
If you’re a bride who loves staying on top of trends, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of stunning and unique bridal fashion. Here are some of the top trends to inspire your shopping:
Bold Sleeves
Statement sleeves, from puffed to detachable options, are making waves. These add drama and a modern touch to classic silhouettes.
High Slits
Dresses with thigh-high slits offer a daring and glamorous look. Perfect for brides who want to make a bold statement.
Colorful Hues
While white will always be a classic, many 2025 brides are opting for pastel shades like blush, lavender, and champagne for a unique twist.
Square Necklines
A timeless and flattering choice, square necklines are making a comeback for their elegant and modern appeal.
Eco-Friendly Fabrics
Sustainability is becoming a priority, with many designers using organic or recycled fabrics to create beautiful, earth-conscious gowns.
Minimalist Chic
Simple, clean lines and unadorned fabrics are perfect for brides seeking an elegant, understated look.
Corset Bodices
Inspired by vintage fashion, corset-style bodices add structure and a touch of romance to bridal gowns.
Detachable Elements
Versatility is key, with detachable overskirts, capes, and trains allowing brides to transform their look throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most memorable parts of planning your big day. By starting early, staying organized, and keeping an open mind, you’ll enjoy the process and find a gown that makes you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to say “I do.”
Remember, this journey is about celebrating your unique style and love story. Enjoy every moment, and happy shopping!
Love what you see? We would love to help you plan your unique wedding vision. Let us provide tailored vendor recommendations and create a unique design that fits your style and your budget. Don't have a venue yet? No problem. Having a planner as the first step in the process can save you time, energy and money.
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