Finding your perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your special day.
A well-planned timeline ensures you’ll have your dream dress ready for your wedding, with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment during the process.
This shopping guide breaks down exactly when to start looking, what to expect at each fitting, and how to time your final alterations perfectly.
Wedding Dress Shopping Timeline Overview
- 12+ months before: Start researching styles and designers
- 10-12 months before: Schedule first appointments and begin shopping
- 8-9 months before: Order your dress
- 3-4 months before: First fitting
- 6-8 weeks before: Second fitting
- 2-3 weeks before: Final fitting
- 1 week before: Pick up dress
Research Phase (12+ Months Before)
Start by creating a Pinterest board or digital collection of dress styles that catch your eye.
- Browse bridal magazines and websites
- Research local bridal boutiques and their designers
- Set a realistic budget (typically 10-15% of total wedding budget)
- Read reviews of local bridal shops
- Book appointments at 3-4 different stores
First Shopping Appointments (10-12 Months Before)
Schedule appointments during weekdays when shops are less crowded.
- Bring 1-2 trusted friends or family members
- Wear nude undergarments
- Bring shoes with similar height to wedding shoes
- Take photos (if allowed) of favorite options
Ordering Your Dress (8-9 Months Before)
Most designer dresses take 6-8 months to arrive.
- Get measured by a professional
- Pay deposit (usually 50-60%)
- Get detailed timeline in writing
- Confirm all customizations in writing
First Fitting (3-4 Months Before)
Bring all accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day.
- Wedding shoes
- Undergarments
- Jewelry
- Veil or headpiece
Second Fitting (6-8 Weeks Before)
Major alterations should be complete by this fitting.
- Check mobility and comfort
- Practice sitting
- Test bustle if needed
- Schedule final fitting
Final Fitting (2-3 Weeks Before)
Bring someone who will help you dress on your wedding day.
- Learn how to get in and out of dress
- Practice bustle placement
- Confirm dress fits perfectly
- Schedule pickup date
Smart Tips for Success
- Don’t try on dresses outside your budget
- Take photos wearing each serious contender
- Consider seasonal weather when choosing fabric
- Get alterations pricing upfront
- Purchase dress insurance if available
- Have a backup plan for transportation
Storing Your Dress Until the Big Day
Store your dress in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep in breathable garment bag
- Hang properly to maintain shape
- Avoid plastic bags
- Store flat if heavily beaded
- Keep away from pets and children
Transportation Tips
Safely transporting your wedding dress requires careful planning.
- Use a professional garment carrier
- Keep dress flat in back seat when possible
- Never store in trunk
- Consider purchasing a special travel case
- Have steamer available at destination
Emergency Kit Essentials
Prepare a dress emergency kit for wedding day peace of mind.
- White thread and needle
- Safety pins in various sizes
- Fabric tape
- Stain removal wipes
- Small scissors
- Extra bustle hooks
Day-Of Dress Care
Proper handling on your wedding day ensures your dress looks perfect in photos.
- Steam dress early morning
- Designate someone to manage train
- Have touch-up kit readily available
- Plan bathroom breaks strategically
- Consider reception dress change
Making Your Dream Dress a Reality
Your wedding dress journey should be enjoyable and stress-free when properly planned.
- Start early and stay organized
- Trust your instincts when choosing
- Work with reputable professionals
- Keep detailed records of all appointments
- Remember to enjoy the experience
FAQs
1. How far in advance should I start wedding dress shopping?
Start 8-12 months before your wedding date. This allows time for ordering, shipping, and multiple fittings. Designer gowns can take 6-8 months to arrive.
2. How many bridal appointments should I schedule?
Schedule 3-4 initial appointments at different bridal boutiques. Most brides find their dress within the first three appointments, but it’s good to have options.
3. What happens during the first fitting appointment?
During the first fitting, typically 8-10 weeks before the wedding, you’ll try on your dress, and the seamstress will pin necessary alterations, focusing on the bodice, length, and overall fit.
4. How many fittings will I need?
Most brides need 2-3 fittings. The first for initial alterations, the second for adjustments, and a final fitting to ensure everything is perfect about 2 weeks before the wedding.
5. When should I schedule my final fitting?
Schedule your final fitting 1-2 weeks before your wedding. This allows time for last-minute adjustments while ensuring your dress fits perfectly on the big day.
6. What should I bring to my fittings?
Bring your wedding shoes, undergarments, accessories, and planned jewelry to every fitting. This ensures the dress is altered to the correct length and everything works together.
7. How much should I budget for alterations?
Budget $500-$1000 for alterations. Basic hemming starts at $150, while more complex changes like adding beading or restructuring can cost significantly more.
8. What happens at the final dress pickup?
At final pickup, you’ll try on the dress one last time to confirm fit, learn how to bustle it, and receive care instructions. The dress will be properly steamed and packaged for transport.
9. Can I lose/gain weight between fittings?
Try to maintain your weight within 5 pounds between fittings. Significant weight changes can require costly additional alterations or affect the dress’s fit and structure.
10. How should I store my dress before the wedding?
Store your dress in a breathable garment bag, hanging vertically in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Don’t store in plastic as it can trap moisture and yellow the fabric.
11. When should I steam or press my wedding dress?
Have your dress professionally steamed 1-2 days before the wedding. Many bridal shops offer this service, or they can recommend trusted professionals.