How to Buy A Wedding Dress

Where to begin? You might think it's simply a case of stumbling into a bridal boutique and finding 'The One', but to really get it right, there are some serious considerations when it comes to the seminal wedding planning event that is the dress-buying experience. We've enlisted the expert advice from of Elaine Rawlings from Elaine Rawlings Bridal Boutique and Amanda Kerrison from Amanda K Bridal Boutique to help all budding brides embrace their gown-seeking quest...

What is the first thing I should think about when buying my wedding dress?

"Consider what type of wedding you are having and what sort of dress you would be comfortable in, that will suit you and your day. Start putting together a mood board of your day, with any venues, themes, feel and dresses that you like. Arm yourself with bridal publications, tearing out anything that speaks to you. You can bring this to the boutique for us to look over together so I can get a feel for your style, your big day plans and what you envisage yourself wearing." Elaine


Elaine Rawlings Bridal Boutique

How far in advance should I order my dress?

"You should be looking to find your dream dress around 12-18 months before your wedding, so don't leave it too late to start shopping. Dresses take up to six months to come in, and this leaves you valuable time for your fittings and accessory shopping." Amanda

"Don't panic if you don't have much time, boutiques can often work with a shorter timeframe if you are flexible. I've had brides come in with only 12 weeks to the day, who have walked out with a dress - but in order to give yourself all the options, 12 months is ideal." Elaine

What's the best way to buy a dress when planning a whirlwind wedding?

"Book an appointment with a boutique as soon as possible; we have done plenty of weddings with only weeks to spare. You can buy a dress off the peg, or depending on time we do have some dresses we can get in more quickly." Amanda


Verity Westcott

How many dresses should a bride-to-be typically try on?

"This varies depending on the bride. Some buy the first dress they try and some try around six dresses. Brides who are serial shoppers generally become stressed out without knowing what they want, and can have a bit of a meltdown! I would suggest one or two shops would give you a really good idea of what styles are out there for you." Amanda

I'm really indecisive - what do you recommend if I can't make a decision?

"Usually indecisive brides have one or two dresses that are their favourites. Book an appointment to try both on the same day if possible and go with your heart. Don't analyse each dress too much, such as weighing up which one has more sparkle, the better train, the softest fabric. Go with the one that makes you feel confident and truly amazing!" Amanda


Elaine Rawlings Bridal

Who and what should I bring with me on my dress-shopping trip?

"Most brides like to bring their mums or a close friend. Bringing too many people often results in a wasted appointment as the entourage are generally all looking at what they would wear, and often don't have the same taste as the bride. Bring someone who knows you well. Do you really want everyone to have seen your dress before the big day?" Amanda

"Try and wear nude seamless underwear and be prepared to potentially go bra-less once you start trying the gowns on - lots have corsetry that gives you the support you need." Elaine

What about dresses for brides on a budget?

"Bridal shops can still help brides on a budget. Call the bridal boutiques to ask for their price range and if they have the opportunity for you to buy off the rail. You can get sample dresses at a great price if the dress has been discontinued or if the boutique is offering any promotions." Elaine


Amanda K Bridal

I'm looking for something timeless with a modern twist, what do you recommend?

"A gown that has a simple elegance, such as a silk satin or mikado fabric, is timeless, understated and designed to enhance the figure. Lace has also lasted through the ages, or look for a modern twist such as a Bardot neckline, a long sleeve or a low back. Many of the simple shapes that brides love may appear classic and yet have a beaded back or a particular update that makes it current." Elaine

"Perhaps go for something timeless in your dress, but use your accessories as the twist! Try lots of different looks and see which you like best. You can change the look of a very simple dress with accessories." Amanda


Amanda K Bridal

How do you help brides find their individual look when there are so many gowns to choose from?

"We find out all about their wedding and what they like and go from there. Some brides buy exactly what they were looking for and others the opposite." Amanda

"I always chat to my bride and get a real sense of what they are looking for, what sort of wedding they are planning, their venue and styling, before we start selecting the gowns. A bride's shape also helps to select the right gown - some styles don't suit all brides and so naturally we will spend more time looking at dresses that flatter and accentuate your figure." Elaine


Amanda K Bridal

Do you have anything really casual but still bridal?

"We have a gorgeous two-piece with a soft billowing skirt and lace top and a beautiful short lace number; dream dresses for casual and informal weddings." Elaine

"Separates are great - still bridal but a very casual and comfortable look for a relaxed wedding." Amanda

What are the latest trends you've noticed?

"Ball gowns have made a comeback after fishtails leading the way for a few years! Brides are really versatile at the moment, which is great for us and there is so much choice!" Amanda

"In a sneak peek at some styles coming through, we are seeing more full skirts and fairytale glamour, as well as more simple, classic fabrics such as crepe and mikado. High necklines, detailed backs and amazing trains will also feature in new collections. As well as ivory, we will see more nude blush and champagne shades making an appearance." Elaine


Elaine Rawlings Bridal Boutique

Can you customise the gowns in your collections?

"We can customise our Signature Collection, and Suzanne Neville gowns." Amanda

"Yes, we can make changes such as from a lace up to a zip and button back, change the colours of a dress, or add boleros or straps. If you require more detailed or bespoke changes, our talented seamstresses can offer these." Elaine


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