Wow! I think I have finally come down from my Royal Wedding buzz… Or was that all the scones and tea I’ve been drinking?! Anyways I’m sure by now you have seen your share of commentary regarding Prince Harry’s wedding to American actress Meghan Markle. Between the a-list guests, blissful looks exchanged between bride and groom and the messages of love, independence, and joy which came from the day, it was hard to choose a favorite part but I finally landed on the dress!
I’m sure the whole world’s breath caught as we watched the high neckline, darting throughout the skirt and of course the cathedral length train with lace detailing as it silhouetted the soon to be Duchess of Sussex beautifully. Now we won’t all be so lucky as to have Clare Waight Keller design our gowns but I’m here with this week’s Tips Tuesday to make the shopping process a little less intimidating!
Grab your bridal magazines, turn on Say Yes to the Dress, and cuddle in as this list looks at the five best tips for the most fun shopping trip of your life.
1. Bring only the supportive friends and family There is no rule book that says that each bridesmaid or extended family member needs to be at these appointments. I have had many moments where tensions overtake the happy tears and leave the party feeling empty not exuberant. The group that surrounds you on this day should remember that the beauty you feel in this gown supersedes any other opinions. Consider quality rather than quantity – could this be a special moment for just you and mom or perhaps just you and your closest friend? Surround yourself with those you trust and those who know most your inner beauty for these appointments.
2. Don’t break the budget
Wedding dresses continue to expand in structure, color, fabric and more and more designers are exploring one of a kind made dresses (that of course come with one of a kind price tags). Before walking into any bridal store, or even zipping around online, nail down how much you can spend on a dress. There are so many aspects of a wedding and its budget to consider so evaluate with your planner, fiancé, and family which areas are the most important. If having big and bold flowers or steak cooked to perfection seems like a better area to invest in then do that! Your guests will be looking at the woman in the dress not that dress on the woman.
3. Shop in Unique places
Speaking of budgeting, consider exploring consignment bridal boutiques for your dress. These gowns could’ve been donated by brides, may have small imperfections, or could be overstock from large gown outlets. The selection may be limited but these gowns are known designer creations for a discounted price.
4. Come with shoes and undergarments in hand
You know that old saying dress for success? Well it really is true! Your dress shopping experience will be entirely different with the proper shoes and undergarments. You will be able to see what the length, neckline, and overall fit will most closely resemble on the big day!
5. Research, research, and reach outside your comfort zone
Pinterest and Instagram leave us drooling over lace necklines, down the back buttons, and skirts that have more flow than waterfalls but you never know what a dress or dress silhouette will look like on your own body. Google away and come in hand with designers or shapes that appeal to you and the style for your wedding but also trust the consultants and allow them to pull looks that you wouldn’t necessarily gravitate to yourself. Don’t knock it till you try it, you might just fall in love with something you didn’t know existed!
That’s all for this weeks Tip Tuesday and remember that this day should be fun! Grab a glass of champagne, a tiara, and float around in white. You deserve it. Happy shopping!