There you are surrounded by mirrors in a white dressing room. This is the moment you dreamed of since you were a little girl. You are trying on wedding dresses for the first time! The day is filled with mixed emotions. Whether you have an idea of the style of dress you want or you have no idea where to begin, there is a perfect wedding dress out there for you, you just have to find it!
The first step in wedding dress shopping is deciding who should come with you to your appointment. Claire Cambardella from wedding wear suggests only having two other opinions with you when you try on dresses for the first time. It is important to have everyone as an ally so that you are not frustrated. You want to bring someone who will be supportive and helpful as you make this huge decision. If you feel obligated to bring along your mother-in-law, or anyone who may have a different opinion than you, bring them to the second appointment. This allows you to get a feel for what looks best on you, without having someone who is too critical making comments during your fitting.
After you decide on your team, your next adventure will be tackling the various options that you are faced with. Although the possibilities are endless, it is so important to get to know your body so you can find the dress that will make you look your best on your special day. The most important thing to remember is try it on! A dress can look drastically different on the hanger than it will on your body. Although it is impossible to match up a dress silhouette to a specific body type, there are some guidelines that you can follow. Sara Mathes from Jill Andrews Gowns suggests various silhouettes for different body types. A pear-shaped body would look best in an A-line gown because it slims your upper body and then flows below the waist. A ball gown would also be flattering, while a mermaid gown should be avoided at all costs.
A bride with a larger bust should try to achieve an hourglass figure. It is important to balance out your hip area with your chest. Fuller skirts are better and this body silhouette should also stay away from the mermaid style. If you are lucky enough to be blessed with an hourglass shape you will probably have the easiest time flattering your figure. Try a dress that will draw attention to your waist to accentuate your hourglass shape.
Mathes gives us some quick reminders to keep in mind before going to a dress appointment:
• Find the proper foundation garment and always wear it to your fitting.
• Try on several dresses to find what you are most comfortable in wearing.
• If you have a trouble area that you hope to hide, focus on a belt or neckline embellishment to take the attention away from your problem areas.
• Find a great seamstress who you can trust.
• Aim to create balance– with your dress and your life.
As a bride, you will be wearing your wedding dress for most of the day and you will want to be comfortable and confident. Cambardella reminds brides: pick something that will make you feel beautiful especially because all eyes will be on you the whole day. Have fun and do not be afraid to try things on and take risks. It cannot hurt! Who knows, that dress you thought you would never wear may be the one you end up choosing to make your special day absolutely perfect.
