Shopping for your Wedding Dress
Do you want to know what to expect when shopping for your wedding dress? Well the expert, Mesita Partridge, owner of Ivory Bridal, in Atlanta, GA, is here to answer the most common questions! Let's begin, shall we...
SILHOUETTES
Silhouettes are probably the first thing you should consider when thinking about that ideal wedding gown. You want to be nothing short of stunning, and silhouettes have a big influence on that. There are a few different dress silhouettes, and you should select a dress with a silhouette that best suits your body type. Consider the following image, when thinking about silhouettes.
Here’s the scoop:
Ballgown: This is the fairy tale dress. The Ballgown features a fitted bodice that flairs at the waist with a full skirt. It is ideal for most body types, but looks absolutely stunning on pear body types because disguises the lower body. I would not sugges this dress type for petites because the skirt can be overwhelming on a small frame.
A-Line: The A-Line features a fitted bodice through the waist, and flows out to the ground, resembling an uppercase “A”. This dress silhouette is ideal for all body types.
Modified A-Line: The Modified A-Line features a fitted bodice and hips that gradually flares to the hem, forming an A shape. The skirt fits closer to the body than a traditional A-line. This dress is also ideal for all body types.
Trumpet: The Trumpet is named as such because it resembles musical instrument. Featuring a fitted body that flairs at the mid-thigh region. This dress is ideal for frames with small waists, such as the hourglass, banana, and petite (i.e. "Coca Cola Bottle shape"). It is not good for pears and apples, as it accentuates stomach and hip area.
Mermaid: The Mermaid features a fitted body, from the chest to the knee, then flares out close to the knee. This dress is ideal for slender frames and hourglass body types who are willing to show off their curves. It is not good for apples. The Mermaid does work for plus size women with hourglass figures. You might be surprised at how beautiful your curves will look in this dress, so don’t be afraid to try one on!
Sheath: The Sheath features a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This is ideal for lean frames, such as petites and bananas; however, it works on hourglasses who are willing to show off their curves. This is not good for pears; sheaths will accentuate extra inches and can be unflattering.
Tea Length: The Tea Length's skirt falls in between the ankle and the knee. It is idea for all body types.
Mini: The Mini's skirt falls above the knee. It is idea for bananas; however, not good for plus sizes.
Other Important Information
When wedding dress shopping, you should bring heels similar in height to your wedding day shoes. You should also bring a strapless bra. At Ivory Bridal, we love Pinterest and I’m sure you’ve been pinning beautiful dream gowns, so we encourage brides to bring any images that inspire you!
While shopping for a wedding dress, it should be all about you. So relax and enjoy the experience. Allow your wedding dress stylist to cater to you, and assist with you with your fittings. Gowns are made out of delicate materials, so allow your stylist to assist. Don’t pay attention to the dress size. Wedding gowns run small so you will have to go up a size or two than normal.
Have an open mind. Many women have their ideal gown in mind, but many don't consider silhouettes. That said, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort area and be open to trying on something different. Your stylist will have a great eye and can make suggestions on what dress will look great on you.
When you’re ready to say yes, consider the store's payment policy. Some retailers will charge in full; however, there are some that will accept a deposit towards the purchase of your gown.
Start shopping early! We cannot stress this enough. Some wedding dresses can take up to 6 months to be delivered, but alterations have to be factored into that time table as well. (Hint: Unless you are getting a custom dress, you will most likely have to get alterations!)
Keep in mind also that when ordering your dress, your measurements will be taken, and you will pick a size that is closest to the manufactures size chart. That means that it may be too big in the bust or hips and you’ll need to have it take in. The national average for alterations on a wedding dress is between $250-$450 dollars.
Accessories, Accessories, Accessories...Don’t forget to accessorize your dress! You can enhance your look with belts, veils, hair accessories, and beautiful jewelry.
Lastly and most importantly, make sure you read this part carefully. HAVE FUN! Your wedding dress shopping experience should be fun. Be cautious of brining too many people with you or it can be stressful balancing the multiple opinions and personalities. All that matters is how you feel in the dress! P.S. Not everyone cries like you see in the movies. When it’s your dress you’ll just know.
Cheers to a magical wedding dress shopping experience.
Written by: Mesita Partridge, Owner & Chief Bridal Stylist
Ivory Bridal in Atlanta, GA. www.shopivorybridal.com
You can now shop with us online or give us a shout if you are ever in the Atlanta area.
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