When Should You Start Shopping for a Wedding Dress?

Key Takeaways:

• Why buying your dress by a specific date before the wedding is crucial.
• The best timeline to start shopping for a wedding dress.
• Tips to maximize your wedding dress shopping experience.

Planning a wedding is exciting, with dreams of the perfect dress on your perfect day. But, getting to that point comes with a very long to-do list, and one of the most important items on that list? Finding the perfect wedding dress that ensures you look beautiful.

Deciding when to buy your wedding dress is a significant question many brides-to-be have. Let’s break down the wedding dress shopping timeline to help you have a more accessible, less massive to-do list and to ensure your confidence in your important decision.

Start Early, But Not Too Early

It’s essential to give yourself plenty of time to find the right dress, but how early should you start? Experts suggest you begin shopping for your wedding dress about 9 to 12 months before your wedding day. This timeframe allows for multiple dress fittings, customizations, and any alterations that may be necessary.

If you start earlier than this, you might run into potential issues. Wedding dress styles change from season to season, and your preferences might shift. If your body shape changes, that early purchase might not be ideal when your wedding rolls around.

Why the 9-to-12 Month Timeline Works

The 9-to-12-month window is ideal for several reasons. Wedding dresses usually take 6 to 9 months to arrive after ordering, especially for custom or high-end designs. Once the dress arrives, you’ll need time for fittings and alterations to ensure it fits perfectly.

By starting your wedding dress shopping within this timeframe, you'll avoid stress and have plenty of time for each step. Alterations typically take about two to three months, so factor that in as well.

What if You Have Less Time?

Don’t panic if your wedding date is fast approaching and you haven’t started shopping for your dress. Many bridal salons offer “rush” orders for brides on a tight timeline. However, you’ll need to be flexible and prepared for additional fees.

Another option is to buy a ready-to-wear wedding dress off the rack, which removes the waiting time for ordering. Although this option might limit your choices, it's a fantastic solution for brides on a short timeline.

When Should You Actually Buy Your Wedding Dress?

It’s crucial to know when to buy your wedding dress after you've narrowed down your favorites. Aim to make your final decision around 8 months before your wedding date. Once you've found "the one," ordering early ensures everything goes smoothly, letting you focus on the rest of your wedding planning.

Some brides fall in love with the first dress they try on, while others may need to visit several salons before deciding. Either way, try not to wait too long once you've found your dream dress, as bridal salons will need plenty of time to process your order.

Dress Fittings and Alterations: What to Expect

Most bridal and ball gowns require at least two fittings to achieve the perfect fit. Schedule your first fitting about 2-3 months before your wedding, after the dress arrives. This allows time for adjustments. The final fitting should happen about 4 to 6 weeks before your wedding day.

Alterations are an essential part of the process, as even the best-made dress may need tweaks to fit your body just right. Bridal salons typically work with expert seamstresses who know how to shape the dress to your unique measurements. Remember, alterations can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.

Shopping Tips to Maximize Your Experience

Now that you know when to go dress shopping for a wedding, let’s discuss how to get the most out of your bridal shopping experience.

1. Do Your Research: Before heading to a bridal salon, browse online or visit Pinterest to get an idea of the styles you like. Having a few favorites looks in mind will help your consultant guide you toward the right dresses. 
2. Bring Supportive Friends or Family: Stick to one or two trusted people whose opinions matter most to you. Too many voices can lead to confusion. 
3. Set a Budget: Be clear about your budget before you start trying on dresses. This ensures you don’t fall in love with a gown that’s outside your price range. 
4. Book Your Appointment Early: Bridal salons can get booked up quickly, especially on weekends. Schedule your appointment early to secure a convenient time. 
5. Be Open-Minded: You may have a specific vision for your dress, but don’t be afraid to try on a variety of styles. Many brides end up choosing something different from what they originally imagined. 

Special Considerations for Custom High-End Dresses

For brides interested in custom or high-end gowns, when to buy your wedding dress is even more critical. Some designers may require a year or more to complete a custom order. Be sure to communicate closely with your bridal salon about timelines and what to expect from the designer.

Custom dresses can also involve several extra fittings and consultations, so be prepared for a more hands-on process. However, the result is a dress that’s made uniquely for you—a true one-of-a-kind creation.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when to start shopping for a wedding dress is key to making the process smooth and stress-free. Start early, but not too early, and give yourself plenty of time for alterations. Whether you choose a custom gown or an off-the-rack option, aim to buy your dress about 8 months before your wedding day. By doing so, you'll enjoy a fun, memorable shopping experience without the last-minute scramble.

Ready to find your dream dress? Visit Dimitra Designs today and explore our stunning collection of wedding gowns. Our expert consultants are here to help you every step of the way!