Wedding dress shopping is one of those moments you dream about for years, but no one really tells you what it feels like until you’re standing in front of a mirror in a gown that costs more than your rent, wondering if this is “the one.”
It’s exciting, emotional, and a little overwhelming (okay, sometimes a lot overwhelming).
Wedding Dress Shopping
When I started dress shopping, I thought I was prepared. I had saved inspo photos, booked the right appointments, and even brought a supportive crew. But looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known before I started.
So if you’re about to begin your wedding dress search, here’s an honest guide based on my experience, plus some practical tips to help you find your perfect dress.
1. It’s Totally Normal to Go Back More Than Once
Let me tell you something that might surprise you: I went to the same bridal shop three times before I found my dress. On my first visit, I thought I had found “the one.” It checked all the boxes—fit, fabric, neckline, everything. But something about it didn’t give me that feeling everyone talks about.
The third time I went back to the store, they had just gotten a new gown in. It wasn’t one I’d seen online or even considered. But I figured, why not? Let’s try it on.
And that dress? That was the one. The moment I slipped into it, I felt like a bride. It fit beautifully, it was comfortable, and most importantly, it felt like me. I’m so glad I kept an open mind and didn’t force a decision just to be done with the process.
Takeaway: If you’re not 100% sure, give yourself permission to go back. The right dress is worth the wait.
2. The Dress You Love Online Might Not Be the Dress You Love In Person
Pinterest and Instagram can be both a blessing and a curse. It’s easy to fall in love with gowns on models or influencers, but those dresses might not feel right on your body, your skin tone, or your budget. I tried on a few styles I thought I’d love (hello, sleek minimalist satin), but they did nothing for me once I was actually wearing them.
What surprised me most was how much I ended up loving details I never thought I’d choose—like lace, a fuller skirt, and delicate straps. The final dress was the exact opposite of what I imagined, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Takeaway: Stay open-minded. Try on a few wild cards—you might surprise yourself.
3. If You Want to Lose Weight, Start Early (And Be Realistic)
This part is personal, but I want to talk about it because I know so many brides think about it. I lost 30 pounds before my wedding. I didn’t do it for the dress—I did it for myself. And yes, it made me feel stronger and more confident. But what I didn’t expect was how much it would change the way my dress looked on me.
Even though the gown was measured to my body, it still needed tailoring (a lot of it) once my size changed. The shape shifted, the bodice sat differently, and I ended up needing extra adjustments in the final months.
Takeaway: If weight loss is part of your plan, start early—but don’t obsess over it. Your body is beautiful at every stage, and the right seamstress can work wonders. Just remember that your dress may look very different after alterations.
4. Bring the Right People (Not Everyone)
I brought my mom, my best friend, and my sister-in-law. That’s it. I wanted honest opinions, but I also wanted people who knew me and wouldn’t project their own style onto my decision.
Too many opinions can be overwhelming. If your gut is saying yes and someone else says no, it can leave you second-guessing yourself. At the end of the day, you’re the one wearing the dress, not your aunt, not your coworker, and not your friend who had a ballgown wedding last year.
Takeaway: Bring people who love you and support your vision. You don’t need a full entourage to make a confident decision.
5. Budget for Alterations (and Undergarments)
Your dress budget shouldn’t end at the price tag. Most wedding gowns need at least a few alterations—sometimes hundreds of dollars’ worth. I ended up needing my straps adjusted, the bust taken in, and the hem shortened. That’s all normal!
I also had to buy a special bra (strapless and low-back), as well as a hoop skirt to give the dress the shape it was meant to have. Those were extra costs I didn’t think about in advance.
Takeaway: Set aside at least $300–$600 for tailoring and undergarments. It’s worth every penny to make sure your dress fits like a glove.
6. Comfort Matters More Than You Think
A beautiful dress is great—but if you can’t sit, eat, or dance in it, you’re going to hate it by hour two of your reception. I sat down in every gown I tried on (yes, even the poofy ones) to make sure I could breathe and move.
My final pick was just as pretty as it was practical. I could walk without tripping, hug people without yanking at the bodice, and dance without feeling like I’d pass out. I felt beautiful and comfortable, and that made all the difference.
Takeaway: Don’t ignore comfort. You’ll be wearing this dress for 8–10 hours. Choose something that lets you live in the moment.
7. Sleep on It If You Need To
There’s pressure to say yes right away—especially if the shop is offering a discount or your entourage is tearing up. But if you’re unsure, take a breath. Walk away, think about it, and trust your gut. That third visit to the bridal shop? I slept on the dress before saying yes, and it felt so much better knowing I wasn’t rushed.
Takeaway: The right dress will still be the right dress tomorrow.
Final Thoughts
Finding your wedding dress is such a special experience, but it’s not always as magical or straightforward as it looks online.
It might take time. You might cry, or you might not. You might find the one on visit #1, or visit #3. And that’s okay.
Looking back, I’m so glad I didn’t settle for the dress I thought I wanted. I trusted my gut, stayed open-minded, and found a gown that made me feel like the best version of myself. And that’s really the goal, isn’t it?
This blog post is all about what I wish I knew before wedding dress shopping!
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