Read through the rules, before you hit the rails.
Learning how to choose between curvy bridal shops can have a big impact on your wedding dress shopping experience. You'll want to find a curvy wedding dress shop that makes you feel comfortable and at ease while browsing, and trying on dozens of dresses.
But with so many wedding dress shops, and curvy bridal boutiques in the UK, how do you choose the spot that’s right for you?
How to choose which of the curvy bridal shops will lead you towards your dream wedding dress.
Ask Your Loved Ones
If you’re searching for curvy bridal shops, ask your married friends and family members where they visited. Find out why they liked particular wedding dress shops by asking for the inside scoop.
Did they like their stylist, and why? What types of wedding dresses did the shop have? Did they make the bridal shopping experience enjoyable?
Do Your Research
Browse the latest wedding dress trends to figure out which designers you like best, and which ones are within your budget. Then find out what shops in your area stock those designers. Most bridal shops have a list of the designers they stock on their websites, so it’s smart to consult that before venturing out.
If you have your heart set on a certain designer, and are writing off a well-reviewed, reputable curvy bridal shop because they don't carry that brand, visit them anyway! You might end up loving a dress by a designer you never expected, so give the shop a chance.
Keep Your Budget in Mind
Before you start choosing between curvy bridal shops, make sure you have a budget that you want to stick to in your head. Certain shops may not have gowns within your price range, so again, be sure to check their website or call in advance. If only some of the dresses at the boutique are within your budget, make sure you let your stylist know the maximum you can spend before trying on anything.
The last thing you want is to end up falling for a gown that’s over budget, so honesty from the start is the best policy.
Prioritise Curvy Bridal Shops
Shopping for a wedding dress is inherently stressful, no matter what size you are. But, as a plus-size bride, it can seem even more intense. The benefits of shopping at curvy bridal shops is that they are the most knowledgeable and understanding of a plus-sized bride’s needs, desires, and of course have the best selection of sizes. They will also stock gowns that are specifically designed for plus-size brides. These styles have a more supportive structure and will love your curves, rather than try to hide them. Many bridal designers do size their gowns up to plus-size, but they are not designed for curvy brides.
Having the ability to shop with someone who specialises in your particular body type is a great advantage.
Pick the Right Location
Picking the right location is a must when deciding between curvy bridal shops, because you’ll want to choose somewhere that’s accessible to you. If you buy your dress while visiting your parents but you actually live half way across the country, that might not be the most convenient place—especially if that’s also where your alterations are being done. Your wedding dress will have to be fitted and altered, so consider a location that’s close-by.
Enter With an Open Mind
When it comes time to shop for your dream dress, you are sure to have done lots of research on the most-flattering silhouettes for your body type, which is fantastic—but go in with an open mind too.
Don’t forget that suggestions on the most flattering dresses for each body type are just that, suggestions! Try on the dress silhouettes that you think you’ll love, but don’t be afraid of trying on something outside of your usual comfort zone. Let your bridal stylist make suggestions, and be open to things that you may not have considered. You just might end up utterly surprised at what you fall in love with.
Don’t stress if you leave empty-handed
If you leave your first few appointments without buying a dress, don’t feel discouraged! You’re not alone, because not every bride finds their gown first time. Shopping for a wedding dress isn’t a speedy process, which is why you should start seven to eight months before your wedding (and be extra picky about which of the curvy bridal shops you choose.
If you’re feeling apprehensive about a bridal gown you tried on, walk away and come back another time when you’re feeling less stressed. You want to feel amazing when you find the dress you love! And don’t worry, we won’t be offended if you don’t buy your dress the day you initially visit. We just want you to find a wedding gown that makes you feel like your best self.
Confetti & Curves is one of a handful of curvy bridal shops in the UK, and we have a stunning range of plus-size wedding dresses available for you to try. We are renovating and relocating our boutique at the moment, but we welcome your appointment for January 2022!