Shopping for bridal dresses is one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. However, with the excitement comes a few common pitfalls that can turn this joyful experience into a stressful one.
Whether you’re searching for local bridal gowns or seeking the perfect plus-size wedding dress, knowing what to avoid can make your shopping journey smooth and successful. At The Dressing Room, we help brides navigate these common mistakes so they can find the dress of their dreams.
Here are the 10 worst mistakes brides make at a bridal gown shop and how you can avoid them.
What are the 10 Biggest Bridal Dress Shopping Mistakes to Avoid?
- Showing Up Without an Appointment
- Shopping Too Far in Advance of Your Wedding Date
- Shopping Too Close to Your Wedding Date
- Forgetting to Account for Alterations
- Not Identifying & Committing to a Budget
- Trying On an Excessive Number of Bridal Dresses
- Insisting on the Incorrect Size
- Inviting Too Many People to Shop with You
- Not Following the Etiquette of the Bridal Gown Shop
- Coming In with a Closed Mind
Don’t Show Up Without an Appointment
It’s tempting to pop into a bridal dress shop on a whim, especially when you’re eager to start your search. However, many local bridal shops work by appointment to give each bride dedicated, personalized attention. Showing up without one could mean waiting for hours or missing out on trying your favorite dresses.
How to Prevent It
Always call ahead or use an online booking system to schedule an appointment at a bridal boutique. This ensures you have a consultant’s full attention and ample time to explore different styles.
Don’t Shop Too Far in Advance of Your Wedding Date
Many brides get caught up in the excitement and start shopping for their wedding dress years in advance. While it’s great to be prepared, shopping too early can backfire. Trends change, and your style preferences might evolve over time, which can leave you second-guessing the dress you chose too soon.
How to Prevent It
The ideal time to start shopping at a bridal gown shop is about 8-14 months before the wedding. This allows enough time for dress production, shipping, and alterations without risking a change in heart.
Don’t Shop Too Close to Your Wedding Date
On the other hand, waiting too long to start shopping can also be a disaster. Most local bridal boutiques need at least 6-10 months to order and alter your dress. If you shop too late, you may face rush fees or have to choose from off-the-rack options.
How to Prevent It
Don’t procrastinate! Begin your search for local wedding dresses early to allow enough time for shipping and alterations. If you’re running late, ask your wedding dress shop if they offer rush services or sample sales.
Remember to Account for Alterations
Most bridal dresses need at least some tailoring to ensure a perfect fit. Unfortunately, many brides forget to include alterations in their wedding dress budget and schedule. This can lead to last-minute stress and additional expenses that could sour your experience & put your big day at risk.
How to Prevent It
Always set aside a portion of your budget for alterations. When you visit a bridal boutique, ask the consultant for an estimate of how much tailoring will cost.
Also, remember to account for alterations when creating your schedule. Starting early will give you peace of mind as the big day approaches.
Identify & Commit to a Budget
It’s easy to fall in love with a dress that’s way out of your price range, leading to financial stress or disappointment. That’s why it’s vital to set a clear budget before you ever walk into a wedding dress boutique.
How to Prevent It
Be realistic about your budget, including the cost of accessories and alterations. Communicate this budget with your consultant at your local bridal shop so they can guide you toward the right options without tempting you with dresses you can’t afford.
Try On a Reasonable Number of Dresses
While it’s exciting to try on dozens of bridal dresses, doing so can lead to confusion and decision fatigue. You may lose sight of what you loved about the first dress and become overwhelmed by too many options.
How to Prevent It
Limit yourself to trying on 8-15 dresses during each visit to a bridal dress shop. Trust your gut. If you find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident, it’s likely the one!
Get the Correct Size Bridal Dress to Complement Your Body
It’s common for brides to hope they’ll lose weight before the wedding and insist on ordering a dress in a smaller size. Unfortunately, this often results in unnecessary stress or a dress that doesn’t fit properly on your big day.
How to Prevent It
Order the dress size that fits your current body. Whether you’re shopping for plus-size wedding gowns or a standard size, trust the expertise of your bridal gown shop consultant. Remember, it’s always easier to take a dress in than to let it out!
Don’t Invite Too Many People to Shop with You
Bringing a large entourage can make shopping for your wedding dress feel overwhelming. Too many opinions can cloud your judgment, which leads to confusion and frustration.
How to Prevent It
Bring only 3-5 trusted friends or family members to your appointment at your local bridal boutique. Choose people whose opinions you value and who will support your decision, not push their own preferences.
Follow the Etiquette of Your Bridal Gown Shop
Every bridal dress shop has its own policies, whether it’s about how to handle dresses, appointment times, or payment plans. Not following these guidelines can lead to an awkward or uncomfortable shopping experience.
How to Prevent It
Review the bridal boutique’s Frequently Asked Questions page and be respectful of their rules. Arrive on time, treat the gowns with care, and communicate your needs clearly with the staff. This ensures a positive and stress-free experience.
Come with an Open Mind
It’s easy to come into a wedding dress shop with a specific style in mind, but being too rigid can prevent you from discovering a gown that may suit you even better.
How to Prevent It
Keep an open mind when shopping for local bridal gowns. Your consultant may suggest a silhouette or style that flatters your body type better than you expected. Be willing to try on different styles — you might be surprised by what you fall in love with!
Visit a Bridal Gown Shop that Puts Your Needs First
Shopping for your wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the advice above, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable shopping journey.
Remember to stay open-minded, set a clear budget, and give yourself plenty of time for alterations. Just by researching these mistakes to avoid, you’ve demonstrated that you care about how you present yourself and treat others.
So make sure you visit bridal gown shops that show you that same level of respect and care. At The Dressing Room, we’re excited to be a part of your journey in whatever small way we can — book an appointment now to find the perfect bridal dress for your big day!
