Bridal admin July 14, 2025 0 Comments

Bridal Dress Shopping Tips: What Every Bride Should Know

Shopping for the perfect wedding dress is an experience that you will only have once in your life. Here are some practical tips that will help you get the most out of your wedding dress shopping experience.

1. Start Early

Timeline for the wedding: 6-9 months prior to the date

Ordering and altering most bridal gowns takes 4-8 months.
Avoid rush fees and limited availability by starting early.
Ideal timeline: Order dress 6 months in advance.

For custom or plus-size gowns, additional fitting time may be required.

2. Create a realistic budget

Consider these things before your appointment:

Dress Cost (Lily Bridal begins at around $2,500).
Alterations – Typically $300 to $800
Accessories (veil, shoes, jewellery)

Tip: Tell your stylist your budget total to avoid being swayed by a dress that is out of your price range.

3. Book a Meeting — and bring the Right People

Select a VIP or standard appointment according to your needs.
You should only invite 1-2 trusted guests. Too many opinions may overwhelm you.
It’s important to be honest with the stylist about your preferences and dislikes.

VIP appointments at Lily Bridal include champagne and a private suite. This is the perfect way to pamper yourself.

4. Be open-minded and know your body

Try different silhouettes. You may not find what you think you look best in.
Do not be afraid to fall for something unexpected.

Explore the common styles:

A line: universally flattering
Fit & flare: shows curves
Ball Gown: Dramatic and Classic
Sheath: minimalist and elegant

5. Wear the Right Underwear

Nude, seamless underwear works best.
Many dresses come with built-in support.
Bring heels that match the height of your shoes at the wedding.

6. Do Not Trust Your Consultant

Lily Bridal’s stylists are trained to find gowns that suit your vision, budget, and body type. Ask for advice and trust their process.

7. Don’t shop until you’re ready to say “yes”

Stop looking for the dress once you have found it.
The confusion that can result from too many appointments and the comparison fatigue.

If it’s a dress you love and fits within your budget, then that’s the one for you.

8. Plan of Alterations

Most brides require at minimum 2-3 fittings.
Plan time to make final adjustments and try on accessories.

At Lily Bridal and other boutiques, on-site tailoring will ensure that your gown is perfectly fitted.

9. Ask about Gown Preservation

Professional cleaning and preservation can keep your dress in pristine condition for many years.
As part of their packages, many bridal shops include preservation services.