What you need to know about ‘The Dress’

The search to find THE gown in the right style, shade and shape makes wedding dress shopping a whole lot harder than shopping in Zara. While  there’s no shortage of choice, bridal shopping can be a tad baffling. As you know, for most brides, it’ll be the most important piece of clothing you’ll ever buy so it’s important that you understand what you’re getting.

Don’t Delay
Wedding Dress shopping (may it be online or through magazines) is such an exciting experience, it’s tempting to bolt to your fave designer as soon as your fiance’s gotten off his knee. The good news is that’s what you should actually be doing! It’s never too early to find your dream dress as long as you put the research in. Ideally, the search starts a year to eight months before the wedding. Times vary,  but it usually takes up to at least six to eight months for your perfect couture gown. Just ensure your last fitting is close to the wedding day as possible, to allow for any changes in shape.

Talk to the experts
Unlike a regular shopping spree, it’s absolutely necessary to pre-arrange a consultation with your favorite designers. In an hour long appointment with the designer, you can already discuss how you envision your day and what kind of environment and location you have in mind. Best thing to do is research beforehand and create a board with your favorite dresses from the red carpet or runway. This’ll help you define your ideal design.

Too many cooks in the kitchen
Admit it: you’ve been desperate to try on a white gown since you met your first boyfriend at the age of 13. Now you finally can! It’s super tempting to bring all your gal pals and make a day of it. But in  his case, less is more. Take no more than 2-3 people such as your mom, sister and best friend who know you well and that you trust. Too many opinions may overwhelm you and you may get confused.

Prepare yourself
Meeting with the designer for the first time can be astounding, you’re at a loss on what to bring. Here’s a tip: the correct underwear is a must usually in a flesh tone and a brassiere if you want the extra support though a lot of dresses are boned with an inner corset and always take a pair of shoes with the height that you want for your big day.

Stick to your budget
Budget is a big issue for every bride, yet it’s one of those your hands-get-clammy topics that is difficult to bring up. Discuss your budget for yourself then separately for your entourage with your  designer.  However, don’t expect the sun, the moon and the stars with a small budget, the more you have the more a designer can do.

Pick the right fabric
Don’t just consider the dress design. Fabric plays a pivotal role in finding the best style for you. Chiffon is soft and fluid and is the most floaty, while satin is perfect for structure. Fabrics also come in  different weights which can vary depending on your desired look. The heaviest is double duchess satin and the lightest is silk tulle or French chiffon. Silk is wonderful but there are so many fabrics to choose from. It’s best to get the opinion of your designer which fabric best suits your shape and style.

Identify the one

You’ve looked and you are about the get hooked. Now there’s the small matter of finding the one. Always stay true to your personality and individual style because it’s important to feel comfortable.  Choose something that’s an extension of how you normally dress, keep an open mind and know your body. Remember, the photos will last forever. Now have fun and play dress up until you start to go  ‘ooh and aaah’. You’ll know it’s THE ONE the moment you see yourself and by the look in your mother’s eyes.