MYTH 1 - YOU NEED TO START WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING AT LEAST A YEAR IN ADVANCE
It depends where you are going to look for your dress, but its absolutely possible to buy just weeks and even days before (although we wouldn’t necessarily suggest it!)
If you want a made-to-measure or made-to-order dress from a higher-end, more expensive boutique then you may need to look well in advance as the dress often doesn’t begin to be made until your order is in, and as many of them come from the Far East now they have some way to come to get to you. Having said that, most boutiques offer a 'rush order' option although you will probably pay more for it.
But there are many other options for the time poor, which are also usually more budget-friendly too. Off-the-peg shops sell dresses to be taken away immediately – basically the one you buy is the one you try. And these shops are also increasingly offering you the option to order a dress in a different size that doesn’t take months to come as its in stock – often being available in as little as 7 days.
You do need to factor in your fitting, which will probably start around 5 to 6 weeks before your wedding (but can be done in less time if necessary). But no need to panic if you don’t have months and months to go, there are still lots of ways to find your dream dress.
MYTH 2 - YOU SHOULD MATCH YOUR DRESS TO YOUR WEDDING
Not necessarily – you’re the bride, you do what you want. Having a wedding in a castle but want a simple sheath? Do it! Registry office but always dreamed of a princess wedding dress? Why not!
If you feel fabulous in your dress it will show in your face and body. Have what you want. Your guests will see that, they won’t be thinking “Hmmm, lovely dress but doesn’t go with the theme”, they’ll be thinking how lovely you look.
MYTH 3 - YOU SHOULD EXHAUST EVERY OPTION BEFORE YOU CHOOSE YOUR DRESS
Over the years I’ve seen many brides get totally overwhelmed by the dress buying process because they tried on too many, turning what should be a fun experience into a chore.
On average, brides visit 2 shops and try 12 dresses before they choose. Many pick the first dress they tried. Trust your gut. Don’t get pushed into a dress if you aren't sure, but don’t be afraid to make a quick choice if you know it’s The One.
COMING NEXT - WEDDING DRESS MYTHS BUSTED! PART 2
BRIDE TRIBES, CRYING AND COMFORT!!