There are few moments in life more significant than a wedding ceremony, and the gown that the bride wears carries a lot of weight. The dress symbolizes purity, a shared journey, and the promise of a bright future. As such, the perfect wedding dress is a highly personal choice, with countless factors to consider—and the decision can be stressful and emotional.
Fortunately, today’s bride is more resourceful and savvy than ever. Thanks to the power of social media and a newfound ability to shop online, it’s possible for a bride to find her dream dress without ever stepping foot inside a traditional bridal boutique. In fact, several of the women we interviewed for this article found their gowns online, often in less than a month. And while these gowns might not be made to order from a high-end designer, they’re usually of much better quality than you’d expect—and a fraction of the price you’d pay at a bridal boutique.
The key to choosing the right wedding dress is to find a look that feels true to you. “The perfect dress is one that is unique, suits your body type and compliments the aesthetic of your other wedding choices,” says Danielle Wen, founder of Lace & Liberty in San Francisco. “It’s also bridal but not matronly, sexy but not overly provocative, and classic but not dated.”
When shopping for your perfect wedding dress, it’s important to remember that this is more than just an outfit: It’s the symbol of a life-changing commitment and an opportunity to celebrate your relationship with family and friends. The perfect dress will fit you like a glove and make you feel beautiful from head to toe, allowing you to be present in the moment of your big day.
If you’re ready to start your hunt, we’ve rounded up our best tips and advice to help you find the dress of your dreams. Whether you’re searching for something timeless, romantic, bohemian, or totally trendy, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to find the perfect bridal gown.
A bride’s wedding dress is not merely an outfit; it’s a representation of her inner beauty and the celebration of her love. The choice of dress will impact her whole appearance, including hair, makeup, and accessories. Traditionally, the color of a wedding dress was white, but in recent years many brides have chosen to depart from tradition and select a color that speaks to their personality. Black dresses are dramatic and bold, soft blush hues are feminine and delicate, while red offers a pop of festive spirit.
The fabric you choose for your dress will have a major effect on how it fits and falls, as well as its overall feel. For example, lighter fabrics such as organza, tulle, and dotted swiss are ideal for summer weddings, while velvet, satin, and silk are a good choice for winter ceremonies. The type of fabric you choose will depend on your budget, venue, and style preferences.