Bridal Gown FAQs:
Jo’s Guide to Finding The One
Wedding dress shopping should be exciting, not a test you need to revise for! If you’ve got questions about when to shop, what to bring or whether you’re supposed to cry when you find your dress, you’re in the right place. Here are some of the questions I’m asked most often.
1. When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?
As a guide, 12–18 months before your wedding is a lovely time to start. It gives you plenty of choice and time for your gown to arrive and be altered.
But it isn’t a strict rule. The best time to shop is when you’re ready to say yes and have your dress budget in place. If your wedding is sooner, don’t panic—there may still be options, including gowns available to take home sooner.
2. How much should I budget for a wedding dress?
There’s no one-size-fits-all budget. Think about what feels comfortable for you, and remember to leave room for alterations and any accessories you’d like.
At Love & Lace, our gowns cover a range of budgets, so you don’t need to spend a fortune to find something you love. Being clear about your budget helps me guide you towards the right dresses.
3. What styles should I consider?
You might already have a Pinterest board bursting with ideas—or you might not know where to start. Both are completely fine!
A-line, ball gown, mermaid and sheath are some popular silhouettes, but you don’t need to learn all the bridal lingo before your appointment. We’ll talk through what you like and try a few different shapes. You may even surprise yourself with a wildcard dress!
4. What size should I order?
Bridal sizing can be very different from your everyday clothes, and each designer has its own size chart. You could be one size in one gown and another size in a different designer’s dress.
Try not to get caught up in the label. We’ll use your measurements and the designer’s size chart to work out what to order. What matters most is how you feel in your dress—not the number on the tag.
5. Do I need an appointment to try on dresses?
Yes, we’re appointment-only, so you’ll need to book ahead. That means your appointment is private and you’ll have time, space and a stylist there to help you.
At Love & Lace, appointments are 90 minutes. We recommend bringing up to four guests—enough lovely people to cheer you on, without turning your appointment into a full-scale committee meeting!
6. Can I make changes to my dress?
Often, yes. Some designers offer custom options, and many gowns can be adjusted by a specialist bridal seamstress.
We don’t have an in-house seamstress, but we can point you towards trusted independent alteration partners and guide you through the process. If you have an idea in mind, tell us—we’ll help you understand what may be possible.
7. What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring nude, high-waisted underwear and a strapless bra if you’d like one. Comfortable shoes with a heel similar to what you might wear on your wedding day can also help you picture the finished look. And if there’s an accessory you’re keen to try, bring it along.
Most of all, bring guests who’ll support you and make you feel good. You want helpful opinions, not a panel of judges!
8. How long does it take for a wedding dress to arrive?
Many ordered gowns take around 3–6 months to arrive, although timings vary between designers and dresses. You’ll also need time afterwards for alterations.
If your wedding is coming up quickly, get in touch and we can talk through what might be available. There may be ready-to-wear or sample options to explore.
9. How many dresses should I try on?
There’s no magic number. Some brides find their dress after trying on just a few; others need to explore more styles before they know what feels right.
And no, you don’t have to cry when you find The One. Some brides cry, some grin, some just know—and some need a little time to think. There’s no correct reaction, so don’t worry about putting on a movie moment!
10. Should I think about my venue when choosing a dress?
Your venue can help inspire your choice, but it doesn’t have to make the decision for you. A ballroom might make you picture a dramatic gown, while a beach setting could bring lighter fabrics to mind—but there are no rules.
Choose something that feels right for you and the kind of day you’re planning.
11. What if I don’t feel like myself in a traditional gown?
Then you don’t have to wear one! Bridal fashion has no rulebook. A coloured gown, jumpsuit or something more relaxed could be just right if that’s what makes you feel like you.
Your wedding outfit should feel like you, just with a little extra sparkle if you fancy it.
12. What if I’m short on time?
Get in touch with bridal shops as soon as you can and explain your wedding date. Ready-to-wear gowns, sample dresses or quicker delivery options may be available, depending on the boutique and designer.
The sooner you ask, the more options you’ll have to explore—so don’t be shy about getting in touch.
How should I care for my dress?
When your gown arrives, keep it in its protective bag in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Try not to keep taking it out for a twirl before your seamstress appointment; the less it’s handled, the lower the chance of it getting marked or damaged.
For a little extra privacy, you can place the dress bag inside a clean duvet cover and fasten the poppers at the top. Handy if curious eyes are about!
After the wedding, professional cleaning and preservation can help keep your gown in lovely condition.
Enjoy the journey
Dress shopping can feel like a big decision, but it should be enjoyable too. Take your time, ask questions and remember that the only person who needs to feel wonderful in your dress is you.
I hope this has answered a few of your questions—and if you’re ready to start looking, I’d love to help you find a gown that makes you feel stunning, comfortable and completely yourself.
Written by Jo Nott