DREAM DRESS
Choosing what to wear when you say ‘I do’ to the love of your life is a decision that can’t be taken lightly. But there are ways to take the stress out of your search for the perfect dress, writes Sarah Bieske
There is more choice than ever when it comes to wedding outfits.
From traditional wedding dresses to sequined jumpsuits and statement gowns in bold colours, there truly is something to suit everyone’s tastes.
It’s great to have options that reflect your own unique personality – but having so much choice also means narrowing those options down to just one (or two, if you want to change for the reception) is no easy feat.
Which is why Embrace Bridal’s Kristy Wynack recommends beginning your search for your dream dress about a year out from your wedding day.
”We tell brides to start looking around 10-12 months before their wedding,” Kristy says.
“Brides need to build into their timeline the fact that they need to find a dress they love; keep in mind that dresses can take five to six months to be made once ordered; and also allow time for alterations once your dress
arrives – the hem, bustle, take-up straps or any specific customisations.
“The longer you leave it to find and order your dress, there could be rush fees added by designers to be able to get a dress ready in time.”
Kristy also recommends having a look around before you start trying dresses on.
Have in mind a style and fit that you’re looking for. Otherwise it can often be too difficult trying to work out what that is when you’re trying on dress after dress.
“When you begin your search, only book appointments at shops where you’ve found a dress or dresses that you like,” she says.
“Don’t book at every shop just to try dresses on as it could confuse you.
“If you have been researching dresses and there are two shops that stock the four dresses you are most drawn too, just visit those shops to start with.”
She also says it’s important to go into fittings with an open mind.
What you think you want may not be what suits you.
That’s also when an expert bridal dress consultant comes into the picture.
“Trust your bridal consultant,” she says. Having a bridal consultant that knows their stuff and that you feel 100 per cent comfortable with is probably the most important part of your wedding dress shopping experience.
“We spend a lot of time with designers, brides and researching all things wedding dresses so that we can bring you the expert advise you need.”
Wedding gown trends at the moment include minimalist gowns, made from mikado, crepe and silk. Kristy says fuller skirts with splits are also popular right now.
“There are some brides wanting a bit of glam as well, with fully beaded and sequined dresses that are super wow,” she says.