When your bridal gown arrives at the boutique, you'll need to go in for a wedding dress fitting to be sure that you get the perfect fit! Here are our top tips for ensuring that your fitting goes smoothly...
Time it right
You're likely to have 2 to 3 wedding dress fittings, depending on your seamstress and how much altering your dress needs. The first of these will be around 2 months before your wedding, so you'll need to have your heel height and undergarments sorted by then (see below for more details on this!). Your final fitting will be around 2-3 weeks before the wedding, which will give your seamstress time to fit the dress perfectly to your body and sort out any last minute niggles.Â
Bring your underwear and heels
It's important to have your wedding shoes sorted for the fittings, or at least have a very clear idea of the heel height you'll be wearing, as this directly affects the length that your dress will be hemmed to at your fitting. Similarly, we recommend that you bring any underwear or shapewear that you intend to wear on the big day - this will not only give you a clearer idea of how your dress will look, but you'll be able to work around bras to make sure that nothing is showing.Â
Consider the rest of your accessories
Your fittings are the perfect time to test run any accessories. For example, it's important to check that your veil colour complements that of your dress (especially if your gown is a warm ivory, champagne or blush shade), as it's often difficult to colour match from memory. You'll also be able to check that jewellery is sitting well with necklines and sleeve lengths.Â
Be careful with weight loss
Many brides choose to slim down ahead of the big day, and it's important to discuss this with your seamstress (particularly if you're anticipating a large weight loss) so that she can plan ahead for taking the dress in. However, you should endeavour to slow any weight loss and maintain your weight as the day gets closer, and especially as the final fitting approaches. If you lose weight after the final fitting, you may end up having an emergency fitting, or just pinning the dress!
Practise bustling
We recommend bringing your maid of honour or mum with you to watch how the dress is bustled, as you'll need to know this vital information before the day, and it's a tricky process to learn in the mirror!Â
Still dress shopping? Find your nearest bridal boutique here!