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Buying Your Wedding Dress: the Essential Checklist

Tick off these simple steps, and you'll discover the perfect gown

The time leading up to buying a wedding dress can often be a confusing time, full of uncertainties and doubts about what to expect. Worrying about budgets, sizing, and timings. Which is why we thought we'd put together this quick guide that should help calm the nerves, and set you on the right path.

Buying Your Wedding Dress: the Essential Checklist

Make buying your wedding dress a breeze by considering these things.


Have you…


Given yourself plenty of time?

Most wedding dresses require a minimum of six months to be made to measure for you.


Let the boutique know what your budget is?

There’s no point falling for a £5,000 dress when you’ve got a £2,000 budget.


buying a wedding dress tips

Done your research about designers and brands?

This will help you to visit boutiques that stock the kind of dresses you love. Why not start with the stunning wedding dress collections we have in-store.


Looked up sample sales and trunk shows?

If you’re wedding dress shopping on a budget, sample sale events can offer an amazing opportunity to pick up a beautiful gown for less.


We often have sample sales at both Confetti & Curves and Brides & Bustles, so be sure to keep an eye out on our social media for events.


Asked whether alterations are included in the price and are available at the boutique?

This extra cost catches plenty of brides out.


Considered all the colourways available?

White weddings may be traditional, but try ivory, blush, or champagne for a softer look.


Tried on the boutique owner’s recommendation?

It might be a million miles from what you think you want, but just try it… you never know!


Worn a range of silhouettes to see what suits you best?

We’ve heard from enough brides over the years who initially wanted a fit and flare, for example, but actually fell in love with a ballgown – keep an open mind, its essential!


Tried your dress on with a veil?

This accessory can really elevate your look and help you feel like a real bride.


Thought about the temperature on your wedding day?

Sleeves will keep the chill off at a winter wedding, while layer upon layer of tulle could see you sweltering on a hot summer’s day.


ballgown wedding dress in mikado

Received a second opinion from someone you trust?

Invite your mum, future mother-in-law, family, or friends to each appointment to gauge their reactions too. But don't bring a harem because too many people will simply cloud your judgement.


Tried on just the right number of dresses?

Too few might leave you wondering what if, but try too many, and you’ll end up in a muddle.


Tried to walk and sit down in your dress?

What’s comfortable posing in front of a mirror might not feel so brilliant doing other things – check!


Asked how to adjust the dress during the day?

You might like to bustle up your train or remove a detachable over-skirt…


Once you’ve checked off every element of the list, you’re in a good position to make a decision about buying your wedding dress. Read our advice on how to choose the perfect bridesmaids dresses from our sister store Brides & Bustles.

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