Shop early. The ordering and fitting process can take up to six months. Ask about any extra costs up front; many brides are surprised to find out at their fitting that gown alterations cost extra. Ask about this and any other fees when ordering your dress.
Take along a few pictures of your favorite styles. This will give your consultant ideas about what you?re interested in. It also helps avoid wasting time on styles you already know you don?t want. Obviously, you want the dress to be figure flattering. A few suggestions: A-lines and princess cuts are slimming and create the illusion of height. A Basque waist and full skirt emphasizes hips. Dropped waists look good on almost any figure, and big sleeves look elegant on those with small shoulders and arms.
Get as much information as you can about the clothing before you leave the store, including cost, alteration charges, pick-up date and return policy. Make sure the pick-up date is well in advance of your event, and get a copy of your order or receipt with a guaranteed delivery date. Most shops request a 50 percent deposit upon ordering, and bridal apparel purchases are generally non-cancelable.
When shopping for bridesmaid dresses, remember that if the men will be in tuxedos the women should be in longer dresses that are still shorter than the bride?s dress. Choose a style that will flatter all your bridesmaids, paying especially close attention to the backs (that?s what the guests will see during the ceremony). Each bridesmaid can purchase her own shoes, but have them all dyed at the same location to guarantee both comfort and the right color.
Bridesmaids? dresses should be selected about the same time you choose your wedding dress. You will want to find out what colors will be available before making your decision. If you have your mind set on a particular color you may be disappointed to learn that it isn?t in fashion this year. However, you should be able to find colors that are close to what you have in mind.
If the men?s clothing will be rented for the event, orders should be placed six to eight weeks in advance. A week before the event, go to the store for personal fittings.
