One of the most important parts of the wedding is the wedding dress.

You want to look spectacular. You want to feel stunning. Most of all, you want to be as comfortable as possible. Whilst planning can get really really really chaotic- and shopping for the perfect dress can feel daunting- it’s important to remember to have as much fun as possible in the build up to your special day.

With that in mind, here are my top tips for wedding dress shopping.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fall in Love With the First Dress You Try On

‘…The important thing to remember is that its your decision…’

It’s easy to think that you have to try on one hundred different dresses and different styles, so its easy to feel pressured into not going for the first dress you see. The important thing to remember is that its your decision, and you’ll know in your gut when you land on that perfect dress. If that happens to be the first dress you tried on, then so be it. Don’t be afraid to ask for something to be put aside whilst you try on a few different styles, but be honest with yourself. If the first dress you try happens to be THE dress, then you’ve lucked out.

Take Your Time

‘… It’s easy to get caught up in the moment of it all. Take a deep breath. Relax…’

The most obvious advice is sometimes the advice you need to hear the most. If you don’t find your perfect dress on the first try, the day can quickly descend into a whirl of white fabrics, giggles, free prosecco, and absolute madness. Don’t be afraid to take photos. Don’t be afraid to take notes. Imagine walking down the aisle and looking your glamorous best, but also imagine dancing the night away with your new husband and all of your friends and family- its all part of the big day, and a big part of your comfort in those situations will be the dress. If it looks stunning whilst walking slowly and gracefully down the aisle but might break your ankles when you run to the dance floor when Mr. Brightside comes on… put it in the mental ‘maybe’ pile. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment of it all. Take a deep breath. Relax. 

Choose Your Bride Tribe

‘…there are going to be some people that will keep you uplifted throughout the day and keep you buzzing…’

Your Maid of Honour is your rock. Your best friend. You’ve been on a billion shopping trips together, and you can rely on her for honest opinions and a good giggle. Your other friend, the one you do love to bits but you have to admit can be a bit negative… maybe she can be benched for this particular trip? There are going to be some people that will keep you uplifted throughout the day and keep you buzzing as you jump in and out of thousands of dresses. They are going to be vital. There are some people that you made that new group chat to make plans without them. They can stay at home. Surround yourself with positivity when shopping for your wedding dress, it’s the only way to survive.

Don’t Fear the High Street

‘…always try to factor in any last minute costs for any adjustments just in case…’

Kim Kardashian’s wedding dress cost half a million dollars… *sigh*. For the rest of us, budgeting is necessary. Try to set a reasonable budget, always try to factor in any last minute costs for any adjustments just in case, and don’t be afraid of the high street. ASOS are well known for there excellent occasion dresses and their wedding dress line is no exception, with well designed, stylish dresses that aren’t going to break the bank. Another budget-friendly option that is growing in popularity is the second hand and vintage wedding dress shops. Many high street charity shops now have a bridal section and there are some amazing bargains to be had.

 Location, Location, Location

‘…your style and preferences will inevitably change with the ambience of the venue…’

You’ve planned. You’ve got your shopping squad. You’ve found a few dresses you adore… but you can’t choose between them. The thing is, bridal shops are built and lighted specifically to make wedding dresses amazing. If you’re doing a DIY style wedding with an outdoorsy feel, or a boho chic beach wedding, or a traditional church wedding, your style and preferences will inevitably change with the ambience of the venue. A photo or photos of your venue will help you eliminate dresses and make your selection much easier if you are feeling indecisive, as well as making it all feel that little bit more real. The important thing is to never feel pressured into making a decision there and then, remember to take some time and enjoy the experience.

Have Fun

It’s your dress. It’s  your day. Have fun, and remember- at the end of the day, it’s only a dress!