The Ultimate Buying Guide for White Wedding Dresses for Brides
Overview
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and finding the perfect white wedding dress is essential. With so many styles, designers, and fabrics to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've created this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the perfect white wedding dress for your special day.
Types
- A-Line Wedding Dresses: This classic style features a fitted bodice that flares out to form an "A" shape, making it a flattering option for many body types.
- Ball Gown Wedding Dresses: With a fitted bodice and a full skirt, ball gown wedding dresses are perfect for brides who want to feel like a princess on their special day.
- Mermaid Wedding Dresses: This style hugs the body and flares out at the bottom, making it a great option for brides who want to show off their curves.
- Sheath Wedding Dresses: This simple, elegant style features a straight silhouette that skims the body, making it a great option for brides who want a more understated look.
- Tea-Length Wedding Dresses: This vintage-inspired style features a hemline that falls between the knee and ankle, making it a great option for brides who want a more casual or retro look.
Key Considerations
- Body Type: Consider your body type when choosing a wedding dress. Different styles will flatter different body types, so it's important to choose a dress that accentuates your best features.
- Venue: Think about the venue and theme of your wedding when choosing a wedding dress. A ball gown may not be practical for a beach wedding, for example.
- Budget: Set a budget for your wedding dress and stick to it. Remember to factor in alterations, accessories, and undergarments.
- Timeline: Start shopping for your wedding dress early to allow time for alterations and any unexpected issues.
Features
- Neckline: Consider different neckline options, such as sweetheart, V-neck, or halter, to find a style that flatters your body type.
- Train: Decide on the length of the train, if any. Longer trains can add drama and elegance to your wedding dress, but may not be practical for all venues.
- Sleeves: Choose from a variety of sleeve options, including cap sleeves, long sleeves, or no sleeves.
- Embellishments: Decide on any embellishments, such as lace, beading, or embroidery, that you would like on your wedding dress.
- Color: Consider different shades of white, such as ivory or champagne, to find a color that complements your skin tone.
Prices
Wedding dresses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. The price will depend on the designer, fabric, and level of detail. It's important to set a budget and stick to it, but also keep in mind that alterations and accessories will add to the overall cost.
Tips
- Do your research before shopping for a wedding dress. Look at different styles and designers to get an idea of what you like.
- Bring pictures of dresses you like to your appointment to help the consultant understand your style preferences.
- Wear appropriate undergarments and shoes to your appointment to get a better idea of how the dress will look on your wedding day.
- Don't be afraid to try on different styles, even if you think they may not work for your body type.
- Remember that alterations can make a big difference in how a dress fits, so factor in the cost and time for alterations when choosing a dress.
FAQs
Q: How far in advance should I start shopping for a wedding dress?
A: It's recommended to start shopping for a wedding dress at least 9-12 months before your wedding day to allow time for alterations and unexpected issues.
Q: How much should I budget for a wedding dress?
A: Wedding dresses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. It's important to set a budget and stick to it, but also keep in mind that alterations and accessories will add to the overall cost.
Q: What should I bring to my wedding dress appointment?
A: Bring pictures of dresses you like and wear appropriate undergarments and shoes to your appointment to get a better idea of how the dress will look on your wedding day.
Q: Do I need to buy a white wedding dress?
A: While white is the traditional color for wedding dresses, there are many shades of white to choose from, including ivory and champagne. Ultimately, choose a color that complements your skin tone and fits with the overall theme of your wedding.
Q: How do I care for my wedding dress after the wedding?
A: It's important to have your wedding dress professionally cleaned and preserved after the wedding to ensure its longevity. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.